The 2024 Subaru Impreza is banking on its sporty past with RS trim and the return of a more powerful 2.5-litre boxer engine, while admitting that motorists have been saying for years: Sedans are fun. Debuting at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show, the sixth-generation Impreza features two sporty trims and is available exclusively as a sedan; unfortunately for enthusiasts, it also eschews a manual transmission in favor of a standard continuously variable automatic transmission.
The design changes are more subtle than the other cars at the LA show. The latest Impreza doesn’t look much different from the fifth generation model, but the grille, headlights and taillights are new. The sportier RS looks with darkened exterior and black 18-inch wheels. In the photos, the new rear bumper and larger reflectors looked finished, especially when painted red; personally, unfortunately, it really seems that way.
Subaru has added its 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen to the higher trims. It’s a welcome addition, although we’ve had issues with some touchscreen air conditioners in some of the automaker’s other cars (Subaru fixed an earlier issue with the Apple CarPlay display). The interior layout is familiar and forward visibility is good; while the A-pillars get in the way a bit, the side mirrors are still located in the doors, making for some extra window space.
According to Subaru, the 2024 Impreza’s new front seats are more comfortable than the previous car; I can’t confirm they are more comfortable, but they are comfortable enough for a compact car. Rear-seat room is also acceptable and looks largely unchanged from the previous generation.
Other big changes require actual driving to test: The RS has a 2.5-litre boxer engine instead of the 2.0-litre displacement found in the Base and Sport trims. With more horsepower and torque, along with a sport-tuned suspension, a lighter, stiffer chassis and standard all-wheel drive, Subaru may have a fun Impreza that can better challenge the Honda Civic Sport Touring and Mazda3 sedans. We can’t wait to find out.
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