2017 Subara Impreza Is Imprezzive
This 3,176 lb. Subaru Impreza thoroughbred has more moves than a Dallas Cowboy linebacker. This quickness is displayed by a DOHC 4-cylinder 2.0-Liter Sport Boxer direct injection engine. The lineartronic direct continuously variable transmission and sport tuned suspension with stable dampers help deliver 152 horsepower with 6,000 rpm and 145 lb-ft of torque with 4,000 rpm. Fuel economy is estimated at city 37 mpg and highway 30 mpg.
It has been a while since I had driven a standard, but the five-speed manual transmission with STI Select Thron Shifter made it easy for even an old guy like me.
The suggested manufacturer’s price is an impressive $21,995. But to look inside, you might believe this was a luxury sedan. Leather wrapped steering wheel and glass back finish, keyless access with push button start and high grade multi-function display are examples of the luxury.
There is an optional package for $2,945. The EYESight Driver Assist Technology with Pre-Collision Braking, plus moon roof and Harman/Kardon audio, is available.
Technology has found a home at Subaru. The Impreza has Stark Link 8.0-inch multimedia plus system which includes 8-inch multi-touch high-resolution display, smart phone integrated with Apple Carplay and Android, Aha and Pandora, Bluetooth hands free phone and text connectivity and audio streaming AM/FM stereo, single disc CD player, 6-speaker Voice Activated controls, SiriusXM all access and SiriusXM Travel Link.
These devices are really more technology than I need or understand. But my 16-year-old granddaughter was delighted to explain them to me, while encouraging me to give up my flip phone and move into a more technically advanced era.
Now I may not readily understand about all the tech equipment and strategies that Subaru offers. But I do know about comfort and quality of ride. Enlarge the seats just a tad and add a couple of midsize open storage ares near the driver would make a perfect ensemble.
Impreza is as quiet as King Tut’s Tomb before the break in. Simulated carbon fiber center dash panel trim and door trim inserts and a sound insulation windshield help to guarantee the “Sound of Silence.”
There is a standard all weather package with 2-stage heated front seats, heated interior/exterior mirrors and windshield wiper deicer. Mighty nice features when the frost freezes on the pumpkin.
Each accessory mentioned has been tested so thoroughly that Subaru assures you it will last throughout the life of the vehicle.
Subaru is known for their value, comfort, reliability and an image of fun to drive. But the thing that Subaru takes the most pride in is safety.
There is a total of seven airbags. The 2017 Subaru Impreza has been selected by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) as the top safety pick with the available front crash safety and security services. LED headlights with available automatic high beam control adds an additional safety feature. According to their literature, 96% of all Subaru cars built in the last 12 years are still on the road.
2017 Subaru Impreza Warranty
3-yr/36,000-mile Basic Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
60-month/unlimited Distance-Corrosion and Perforation Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Roadside Assistance
Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or dcaussey@sbcglobal.net.
