To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Boxer Engine, Subaru has announced a special Edition Forester.

To further celebrate the 50^th Anniversary of the Subaru Boxer engine, Subaru are pleased to announce the introduction of the Forester Special Edition. On sale from the 1^st September, 100 units will be produced and will be priced at £29,995 for the petrol Lineartronic and £31,495 for the diesel Lineartronic. 

Based on the XC Premium model, the Special Edition model comes with £1,500 of additional equipment at no extra cost. Both models come with Subaru’s comprehensive five-year, 100,000-mile warranty.

Unique equipment for the Forester Special Edition includes Hunter Green Metallic Paint, front, side and rear under guards, wheel arch extensions and stainless steel cargo step panel as well as Special Edition brown leather seats with brown leather interior door grips, centre armrest and centre panel uprights. 

Other equipment on the Forester Special Edition includes Subaru Starlink; a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, connectivity and navigation system, Hill Descent Control (HDC), X-Mode system, which intelligently manages the car’s power and torque, brakes and drivetrain to maintain traction on even the most slippery surfaces.

The New Subaru Levorg is available with three years/30,000 miles of free servicing to boost it's popularity.

Subaru are pleased to announce that the Levorg sport tourer will be available with three years or 30,000 miles free servicing until the 30^th September.

A spiritual successor to Subaru Sports Tourers of the past, the Levorg is making waves and winning races with Team BMR in the British Touring Car Championship.

The Levorg is available as one model; 1.6 GT Lineartronic priced at £27,495. The Levorg is equipped with a 1.6 litre DIT (Direct Injection Turbo) Boxer engine, which is celebrating its 50^th Anniversary in 2016, and produces 170PS and 250Nm of torque. The engine is paired to a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

Levorg is also fitted with Subaru’s symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system; the only estate car with All-Wheel Drive as a standard feature at under £30,000. Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection’ system (SRVD) also comes as standard which alerts drivers to vehicles which are crossing behind. A comprehensive safety package, SRVD combines three technologies: Blind Spot Detection, which alerts drivers to cars sitting in their blind spot; Lane Change Assist, which warns drivers of fast-approaching vehicles behind when the driver indicates to change lane; and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which detects vehicles passing behind when reversing out of a parking space.

Other standard features include Subaru Starlink; a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, connectivity and navigation system, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI Drive) which allows the driver to choose between Intelligent mode and Sport mode to suit their mood or surroundings. Leather seats and trim, metallic paint, privacy glass and a rear parking camera also feature.

ITALY - Subaru to launch the Legacy SW replacement, The Levorg, throughout Europe.

Marketed in 2014 in the Japanese market, initially had not been decided whether LEVORG was a car only for the internal market or have crossed the borders. After one year and strong especially the success in the domestic market - one of the most stringent in the world - FHI has decided to launch also in Europe the model LEVORG.

Replacement for the Legacy Station Wagon, LEVORG ( LE Gacy and VO lution tou R in G ) is proposed as an evolution - word included in the name of the model - in a different way the historic estate of the House of the Pleiades that has given so much in terms of sales in the years.

If the base is conceptually the same as the other Subaru models - boxer engine and all-wheel drive - the new station wagon is intended as a "innovative tourer" looking very dynamic and forms that do not reveal the actual size of a car long little less than 4 meters and 70.

The aggressive front end with the air intake on the hood and the long lines at the rear define a car that is suitable for long journeys, with all the comfort and load capacity that allows a station wagon.

The adoption of the operator goes in this direction. By choosing a small-displacement engine BOXER (1.6l) turbocharged direct injection, Subaru wanted to combine the sporty 170 hp to reduced consumption (6,9l. Combined cycle) in order to address long runs with confidence.

On board, a number of systems which daily commuting to hint at the spirit of the car that will appeal to an audience dynamic and versatile style cross.

