The Subaru Impreza is entering the 2020 model year with additional tech features and a new-look design, but the updates aren’t complemented by a significant markup. The changes apply to both the hatchback and sedan variants.
Electronic driving aids headline the changes made to the Impreza for the 2020 model year. With the exception of stick-shifted cars, every Impreza regardless of trim level or body style comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight technology, which bundles automatic pre-collision braking and throttle management, lane-keeping assist, a lane departure warning system, sway warning, and lead vehicle start alert. Rear seat reminder — which, as its name implies, urges the driver to make sure they’re not forgetting a kid on the back seat — is available at an extra cost across the board.
The cheapest Impreza comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen that runs Subaru’s StarLink infotainment system, a software that’s intuitive and easy to use. It’s also compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Upmarket models benefit from an 8.0-inch screen, among other comfort and tech features.
The visual changes are minor at best, which falls in line with what we expect from Subaru’s design department. Put the 2019 and the 2020 models side by side and you might notice the newer one gains a redesigned front bumper, and a restyled grille. The hatchback receives updated rear lights, while a new color called ocean blue pearl joins the palette.
There are no powertrain modifications to report, which is bad news if you found the outgoing Impreza anemic. It’s still fitted with a naturally aspirated, 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that delivers 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Base and Sport-grade hatchback models come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, Subaru still hasn’t made a six-speed available, and every other variant receives a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Fuel economy checks in at up to 28 mpg in the city, 38 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg in a combined cycle. Significantly, the Impreza can easily cover 450 miles on a single tank, which is impressive for a car that comes standard with all-wheel drive. Selecting the five-speed manual transmission predictably reduces fuel economy.
Subaru breaks down the 2020 Impreza range into four trim levels named base, Premium, Sport, and Limited, respectively. Pricing starts at $18,695 before a $900 destination charge gets factored in, a figure that represents a modest $100 increase compared to the outgoing 2019 model. It’s common for automakers to charge more for their cars when a new model year starts, and we’ve previously seen bigger jumps than the one the Impreza is making without the added features that go with it. Viewed in that light, Subaru’s entry-level model is more of a bargain than ever before.
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