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2010 Subaru Impreza

SUBARU INTRODUCES IMPREZA SPECIAL EDITION FOR 2010

• Revised Styling and Model Line Changes

• Special Edition Adds Premium Amenities, Including Moonroof and Heated Seats

• Available Navigation System Adds Bluetooth Hands-Free Calling

The 2010 Subaru Impreza line, which features Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, gains more of the premium amenities that more of today's compact car customers are seeking. A new Special Edition Package for the Impreza Premium trim line equips the 4-Door sedan or 5-Door model with a power moonroof, fog lights and the All-Weather Package featuring heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.

The 2010 Impreza line includes the 2.5i, Outback Sport and 2.5GT. The 2.5i is powered by a naturally aspirated, 170-hp 4-cylinder Boxer engine and available in 4-Door sedan and 5-Door models. New for 2010, the Premium trim line replaces the previous Premium Package, and the Special Edition Package adds the aforementioned vehicle upgrades to the Premium trim line. The available navigation system in the 2.5i Premium now includes Bluetooth hands-free phoning capability, with a microphone located in the overhead console. All Impreza models feature a new grille for 2010.

The 5-door Outback Sport gets its outdoor spirit from the larger Outback model and shares the Impreza 2.5i powertrain. The Outback Sport also features distinctive exterior trim and chassis and interior enhancements. The fully equipped Impreza 2.5GT, also available in 4-Door and 5-Door styles, is powered by a 224-hp turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engine and equipped exclusively with an electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT™ for manual control.

The Subaru Impreza remains the only car in its segment to come standard with All-Wheel Drive – renowned Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive combined with standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). The Impreza has achieved the 'Top Safety Pick' rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for garnering the highest rating ('Good') in frontal offset, side and rear impact tests.

Like every Subaru model for 2010, the Impreza line is equipped as standard with 4-wheel disc ABS brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The Incline Start Assist feature, which can prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline, is standard with the 5-speed manual transmission on all models.

The 2.5-liter normally aspirated 4-cylinder Boxer engine in the Impreza 2.5i and Outback Sport delivers 170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 170 lb-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm, still among the highest ratings in the segment.

The Impreza 2.5i Premium delivers on its 'premium' promise with aluminum-alloy 16-inch, 12-spoke wheels and additional interior amenities. Comfort touches include a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons and a black leather-wrapped shifter handle. The AM/FM stereo includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer featuring MP3/WMA audio file capability. The 10-speaker audio system integrates the SRS Circle Surround system.

Impreza 2.5GT Combines Performance, Agility and Everyday Comfort

Powered by a 224-horsepower turbocharged / intercooled Boxer engine teamed to a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT, the 2010 Impreza 2.5GT delivers powerful performance. The turbo engine produces 226 lb.-ft. of peak torque at a low 2,800 rpm for quick acceleration, as well as outstanding response in all types of driving. Sport-tuned suspension with a rear stabilizer bar and standard 17-inch alloy wheels ensure both agile handling and compliant everyday ride quality. The Impreza 2.5GT in addition is equipped with larger front brakes than the 2.5i and Outback Sport models.

The 2.5GT combines the Impreza 2.5i Premium and Special Edition standard equipment. In addition, its electroluminescent instrument panel gauges were inspired by those in the high-performance Impreza WRX® and WRX STI® models.

Outback Sport: A Sporty Crossover

The original Impreza Outback Sport was instrumental in ushering in the crossover-utility category in 1994, combining renowned Subaru All-Wheel Drive performance with passenger car comfort and economy. Based on the Impreza 5-Door model, the Outback Sport combines sporty exterior design with a comprehensive equipment upgrade over the 2.5i 5-Door model. Outback Sport styling is highlighted by its exclusive two-tone appearance, front and rear bumper underguards, standard projector-beam halogen fog lights, side moldings and silver painted exterior door handles. Outback Sport augments the Impreza 2.5i 5-Door model's utility features with a 12-volt cargo area power outlet and roof carrier base.

Raised heavy-duty suspension and 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 all-season tires form the Outback Sport's foundation of outstanding all-climate driving performance. Incline Start Assist is standard with the 5-speed manual transmission, and, like all Impreza models, the Outback Sport features the standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system.

Outback Sport is equipped for cold climates with the standard All-Weather Package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer). The standard AM/FM stereo includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3/WMA audio file capability. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod® or MP3 player, and the 10-speaker audio system integrates the SRS Circle Surround system. Additional upscale comfort touches include a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons and a black leather-wrapped shifter handle.

Advanced Chassis Engineering

A 103.1-inch wheelbase, combined with Subaru's renowned mastery of intelligent vehicle packaging, contributes to the Impreza's smooth ride character, interior space and utility. High-tensile-strength steel is used at key structural points. Subaru optimized all elements of the Impreza's chassis to deliver a better balance of ride, handling response, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles. Compared to the previous-generation Impreza, the engine is placed slightly lower in the chassis, which helps to lower the center of gravity for better agility. In addition, the new-generation Impreza chassis improves crash-worthiness and provides a stronger platform for crisper handling. All Impreza models share the quicker steering from the WRX performance model yielding 2.8 turns lock-to-lock and a tight 34.8-ft. turning circle.