Building on the success of the new OUTBACK, Subaru Italy has decided to repeat the pre-sales activities in advance of arrival of the car dealership - scheduled for next autumn.

Through a web communication, www.levorg.it, those who will enter the section dedicated to the model will find the details of the new car. The most faithful of the brand of the House of the Pleiades, who intend to be the first to book it, Subaru Italy will devote a special treatment.

Translated by Google - Apologies for any errors caused.

Subaru's XV gets higher quality interior in line with new models.

• XV gets higher quality interior in line with new models
• Major re-tuning of chassis improves ride and handling
• NVH measures for more refinement
• New touchscreen infotainment with voice control and navigation
• Pricing unchanged from £21,995

Subaru UK has announced a raft of modifications and upgrades to the interior and chassis of its XV compact crossover. The interior changes result in further significant improvements to cabin refinement and ambience, and include an all new factory-fit infotainment system first seen on the new Outback earlier this year.

Boasting the lowest centre of gravity in the compact crossover class – and the highest ground clearance – changes to the car’s suspension have been designed to result in a smoother, more compliant ride but without sacrificing any of the stability that the XV is renowned for.

The upgraded Subaru XV goes on sale through the Subaru UK dealer network this month.

Higher-quality materials and new infotainment system for upgraded interior

Among the most important changes to the upgraded XV is a revised interior, which now features improved materials and an all-new touchscreen infotainment and navigation system.

The interior design now has a higher-quality look and feel thanks to the adoption of an all new instrument binnacle and new metallic and piano black accents throughout the cabin for the central console, dashboard and steering wheel switchgear and arm rests; Lineartronic models get a new shift lever and new housing with metal and piano black accents.

The driver’s LCD instrument binnacle has been completely redesigned and features more upmarket, contemporary blue dials with new graphics. The overall result of these changes is a more contemporary and cosseting ambience.

An enhanced infotainment, navigation and audio system is now fitted as standard to all XV models in the UK. The all-new 7.0-inch touchscreen display allows smartphone-style control over the advanced navigation and infotainment features, with a swipe and pinch control function for map displays. The infotainment display echoes the new blue glow of the driver’s instrument binnacle.

The infotainment system and other vehicle functions can also be controlled through Subaru’s latest-generation voice control facility. This allows the driver to keep their eyes on the road ahead while selecting a favourite radio station or album, setting a new satellite navigation destination or changing the power or temperature of the climate control system.

The system’s smartphone functionality extends to a range of apps that can be downloaded onto users’ phones or tablets, which pair-up via Starlink – these include weather and traffic reports, wireless audio, news updates and a calendar.

The infotainment system also now houses a standard-fit rear view camera, offering a crystal clear wide 160-degree field of view behind the car when reversing.

The passenger can also now engage with the car’s dashboard-top Multi-Function Display (MFD), with the control switch moved from the steering wheel to the centre of the dashboard. The MFD provides a range of information relating to a number of the car’s systems, including the status of its permanent  All-Wheel Drive system, as well as fuel economy and trip information.

The car also now receives an extra USB jack, allowing occupants to listen to music from one USB-compatible device while charging another at the same time. The centre-console cup holders have been re-designed and now feature a sliding cover. 

Modified suspension and extra soundproofing

The Subaru XV is sold as standard with a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive powertrain and the brand’s advanced Vehicles Dynamics Control system. With its 220 mm ground clearance and lowest-in-class centre of gravity, the Subaru XV has always been  remarkably stable in all conditions. For the upgraded model, Subaru engineers’ key focus was to improve the car’s ride quality and reduce the intrusion of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) into the cabin.

For both front and rear suspension, the dampers have had their pitch rate lowered, resulting in a smoother and more comfortable ride than earlier models, while reducing roll slightly. The damping power of the struts and new coil-spring settings now better suppress the transfer of vibrations into the cabin, while further reducing roll for greater cornering stability.

