Share

New Subaru Impreza thunders in

accreditation
New face, engines for Impreza
New face, engines for Impreza
According to Subaru the latest Impreza is also the first mainstream manifestation of the brand's new design language, a cohesive visual identity being employed for all upcoming models to give them a unified face.

The link between the various model ranges will be the three section grille, which represent the wings and fuselage of an aircraft from the front.

While the Impreza's new nose is distinctive and unique, it also has practical benefits. It increases the overall length of the car by 50 mm, improving aerodynamic efficiency with better airflow over the bonnet.

This is the reason that the STI can now use an intercooler air intake that is 19 mm lower, and the same as that fitted to the WRX.

At the same time, a 2.0R model has been introduced, bringing a version of the high-revving, DOHC Boxer engine with variable inlet valve timing recently introduced in the Legacy to its smaller sibling.

The 2.0R effectively replaces the 2.5 RS, with the engine in the newcomer rated at 118 kW at a rev-happy 6 400 r/min, and 186 Nm.

But the big news is the change from a 2.0-litre turbocharged powerplant to a 2.5-litre unit for the WRX and its giant-killing stablemate, the STI.

This means that the new flagship with a high-pressure turbocharger now produces an eye-watering 206 kW and 392 Nm while the WRX has the same outputs as the current Forester XT: 169 kW and 320 Nm.

While outright performance is similar to what was previously, Subaru says that the new WRX and STI are "far more relaxed and drivable" in most conditions thanks to the significant improvement in torque.

The model range will comprise the 2.0R in Sportwagon and sedan body styles, with four-speed automatic and five-speed manual transmission with dual range on the wagon.

The WRX will be available in both body styles, mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, and with the option of Subaru?s Premium Class specification level on the sedan.

The STI, as befitting its high-performance nature, is a sedan only, with a six-speed manual gearbox that has been honed in the motorsport environment.

All models, with the exception of the STI, have four airbags - a pair in front and a further two side airbags.

Prices

  • 2.0 R Manual (sedan): R198 000
  • 2.0 R Auto (Sedan): R209 000
  • 2.0 R Manual (Wagon): R204 000
  • 2.0 R Auto (Wagon):R215 000
  • 2.5 WRX Manual (Sedan): R294 000 - premium spec: R309 000
  • 2.5 WRX Manual (Wagon): R296 000
  • 2.5 WRX STI Manual (Sedan) R394 000

  • We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
    Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
    Join News24 today
    heading
    description
    username
    Show Comments ()
    Editorial feedback and complaints

    Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

    LEARN MORE