Subaru has unveiled the all-new 2017 Impreza sedan and hatchback at the New York International Auto Show. The first model to be underpinned by Subaru’s new Global Platform architecture, the new Impreza will be followed by a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles, including hybrids and the next generation of Subaru’s all-terrain SUV and crossover models. The all new 2017 Impreza 5-door hatchback is currently under consideration for the European market.
Subaru’s new design language puts the brand’s signature hexagonal grille and ‘hawk-eye’ headlights onto a more sculptural body, while the stance is accentuated by prominent wheel arches and flowing lines. Inside, the dashboard benefits from an ‘outward-flow’ design that echoes that of the front of the car. 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. A 10 mm lower height aids aerodynamics with a lower coefficient of drag.
The new Impreza range will be powered by the brand’s trademark four-cylinder horizontally-opposed ‘Boxer’ engines, while Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and the EyeSight driver safety assist system will also join the new Subaru Global Platform. The new platform also increases rigidity of the unitised body structure by over 70 percent compared to the current Impreza model. The new Impreza also features a lower centre of gravity and revised suspension systems.. The double-wishbone independent rear suspension mounts its rear stabiliser bar directly to the body, reducing body roll by 50 percent.
Through crash energy absorption that is improved by 40 percent over the present Impreza, the EyeSight collision avoidance technology 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.
