Subaru Impreza 1.6 (A) Review
20 Jul 2012|44,753 views
Subaru has been very well-known for its series of rally machines (both road-legal and illegal) under the WRX STi moniker. From the offensive boy racer exhaust note to the hissing sound generated by the blow-off valves every time the driver changes gears, the Japanese marque has excelled remarkably with its performance-oriented WRX and WRX STi models.
So it comes as a surprise when the updated Impreza appears somewhat mild. Unlike its predecessor, the sedan version of the base Impreza here doesn't reflect the part of something bigger to come.
Exterior
But that doesn't mean that it looks bad in any way. Just like the Legacy concept that was unveiled in 2009, the Impreza has an athletic physique that's characterised by bold defining lines on its bonnet, an aggressive nose and a pair of wide squinty headlights. The aim of this new Impreza was to widen its mainstream appeal and Subaru has spent a lot of money and time getting away from the boy racer façade.
With that in mind, the carmaker has succeeded. The new car is handsome and stylish without coming across as low-rent. Some may even argue that it resembles a baby Legacy which is no bad thing for the brand, considering the good looks of the Legacy. While the old Impreza was anonymous with a few awkward details, the current generation Impreza wears the new look well, thanks to the slightly bulged arches and a bulky bumper.
So it comes as a surprise when the updated Impreza appears somewhat mild. Unlike its predecessor, the sedan version of the base Impreza here doesn't reflect the part of something bigger to come.
Exterior
But that doesn't mean that it looks bad in any way. Just like the Legacy concept that was unveiled in 2009, the Impreza has an athletic physique that's characterised by bold defining lines on its bonnet, an aggressive nose and a pair of wide squinty headlights. The aim of this new Impreza was to widen its mainstream appeal and Subaru has spent a lot of money and time getting away from the boy racer façade.
With that in mind, the carmaker has succeeded. The new car is handsome and stylish without coming across as low-rent. Some may even argue that it resembles a baby Legacy which is no bad thing for the brand, considering the good looks of the Legacy. While the old Impreza was anonymous with a few awkward details, the current generation Impreza wears the new look well, thanks to the slightly bulged arches and a bulky bumper.
 |
Less bulged and fairly neat is the back. Defined by squarish taillights, the rear side of the car is filled with smoother surfaces that will not look out of place. But it's not attractive either. Simply put, the design of the car was made to draw more attention for being efficient rather than downright menace and power.
The Impreza sports a bulky face with bold lines on its bonnet  |
Interior
The fresh look on the outside is carried over to the cabin of the new Impreza, with impressive fit and finish and quality plastics and leather used. While it doesn't appear as futuristic as the Mazda3 Sedan or the Hyundai Elantra, it easily trumps Singaporeans favourite Toyota Altis. More notably, the controls are clearly marked and logically placed while the audio system and climate controls are mounted on the dash within easy reach.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels good to the touch and has all the necessary controls mounted on it, all in the name of minimising distraction for the driver. The benches are nicely contoured to comfortably fit the average-sized. But it's the dash layout that makes the most sense.
You see, while other carmakers claim that they are targeting their products at families, they try hard to design the dashboard with creative curves. But more often than not, they end up with something so complex and messy that they don't meet their objectives at all. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, has a simple, straightforward dash. Everything on it is easy to read and logically laid-out - just how a fairly affordable family sedan should be.
The dashboard is simple with straightforward
The fresh look on the outside is carried over to the cabin of the new Impreza, with impressive fit and finish and quality plastics and leather used. While it doesn't appear as futuristic as the Mazda3 Sedan or the Hyundai Elantra, it easily trumps Singaporeans favourite Toyota Altis. More notably, the controls are clearly marked and logically placed while the audio system and climate controls are mounted on the dash within easy reach.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels good to the touch and has all the necessary controls mounted on it, all in the name of minimising distraction for the driver. The benches are nicely contoured to comfortably fit the average-sized. But it's the dash layout that makes the most sense.
