Subaru knows that in order to compete with giants like Mercedes, BMW and Audi has to come with something big. And the new generation Impreza promises to be big. At least for Subaru, who is introducing this way a new platform, developed from scratch.
The Subaru Global Platform will underpin a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles, including hybrids and the next generation of Subaru’s all-terrain SUV and crossover models. Specifically, the new platform increases rigidity of the unitised body structure by over 70 percent compared to the current Impreza model.
The 2017 Impreza rides on a 2,670 mm wheelbase, up 25 mm compared to the current-generation Impreza, while overall length is up 41 mm and width increases by 38 mm. The larger dimensions create a roomier cabin, while a 10 mm lower height aids aerodynamics with a lower coefficient of drag.
Subaru’s new design language puts the brand’s signature hexagonal grille and ‘hawk-eye’ headlights onto a more sculptural body with prominent wheel arches and flowing lines.
Subaru designed the 2017 Impreza to provide even higher levels of safety than the outgoing model, notably by accommodating the EyeSight collision avoidance technology for the first time, and through crash energy absorption that is improved by 40 percent over the present Impreza.
The EyeSight system acts as a ‘second pair of eyes’ for drivers by employing stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead of potential hazards. In the new Impreza, EyeSight includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure and Sway Warning, plus a Lane Keep Assist function. Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available.
Also new are available Steering Responsive Headlights, which can illuminate curves as the vehicle steers into them, and High Beam Assist, which automatically activates and deactivates the high-beam headlamps based on driving conditions. All 2017 Impreza models include as standard equipment front seat side impact airbags, side curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag.
The 2017 Impreza adds new driver-assist technologies, including Reverse Automatic Braking and the display of steering lines for the standard rear-vision camera. Reverse Automatic Braking can apply the vehicle’s brakes if an obstacle is detected while reversing.
As before, every Impreza is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The all new 2017 Impreza 5-door hatchback is currently under consideration for the European market.
