- Bold New Sedan and Five-Door Designs Stand Apart from Mainstream Compact Models
- All-New 2.0-Liter Boxer Engine and Continuously Variable Transmission
- 30-Percent Boost In Fuel Economy Makes 2012 Impreza the Most Fuel Efficient All-Wheel Drive Car in America.
- Roomiest Impreza Ever With New Level of Comfort and Refinement
- Evolved Chassis Delivers Stable Yet Responsive Handling with Refined Ride Quality
- Cutting-Edge Infotainment Technology
- Wider Range of Models for Greater Customer Choice
The 2012 Impreza models offer a 30-percent improvement in fuel economy over the outgoing
versions, along with increased room, greater agility and a higher level of refinement. New
amenities, infotainment technology and higher-grade interior materials contribute to a more
rewarding driving and ownership experience in the 2012 Impreza.
Powered by an all-new 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a fivespeed
manual transmission or the second-generation Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable
transmission). The 2012 Impreza will offer the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in
America, with projected EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Every 2012 Impreza is
equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, an invaluable performance- and safetyenhancing
system.
Built on a longer wheelbase, but with shorter overhangs, the 2012 Impreza provides a roomier
interior in the same external footprint as the outgoing model. The new passenger cabin yields
not only more room, but also a greater feeling of spaciousness and better visibility than before.
Bold Design Statement Also Enhances Functionality
The 2012 Subaru Impreza conveys a bolder, more confident design that emphasizes its sporty
roots and standard All-Wheel Drive performance. In profile, the 2012 Impreza draws focus to its
wheels with powerful arches, a theme that debuted on the 2010 Subaru Legacy®. Sharply
sculpted character lines enhance the way light and shadows accentuate the design. Prominent
wheel arches echo the power running through the Symmetrical AWD System. The sleek
silhouette incorporates a larger greenhouse, which also aids visibility, a Subaru design priority.
In front, the Subaru badge centers the new hexagonal grille, a keystone of all new Subaru
designs. The hawk-eye headlights continue a theme introduced with the 2010 Legacy. A range
of new 15-inch wheel cover and 16- and 17-inch alloy wheel designs debut on the 2012 Impreza,
all meant to accentuate the car's high-tech, sporty nature.
Numerous exterior and interior design elements combine to give the Impreza a sportier stance
while also offering the driver and passengers a more commanding, confident view of the road.
The windshield is more raked than in the previous model, with the bottom of the A-pillar moved
7.9 inches forward. This allows for a front door opening that is nearly five inches longer for
easier entry/exit, abetted by doorsills that are 0.8-inch lower than before. Rear doors are also
larger on both body styles.
To maximize driver visibility in corners, the Impreza features thinner A-pillars and partitioned
front door side glass. This configuration allows for a slimmer secondary pillar ? and therefore
better visibility ? compared to cars that use a pulled-forward windshield design and thicker
secondary pillars. The top-of-door interior trim is 2.4 inches lower. These elements contribute to
better visibility, which is also enhanced by a 0.67-in. higher front hip point and a 0.79-in. higher
rear hip point for occupants. The instrument panel is lower and flatter than before, resulting in a
wider field of view and a feeling of greater spaciousness. Exterior side view mirrors with 23-
percent more surface area enhance visibility and driving safety, and relocating the mirrors from
the A-pillars to the doors contributes to improved sight lines.
Improved Room and Refinement
The combination of a longer wheelbase and redesigned door and roof trim and front seats yields
gains in passenger and cargo room, with additional details demonstrating Subaru's mastery of
smart vehicle packaging. The Impreza's wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches compared to 103.2 in
the outgoing model. Vehicle length and width remain the same as before for both sedan and
five-door models, yet, thanks to redesigned door panels, the 2012 Impreza offers increased hip
and shoulder room.
Rear seat passengers gain nearly two inches of legroom, thanks to both the longer wheelbase
and a new, scalloped-style front seat backrest design. Sedan trunk room and five-door cargo
room are both increased, and the five-door now provides a completely flat load floor with the
standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded. Relocating the car's electronic control units (ECU's),
power window motors and fuel vapor charcoal canister are "behind the scenes" details that
helped make the new gains possible within the same exterior package as the outgoing model.
The 2012 Impreza interior is not only more spacious than the outgoing model, but also delivers
a major step up in refinement. The sporty instrument panel and three-spoke steering wheel are
augmented in all Impreza models by a multi-function display with trip computer located in the
center of the dashboard. Richer looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch
materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. In the higher line models, the
armrest features a slide adjustment for greater comfort and versatility.