You see, while other carmakers claim that they are targeting their products at families, they try hard to design the dashboard with creative curves. But more often than not, they end up with something so complex and messy that they don't meet their objectives at all. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, has a simple, straightforward dash. Everything on it is easy to read and logically laid-out - just how a fairly affordable family sedan should be.
The dashboard is simple with straightforward Space wise, the Subaru sedan does not disappoint too. Thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,645mm, rear occupants are going to get a few inches more of space to an interior that's bright, airy, and already roomy for five adults. And should the time call for a family picnic, the boot space of 460 litres should do the trick.
Boot space of 460 litres should see to your needs and wants
Boot space of 460 litres should see to your needs and wants  |
The Drive
Subaru has replaced the previous four-speed automatic transmission with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox to mate nicely with the 1.6-litre DOHC Boxer. As a result, squeezing power out of the horizontally-opposed powerplant is easier and it makes driving around town less taxing and very easy to live with.
The only downside is, like most transmissions of its type, the engine is rather noisy. A relaxing drive will present a peaceful cabin but once you give the right pedal a nudge, the sound it produces can get a tad annoying. We reckon it's an unfortunate side effect for a system engineered to extract the most out of the engine with minimum fuel consumption.
Subaru's 1.6-litre Boxer engine that has a modest appetite for fuel
Subaru has replaced the previous four-speed automatic transmission with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox to mate nicely with the 1.6-litre DOHC Boxer. As a result, squeezing power out of the horizontally-opposed powerplant is easier and it makes driving around town less taxing and very easy to live with.
The only downside is, like most transmissions of its type, the engine is rather noisy. A relaxing drive will present a peaceful cabin but once you give the right pedal a nudge, the sound it produces can get a tad annoying. We reckon it's an unfortunate side effect for a system engineered to extract the most out of the engine with minimum fuel consumption.
Subaru's 1.6-litre Boxer engine that has a modest appetite for fuel Other than that, the Impreza's ride is relatively comfortable and composed, with a precise steering that requires a light-handed driver to handle the car. It somehow clings on to curves which help to build up your confidence to push the car faster and further every time. Credit has to go to Subaru's all-wheel-drive system (AWD). Still, it's no exhilarating WRX but it's an entertaining machine that you could pilot on a daily basis.
Perhaps the greatest obstacle the car has is its power. Having a maximum output of 114 horses and 150Nm of torque, the figures aren't fascinating. But given that the target audience for this car aren't boy racers, buyers of this car should be impressed with its supple ride quality and easy-to-modulate pedals.
Conclusion
In general, the Impreza makes up for the lack of personality in its cabin by providing occupants with decent amount of space and comfortable benches. The latest sedan from Subaru is a good choice for car shoppers who are looking for a comfortable and frugal car, making it a real contender in its segment and not just a niche player.
Then again, there are still other choices available in the market. There's the Hyundai Elantra, the Mazda3 Sedan and perhaps even the Mitsubishi Lancer - all of which are more enjoyable to drive and cheaper too!
Perhaps the greatest obstacle the car has is its power. Having a maximum output of 114 horses and 150Nm of torque, the figures aren't fascinating. But given that the target audience for this car aren't boy racers, buyers of this car should be impressed with its supple ride quality and easy-to-modulate pedals.
Conclusion
In general, the Impreza makes up for the lack of personality in its cabin by providing occupants with decent amount of space and comfortable benches. The latest sedan from Subaru is a good choice for car shoppers who are looking for a comfortable and frugal car, making it a real contender in its segment and not just a niche player.
Then again, there are still other choices available in the market. There's the Hyundai Elantra, the Mazda3 Sedan and perhaps even the Mitsubishi Lancer - all of which are more enjoyable to drive and cheaper too!
Subaru has been very well-known for its series of rally machines (both road-legal and illegal) under the WRX STi moniker. From the offensive boy racer exhaust note to the hissing sound generated by the blow-off valves every time the driver changes gears, the Japanese marque has excelled remarkably with its performance-oriented WRX and WRX STi models.