The rear suspension features new spring rate settings to further improve stability under cornering by ensuring greater tyre contact with the road, while allowing for greater flexibility in ride over broken road surfaces.

A 10% quicker steering ratio (down from 15.5:1 to 14.0:1) has been adopted to improve the XV’s steering response and provide more linear, direct and stable handling characteristics, requiring only 2.8 turns, lock-to-lock. The front cross-member has also been stiffened to improve steering stability.

NVH changes

Noise from inside the cabin has been reduced thanks to the more widespread application of sound-absorbent material throughout the car, further cutting the intrusion of vibrations and engine, wind and road noise into the cabin. This has been managed with the adoption of new under-bonnet insulators, extra sound-deadening material throughout the floor of the car, and sealing and sound-absorbing materials around the front and rear quarter lights and door lips.

The XV’s under-body cover has also been reshaped to reduce wind roar around the rear of the car, while thicker glass for the front side windows and front quarter lights further reduces wind noise around the A- and B-pillars.

The upgraded XV’s cabin is now 1dB quieter under acceleration or when travelling at high speed, providing a quieter and more relaxed environment for occupants.

Upgraded XV retains its £21,995 RRP

In spite of all the changes, the upgraded Subaru XV retains its existing on-the-road price, with the range starting from £21,995. Buyers of a new XV  currently receive 3 years’ free servicing and a £1000 deposit contribution from Subaru UK. The car is offered with Subaru UK’s comprehensive five-year, 100,000 mile warranty.

Full pricing and model line-up:

Subaru XV 2.0i SE    Subaru XV 2.0i SE Lineartronic  Subaru XV 2.0i SE Premium Subaru XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic Subaru XV 2.0D SE    Subaru XV 2.0D SE Premium

£21,995 £23,495 £23,995 £25,495 £23,995 £25,995

Subaru launches new outback at New York Auto Show.

• Bolder design for roomiest, most capable Outback ever
• Fuel economy at the top of AWD crossover class with estimated ratings of 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway for Outback 2.5i
• Lineartronic® CVT now standard on all models
• Revised chassis and new Active Torque Vectoring for greater agility
• Enhanced Active AWD and new X-Mode for increased capability
• Quieter, more refined ride and new amenities
• New available Rear Vehicle Detection System featuring Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
• New version of EyeSight® driver assistance system with improved camera performance

Subaru of America, Inc. yesterday introduced the all-new 2015 Outback, the fifth generation of the World’s First Sport Utility Wagon®, at the New York International Auto Show in the Jacob K. Javits Center. The 2015 Outback offers the roomiest interior, most capable chassis and highest fuel-efficiency in the model’s 20-year history. Its bold new design delivers an even more compelling blend of on-road agility, off-pavement control, ride comfort, interior refinement and safety technology.

The 2015 Outback arrives in Subaru dealerships in summer 2014. The 175-horsepower 4-cylinder Outback 2.5i model is available in Standard, Premium and Limited trim lines, accompanied by the top-of-line 6-cylinder 3.6R Limited with 256 horsepower. All trim lines add more standard amenities, conveniences and new infotainment systems.

The original Outback established a template for many competitive crossover models that followed, and the new-generation 2015 Outback further strengthens the melding of passenger- car and SUV attributes that crossover shoppers seek. The 2015 Outback exemplifies Subaru’s mastery of outdoors-oriented vehicle engineering, not just for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and raised ground clearance, but also for numerous details that help make it more convenient to load and carry cargo as well as items such as kayaks and bikes. Newly standard X-Mode, Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist augment Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to assist the driver in navigating rough roads, slippery surfaces or steep inclines.

New for 2015, all Outback models come standard with the Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission), which features paddle-shift control switches and is instrumental in the Outback’s significantly improved fuel economy. Manufacturer-estimated ratings of 25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined are up from 24/30/26 in the 2014 model. These figures place the 2015 Outback 2.5i at the top of the midsize crossover class, bettering front-wheel drive versions of some competitive crossovers.

