subaru impreza manual transmission review

A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is fitted to most Imprezas, although a five-speed manual gearbox comes standard on the base trim and the Sport hatchback.

The 2.0-liter flat-4’s 152-hp rating is joined by just 145 pound-feet of torque. We wind up at a 5 out of 10, with a point dialed back for its subpar acceleration but a point added back because of its surefooted standard all-wheel drive. With just 152 horsepower on tap, the 2020 Subaru Impreza is down on power compared to many of its rivals. Contrasting stitching on the door and instrument panels elevates the Limited just a smidge inside, but the Impreza trades mostly on its intuitive control layout and good outward vision. The interior features a tall center stack with a 6.5-inch touchscreen for infotainment on most versions a larger 8.0-inch display comes with Limited and Sport trims.

If the Impreza hatchback looks familiar, that’s because Subaru’s Crosstrek is the same car with black fender flares and a suspension lift. Hatchbacks continue the roofline for a wagon-like profile that works best, especially with the Sport trim’s body kit. Pronounced wheel arches wrap around wheel sizes that range from 16 to 18 inches, and the Sport trim level features new machine-finish 18-inch wheels this year. Sedan and hatchback models share a front end with a wide grille and a low bumper.

We rate the 2020 Subaru Impreza at 6 out of 10, tossing a point in the car’s favor for its exterior. Looking like a scaled-down version of the Subaru Legacy sedan, the latest Impreza has clean lines that won’t offend. With good crash test scores and decent fuel economy figures adding to the Impreza’s roster of assets, this small car is worth a look. Optional features include leather upholstery, heated seats, Harman/Kardon audio, and a power moonroof. This year, every automatic transmission Impreza comes with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and active lane control. Good standard and optional infotainment systems include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, as well as a bevy of USB ports and Bluetooth. Interior space is also an asset, particularly the hatchback that is more spacious than many small SUVs and crossovers, including the Crosstrek. The car handles confidently and has a plush ride that bests some larger cars. Standard all-wheel drive means that the Impreza is more sure-footed in winter than most of its competitors. It doesn’t include any more power, unfortunately. The Impreza Sport has special chassis tuning including torque vectoring, which helps it feel more nimble on a winding road.

Subaru impreza manual transmission review