The 2015 Subaru Impreza is available in base 2.0i, Premium, Limited, Sport Premium and Sport Limited trims, as a 5-door hatchback; or in base 2.0i, Premium and Limited models as a 4-door sedan.
No matter the trim, the Impreza is powered by a 148-horsepower, 2.0L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine, along with either a 5-speed manual gearbox or Subaru's Lineartronic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The Impreza features Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, which works especially well in snowy conditions and adds handling confidence in wet, inclement weather. For all Impreza versions, electric power steering provides crisp steering response and helps save fuel, while the low center of gravity for Subaru's boxer engine further aids handling. Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes are also included across the model line.
The Impreza benefits from an aerodynamic yet sharply detailed look on the outside plus high-quality interior trims and cabin appointments. Seating affords a good, upright driving position, with visibility aided by mirrors placed back along the doors plus smaller side windows in front. In back, seating is ample for two adults, and hatch and trunk room in either body style features low, flat cargo floors. In either version, split seatbacks fold forward to expand space.
Over the past several years, Subaru has made great strides in adding value for the money -- beyond its all-wheel-drive advantages. Base 2.0i models include Bluetooth hands-free calling, Bluetooth audio streaming, a USB port with iPod connectivity, steering-wheel controls, a trip computer, air conditioning, keyless entry, hill start assist and power steering, locks and mirrors. Step up to the Premium and it comes with a windshield wiper deicer, 16-inch silver-finish alloy wheels, cruise control, heated front seats, a center console with armrest lid, six speakers and chrome door handles -- as well as a rear stabilizer bar that helps improve handling with the larger wheels.
At the top of the lineup, Limited models are only offered with the CVT automatic and add 17-inch alloys, a chrome grille and accents, fog lamps, heated mirrors, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a dual center console and rear armrest, plus a display audio system with 4.3-inch screen, HD Radio and iTunes tagging capability.
The options list on the Impreza is quite limited, with the only factory options being a moonroof, or a package pairing the moonroof with a navigation system -- including a 6.1-inch screen, XM satellite radio, XM NavTraffic, a rear camera, voice commands and smartphone app integration with Aha Internet radio.
Standard All-wheel Drive Included
Fresh, Stylish Exterior
Excellent Gas Mileage
Responsive Handling
Space-efficient Layout
Subaru has given the Impreza a nice refresh for 2015. The front fascia has been redesigned, giving the car a fresher, more streamlined look, while also giving it a stronger family resemblance to the Legacy. The interior of the car has been upgraded as well with several new standard features, including a backup camera, a new infotainment system and higher quality trim materials. The Lineartronic CVT now comes standard on Premium models and fuel economy has gotten a little bit better for 2015.
The Subaru Impreza is a compact sedan or hatchback that stands as a very strong value, offering standard all-wheel drive in models that are priced competitively with others' front-wheel-drive models.
The Impreza is also the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive car available in America and offers confident handling, in part because of that drivetrain. The Impreza is a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.
