NEW YORK AUTO SHOW: Suave look for new Impreza

Subaru has unveiled its next generation Impreza at the 2011 New York International Motor Show -- and it appears to have settled on an entirely palatable styling theme that brings its top-selling model into line with contemporaries from Japan, Korea and Europe.

The new Impreza comes in sedan and five-door hatch form and brings a sleeker, more flowing body design along with significantly rearranged proportions, featuring a noticeable cab-forward emphasis and underscored by tightly cropped front and rear overhangs.

Also making its debut on the Impreza is the 2.0-litre version of Subaru's new, longer-stroke "quad cam" boxer engine (the 2.5-litre variant made its debut in the 2011 Forester) that brings "huge" fuel efficiency improvements, although power and torque figures quoted are identical to the current engine's 110kW/196Nm. Subaru doesn't quote figures for either fuel consumption or performance, although it expects the latter to be "quicker than previously."

The new boxer engine features Subaru's Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) on both the intake and exhaust valves "to optimise performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions."

A new electric steering system also contributes to improved fuel economy.

The Impreza now also offers CVT transmission -- an updated version of the Lineartronic system that first appeared on 2010 Liberty and Outback models -- to complement the standard six-speed manual gearbox. 

Importantly, the new Impreza is claimed to offer further improved safety with its new body structure utilising more high tensile steel and extra "stiffening elements at key locations". A new front airbag on the driver's side offers improved protection further helped by the standard inclusion of a driver's knee bag on all versions.

Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with stability and traction control, and anti-lock brakes with EBD and Brake Assist are standard.

Subaru Australia expects the new car to maintain Impreza's five-star ANCAP safety rating.

Two all-wheel drive systems are offered: The regular full-time system used in current models, and a viscous-coupled centre differential version in models fitted with CVT.

Dynamic improvements come from strengthened front and rear suspension as well as new, vibration-reducing hydraulic engine mounts. Subaru says the stiffer construction also improves stability and handling, while premium models get special rebound springs in the front dampers, as well as a rear stabiliser bar to provide "even more responsive" handling.

Measuring the same length overall as the current Impreza, the new car nevertheless has a slightly longer wheelbase (up from 2621mm to 2644mm) that translates to more room inside, with larger door openings at both front and rear, lower door sills and higher hip points for easier entry. Rear seat legroom is improved by a significant 50.8mm, while shoulder room is claimed to be improved as well.

New front seats help rear space with scalloped backs, while providing improved protection from whiplash injuries as well as better support and comfort. All-round visibility is said to be improved via thinner A pillars featuring dummy front quarter vents, and 60mm lower window sills.

Although the company doesn't provide figures, the Impreza gets more luggage space via a bigger boot and, on hatchback versions, a flat cargo floor when the rear seats are folded.

Subaru also claims it has made significant gains in interior presentation -- an area susceptible to general criticism in current models.

The new Impreza is said to be more refined, with the employment of soft-touch plastics on the dash, door trim and centre console armrest, and what is described by Subaru Australia MD Nick Senior as a "fantastic new computerised dashboard display" with, on premium models, a centre-located multi-function display including a trip computer. The dash is also lower-set to give a "feeling of greater spaciousness."

CVT versions also gain steering wheel paddle shifters as well as the choice of six ratios when the "manual" mode is employed.

Although Australian specifications are not finalised, power sunroof and factory satellite navigation are expected to feature on the options list.

Nick Senior says the new Impreza is "a cutting edge car for Subaru as it gives us the ammunition to fire a few salvos in the small car category. It is Australia's biggest segment in terms of volume and competitors, with nearly 30 nameplates clamouring for share. Impreza stands out in a crowded market with all-wheel drive on every model."

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