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This is achieved by lengthening the car's wheelbase by 25mm, and pushing the base of the A-pillar forwards by 200mm. The door structure has also been redesigned, resulting in increased shoulder and elbow space, extra foot room for the rear passengers and an improved field of vision for the driver. Boot space has also been improved, with the sedan able to accommodate four golf bags, and the hatchback three.
Under the skin, the new Impreza features Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and a new version of the carmaker's 2.0-litre boxer engine. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual or a new Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission.
The new engine is smaller, at 2.0-litre compared to the previous model's 2.5-litre unit, and produces 148bhp, 22 less than before, and 197Nm of torque. However, Subaru says that the new Impreza is more fuel efficient than before, returning a fuel consumption rating of 6.5 litres per 100km. This is due to the car's low weight of 1320kg, and features like the optimised aerodynamics and the standard low-rolling resistance tyres.
Subaru says that the new car's design is "Smart & Classy", with its hexagon grille with spread wings in the centre, "hawk eye" headlights and bulged wheel arches. The interior features a three-spoke steering wheel and a round speedometer and rev counter to hint at sportiness, and the set-up has an ergonomic and classic design.
Source: Subaru