A new Active Grille Shutter system on the 2015 Outback 2.5i helps to improve fuel economy by reducing wind resistance when closed. Electric Power-Assisted Steering and improved aerodynamics also contribute to the increased efficiency in all models. Due largely to its new Lineartronic CVT, the 6-cylinder Outback 3.6R Limited also improves fuel economy, with manufacturer-estimated ratings of 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway/22 combined vs. 17/25/20 for the previous version.  

Bold New Design Brings New Functionality
The all-new 2015 Outback introduces a bolder look with crisper, sculpted lines that convey both its all-road capability and upgraded refinement. A new front fascia combines the hexagonal grille and bumper into one smooth piece. An aluminum hood reduces weight over the front wheels, which helps enhance steering response. In the Outback 3.6R Limited, new standard HID low-beam headlights give the car a more distinctive nighttime signature. Limited trim line models feature turn signal exterior mirrors.

The 2015 Outback’s windshield is more raked, pulled forward 2.0 in. at the base. The new windshield angle, higher seating hip points, new front partition windows and door-mounted side view mirrors help improve visibility. The 2015 Outback maintains a footprint similar to the model it replaces. Wheelbase is increased by just 0.2-in., overall length by 0.6-in. and width by 0.7 in. The changes, though small, yield a roomier passenger cabin, at 108.1 cu. ft. (up from 105.4 cu. ft.). The added space includes gains in shoulder, front and rear hip and elbow room and rear legroom. The Outback’s cargo area has been enlarged to 35.5 cu. ft. behind the rear seats, up from 34.3, while maximum capacity with the standard 60/40 split fold-down rear seatbacks folded is now 73.3 cu. ft., up from 71.3. In addition, the load floor provided by the lowered seats now lays flatter, and new rear seatback release levers in the cargo area enhance convenience.

The Outback continues with 8.7-in. ground clearance, which is higher than for some SUVs, yet with low step-in height for comfort. New step-style doorsills allow one to stand firmly when securing objects to the roof rails with integrated retractable crossbars and tie downs. A power rear gate with memory height is available on Outback for the first time.

New Safety and Security Technology from a Safety Leader
The 2015 Outback builds on the stellar safety performance of the previous model, adding new front seat-cushion airbags that help to keep occupants in place in a frontal collision. All trim lines come standard with a rear-view camera, and a new rollover sensor can deploy the side curtain airbags if an imminent rollover is detected.

For added nighttime security, the 2015 Outback features new standard Welcome Lighting that automatically turns on cabin illumination and exterior lights as the driver approaches or departs the vehicle. The Limited trim offers a Keyless Access & Start system with PIN Code Access.

The new Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection System, which is standard on Limited trims and available for the 2.5i Premium, offers three functions. Blind Spot Detection detects vehicles on either side of the vehicle, in the driver’s blind spots; Lane Change Assist detects fast-approaching vehicles in adjacent lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert detects vehicles approaching from a perpendicular direction while reversing, such as from a driveway. LED indicators on the side mirrors alert the driver. Rear Cross Traffic Alert uses an indicator in the rear view camera display.  

The 2015 Outback offers the latest version of the EyeSight® driver-assist system, the highest-rated front crash prevention system by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Available for Outback Premium and Limited trim lines, EyeSight® uses Subaru-developed stereo camera technology and integrates Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking and Vehicle Lane Departure Warning. The 2015 Outback is projected to achieve the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, as the 2014 Outback did.

Models equipped with EyeSight® also come with new Steering-Responsive Fog Lights. The feature, which works only when the fog lights are turned off, activates the left or right fog light independently, depending on vehicle speed and steering angle, to provide enhanced illumination in the direction of the turn. The fog lights are pre-aimed for maximum coverage in corners.

