Is the Subaru Impreza an SUV?
No. The Subaru Impreza is a compact car, offered as a sedan or five-door hatchback, not an SUV. It sits lower and is designed primarily for on‑road comfort, while Subaru's SUV lineup is built around higher ride height and more rugged capability.
Defining car vs SUV
In automotive terms, SUVs typically feature a taller body, higher ground clearance, and a design oriented toward versatility and light off‑road use. The Impreza, by contrast, is a car‑based model built on Subaru’s global platform and aimed at efficient everyday driving.
Key distinguishing factors
- Body style: Impreza is a sedan or five‑door hatchback; SUVs like the Crosstrek are designed as crossovers with increased height and utility.
- Ground clearance and stance: Impreza sits lower; Crosstrek and other Subaru SUVs have higher ride heights for easier access and tougher terrain.
- Chassis and platform: Impreza uses a unibody, car‑oriented platform; Crosstrek shares underpinnings but is tuned for a more rugged silhouette and utility.
- Intended use and capability: Impreza prioritizes efficiency and everyday comfort; Crosstrek targets versatility and light off‑road capability.
- Pricing and market positioning: Impreza is typically positioned as an affordable entry point; Crosstrek sits higher in the lineup with added capability.
In summary, the Impreza is not an SUV; it is a car‑based compact with standard all‑wheel drive in many markets. If you’re seeking SUV styling and higher ground clearance, Subaru’s Crosstrek or Forester are the more conventional choices.
Where the Impreza sits in Subaru's lineup
Subaru positions the Impreza as the brand’s compact car offering, available as a sedan or hatchback with all‑wheel drive. The SUV family in Subaru’s lineup includes the Crosstrek (compact crossover), Forester (compact SUV), Outback (wagon/crossover), and larger models like the Ascent. While the Impreza and Crosstrek share a platform and similar drivetrain advancements, the Impreza remains a car rather than an SUV.
How it compares to the Crosstrek
If you’re deciding between the Impreza and the Crosstrek, here are the key contrasts to consider:
- Body and design: Impreza is a lower, car‑based profile; Crosstrek has a taller, more rugged crossover look.
- Ground clearance: Crosstrek offers higher clearance for light off‑roading and rough road conditions; Impreza emphasizes a smoother on‑road ride.
- Payload and cargo: Crosstrek provides more SUV‑style cargo versatility; Impreza’s hatchback offers solid space with a lower load floor.
- Drivetrain options and features: Both offer AWD, but Crosstrek may offer more off‑road oriented trims and equipment.
Bottom line: if you want SUV‑style capability or a higher driving position, the Crosstrek or Forester are the clearer matches; the Impreza remains the compact car choice in Subaru’s lineup.
Bottom line
The Subaru Impreza is not an SUV. It is a compact car available as a sedan or five‑door hatch with standard AWD in many markets. For those seeking SUV styling and higher ground clearance, Subaru’s Crosstrek or Forester are the more appropriate options.
Summary
In short: Impreza = car (sedan/hatch). Crosstrek, Forester, Outback and other Subaru models are the brand’s SUVs/crossovers. Your choice depends on whether you prioritise on‑road efficiency and a lower profile or elevated ride height and rugged versatility.
What is a Subaru Impreza classified as?
A Subaru Impreza is a compact car, historically offered as either a sedan or a five-door hatchback, known for its standard all-wheel-drive and rally-racing heritage. For current models, it is exclusively available as a five-door hatchback, with the sedan variant now sold as the WRX.
- Vehicle Class: The Impreza is classified as a compact car.
- Body Styles:
- Past: It was available as a four-door sedan and a five-door hatchback, and in some past generations, as a two-door coupe or station wagon.
- Current: It is only offered as a five-door hatchback in the current generation. The sedan is now part of the Subaru WRX lineup.
- Key Features:
- All-Wheel Drive: It comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, a distinguishing feature in its class.
- Engine: It is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER® engine.
- Transmission: A 5-speed manual transmission is available on some models, though a Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is also common.
- Performance: It offers a balance of capability, safety, and a comfortable ride, with some models featuring a sport-tuned suspension.
Is a Subaru considered a SUV?
Meet the Subaru Family of All-Wheel Drive SUVs
From the right-sized Crosstrek to the Solterra – our first all-electric all-wheel drive SUV – you can find a Subaru SUV that will perfectly fit your life.
What is the biggest issue with a Subaru Impreza?
Top Subaru Impreza Problems
- Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall.
- Improved Spark Plug Wires for Misfire Issues.
- Check Engine Light Due to Failed Knock Sensor.
- Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure.
- Subaru Impreza passenger seatbelt light and alarm issue persists with no passenger present, potentia...
Is a Subaru Impreza a sedan or SUV?
sedan
The Subaru Impreza is a sporty sedan that offers the kind of traction and versatility you'd normally find in an SUV. It features standard Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and includes both a Traction Control System and Vehicle Dynamics Control.
