2024 Subaru Impreza – subaru.com | Shop 2024 Subaru Impreza on Carsforsale.com
The 2024 Subaru Impreza is an all-new model that kicks off the sixth generation of this long-running AWD compact car. Changes over the outgoing model, which we review here, are extensive including a stiffer chassis, seats that are said to be more supportive, and a quieter cabin.
The sedan body style has been dropped – as has the manual transmission – and a new RS trim joins the lineup with an exclusive, and more powerful, engine. Other upgrades include a larger infotainment interface and enhanced driver aids within Subaru’s EyeSight suite of advanced safety systems.
Light on the wallet
Hatchback cargo space
Big infotainment screen
Nickel-and-dime options
Poky engines
Bland cabin design
An inoffensive AWD hatchback
You have to hand it to Subaru – they really stick to their guns. Those guns being AWD – not to be confused with 4WD – and a horizontally-opposed – or “boxer” – 4-cylinder powerplant. This combo is a driving factor in the creation of rabid “Subie” fans and the driving factor behind the all-new 2024 Impreza. The aptly named Base model and the midpack Sport model are powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0L boxer-four that puts down 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque.
New for 2024 is the top-line RS model that comes with an exclusive 2.5L unit rated for 182 horses and 178 torques. All three models feature AWD and a CVT to handle “shifting” duty. The RS is upgraded with larger front brake rotors, a sport-tuned suspension, and an 8-speed manual mode controlled via shifter paddles on the steering column.
Sadly, the RS model is not built for rally-inspired acceleration. Salting the wound is that Subaru canned the manual transmission option for 2024, leaving a CVT as the only setup.
Fortunately, both powertrains are reasonably fuel efficient. The 2.0L powertrain is good for 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. Stepping up to the RS variant drops both figures by 1 mpg. With the newly enlarged gas tank measuring over 16 gallons, you can manage well over 500 miles between fill-ups on the open road.
With the sedan body eliminated, every 2024 Impreza now has the impressive cargo capacity associated with a hatchback shape. There are 20 cubic feet of space behind the second-row bench and 56 cubes when that seat is folded down. This useful cabin space helps land the Impreza on our list of best compact cars. However, be aware that the back seat doesn’t fold completely flat, so loading up will require some finessing.
In base form, the cabin is a fairly dull affair which can best be described as a sea of black. Midpack Sport models add red stitching throughout and the RS variant spruces things up slightly with textured fabric upholstery and broad swatches of red accents. But regardless of model, your only option for seat covering is black cloth as options like leather or two-tone styling are nowhere to be found.
But the Impreza has always been about safe and frugal transportation, so this is not all that surprising. There are a few nods to comfort like standard dual-zone automatic climate control, available heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. But if you’re looking for a heavy dose of creature comforts, look elsewhere.
Only the entry-level 2024 Impreza comes with Subaru’s odd infotainment design featuring two 7-inch touchscreens stacked atop one another. The other two models come with a portrait-oriented 11.6-inch screen and wireless smartphone mirroring for Apple and Android devices (base models require plugging in).
These upper-level Imprezas also come with a Wi-Fi hotspot, STARLINK remote connectivity and emergency assistance, and the option for a Harman Kardon audio system with 10 speakers.
Though neither the NHTSA nor IIHS has yet tested the 2024 Impreza, Subaru has a reputation for safety, so we expect it to perform well. Helping that will be 8 standard airbags and the EyeSight suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. It includes forward collision mitigation, a lane-keeping system, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams.
Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and evasive steering assist are included on the RS model and can be fitted to the Sport trim as part of an optional package.
Subaru eschews trim-naming fun in favor of the literally named Base Impreza. It features 16-inch steel wheels with hubcaps, adaptive LED headlights, and roof rails. The cabin is a basic place with black cloth seats, dual-zone automatic climate control. single USB port, and a 4-speaker stereo.
Dual 7-inch touchscreens manage the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, while a wireless charging pad can be added for $399 and an auto-dimming rearview mirror can be tacked on for $405.
Sport models get 18-inch alloys, LED fog lights, and the option for an Oasis Blue paint job that will delight fans of the Smurfs. Other upgrades include patterned cloth seat inserts with red stitching, a back-row center armrest, a second USB port, and the 11.6-inch infotainment system that includes navigation.
Subaru again goes wild with branding as evidenced by the Optional Package (that’s what it’s called), a $1,900 bundle that brings a moonroof, heated side mirrors, and front seats, a windshield wiper deicer, and additional advanced driver aids.
Along with the bigger motor, RS models come with special dark-finished 18-inch rims and RS badges on the front fenders. Inside, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter are included as are heated front seats, aluminum pedal covers, dual rear USB ports, and a cargo cover. A 10-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a moonroof are all available via a $2,070 package.
The 2024 Subaru Impreza certainly impresses in the price department as all three trim lines sticker for less than $30,000. But so does the Hyundai Elantra lineup, a car that offers quite a bit more power, more available technology and amenities, and a tremendous warranty. On that last note, Subaru offers the industry-average 3 years or 36,000 miles of basic coverage and 5 years or 60,000 miles on the powertrain with no complimentary maintenance.
Much as we’d like to recommend the sporty-ish RS model, it’s really not much of a performance machine. So, save some money and find yourself an Impreza Sport. Save even more money by looking through the latest new car incentives.
2024 Subaru Impreza – subaru.com | Shop 2024 Subaru Impreza on Carsforsale.com
The 2024 Subaru Impreza’s wildcard is the sure-footedness that comes standard on every model thanks to the automaker’s Symmetrical AWD system, which many buyers will surely be sold on. And on the whole, the latest Impreza is a solid and competent hatchback.
Along with the drivetrain, the low pricing is a strong selling point as are the modern infotainment offerings. However, the RS model is desperate for a turbocharger as it doesn’t live up to the nameplate. And as for the cabin, a style makeover would be welcome as would amenities like leatherette (if leather is a bridge too far).
Yes, the Subaru Impreza comes standard with AWD.
The base 2024 Impreza starts at $24,085, a midpack Sport runs just over $26,000, and the top-line RS starts at $28,975.
Though it’s too soon to know if the 2024 Impreza is reliable, the previous 2023 model has received good marks for reliability.