2012 Subaru Impreza Now More Stylish and Fuel Efficient

The 2012 Subaru Impreza receives a complete redesign for the new model year. The result is a vehicle that more competently matches the level of quality and features already available on competing models. Keep reading to learn what's new on the 2012 Subaru Impreza and review pricing, features and MPGs.

Styling: 2012 Subaru Impreza

Visual updates to the new Impreza result in a fairly conservative design, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. More importantly, the interior dimensions of the vehicle grow in proportion to make the vehicle more comfortable and utilitarian. Cargo space for sedan models is listed at 12.0 cubic feet, while hatchback models offer 22.5 cubic feet of space with the rear seats in use. Add in a variety of storage cubbies and well-proportioned rear seats, and the result is one of the better compact vehicle options for families.

It should be noted that the Impreza's redesign only applies to the regular Impreza. The Impreza WRX and Impreza STI continue on with the same styling as last year.

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Performance: 2012 Subaru Impreza

The Subaru's new engine comes in the form of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that is good for 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft. of torque. As with all Subaru models, all-wheel drive is standard and offers a 50/50 front-to-rear wheel distribution. Opt for the continuously variable transmission, and you'll receive an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway (30 mpg combined). This is a big improvement over last year's engine, which offered up to 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Unfortunately, the trade off for better fuel efficiency is less power under the hood. Last year's base model delivered 170 horsepower. If you still crave superior engine performance, then the sporty WRX trims may be a good investment. Base WRX models offer 265 horsepower, and STI models ratchet things up to 305 horsepower.

Review full 2012 Subaru Impreza specifications

Safety: 2012 Subaru Impreza

Standard safety features available on the 2012 Impreza include antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, stability control and traction control. A driver's knee airbag and whiplash-reducing head restraints are also available. In crash tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the Impreza earned a best-possible rating of "Good" in front, side and roof strength tests.

Pricing and Features: 2012 Subaru Impreza

Initial asking price for the 2012 Subaru Impreza is listed at $17,495. For this price, you'll get keyless entry, full power accessories, air conditioning, height-adjustable driver's seat, 65/35 rear folding seat, four-speaker stereo, CD player and more. Upgrade to the Premium trim, and you'll also get larger wheels, foglamps, cruise control, Bluetooth, six-speaker stereo, auxiliary input, iPod/USB interface and steering-wheel mounted audio controls. Leather seats, automatic climate control, touchscreen interface and other upscale amenities are available on the Impreza Limited.

Exclusive features available for WRX models include sport-tuned suspension, summer performance tires, sunroof, heated front seats, xenon headlights and more. Opt for all the bells and whistles, and the price of an Impreza jumps considerably. Base price for the top-of-the-line Impreza WRX STI Limited comes in at $37,445.

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