New York 2016: Subaru unveils all-new Impreza and new global platform

Subaru has taken the wraps off the all-new 2017 Impreza sedan and hatchback ahead of the New York International Auto Show.

The 2017 Impreza is the first model to be built on Subaru’s new ‘Global Platform’ architecture, which Subaru claims to have engineered to deliver significantly higher levels of driving pleasure, agility, crash protection and ride comfort than before.

The Japanese carmaker said that its new Global Platform will also underpin a variety of upcoming models in the near future including passenger cars, crossovers and also all-terrain SUVs in addition to the Impreza.

Coming back to the Impreza – the car features Subaru’s new design language, which includes  all variants come with the brand’s signature hexagonal grille, ‘hawk-eye’ headlights, and new wheels to name a few.

As far as the dimensions are concerned, the new Impreza rides on a 2,670 mm wheelbase, which is 25mm longer than the current-generation, while overall length is up by 41mm, width is up by 38mm, and height is lower by 10mm, resulting in roomier cabin and better aerodynamics.

Inside, the roomier Impreza also debut the brand's new design language and new driver-assist technology. Also new are multimedia features like the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the Near Field Communication connectivity.

Under the hood of the all-new Impreza is a tweaked version of the FB20 2.0 litre direct-injection DOHC four-cylinder boxer engine which is capable of producing 4hp more than before, at 152 hp. Mated to the engine is Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT with a seven-step manual mode.  

Complementing the engine and the gearbox is Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system which comes as standard.  And thanks to the lower centre of gravity and revised suspension system, Subaru claims that body roll has decreased by 50 per cent.

Another highlight of the new Impreza is that the level of safety has increased significantly, with the inclusion of features like the EyeSight collision avoidance technology, Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking, Lane Departure, Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.