Four- or Six-Cylinder BOXER Engine
The 2015 Outback 2.5i is powered by a double-overhead-cam (DOHC) FB series 2.5-liter BOXER engine that debuted for 2013 and now receives numerous enhancements for lighter weight, improved efficiency and quieter operation. Power is increased slightly, to 175 hp vs. 173 hp before. Peak torque remains at 174 lb.-ft. but is spread over a broader engine speed range for more responsive performance in all driving situations.

In the Outback 3.6R Limited, the 3.6-liter BOXER 6-cylinder engine produces 256 hp and 247 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Notably, the 3.6 engine sustains at least 225 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,000 to 6,000 rpm, making the Outback 3.6R Limited feel exceptionally smooth and responsive in everyday driving.

Standard Lineartronic CVT
For 2015, all Outback models now come standard with a Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission), with the 6-cylinder model using a high-torque version. Changes made to reduce friction in the CVT contribute to higher fuel efficiency. Because a CVT does not shift gears, the driver enjoys smoother performance in all driving situations. The CVT’s selectable manual mode offers six pre-selected ratios to allow the driver to “shift” manually using steering wheel paddle switches. This feature can provide added driver control when driving down inclines, for example.

 

Enhanced Agility and Quieter Ride
Subaru extensively revised and retuned the MacPherson front strut suspension and double-wishbone rear suspension for greater handling agility and a more compliant ride – a difficult balance to achieve. New quick-ratio electric power-assisted steering delivers outstanding feel and also helps reduce fuel consumption. The Outback 2.5i is equipped with standard 17-inch wheels, and the Limited trim line features 18-in. alloy wheels.
Active Torque Vectoring, an enhancement of the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, fosters more neutral cornering by applying brake pressure to the inside front wheel. The Outback 2.5i now uses larger brakes previously available only on the 6-cylinder model, and all models now have ventilated rear discs in place of solid discs used previously. The Brake Assist safety system automatically applies maximum braking pressure in an emergency stop.

The cabin blocks more sources of noise thanks to a new acoustic windshield, liquid-filled engine mounts, thicker panels in key locations (floor, toeboard, rear wheel apron, inner fenders) and expanded use of foam insulation and floor damping material.

Greater Comfort and Refinement 
New soft-touch materials, thicker cushioning for armrests and the center console and new trim styles give the 2015 Outback a more premium feel. The driver faces a decidedly sporty instrument panel, highlighted by two binocular-style gauge pods with a center LCD information display -- 3.5-in. on cars without the EyeSight® driver-assist system and 5-in. on EyeSight® cars. An ECO gauge indicates and promotes fuel-efficient driving habits using color bars. The Premium and Limited-trim levels feature gauges with elegant blue ring illumination.

The heater control panel integrates the digital clock and outside air temperature displays, with the time automatically corrected by GPS in navigation-equipped models. A new one-touch lane changer function for the turn signals adds convenience. Premium and Limited trim levels come equipped with standard auto up/down driver and front passenger windows with pinch protection.

The Outback 2.5i Premium delivers impressive comfort with a 10-way power driver’s seat (with power lumbar support adjustment); dual-zone automatic climate control; the All-Weather Package (three-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer); upgraded infotainment system; an air filtration system; leather-wrapped steering wheel; fog lights, dark-tint privacy glass and more.
  

The Limited trim line models offer the highest level of luxury ever in an Outback, adding to the Premium trim level content: perforated leather upholstery; two-position memory for the 10-way power driver’s seat; a 4-way power front passenger seat; dual-mode heated rear seats and a power rear gate with memory height.

New Infotainment Systems
Subaru significantly upgraded infotainment capability in the 2015 Outback. A new 6.2 Infotainment System in the Outback 2.5i provides AM/FM stereo and HD Radio®; Radio Data Broadcast System; single-disc in-dash CD player; 6.2-in. multi-function touch screen display with single-touch gesture control; Subaru STARLINK smartphone integration with Aha™ Infotainment, Pandora® Radio and iHeart® Radio; a rear vision camera; Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming; iPod® control capability, USB port and aux. input jack.

