What type of car is an Impreza?
The Subaru Impreza is a compact car, typically offered as a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback, with all-wheel drive being a hallmark feature on most trims.
This article explains what “type” means for the Impreza, including its class, body styles, drivetrain, and how it fits into Subaru’s lineup across generations and markets.
Class and body style
The Impreza is categorized as a compact car in most markets. This classification balances interior space and efficiency, while offering two main body styles to suit different needs: a traditional sedan and a practical five-door hatchback.
Common body configurations
Below are the body styles the Impreza has most commonly offered, illustrating its practicality and versatility.
- Sedan (4-door)
- Five-door hatchback (often considered a wagon variant in some regions)
- Variants focused on cargo space and flexible seating layouts
Conclusion: The Impreza’s two primary body styles—sedan and five-door hatchback—reflect Subaru’s emphasis on everyday practicality and cargo versatility.
Drivetrain and performance characteristics
The Impreza is widely recognized for its all-wheel-drive system and balanced, reliable performance. Across most generations, it has used a 2.0-liter boxer engine, with transmissions ranging from a manual in older trims to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) in newer ones. Power output is designed for efficiency and everyday usability rather than sport-oriented performance.
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive in most trims
- 2.0-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) engine
- Manual transmission offered in earlier generations; CVT common in recent models
Conclusion: The Impreza’s drivetrain and engine emphasis safety, stability, and versatility, particularly in adverse weather or varied road conditions.
Generations and market availability
The Impreza has evolved through several generations since its 1992 debut. The current (fifth) generation began in the mid-2010s, bringing updated styling and technology, with regional availability varying. In some markets, the Impreza has been supplemented or replaced by related models built on the same platform, such as Crosstrek-based offerings.
- First generation: 1992–2000
- Second generation: 2000–2007
- Third generation: 2007–2011
- Fourth generation: 2012–2016
- Fifth generation: 2017–present (availability varies by market)
Conclusion: The Impreza’s place in Subaru’s lineup has shifted over time, with crossover-oriented models increasingly influencing regional availability and consumer choices.
Context within the Subaru lineup
As a compact model, the Impreza sits alongside Subaru’s broad family of practical vehicles. Its underlying architecture has informed related models, notably the Crosstrek, which blends compact-car DNA with crossover styling and higher ride height. This relationship helps buyers compare a traditional compact car against a small SUV-like option that retains Subaru’s hallmark all-wheel-drive capability.
Key takeaways for buyers
For shoppers prioritizing all-wheel drive, cargo flexibility, and sedan or hatchback form factors, the Impreza remains a straightforward option in many markets. Always verify current availability, trim levels, and powertrain options with a local dealer, as lineups shift over time.
Summary
In short, the Subaru Impreza is a compact car offered in sedan and five-door hatchback configurations, typically featuring standard all-wheel drive. It emphasizes practicality, safety, and efficiency, serving as a versatile choice within Subaru’s lineup. Availability and exact specifications can vary by market and model year, so check current local listings for the latest details.