Optimizing the shape of the cargo-area trim and nearby components enables three golf bags or
a large baby stroller to be easily loaded. In the five-door, it is easier to load and unload heavy
objects, thanks to the removal of a stepped section under the opening. The cargo area cover
can now be stored under the cargo floor, as on the Forester.
In the sedan, trunk functionality is improved with support arms that are reshaped and enclosed
within the trunk interior trim, ensuring that they do not make contact with stored items when the
trunk is closed. When the trunk release is activated, from within the car or via the remote control,
the trunklid opens wider than before. Subaru designers paid special attention to increase not
only cargo area and trunk room in the 2012 Impreza, but also carrying space and utility
throughout the vehicle. Larger door pockets can hold plastic drink bottles and large maps.
Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold all manner of today's
personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players. For those who still prefer to
listen to music on CD, the console compartments provide ample storage for jewel cases.
Highest Level of Comfort, Convenience and Luxury Ever Offered in a Subaru Impreza
More spacious than before, the 2012 Impreza also offers greater comfort, versatility and more
advanced yet easy-to-use infotainment technology. New front seats are designed with longdistance
comfort in mind and feature higher seatbacks, increased lumbar support and cushions
that more effectively distribute pressure. As in the 2010 Legacy, the seats are optimized for a
rear-end collision. A tilt/telescoping steering wheel is standard on all 2012 Impreza models.
Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Impreza line for 2012. The
entry model, for example, features power windows, door locks and side mirrors, a 60/40-split
fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a mutli-function display with fuel economy
information, remote keyless entry system, security system with engine immobilizer,
tilt/telescopic steering wheel, variable intermittent windshield wipers and a low windshield
washer fluid warning light. Even carpeted floormats, often an option in many cars, are standard
equipment in all 2012 Impreza models.
Impreza Premium models add more amenities, including 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel
audio and Bluetooth® control switches, a rear stabilizer bar for crisper handling, adjustable
console armrest, body-color exterior mirrors and chrome interior door handles. The Premium
models also cater to the latest demand for versatile and easy-to-use infotainment technology.
The standard audio system in the Premium models features Bluetooth hands-free phone
connectivity and audio streaming, Radio Data Broadcast System (RDBS), iPod® control
capability, USB port, 3.5mm aux. input jack and six speakers.
The Premium models can be further equipped with an optional All-Weather Package (heated
front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer). An available Alloy Wheel
Package adds 17-inch alloy wheels, single tailpipe outlet with stainless steel tip for sedan model,
plus a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle. When equipped with the optional
Lineartronic CVT, the Impreza Premium, Limited and Sport models also feature a 6-speed
manual mode function with steering wheel paddle shifters.
A power moonroof and a navigation system are available as separate options for the 2012
Impreza Premium models. The new navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD
display, voice control, iTunes® tagging, SMS text messaging capability, XM® Satellite Radio and
XM NavTraffic (both XM services require subscriptions). Updated map data can be downloaded
to a personal computer and then transferred into the system via secure digital (SD) card.
The Impreza Sport Premium is a five-door model that combines standard 17-inch alloy wheels
and the All-Weather Package with fog lights, roof rails, unique seat fabric and rocker panel
spoilers.
At the top of the Impreza range for 2012, the Limited and Sport Limited (five-door only) models
deliver the highest level of comfort and convenience ever offered in a Subaru Impreza. Building
upon the Premium content, the Limited and Sport Limited add the Alloy Wheel Package and All-
Weather Package, plus the luxury of leather upholstery, automatic climate control, upgraded
instrumentation, chrome exterior door handles (the Limited four-door and five-door models), fog
lights and auto on-off headlights. A further audio upgrade (above the Premium) features a 4.3-
inch display screen and standard HD Radio. The power moonroof and navigation system are
separate options on the Limited, as well.
All-New Boxer Engine With New Available Lineartronic CVT
The 2012 Impreza is powered by an all-new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, teamed to a fivespeed
manual transmission or the available new Lineartronic™ CVT (standard on Limited and
Sport Limited). With either transmission, the 2012 Impreza delivers significantly higher fuel
economy than the car it replaces.
The new 2.0-liter engine produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb.-ft. of peak torque. This new
Subaru engine family, which debuted in the 2011 Forester in 2.5-liter form, uses a double
overhead-cam design, compared to the previous SOHC configuration. The Dual Active Valve
Control System (DAVCS) controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust valves to
optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions. The 2012 Impreza employs a more
efficient exhaust system that allows an optimized catalyst placement for faster heat-up to reduce
emissions immediately after engine startup.
Compared to the outgoing Impreza's 2.5-liter Boxer engine, the new-generation 2.0-liter Boxer
features a longer stroke to maximize low- and mid-range torque, as well as environmental
friendliness. The new engine feels even more responsive than the 2.5-liter engine it replaces,
thanks to lighter vehicle weight ? and especially when equipped with the new CVT.