The Upgraded Infotainment System for Outback 2.5i Premium adds a 6-speaker audio system; 7-inch touch screen display with multi-touch control that offers swipe and scrolling gesture control; voice-activated controls; SiriusXM® satellite radio; a vehicle information display; SMS text messaging, iTunes® tagging capability and dual USB ports.  

A new high-end audio system standard for Outback Limited combines an AM/FM/HD Radio system with a harman/kardon® upgraded 576-Watt-equivalent GreenEdge amplifier. The system’s 12 harman/kardon speakers include a front center speaker and a rear subwoofer. GreenEdge technology provides increased audio performance and amplifier efficiency while consuming less power and reducing heat dissipation.

The available navigation system’s interactive voice command system accepts natural language and phrases, and this functionality can also operate the dual-zone automatic climate control system.

The center console armrest provides a storage area that can hold an iPad®. A covered and illuminated storage bin at the front of the console incorporates a USB port, 3.5mm AUX jack and a 12v power port. Models with high-grade audio or navigation feature two USB ports, making it possible to listen to music and charge two connected devices.

 

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Enhanced Capability
A newly refined version of the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical AWD comes standard in all 2015 Outback models. The system’s electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively controls torque distribution in response to driving conditions and wheel slippage. Taking input from acceleration, steering angle and yaw rate sensors, Active Torque Split AWD optimizes traction and steering response when accelerating through turns and curves, particularly when the road surface is slippery.

All 2015 Outback models come equipped as standard with the X-Mode system, which debuted on the 2014 Forester. When engaged by a switch on the console, X-Mode optimizes engine output and CVT ratio position, increases Active All-Wheel Drive engagement and uses enhanced control logic for the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system to reduce individual wheel spin.

Engaging X-Mode also activates the new Hill Descent Control, which uses engine braking to help maintain a constant vehicle speed when the Outback is traveling downhill, enhancing vehicle control. New Incline Start Assist helps to momentarily minimize forward or backward vehicle rolling on inclines, and the electronic Hill Holder System holds the vehicle in place until the driver presses the accelerator pedal to pull away from a stop.

Subaru produces a full line of all-wheel drive sedans, crossovers and SUVs, along with the rear-wheel drive BRZ sports car. 

At Long last the Subaru Impreza returns to the UK.

• Sole C-segment car to offer All-Wheel Drive as standard
• Efficient 1.6-litre Boxer engine and choice of transmissions
• Generous standard equipment
• New Auto Start Stop system boosts fuel savings
• On sale from 1 May, priced from £17,495 (on-the-road)

Subaru UK is to bring the Impreza back to the UK, with the latest model going on sale throughout the network from 1 May.

The new model will be limited to one, non-turbo engine and one trim level with a choice of transmissions. The new 1.6-litre Impreza RC will be priced from £17,495 (on-the-road) for five-speed manual models and from £18,995 for models fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic transmission. The Impreza will be the only car in the C-segment to offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard on every model,

A combination of a more favourable exchange rate and persistent customer demand has led to the decision to make the Impreza available again in the UK market in small volumes, and will offer an interesting and price competitive alternative to much more established competition in the highly competitive C-segment. The latest Impreza has been enjoying significant sales success in both its home market of Japan and in the US since its launch in 2012.

Since its introduction to the global market in 1992, the Impreza has become the most famous of Subaru model names, with the brand’s high-tech Symmetrical AWD system and four-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engines core to the car’s road-going abilities and appeal.

The new Impreza retains these attributes, featuring a new-generation 1.6-litre Boxer petrol engine, the latest version of Subaru’s hallmark All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment, and an impressive range of safety and fuel efficiency aids.

