2017 Subaru Impreza Review
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that made its debut in 1992 and its numbers in the Kenyan market have grown exponentially owing to its engine performance, upgraded interior, and outstanding fuel economy. Its all-wheel-drive system makes it stand out amongst its rivals. The Impreza replaced the Subaru Leone which was in production from 1971 to 1994. Its all-wheel-drive system makes it appeal to off-road enthusiasts. As much as it boasts the perks of a fantastic car, it is up against the Toyota Auris, Mazda Axela, VW Golf, Audi A3, Mitsubishi Galant Fortis, Honda Civic, and Nissan Tiida.
Detailed Review
2017 Subaru Impreza front and side view
The Subaru Impreza availed its first generation in 1992 and remained in production until 2000. The second generation of the Impreza was in production from 2000 to 2007. The third version of the Impreza launched its production in 2007 and continued until 2011.
The fourth iteration of the Impreza commenced its production in 2011 and lasted up to 2016. The fifth generation of the Impreza was manufactured from 2016 to 2023. It was the first model based on the new Subaru Global Platform. Its suspension system gives better comfort when compared to its predecessors. The Subaru Impreza is currently in its sixth generation designated as GU.
The 2017 Subaru Impreza comes with one engine option, a 2.0 L (Petrol) linked to either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT.
2017 Subaru Impreza grades
- Subaru Impreza 2.0i- This grade comes with an auto-dimming mirror, an Immobilizer, a driver footrest, body-colored door handles, Bluetooth connectivity, power mirrors, and power windows.
- Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium- This grade features brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, climate control, cruise control, a multi-function display screen, and power locks.
- Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport- This grade comes equipped with navigation via a mobile phone, a 12-volt power outlet, a Trip Computer, a voice activation system, and an all-wheel drive system.
- Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited- This grade has traction control, a trunk spoiler, Auto-dimming mirrors with compass, multiple airbags, Parking assistance, and a theft deterrent system.
Interior
Legroom & Space
The 2017 Subaru Impreza has a conservative interior design compared to its rivals. The first row offers plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats which tack you in comfortably can be reclined to fit a desired position. The second row is roomy as well with impressive knee room and headroom.
2017 Subaru Impreza first row
2017 Subaru Impreza second row
Cabin Storage
The 2017 Subaru Impreza features various storage compartments designed to improve the passenger’s comfort by storing or holding items such as beverages, keys, paperwork, and other things. The first row has two cupholders, a center console, a glove box compartment, and door panel storage. The second row includes jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets.
Boot Space
The 2017 Subaru Impreza which comes with two body designs either the hatchback or sedan offers an ample cargo area that can haul small to medium-sized freight. If more space is needed, the rear seats can be retracted.
Exterior
The 2017 Subaru Impreza has an upscale and sporty design language which will for sure turn heads wherever it goes. Both the hatchback and sedan have a nicely curved chrome-accented grille with the seven-star Subaru insignia affixed on it to stamp its authority. LED daytime running lights and headlights lend it a modern appeal. The lower fascia incorporates air vents as well as, fog lights, and a lip spoiler that completes its sporty design. The muscular wheel arches together with some contours that are not very prominent define the side profile of the Impreza. The rear end of the hatchback has a sloping roofline with a roof spoiler attached to it to improve aerodynamics. The sedan version has a lip spoiler placed on its trunk that gives it some aggressive cues. Tail lights and turn signals are also well-positioned.
2017 Subaru Impreza front and side view
2017 Subaru Impreza rear and side view
2017 Subaru Impreza Safety Features
The 2017 Subaru Impreza features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.
2017 Subaru Impreza Fuel Consumption
2017 Subaru Impreza 1.6 L petrol engine consumption- 16.2 km/l on average
2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 15.1 km/l on average
2017 Subaru Impreza Acceleration
2017 Subaru Impreza 1.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.4 secs
2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.8 secs
The 2017 Subaru Impreza Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 liters
Ground Clearance
The 2017 Subaru Impreza has a ground clearance of 5.1 inches which is below the required standard on Kenyan roads.
Service Intervals
Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.
Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.
Spare Parts and Availability
Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.
Stability And Handling
The 2017 Subaru Impreza’s comfort and driving dynamics are very impressive. The steering wheel responds very well to road curvature making it easy for the driver to maneuver in confined spaces or even when overtaking on highways. Its suspension system compared to the previous iterations of the Impreza offers a more comfortable and pleasant drive that protects occupants from experiencing any kind of jarring movements.
The all-wheel-drive system is standard on all Impreza’s whether it is a hatchback or sedan, hence it appeals to enthusiasts who like off-road driving but owing to its low ground clearance, off-road driving could damage its body components.
Other technologies incorporated in the Impreza to improve its stability include traction control, brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution.
Reliability
The 2017 Subaru Impreza is regarded as a reliable car. Its approach and departure angles limit it from exploiting off-road terrains. However, just like any other car, the Impreza is not immune to troubles. Rough idling, and brake line issues are the most common problems reported by Impreza Owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such issues.
Refer to the Subaru Impreza buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.
2017 Subaru Impreza steering wheel & gear shift
2017 Subaru Impreza cluster meter
Resale Value: Good
Subaru Impreza Competitors: Toyota Auris, Mazda Axela, VW Golf, Audi A3, Mitsubishi Galant Fortis, Honda Civic, and Nissan Tiida.
What we like about the 2017 Subaru Impreza
Quite and comfortable cabin
Standard all-wheel drive delivers agile handling
Highly rated safety features
What we don’t
Transmission is very loud under heavy loads
Lower interior quality compared to its competitors
Conclusion
The 2017 Subaru Impreza has an upscale and sporty design that will surely attract attention wherever it goes. Its ample cabin space will appeal to people with small households. The standard all-wheel-drive system has the interests of off-road enthusiasts catered for and also makes it a better car to buy when compared to its rivals. Individuals on a tight budget may not be in a position to own this car owing to its high acquisition price without forgetting its service and maintenance costs.
2017 Subaru Impreza side view
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