What is the Subaru Impreza classified as?
The Subaru Impreza is classified as a compact car. Across most markets, it sits in the C-segment, typically offered as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback, and is known for its all-wheel drive as a standard feature in many trims.
First introduced in 1992, the Impreza has evolved through multiple generations while maintaining its core identity as a compact-car offering from Subaru. Its size, drivetrain philosophy, and market positioning place it alongside other compact sedans and hatchbacks rather than subcompact models.
Global classification and market variations
To understand where the Impreza sits in the automotive landscape, it helps to look at how it is categorized across regions and what traits define that classification.
- Classification: compact car (C-segment in Europe; broadly equivalent to North American compact cars)
- Body styles: available as a sedan and a five-door hatchback
- Drivetrain: all-wheel drive is a hallmark feature on most trims, distinguishing it from many rivals
- Platform: built on Subaru's global platform philosophy to support shared components across models
- Regional notes: regarded as a compact family car in several markets, with consistent emphasis on practical size and versatility
In essence, the Impreza’s compact-car classification reflects a balance of size, practicality, and drivetrain capability, aimed at buyers who want usable interior space without moving into mid-size territory.
Body style and size considerations
Body style options
The model has traditionally offered both a sedan and a hatchback variant under the same name. The hatchback is favored by buyers seeking extra cargo flexibility, while the sedan emphasizes a traditional trunk layout and a sportier silhouette.
Summary
The Subaru Impreza is classified as a compact car (C-segment in many markets), typically offered in sedan and hatchback forms with all-wheel drive as a common feature. Its compact footprint, versatile body styles, and AWD-driven heritage place it firmly in the compact-car category worldwide.
Is the Subaru Impreza compact or midsize?
compact car
The Subaru Impreza length and its other measurements work together to deliver a compact car that excels in both city and highway driving.
What group was the Subaru Impreza in?
Group A
Is the Subaru Impreza a hatchback or SUV?
Our impressive hatchback offering, the Subaru Impreza, provides compact versatility and a sporty, dynamic driving experience.
What is a Subaru Impreza classified as?
Compact car
