US-spec Impreza shapes up

By Franco Cocca

07th April 2011

Here’s the first official picture of Subaru’s replacement for the American spec Impreza saloon. Subaru is claiming it to be the most economical 4WD car in its class, for the States at least, with fuel economy of 36mpg.

There are some clear design cues carried over from the 2010 Imprezza Design Concept from the Los Angeles Auto Show. From what we have in this single side-view photo, there have been revisions to the front with new headlights and much rounder look too the front. The wheel arches are more defined looking very similar to those on the Legacy.

Subaru claims it is roomier and more refined than the current model and by giving it a more civilised look it will have the potential to compete with the likes of the big-selling Toyota Corolla and VW Passat on the US market.

It will be officially launched at the New York Auto Show on the 20th April where we’ll hopefully get more details on the hatchback and sportier STI ranges. Subaru UK haven’t confirmed any details on what features will be carried over to the European market but we’re told to expect similar cosmetic upgrades to the current STI range soon.