The double-wishbone rear suspension design provides improved ride refinement and decreased road noise for a quieter cabin. At the same time, its compact layout results in less intrusion into the cargo area, providing a generously sized luggage compartment. On 5-Door Impreza models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags with the rear seats in the upright position. In the Impreza sedan, which is 6.5-inches longer than the 5-Door model, the extra space provides for a large, deep trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. In all Impreza and Outback Sport models, a 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience.

Sporty Exterior Design

The Impreza 5-Door features a distinctive character line that sweeps upward at the rear. The short rear overhang and clear rear tail lamp lenses combine to integrate the side character line into the tail. The 4-Door, which is unique to the North American market, is distinguished by a wide, sharp front design giving way to a crisp side body crease. The rear of the 4-Door is set apart from the 5-Door model by red tail lamp lenses and a chrome strip below the trunk line that visually widens the tail. The 4-Door uses dual tailpipe outlets (one per side), and the 5-Door features a single, larger tailpipe outlet.

Comfort And Convenience

The Impreza emphasizes interior comfort and spaciousness, with high-quality materials that include double-stitched fabrics and high-grade plastics. Large door openings and rear doors that open to 75 degrees provide easy ingress and egress. Flexmats springs by Pullmaflex enhance seating comfort. The sweeping twin cockpit design embraces occupants and brushed aluminum-look insets flow into the center stack. The center console shape adds to the airiness of the interior, aided by the sculpted door panels and generous headroom. A molded recess in each door panel can accommodate a 24-oz. soft drink bottle, as well as loose items.

The headlights-off with ignition switch is a traditional Subaru convenience that can preserve battery life. Models with the optional automatic transmission are pre-wired for a dealer-installed remote-starting system. Dual gas strut hood supports are used instead of the prop-rod seen on other compact models, an unexpected convenience in this segment.

Navigation System With Advanced Audio

The Impreza 2.5i Premium with automatic-transmission is available with an optional navigation system that adds Bluetooth hands-free calling capability for 2010. The microphone is located in the overhead console.

The navigation system also includes Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement. The Impreza debuted the first mobile application of this technology, which is also used in high-end home theater systems. Audyssey MultEQ creates the optimal sound experience for passengers in each seat position by tuning equalization that corrects for time and frequency response.

In addition to an input for MP3 players, the center console with navigation system also includes video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices. These can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked. The navigation screen is placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and ease of use.

The Impreza models come pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. (The optional navigation system includes factory-installed SIRIUS with a roof-mounted antenna.) The standard and optional audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System, which can display a variety of data, including a song's title and artist.

Proven Subaru Safety Technology

The new-generation Impreza is built around the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models. The Impreza incorporates 3-point seatbelts for all seats (height-adjustable for outboard positions), active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Like all current Subaru models, the 2010 Impreza models are equipped with standard side-curtain airbags. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features front seat side impact air bags. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight – first determining if it is occupied, and if so by a child or adult – to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an 'Airbag' indicator light.

Two Types of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive forms the common core technology on all Subaru models. With more brands adding All-Wheel Drive, it is worth noting that Subaru introduced 4-wheel drive passenger cars more than 30 years ago and then automatic full-time All-Wheel Drive in 1987. In 1997, Subaru became the first brand in the U.S. to make All-Wheel Drive standard on all its models.

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system that varies by model and transmission. The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the center of gravity, which in turn contributes to handling agility.

The Impreza 2.5i and Outback Sport models feature two versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, both of which power all four wheels all the time and can transfer more power to the wheels with the best grip. Models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission utilize a viscous-coupling locking center differential that distributes power 50:50, transferring more power to the wheels with the best traction should slippage occur.

In all Impreza models with the automatic transmission, the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive uses an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively manage power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Control logic enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage. All versions of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive integrate the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system to further enhance all-weather stability and traction.

by Subaru

by Subaru

Introduced by Subaru in November of 1992, the Impreza is a compact car that was offered in either front wheel or all wheel drive and featured sporty curves. The Impreza came in both four-door sedan/saloon versions or five-door station wagon/estate. More compact than the Legacy, the Impreza had a more enhanced high-performance driving and feeling of quality than its predecessor.

The Impreza became Subaru's entry into the small-car maket segment in U.S., European, Japanese and numorous other world markets. ‘Subura' a Japanese word meaning ‘unite' has a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction that is represented in their more than 10 million vehicles sold worldwide.

Equipped with a flat engine (or an internal combustion engine, also called a boxermotor) the Impreza came with distinguishable Subaru characteristics. With an engine choice of 1.5: or 1.8L naturally-aspirated engines that were neither turbocharged nor supercharged.

Available in a 4-wheel drive turbo charged version that delivered 211Bhp and had the distinction of the turbo charger mounted on the right side of the engine. The intercooler is located above the engine, therefore the reason for the big central air vent on the bonnet of the Impreza. On the racing version of the Impreza, the intercooler is located in the front bumper.

The Impreza came with an engine that was mounted longitudinally, making the gearbox and transmission much easier to fit and service.

