THE Subaru Impreza has earned a loyal following in Australia but petrol price and environmental pressures means the thirst of its flat-four ‘boxer’ four-cylinder engine has become a concern. Along with improvements across the board aimed at making the fourth-generation Impreza more competitive against rivals in Australia’s fastest-growing new vehicle segment, Subaru has worked to improve fuel consumption, including making it the only small car range to feature standard idle-stop technology. But are the improvements enough for the Impreza to live up to its boot badge?
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Subaru Impreza
Released: September 2007
Ended: January 2012
Family Tree: ImprezaSUBARU prioritised safety, value and function as the hallmarks of its third-generation Impreza, which initially launched as a five-door hatchback, with the sedan variant following in late 2008. It was was more spacious, better equipped and quieter than its predecessor and, for the first time, featured both six airbags and stability control as standard across the range. Naturally for a Subaru permanent all-wheel drive was standard across the range, giving the Impreza a unique selling point among its peers. More conservative styling and increased interior space widened its appeal, helping it to become a sales success for the Japanese brand.
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