The Subaru Impreza is entering the 2010 model year with minor exterior detail changes to grille/headlamp treatments and two new packages: Special Edition Package that includes a power moonroof, fog lights and the All-Weather Package featuring heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.

The Impreza is being offered in two body versions: four-door sedan and five-door hatchback and four distinct output levels: 2.5i 170 hp; 2.5GT 224 hp; WRX 265 hp; and STI 305 hp, with prices starting at $17,495 for the 2.5i version.

The 2010 Impreza is being offered with standard aluminum-alloy 16-inch, 12-spoke wheels, a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons and a black leather-wrapped shifter handle, AM/FM stereo that includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer featuring MP3/WMA audio file capability and an 10-speaker audio system that integrates the SRS Circle Surround system.

Full details after the jump.

2010 Subaru Impreza

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2010 Subaru Impreza
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Press release

The 2010 Subaru Impreza line, which features Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, gains more of the premium amenities that more of today’s compact car customers are seeking. A new Special Edition Package for the Impreza Premium trim line equips the 4-Door sedan or 5-Door model with a power moonroof, fog lights and the All-Weather Package featuring heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer.

The 2010 Impreza line includes the 2.5i, Outback Sport and 2.5GT. The 2.5i is powered by a naturally aspirated, 170-hp 4-cylinder Boxer engine and available in 4-Door sedan and 5-Door models. New for 2010, the Premium trim line replaces the previous Premium Package, and the Special Edition Package adds the aforementioned vehicle upgrades to the Premium trim line. The available navigation system in the 2.5i Premium now includes Bluetooth hands-free phoning capability, with a microphone located in the overhead console. All Impreza models feature a new grille for 2010.

The 5-door Outback Sport gets its outdoor spirit from the larger Outback model and shares the Impreza 2.5i powertrain. The Outback Sport also features distinctive exterior trim and chassis and interior enhancements. The fully equipped Impreza 2.5GT, also available in 4-Door and 5-Door styles, is powered by a 224-hp turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engine and equipped exclusively with an electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT™ for manual control.

The Subaru Impreza remains the only car in its segment to come standard with All-Wheel Drive – renowned Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive combined with standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). The Impreza has achieved the “Top Safety Pick” rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) for garnering the highest rating (“Good”) in frontal offset, side and rear impact tests.

Like every Subaru model for 2010, the Impreza line is equipped as standard with 4-wheel disc ABS brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). The Incline Start Assist feature, which can prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline, is standard with the 5-speed manual transmission on all models.

The 2.5-liter normally aspirated 4-cylinder Boxer engine in the Impreza 2.5i and Outback Sport delivers 170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 170 lb-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm, still among the highest ratings in the segment.

The Impreza 2.5i Premium delivers on its “premium” promise with aluminum-alloy 16-inch, 12-spoke wheels and additional interior amenities. Comfort touches include a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons and a black leather-wrapped shifter handle. The AM/FM stereo includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer featuring MP3/WMA audio file capability. The 10-speaker audio system integrates the SRS Circle Surround system.

Impreza 2.5GT Combines Performance, Agility and Everyday Comfort


Powered by a 224-horsepower turbocharged / intercooled Boxer engine teamed to a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT, the 2010 Impreza 2.5GT delivers powerful performance. The turbo engine produces 226 lb.-ft. of peak torque at a low 2,800 rpm for quick acceleration, as well as outstanding response in all types of driving. Sport-tuned suspension with a rear stabilizer bar and standard 17-inch alloy wheels ensure both agile handling and compliant everyday ride quality. The Impreza 2.5GT in addition is equipped with larger front brakes than the 2.5i and Outback Sport models.

The 2.5GT combines the Impreza 2.5i Premium and Special Edition standard equipment. In addition, its electroluminescent instrument panel gauges were inspired by those in the high-performance Impreza WRX® and WRX STI® models.

Outback Sport: A Sporty Crossover


The original Impreza Outback Sport was instrumental in ushering in the crossover-utility category in 1994, combining renowned Subaru All-Wheel Drive performance with passenger car comfort and economy. Based on the Impreza 5-Door model, the Outback Sport combines sporty exterior design with a comprehensive equipment upgrade over the 2.5i 5-Door model.  Outback Sport styling is highlighted by its exclusive two-tone appearance, front and rear bumper underguards, standard projector-beam halogen fog lights, side moldings and silver painted exterior door handles. Outback Sport augments the Impreza 2.5i 5-Door model’s utility features with a 12-volt cargo area power outlet and roof carrier base.

Raised heavy-duty suspension and 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 205/50 R17 all-season tires form the Outback Sport’s foundation of outstanding all-climate driving performance. Incline Start Assist is standard with the 5-speed manual transmission, and, like all Impreza models, the Outback Sport features the standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system.

Outback Sport is equipped for cold climates with the standard All-Weather Package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer). The standard AM/FM stereo includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer with MP3/WMA audio file capability. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod® or MP3 player, and the 10-speaker audio system integrates the SRS Circle Surround system. Additional upscale comfort touches include a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and cruise control buttons and a black leather-wrapped shifter handle.

