Online EOI open for new Subaru Impreza

SUBARU has started taking expressions of interest for its incoming sixth-generation Impreza this week, the all-wheel drive small passenger car to be hatchback-only this time around and due in showrooms soon, with pricing and detailed specifications still to come.

Australian-delivered GU-series Impreza variants will feature an 11.6-inch infotainment array with wireless smartphone charging and connectivity, as well as increased driver convenience features and the latest EyeSight safety and driver assist technology suite.

The latest Impreza range also marks the return of a more powerful RS variant to these shores, bringing Subaru’s FB25D-series 2.5-litre engine with 135kW and 241Nm to the range and closing the gap on competitors like the Mazda3 G25 (139kW/252Nm); all have an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT) as standard.

Subaru claims “more exciting acceleration, nimble response, and performance hatchback style for the RS variant”, partly due to its WRX-sourced dual-pinion steering rack, and features including sport cloth upholstery, exclusive 18-inch wheels, sports suspension, eight-step CVT programming, and exterior styling elements that appear to borrow from the WRX’s sporting stance.

The RS variant is also known to offer 10-speaker premium Harman Kardon audio system, keyless entry and ignition, as well as a roomier cabin from a body that now measures 4475mm in length (+15mm), 1781mm in width (-6mm), 1481mm in height (+1mm) and rides on a 2670mm wheelbase (unchanged).

Base Impreza models will continue to feature Subaru’s FB20D-series 2.0-litre petrol engine offering 113kW and 197Nm.

A mild-hybrid version of the model is available in other markets, but Subaru has not yet confirmed if it will be part of the Australian line-up.

Subaru Australia managing director Blair Read said that while dealerships still have stock of the current Impreza available, buyers wanting the latest model are encouraged to register their interest soon to ensure prompt delivery.

“Impreza is an icon, and the new model continues with an all-round package for drivers,” he said.

“Featuring new styling, technology, safety and comfort, alongside Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive, the sixth generation Impreza provides drivers with ultimate confidence in all conditions.”

The news comes just a week after Subaru Australian announced its Impreza S-Edition, which will farewell the current range Down Under.

Equipped with a bevy of STI and genuine Subaru accessories, the Impreza AWD S-Edition is priced from $36,290 plus on-road costs and will be available “in limited numbers”.

Based on a top-spec 2.0i-S Impreza hatch, the limited-edition variant offers STI Enkei 18-inch alloy wheels, STI front lip and skirt spoilers, a sports grille, STI gear selector knob and S-Edition badging.

The variant is offered in four exterior colours – Pure Red, Crystal White, Black Silica and Magnetite Grey – all complemented with black interior trim.