For drivers searching for a car that provides thrills without major frills, the Japanese manufacturers have gained the status of being the only ones still able to produce a car for such a low price. Subaru Impreza turbo is gaining impressive commercial success due to price to performance ratio, its racing successes and reliable features.

The Impreza turbo's commercial success has led to production of more impressive versions that aren't available outside of Japan. The Impreza GT turbo evolved into becoming a multiple World Rally Champion with three world championship titles.

Common in Japan and Europe, special editions of the Impreza were available, usually coinciding with significant victories at World Rally Championships.

For the 1997 model year, the Impreza received an updated exterior facelift that was followed by a complete interior redesign in 1998.

A first-generation Impreza, turbocharged was never received in the North American market.

by Jessican Donaldson

Subaru introduced its Impreza Compact Car in 1993 and has since become a pinnacle of performance. The name 'Impreza' was derived from an Italian word 'impresa', meaning a feat or achievement. In Polish, the name 'Impreza' means to 'party', an 'event' or 'show'. In either language, the name is suitable.

When the Impreza was first introduced in November of 1993, it was available in either front wheel drive or all wheel drive configuration. Two bodystyles were offered, a four-door sedan or five-door station wagon. The two-door coupe followed a few years later, in 1995. Trim levels included the LX, GL, and Sport. Adding to the vehicles versatility, the Impreza was offered with a variety of engines, including a 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0-liter engine. To boost performance further, a turbocharger and intercooler was available on the 2-liter engine. Horsepower for the forced-induction engine was an impressive 208. In the Japanese market, the output was even higher.

Subaru Tecnica International (STi) was formed in 1988; their purpose was to specialize in the preparation of vehicles for rallies. In 1994, they were given the opportunity to create a version of the Impreza to bear the 'STi' nameplate. When introduced, it was only available in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and European Domestic Market (EDM). These versions featured performance-tuned engines, transmission, and suspensions. Horsepower was raised above the normal WRX models, and could carry the vehicles from zero-to-sixty in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed was electronically limited at 122 mph. The European market had a slightly de-tuned version of the engine, though performance was still impressive. Additional steps were taken to prepare the vehicles for rally competition. The soundproofing material was reduced, the air conditioning removed, and void of many non-essential amenities. The overall weight of the vehicle was reduced significantly.

The Impreza received cosmetic changes in 1997 and the interior was redesigned in the following year. The design-inspiration for the interior was borrowed from the Forester.

Special edition Impreza's have been introduced throughout its production lifespan. These limited edition models are often tuned for greater performance or given unique cosmetic changes. The purpose is often to commemorate a racing success or to honor a racing legend. Editions include the Series McRae, 555, Catalunya, Terzo, RB5, P1, and 22B. A limited edition version of the Impreza Wagon was even offered for a short time, dubbed the CasaBlanca.

The European market received a performance upgraded version of the Impreza in 1999 which featured an improved turbocharger and 4-pot calibers with larger disc brakes. The suspension was improved and the seating became more racer-oriented with bucket seats similar to the STi version.

While the rest of the world was offered the turbocharger version of the Impreza, the North American market was left to sit on the side-lines. The turbocharger would not come across 'the pond' during the first generation of the Impreza. The Impreza was offered with the 1.8-liter engine with either front- or all-wheel drive. A 2.2-liter version of the engine became available in 1995. The FWD was later droped and all Subaru's became all-wheel drive as standard.

Subaru was unsure of the performance market in North America, and thus, offered only basic engines. In 1998, the year the 1.8-liter engine was no longer available, Subaru decided to explore the possibilities of performance in the US. They offered a performance model dubbed the Impreza 2.5RS. The 2.5-liter DOHC naturally-aspirated engine produced 165 horsepower and had performance upgrades throughout the vehicle, including larger brakes and 16-inch five-spoke gold-colored wheels. Hood vents, rear spoiler, and a hood scoop helped segregate the styling from this 'special' model and its non-tuned sibling.

In 2001, Subaru introduced a larger, more refined and improved, Impreza. For some, the changes were a step in the wrong direction, as the car grew in size and weight. It was tamer beast for the typical day-to-day driving conditions and the extra size meant it was more versatile. Also, the coupe model was no longer offered.

The WRX version, for the United States, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that cranked out nearly 230 horsepower became available the following year, in 2002. The US had to wait a long time to get the STi version, which did not enter into production for the States until 2004. To comply with safety and emission control laws in the United States, it was not the same thoroughbred racer as in other parts of the world. Still, it was a very impressive machine. In other markets, the STi was equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger 2.0-liter engine. In the US, the STi was powered by a 2.5-liter EJ25 engine mated with a turbocharger.

In 2003, the Impreza was given a facelift, mainly due to the negative reaction by some media outlets. One of the more noticeable changes were to the headlamps, which became more square. Another redesign occurred in 2006 on all Impreza's, featuring changes to its headlights, taillights, and bumpers - among other changes.

The Third generation of the Impreza was introduced to the world at the 2007 New York Auto Show, ready for sale in 2008. It will be available as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback.

by Dan Vaughan