While a complete redesign is not in the cards for a couple of more years, Subaru has “comprehensively upgraded” the 2015 Impreza with an eye toward refinement and increased fuel economy.

Though compact, the family-friendly Impreza is available in 4-door and 5-door models all of which feature Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. While all Impreza models are powered by Subaru’s 148-horsepower BOXER engine, the base 2.0i and the Sport Premium trim levels come with a standard 5-speed manual transmission while the Premium and Limited feature a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission.

Subaru tuned their CVT to provide stepped shift pattern that feels more natural to most automatic drivers. The CVT also helps the Impreza deliver EPA estimated ratings of 28mpg city, 37mpg highway, and 31mpg combined- numbers that are higher than any gasoline-powered All-Wheel Drive car offered in the US and comparable to front-wheel drive cars.

Updated front styling and aerodynamic side mirrors aid in fuel economy while making the Impreza look a bit more like its big brother, the all-new 2015 Legacy.

Subaru sought to add refinement to the Impreza with sound deadening materials to include thicker side glass with improved sealing while rich-looking soft touch materials upgrade interior fit and finish. CVT models are equipped with hydraulic engine mounts to dampen vibration and add to improved ride quality.

EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology is available for 2.0i Limited and 2.0i Sport Limited models. The technology includes:

• Adaptive Cruise Control
• Pre-Collision Braking
• Vehicle Lane Departure Warning
• Steering-Responsive Fog Lights – When the fog lights are off, this feature turns either the left or right fog light independently depending on vehicle speed and steering angle to enhance illumination in corners.

Trim level dictates infotainment system amenities. The base 2.0i features a 6.2-inch touchscreen display which integrates the Rear Vision Camera with audio options, hands-free phone connectivity, Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration, and iPod® control capability. The next step up features a 7-inch screen, SiriusXM® capability, SMS text messaging, and dual USB ports. Another upgrade adds a navigation system that can be voice controlled as well as SiriusXM NavTraffic® and NavWeather® services which require subscriptions.

Subaru continues its tradition of safety by equipping all models with 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake Systems, Electronic Brake-force Distribution, and Vehicle Dynamics Control (which combines stability and traction control functions). The Impreza also features Subaru’s Brake Override System which cuts engine power when the brake and accelerator are pressed simultaneously.

images courtesy of Subaru