Subaru first introduced its Lineartronic CVT in the 2010 Legacy and Outback® models, and now
the 2012 Impreza debuts a lighter, quieter and more compact version that delivers both
enhanced driving performance and environmental friendliness. Unlike a conventional automatic
transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the
highest and lowest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT continuously
and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient
operating range. Compared to CVT's used in other brands, the Impreza CVT provides wider
ratio coverage, due to a larger difference between the largest and smaller pulley diameters.
Subaru refined the CVT in the 2012 Impreza to deliver smooth, linear acceleration, closer to a
conventional automatic transmission while still delivering the efficiency benefits of a CVT. Lowspeed
acceleration in particular feels even stronger than a comparison of performance figures
alone might suggest. The engine now also supports standing-starts in the pre-selected "second
gear" ratio to reduce the likelihood of wheel spin on slippery surfaces.
Impreza Premium, Sport and Limited models with the CVT also feature a 6-speed manual mode
with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six preset
ratios. The driver can engage manual mode with the floor shift lever or, when in "D" mode,
temporarily access manual mode by operating an up- or downshift shift paddle. In that case, the
transmission will return to automatic mode once the vehicle is traveling at a constant speed.
New Technology for Better Fuel Efficiency
In addition to the new engine's greater efficiency, the Impreza adopts additional technologies to
maximize fuel economy. Among these is the new electric power steering system, which by itself
contributes a 2-percent efficiency increase. The tires, in 15, 16- or 17-inch sizes, exhibit lower
rolling resistance for better fuel economy without compromising braking distance or other
performance parameters. A further efficiency gain comes from reducing disc brake drag by
using a spring-type pad return mechanism.
Because the 2012 Impreza offers such a significant increase in fuel economy over the outgoing
vehicle, Subaru was able to use a smaller-capacity fuel tank (now 14.6 gallons compared to
16.9 before) while also increasing driving range. The smaller fuel tank, in turn, enabled Subaru
to relocate the charcoal vapor canister, which helped increase cargo room.
Confident, Agile Handling and Safety for Any Road
Strengthened suspension components in front and rear -- some inherited from the Legacy --
enhance agility, while new liquid (hydraulic) engine mounts help to damp out vibration. A new
front support connecting the front crossmember and rear bushing section of the front arm
enhances stability, agility and ride quality. The double-wishbone rear suspension features new,
strengthened components and pillow ball bushings for improved ride, straight-line stability,
handling and vehicle response. Highline models add special rebound springs in the front
dampers, as well as a rear stabilizer bar, for even more responsive handling. The enhancement
of body rigidity and the new suspension design help to reduce levels of noise, vibration, and
harshness (NVH). The stiffened rear subframe ensures greater resistance to twisting, also
contributing to enhanced stability and handling. New sound insulators in the toe board and
around the floor tunnel also contribute to interior quietness.
Continued Safety Leadership
Subaru's Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame safety structure, proven over a decade in all
Subaru models, again forms the foundation for crash protection and occupant safety in the new generation
2012 Impreza. Building on Subaru's renown for safety (all 2011 Subaru model lines
are IIHS "Top Safety Picks"), the 2012 Impreza was designed to excel under the more stringent
NHTSA testing regimen. The new body structure makes greater use of high-tensile strength
steel and features special stiffening elements at key locations.
The 2012 Impreza includes as standard equipment front seat side impact air bags and side
curtain air bags that offer additional head protection for front and rear occupants. The new
driver's front airbag offers added protection for drivers who position themselves close to the
steering wheel. Immediately after deployment, the driver's airbag spreads thin and wide, then
thickens as deployment reaches completion. The passenger-seat front airbag, features a shelltype
design with a center groove, thus exposing the passenger to less impact force upon
deployment. All 2012 Impreza models add a new driver's knee airbag to the roster of safety
features.
All Impreza models for 2012 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC),
which combines stability and traction control functions. Likewise, all 2012 Impreza models are
equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce
Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive A Key To Brand Identity
Subaru offers two different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in the 2012 Impreza. In
models equipped with the five-speed manual transmission, the Continuous AWD system uses a
viscous-coupling locking center differential to distribute power 50/50 front to rear. Slippage at
either set of wheels will send more power (up to 100 percent) to the opposite set.
Impreza models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature the Active Torque Split AWD
version that uses an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively
control power distribution in response to driving conditions. This system can transfer more
power to the rear wheels under acceleration and can transfer up to 100 percent of available
torque to the rear wheels in response to road conditions.