Design and practicality

The new Impreza was designed to offer excellent stability on the road and a high level of practicality. The car’s hawk-eye headlights and hexagonal grille show that it belongs to the Subaru family, while its prominent wheel arches emphasise its All-Wheel Drive character. The A-pillar is located closer to the front of the car than its predecessors, allowing a sleeker, more aerodynamic shape and a more spacious cabin.

Inside the car, the cabin is composed of a range of highly-durable and high quality materials. The impression of spaciousness is enhanced by a wide field of vision, wider door dimensions and higher hip points in all seats. The dashboard and steering wheel feature clear switches and controls, with a Multi-Function Display screen atop the central console.

1.6-litre Boxer engine and choice of transmissions

Like all of its predecessors, the new Impreza is equipped with a four-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, providing a lower centre of gravity for superior road-holding, and for the best compromise between performance and fuel efficiency.

The new model will be sold in the UK with a 1.6-litre Boxer petrol engine, producing 114ps and 150Nm of torque for eager throttle response. The engine features separate cooling circuits for the cylinder block and cylinder head, allowing it to warm-up more quickly to reduce friction and improve fuel economy. An Active Valve Control System helps keep engine friction even lower by reducing the oil pump relief pressure. A maintenance-free chain-type camshaft drive belt further improves efficiency. The 1.6-litre engine in the Impreza complies with Euro 5 emissions standards. 

The new model will be available with a choice of five-speed manual or chain-driven Lineartronic (CVT) transmissions. The Lineartronic transmission further improves the environmental performance of the Impreza, while wide ratio coverage and a six-speed manual-shift mode ensure decisive performance and a smooth drive.

The Impreza features a new Auto Start Stop system, boosting fuel savings in congested traffic. A special starter motor and ‘In-rush Current Reduction’ (ICR) ensure the Auto Start Stop is as unobtrusive as possible to vehicle occupants. The ICR stabilises the power supply when the engine cuts out when stationary, ensuring that the dashboard instruments and displays don’t flicker. When equipped with Lineartronic, Auto Start Stop reignites the engine in just 0.2 seconds.

Fitted with the 1.6-litre Boxer engine and manual transmission, the new Impreza will accelerate from 0-60mph in 12.3 seconds, and on to a top speed of 114mph. The Impreza returns fuel economy of 44.1mpg on the combined cycle and CO₂ emissions of 147g/km, improving to 46.3mpg and 140g/km when fitted with Lineartronic.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard across the range

Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical AWD system ensures greater safety and a high level of on-road stability in all conditions.

Manual-transmission models feature a centre differential incorporating a viscous limited-slip differential (LSD), with a basic 50/50 per cent front/rear torque split.  To improve traction on low-grip surfaces, this system can detect any slip in front or rear wheels and adjust the torque distribution to the front or rear accordingly.

Lineartronic models, fitted with an electronically-controlled Multi-Plate Transfer clutch, control and distribute torque to the rear wheels. A 60/40 front/rear torque split can be adjusted, with more torque sent to the rear wheels if the system detects slipping front wheels.

The new Impreza’s all-round independent suspension ensures a high level of refinement and driving agility on all roads, the car absorbing impacts from poor road surfaces while allowing a linear, predictable response to steering inputs. A wide anti-roll bar improves the Impreza’s stability, while vibrations throughout the cabin are kept to a minimum with a highly-rigid cross-member.

The electrically-assisted power steering system ensures linear responses at all times, as well as a natural steering feel.

High levels of active and passive safety

Paired with the AWD system, all Impreza models receive Subaru’s electronic stability programme, Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), as standard, further improving stability and hazard avoidance. VDC also features an emergency brake-assist function, while a brake override control system eliminates the risk of unintended acceleration by ensuring that braking always takes precedence if both brake and throttle pedals are pressed at the same time.

Passive safety is a strong point for the Subaru Impreza, with a high proportion of high-tensile steel employed throughout the body to improve body stiffness and collision safety. The bonnet and bulkhead are engineered to protect pedestrians in the event of a collision without sacrificing body rigidity. The car is also fitted with eight airbags (front, knee and curtain / side airbags) for maximum occupant protection.