So it comes as a surprise when the updated Impreza appears somewhat mild. Unlike its predecessor, the sedan version of the base Impreza here doesn't reflect the part of something bigger to come.
Exterior
But that doesn't mean that it looks bad in any way. Just like the Legacy concept that was unveiled in 2009, the Impreza has an athletic physique that's characterised by bold defining lines on its bonnet, an aggressive nose and a pair of wide squinty headlights. The aim of this new Impreza was to widen its mainstream appeal and Subaru has spent a lot of money and time getting away from the boy racer façade.
With that in mind, the carmaker has succeeded. The new car is handsome and stylish without coming across as low-rent. Some may even argue that it resembles a baby Legacy which is no bad thing for the brand, considering the good looks of the Legacy. While the old Impreza was anonymous with a few awkward details, the current generation Impreza wears the new look well, thanks to the slightly bulged arches and a bulky bumper.
So it comes as a surprise when the updated Impreza appears somewhat mild. Unlike its predecessor, the sedan version of the base Impreza here doesn't reflect the part of something bigger to come.
Exterior
But that doesn't mean that it looks bad in any way. Just like the Legacy concept that was unveiled in 2009, the Impreza has an athletic physique that's characterised by bold defining lines on its bonnet, an aggressive nose and a pair of wide squinty headlights. The aim of this new Impreza was to widen its mainstream appeal and Subaru has spent a lot of money and time getting away from the boy racer façade.
With that in mind, the carmaker has succeeded. The new car is handsome and stylish without coming across as low-rent. Some may even argue that it resembles a baby Legacy which is no bad thing for the brand, considering the good looks of the Legacy. While the old Impreza was anonymous with a few awkward details, the current generation Impreza wears the new look well, thanks to the slightly bulged arches and a bulky bumper.
|
Less bulged and fairly neat is the back. Defined by squarish taillights, the rear side of the car is filled with smoother surfaces that will not look out of place. But it's not attractive either. Simply put, the design of the car was made to draw more attention for being efficient rather than downright menace and power.
The Impreza sports a bulky face with bold lines on its bonnet |
Interior
The fresh look on the outside is carried over to the cabin of the new Impreza, with impressive fit and finish and quality plastics and leather used. While it doesn't appear as futuristic as the Mazda3 Sedan or the Hyundai Elantra, it easily trumps Singaporeans favourite Toyota Altis. More notably, the controls are clearly marked and logically placed while the audio system and climate controls are mounted on the dash within easy reach.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels good to the touch and has all the necessary controls mounted on it, all in the name of minimising distraction for the driver. The benches are nicely contoured to comfortably fit the average-sized. But it's the dash layout that makes the most sense.
You see, while other carmakers claim that they are targeting their products at families, they try hard to design the dashboard with creative curves. But more often than not, they end up with something so complex and messy that they don't meet their objectives at all. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, has a simple, straightforward dash. Everything on it is easy to read and logically laid-out - just how a fairly affordable family sedan should be.
The dashboard is simple with straightforward
The fresh look on the outside is carried over to the cabin of the new Impreza, with impressive fit and finish and quality plastics and leather used. While it doesn't appear as futuristic as the Mazda3 Sedan or the Hyundai Elantra, it easily trumps Singaporeans favourite Toyota Altis. More notably, the controls are clearly marked and logically placed while the audio system and climate controls are mounted on the dash within easy reach.
The leather-wrapped steering wheel feels good to the touch and has all the necessary controls mounted on it, all in the name of minimising distraction for the driver. The benches are nicely contoured to comfortably fit the average-sized. But it's the dash layout that makes the most sense.
You see, while other carmakers claim that they are targeting their products at families, they try hard to design the dashboard with creative curves. But more often than not, they end up with something so complex and messy that they don't meet their objectives at all. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, has a simple, straightforward dash. Everything on it is easy to read and logically laid-out - just how a fairly affordable family sedan should be.
