Subaru's Impreza

Subaru's Impreza WRX and WRX STI certainly help draw attention to the brand, but ironically, their plebian sibling -- the base Impreza -- may actually be much more important to the automaker. It's understandable, once you've seen the numbers: in both 2009 and 2010, the Impreza -- not the recently redesigned Legacy -- is Subaru's best-selling sedan, and the brand's third-best selling model line altogether.
That's not too shabby, but there's always room for improvement. Critics and consumers alike have docked the third-generation Impreza for its subpar interior materials, sloppy handling, and poor fuel economy. It's no surprise that the new 2012 Impreza, which debuts at the 2011 New York auto show, promises to improve upon each of those shortcomings.


if your budget allows, consider stepping up to the 2.0i Premium. In addition to 16-inch aluminum wheels and a rear stabilizer bar, standard equipment includes cruise control, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, a 6-speaker audio system, and a USB audio input. An all-weather package (i.e. heated front seats and exterior mirrors), 17-inch aluminum wheels, a power moonroof, and a new navigation system are all available at extra cost.
The all-weather package and 17-inch wheels are standard fare on the 2.0i Limited, which also lumps in the CVT as standard equipment. Additional content includes leather seating, a rear armrest, chrome exterior door handles, fog lamps, automatic climate control, and a HD radio tuner.
After 16 years, the Outback Sport model is officially dead, although a new Impreza Sport model, available only on U.S.-spec five-door wagons, essentially serves as its replacement. Bundled with either the 2.0i Premium or 2.0i Limited trims, Sport models add roof rails, unique 17-inch aluminum wheels, the all-weather package, body-colored rocker panels, fog lamps, and a new grille insert. Unlike the previous Outback sport, a meager suspension lift and modest underbody skid plates are not part of the package.
Pricing for the entire range won't be released until the cars arrive at dealers this fall, but we're told the 2012 model won't carry a significant premium over the 2011 Impreza. Expect MSRPs to range from $17,495 to just under $20,000.