From the driver’s seat, a wide field of vision also improves safety, with narrow A- and B-pillars and door-mounted mirrors reducing the number of blind spots.

The Impreza was awarded the full five stars in Japan’s New Car Assessment Programme (JNCAP) at the end of 2012 when the model launched in its home market. The JNCAP crash test programme is a rigorous series of performance tests which include full wrap / offset frontal collision, side collision and pedestrian head and leg protection tests.

UK model range: generous standard specification

The UK model will come in RC specification, and customers will benefit from high levels of standard equipment to improve convenience. This includes automatic on/off headlamps and rain-sensing windscreen wipers, front fog lamps, power-folding heated door mirrors with LED turn signals, windscreen wiper de-icer system, 16-inch alloy wheels, tyre repair kit and daytime running lights.

For occupant comfort, every Impreza is equipped with dual-zone air-conditioning, rear passenger heating and ventilation ducts, six-way manually-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, two 12V power outlets, USB and aux-in jacks, and a reversing camera.

Optional equipment to upgrade further includes leather seating and a Pioneer satellite navigation system. Three exterior colours will be available: Satin White, Ice Silver and Quartz Blue.  

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Body and chassis

Five-door, five-seater hatchback, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Longitudinally-mounted gasoline ‘flat-four’ Boxer engine driving the front and rear wheels (AWD) via a five-speed manual or six-speed Lineartronic CVT transmission.

Engines

1.6-litre / 114ps Petrol

Name	Boxer Petrol
Type	DOHC, horizontally opposed ‘flat four’ with dual AVCS
Capacity	1.6-litres, 1,600cc
Bore and stroke	78.8 x 82.0mm
Compression ratio	10.5:1
Max power	114ps (84kW) @ 5,600 rpm
Max torque	150Nm (111 lb ft) @ 4,000 rpm
Valves	16 (4-per-cylinder)
Fuel system	Multi-point injection
Construction	Aluminium cylinder block and aluminium heads
Emissions class	Euro Stage 6

Transmissions

Manual	5-speed
Automatic	CVT

Gear ratios

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
1	3.454	----
2	1.888	----
3	1.296	----
4	0.972	----
5	0.738	----
Reverse	3.333	3.667
Final Drive 1	4.444	3.900
Drive range	----	3.581 - 0.570

Drivetrains

1.6i MT	Symmetrical AWD with centre differential coupled to viscous LSD
1.6i CVT	Symmetrical AWD with active torque split system

Suspension and damping

Front	Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar
Rear	Fully independent by subframe-mounted double wishbones, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar

Steering

Type	Electric power-assisted, rack-and-pinion
Turning circle	10.6 metres

Brakes

Front	277mm ventilated disc
Rear	274mm solid disc
ABS	Four-channel anti-lock system with EBD
BAS	Boosts braking power to maximum during emergency stops
EBS	Emergency Brake Assist

Wheels and tyres

Standard	Alloy 16-inch x 6.5J    205/55 R16 tyres
Spare (standard)	Tyre mobility kit

Dimensions (mm)

Overall length	4,415	Overall width**	1,740
Overall height*	1,465	Wheelbase	2,645
Front track	1,510	Rear track	1,515
Ground clearance	145

*with roof rails
**excluding door mirrors

Capacities (all models)

Fuel tank	55.0 litres
Luggage (VDA)	380 litres behind rear seats (with tyre repair kit) 1,270 litres behind front seats (to roof)

Weights (kg)

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Kerb weight	1,315	1,350
Towing (max) kg*	1,500	1,200

Performance

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Top speed / mph	114	111
0-to-62 mph / sec	12.3	12.6

Fuel economy (mpg)

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Combined cycle	44.1	46.3
Urban cycle	34.4	37.2
Extra-urban cycle	53.3	54.3
CO2 g/km	147	140