The dashboard is simple with straightforward Space wise, the Subaru sedan does not disappoint too. Thanks to the generous wheelbase of 2,645mm, rear occupants are going to get a few inches more of space to an interior that's bright, airy, and already roomy for five adults. And should the time call for a family picnic, the boot space of 460 litres should do the trick.
Boot space of 460 litres should see to your needs and wants
Boot space of 460 litres should see to your needs and wants |
The Drive
Subaru has replaced the previous four-speed automatic transmission with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox to mate nicely with the 1.6-litre DOHC Boxer. As a result, squeezing power out of the horizontally-opposed powerplant is easier and it makes driving around town less taxing and very easy to live with.
The only downside is, like most transmissions of its type, the engine is rather noisy. A relaxing drive will present a peaceful cabin but once you give the right pedal a nudge, the sound it produces can get a tad annoying. We reckon it's an unfortunate side effect for a system engineered to extract the most out of the engine with minimum fuel consumption.
Subaru's 1.6-litre Boxer engine that has a modest appetite for fuel
Subaru has replaced the previous four-speed automatic transmission with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) gearbox to mate nicely with the 1.6-litre DOHC Boxer. As a result, squeezing power out of the horizontally-opposed powerplant is easier and it makes driving around town less taxing and very easy to live with.
The only downside is, like most transmissions of its type, the engine is rather noisy. A relaxing drive will present a peaceful cabin but once you give the right pedal a nudge, the sound it produces can get a tad annoying. We reckon it's an unfortunate side effect for a system engineered to extract the most out of the engine with minimum fuel consumption.
Subaru's 1.6-litre Boxer engine that has a modest appetite for fuel Other than that, the Impreza's ride is relatively comfortable and composed, with a precise steering that requires a light-handed driver to handle the car. It somehow clings on to curves which help to build up your confidence to push the car faster and further every time. Credit has to go to Subaru's all-wheel-drive system (AWD). Still, it's no exhilarating WRX but it's an entertaining machine that you could pilot on a daily basis.
Perhaps the greatest obstacle the car has is its power. Having a maximum output of 114 horses and 150Nm of torque, the figures aren't fascinating. But given that the target audience for this car aren't boy racers, buyers of this car should be impressed with its supple ride quality and easy-to-modulate pedals.
Conclusion
In general, the Impreza makes up for the lack of personality in its cabin by providing occupants with decent amount of space and comfortable benches. The latest sedan from Subaru is a good choice for car shoppers who are looking for a comfortable and frugal car, making it a real contender in its segment and not just a niche player.
Then again, there are still other choices available in the market. There's the Hyundai Elantra, the Mazda3 Sedan and perhaps even the Mitsubishi Lancer - all of which are more enjoyable to drive and cheaper too!
Perhaps the greatest obstacle the car has is its power. Having a maximum output of 114 horses and 150Nm of torque, the figures aren't fascinating. But given that the target audience for this car aren't boy racers, buyers of this car should be impressed with its supple ride quality and easy-to-modulate pedals.
Conclusion
In general, the Impreza makes up for the lack of personality in its cabin by providing occupants with decent amount of space and comfortable benches. The latest sedan from Subaru is a good choice for car shoppers who are looking for a comfortable and frugal car, making it a real contender in its segment and not just a niche player.
Then again, there are still other choices available in the market. There's the Hyundai Elantra, the Mazda3 Sedan and perhaps even the Mitsubishi Lancer - all of which are more enjoyable to drive and cheaper too!
Photos by Julian Kho
Car Information
Subaru Impreza 4D 1.6i-S (A)
CAT A|Petrol|14.3km/L
Horsepower
84kW (113 bhp)
Torque
150 Nm
Acceleration
12.6sec (0-100km /hr)
This model is no longer being sold by local distributor
All Used Subaru Impreza 4D
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