2011 Subaru Impreza

The 2011 Subaru Impreza holds several unique features that will make it a noteworthy option despite a huge number of releases this year. It incorporates a number of changes particularly on the tech features such as all Impreza trim levels except the base models have standard equipments with an updated audio system that features iPod integration and Bluetooth connectivity. It has a lot of cargo space, comfortable interior and good performance. Impreza is a great budget option for people who need all-wheel drive small car which is great for any road driving condition.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $17,495.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64 liters) MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 180.3 in. (458 cm) Width: 68.5 in. (174 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm) Wheel Base: 103.1 in. (261 cm)
Curb Weight: 3075 lbs (1394 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.1 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.3 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-Valve SOHC 4 Cylinder Displacement: 2.5 liter
Horsepower: 170 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Impreza Premium 2.5i MSRP: $18,495; MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy
Option:Impreza Outback Sport MSRP: $19,995; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy
Option:Impreza WRX Turbo Charged MSRP: $25,495; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:Impreza WRX Limited STI Turbo Charged MSRP: $37,345; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The Subaru Impreza is an all-wheel, four-door, 5-passenger family sedan or wagon that comes in four trims namely 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, Outback Sport and 2.5GT. The 2.5 and Outback trims are equipped with a standard 2.5-liter V4, 170-horsepower engine that has a fuel economy of 20-mpg in the city and 27-mpg in the highway. This is subsequently below average for a small car with this type of power. A standard five-speed manual transmission and an optional four-speed automatic transmission are available on the Impreza.

The 2011 Impreza is also available in WRX Performance trim which has a turbocharged version of the 2.5 that can achieve 265-horsepower and 224-pound feet of torque. The transmission is a five-speed manual only on this trim model. The acceleration capacity can achieve 60 mph within 5.3 seconds with fuel economy of 18 in the city and 25 in the highway. The WRX STI is even more powerful boosting up to 305-horsepower and 290-pound feet of torque. It has standard six-speed manual transmission that has a fuel economy of 17 in the city and 23 in the highway. The acceleration capacity can reaches sixty mph in 4.5 seconds.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior features of the 2011 Subaru Impreza has some notable change. It has widened tires to provide better traction on the road. A new body kit has been built and come with more aggressive lines. Although the Impreza gets mixed reviews from automotive press for styling, it generally gets good reviews. However, some find the sedan model to be boring.

The interior aspect of the vehicle has a roomy cabin space with enough head and leg-room. The cabin can max with a size of 44 cubic feet of cargo space. The quality of the materials is not topnotch but it is not poor either. Seat on the 2.5i models suffers from lack of telescoping steering wheel. This type of steering wheel is available only in the WRX and higher trims. The seats are much better on the performance-oriented models.

On the tech aspect, the stereo and climate controls are simple and straight forward. An optional navigation system which can be more user-friendly can be installed. However, the sound quality of the stereo system, even the upgraded ones is not that impressive. Additional features are air conditioning, power windows and mirrors.

Safety & Reliability

The standard all-wheel drive of the Impreza is one of its safety features. It has a dynamic control and traction control system making it better equipped than its competitors. It also includes stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes and front head restraints.

The federal government tests scored the 2011 Impreza a perfect five stars both for frontal crash protection and front occupants in a side crash while in the rear occupants in a side crash test, it scored four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Impreza a top rating in the frontal-offset, side-impact crash and roof strength tests.

Reliability rating of the Impreza is impressive with 7.0 out of 10.0 Predicted Reliability rating done by the J.D. Powers. This score is based specifically on Vehicle Dependability Study (VHS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

The Competition

There are less expensive cars with comparable safety scores compared to the Impreza. However, the Impreza is less equipped compared to its competitor. The Suzuki SX4 (MSRP $13,499; 23 city / 33 hwy) is also an all-wheel drive but is lesser in price than the Impreza. However, the Suzuki model has lesser safety ratings compared to the Subaru model. Another competitor is the Mazda3 (MSRP $15,800; 25 city / 33 hwy) which also has a lesser price and has a better fuel economy.

Pros:

  • Impressive acceleration capacity
  • Standard All-wheel drive
  • Good handling and precise driving
  • Long list of standard safety features

Cons:

  • Bad quality stereo system
  • Fuel economy is bad compared to its competitors
  • High priced compared to its competitors

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“If you can see past cut-rate cabin materials, the 2011 Subaru Impreza is a comfortable, roomy, and refined, small car in sedan or hatchback form.”Car Connection

“The Impreza’s engine provides adequate acceleration, but the four-speed automatic isn’t as slick as those from some competitors. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Subaru Impreza’s impressive performance and range of styles make it an appealing choice for a wide variety of compact car consumers.”Edmunds

“The Subaru Impreza is a uniquely reliable and capable compact car.”KBB

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