The next-generation Subaru Impreza makes its
official launch debut at the Singapore Motor Show. For the Singapore market,
regional Subaru distributor Motor Image is offering the C-segment car in either
four-door sedan or five-door hatchback body styles, each with three variants
for buyers to choose from – 1.6i, 1.6i-S and 2.0i-S.
In terms of pricing (including COE), the four door
is priced at SGD 123,800 (2.0i-S) and SGD 106,800 (1.6i-S), while the five-door
retails at SGD 124,800 (2.0i-S) and SGD 107,800 (1.6i-S). The price list given
to us did not include the 1.6i.
All Impreza variants come with a Lineartronic CVT
automatic and Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system, mated to either a FB16 1.6 litre
four-cylinder petrol engine (114 PS at 6,200 rpm, 150 Nm at 3,600 rpm) or an
updated FB20 2.0 litre direct-injected four-cylinder (156 PS at 6,000 rpm, 196
Nm at 4,000 rpm). An engine idling stop system is standard for all variants.
The new platform also comes with a longer wheelbase
of 2,670 mm (+20 mm), and sees a change in the car’s dimensions as well. The
Impreza now measures 40 mm longer on the sedan (4,625 mm) and hatchback (4,460
mm), 1,775 mm wide (-20 mm) and 1,480 mm tall (+5 mm).
The front end features the familiar Subaru grille
with a single slat that runs through the logo. You’ll find halogen headlamps on
the 1.6i variant (1.6i-S and 2.0i-S get steering-responsive, automatic LED
units with C-shaped LED DRLs). All models come with front fog lamps.
The base 1.6i gets 16-inch alloy wheels shod with
205/55 section tyres, while 17-inch units (with 205/50 section tyres) are
unique to the 1.6i-S and 2.0i-S. The rear is significantly altered, with new
taillights that are sleeker in look compared to before.
They feature C-shaped lighting graphics as seen on
the Forester and XV. As for other exterior items, power-folding door mirrors
with LED turn signals, powered sunroof and headlamp washers are all found on
all variants except the 1.6i.
The cabin also gets an overhaul here, with a new
dashboard design that is more angular and contemporary compared to the outgoing
model. New items include the steering wheel, gear lever, switchgear and
instrument cluster. The Singapore-spec Impreza comes with an electronic parking
brake on all variants.
The main standout here is the touchscreen
infotainment system, which is a 6.5-inch unit on the 1.6i, while the remaining
two variants get a larger 8.0-inch one instead. Both systems come with Apple
CarPlay and Android Auto integration, voice recognition command and the usual
USB and AUX inputs.
On the 1.6i-S and 2.0i-S, equipment such as
dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, keyless operation, rearview camera,
power-adjustable driver’s seat, PIN code access, auto dimming rearview mirror,
aluminium pedals and multi-function steering wheel all come as standard.
Despite all the differences between the variants,
the comprehensive safety kit offered here : seven airbags (front, side, curtain
and driver’s knee), Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), Isofix child seat mounts,
side door reinforcement beams, ABS, EBD and brake assist – is standard on all
variants.
However, the same can’t be said of driver assistance
systems, with the 1.6i losing out on blind spot monitor, high beam assist, lane
change assist and rear cross-traffic alert.