Subaru Impreza 2.0i-S AWD 2017 Long-term review - 3

On paper, our latest long-termer, the Subaru Impreza 2.0i-S, boasts class-leading technology. But not all technology is created equal, so naturally I was keen to dig deeper.

Starting with the sometimes-overlooked lifesaving stuff. In that category, the Impreza’s safety and driver assist technologies are many. Yes, it has symmetrical all-wheel-drive as standard across the range - but, there’s much more going on.

At 2.0i-S level, Subaru’s Vision Assist system comes into play. The system combines blind spot monitor, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert and reverse automatic braking which just about has you covered from every angle – driving, changing lanes and reversing.

But it’s Subaru’s ‘EyeSight’ system which really impresses. This technology employs the combined benefits of adaptive cruise control, brake light recognition, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, lane sway warning, lead vehicle start alert and a three-part pre-collision system which will adjust brake and throttle input.

So what does all that mean? Clever cameras collect 3D images of your surroundings to, essentially, have your back in the event of an emergency situation. It’s the kind of smart tech which, historically, prestige brands lay claim to - not sub $30k small cars like the Impreza.

In fact, in a recent comparison, our long-term Impreza even ‘out-teched’ the Hyundai i30 and Volkswagen Golf.

On a lighter note, Subaru’s Starlink infotainment interface is a good thing. A long equipment list includes the increasingly popular – and occasionally deal closing/breaking – Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A tip for rookies however, is that you need to connect via the USB ports beneath the centre stack and not in the centre armrest (as I did at first).

In addition to the aforementioned Apple tech, the 6.3-inch touchscreen is host to radio, maps and satellite navigation, media plug-ins and apps. Clear labels make things easily identifiable, while the screen itself is responsive to even a light touch. Conveniently, much of the Impreza’s in-car tech functionality can also be enabled through voice control or buttons located on the steering wheel.

Admittedly, it is not the most intuitive system on the market, but given some time to get familiar with the pathways, it actually works well. Patience is a virtue.

The clever shortcuts buttons which you can easily add to the touchscreen display are mighty handy. Routine tasks are made easier as a result: include favourite map destinations, radio stations or frequently called phone numbers and you’re off-and-running.

Perched on the top of the dashboard, you’ll find a separate screen with readouts for climate control, ambient temperature, date and time, oil temperature and fuel economy information – with a range of display options to tailor your view. The use of multiple screens can feel a little disjointed, and it’s definitely not as seamless as some rivals - which display this all on one screen - but many buyers won’t give it a second thought.

Positioned centre of your instrumentation panel you’ll find more useful information such as tyre pressure monitoring and driver assist information – like cruise control settings.

Again, you can adjust this view to your liking and I generally opted for the digital speedo.
Step up to 2.0i-Premium model grade, and above, there’s an electric sunroof as standard.

Other nice-to-haves come into play at top-spec i-S specification, including heated electric-folding side mirrors and front fog lights with daytime running lights.

An electric park brake, hill hold assist, keyless entry and push button start are welcome features which again strengthen the Impreza’s extensive tech suite, while idle-stop technology has efficiency in mind, too.

Thus, on-paper, there’s no doubt the Subaru Impreza 2.0i-S is a solid performer where tech is concerned. On that front, its value is beyond doubt.

Long-Term Tests
motoring.com.au aims to make your vehicle buying decisions easier. Our Editorial section does this via our mix of news, international and local new model launch reviews, as well as our seven-day tests.

From time to time, we also take the opportunity to spend even longer with a vehicle.
These longer-term tests can be as short as a couple of weeks, but more recently we’ve settled on a three-month period as indicative of ‘normal’ ownership.

Long-term tests give our staff writers and contributors a chance to get to know a car as an owner would. While the car is with us, we pay for fuel, the servicing, and generally use and live with the car as a new owner would.

We believe long-term tests give car buyers a deeper insight into the vehicle on test, but also the qualities behind the brand and nameplate. The extended period also allows us to touch base with the dealer networks in question.

It comes as no surprise that manufacturers tend to have a love-hate relationship with long-term tests. Three months is long enough to fall out of love with the latest and greatest, and start to nit-pick — just like real owners do.

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i-S AWD pricing and specifications:
Price: $29,190 (plus on-road costs)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol
Output: 115kW/196Nm
Transmission: Continuously variable
Fuel: 7.2L/100km (ADR Combined) / 8.0L/100km (as tested)
CO2: 163g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

Related reading:
>> Subaru Impreza Long-term Introduction
>>