Advanced Chassis Engineering


A 103.1-inch wheelbase, combined with Subaru’s renowned mastery of intelligent vehicle packaging, contributes to the Impreza’s smooth ride character, interior space and utility. High-tensile-strength steel is used at key structural points. Subaru optimized all elements of the Impreza’s chassis to deliver a better balance of ride, handling response, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles. Compared to the previous-generation Impreza, the engine is placed slightly lower in the chassis, which helps to lower the center of gravity for better agility. In addition, the new-generation Impreza chassis improves crash-worthiness and provides a stronger platform for crisper handling. All Impreza models share the quicker steering from the WRX performance model yielding 2.8 turns lock-to-lock and a tight 34.8-ft. turning circle.

The double-wishbone rear suspension design provides improved ride refinement and decreased road noise for a quieter cabin. At the same time, its compact layout results in less intrusion into the cargo area, providing a generously sized luggage compartment. On 5-Door Impreza models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags with the rear seats in the upright position.  In the Impreza sedan, which is 6.5-inches longer than the 5-Door model, the extra space provides for a large, deep trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags.  In all Impreza and Outback Sport models, a 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience.

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Sporty Exterior Design


The Impreza 5-Door features a distinctive character line that sweeps upward at the rear. The short rear overhang and clear rear tail lamp lenses combine to integrate the side character line into the tail. The 4-Door, which is unique to the North American market, is distinguished by a wide, sharp front design giving way to a crisp side body crease. The rear of the 4-Door is set apart from the 5-Door model by red tail lamp lenses and a chrome strip below the trunk line that visually widens the tail. The 4-Door uses dual tailpipe outlets (one per side), and the 5-Door features a single, larger tailpipe outlet.

Comfort And Convenience


The Impreza emphasizes interior comfort and spaciousness, with high-quality materials that include double-stitched fabrics and high-grade plastics. Large door openings and rear doors that open to 75 degrees provide easy ingress and egress. Flexmats springs by Pullmaflex enhance seating comfort. The sweeping twin cockpit design embraces occupants and brushed aluminum-look insets flow into the center stack. The center console shape adds to the airiness of the interior, aided by the sculpted door panels and generous headroom. A molded recess in each door panel can accommodate a 24-oz. soft drink bottle, as well as loose items.

The headlights-off with ignition switch is a traditional Subaru convenience that can preserve battery life. Models with the optional automatic transmission are pre-wired for a dealer-installed remote-starting system. Dual gas strut hood supports are used instead of the prop-rod seen on other compact models, an unexpected convenience in this segment.


The Impreza 2.5i Premium with automatic-transmission is available with an optional navigation system that adds Bluetooth hands-free calling capability for 2010. The microphone is located in the overhead console.
The navigation system also includes Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement. The Impreza debuted the first mobile application of this technology, which is also used in high-end home theater systems. Audyssey MultEQ creates the optimal sound experience for passengers in each seat position by tuning equalization that corrects for time and frequency response.

In addition to an input for MP3 players, the center console with navigation system also includes video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices. These can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked. The navigation screen is placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and ease of use.

The Impreza models come pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. (The optional navigation system includes factory-installed SIRIUS with a roof-mounted antenna.)  The standard and optional audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System, which can display a variety of data, including a song’s title and artist.

Proven Subaru Safety Technology


The new-generation Impreza is built around the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure, proven over a decade in all Subaru models. The Impreza incorporates 3-point seatbelts for all seats (height-adjustable for outboard positions), active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Like all current Subaru models, the 2010 Impreza models are equipped with standard side-curtain airbags. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features front seat side impact air bags.  In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight – first determining if it is occupied, and if so by a child or adult – to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an “Airbag” indicator light.

Two Types of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive 


Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive forms the common core technology on all Subaru models.  With more brands adding All-Wheel Drive, it is worth noting that Subaru introduced 4-wheel drive passenger cars more than 30 years ago and then automatic full-time All-Wheel Drive in 1987.  In 1997, Subaru became the first brand in the U.S. to make All-Wheel Drive standard on all its models. 

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system that varies by model and transmission. The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the center of gravity, which in turn contributes to handling agility. 

The Impreza 2.5i and Outback Sport models feature two versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, both of which power all four wheels all the time and can transfer more power to the wheels with the best grip. Models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission utilize a viscous-coupling locking center differential that distributes power 50:50, transferring more power to the wheels with the best traction should slippage occur.

In all Impreza models with the automatic transmission, the Active Torque Split version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive uses an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch to actively manage power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Control logic enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage. All versions of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive integrate the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system to further enhance all-weather stability and traction.

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Standard equipment

Impreza 2.5i

Performance

  • 2.5-liter SOHC, 16-valve horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine; 170 horsepower and 170 lb.-ft. peak torque
  • 16 x 6.5-in. steel wheels with full wheel covers
  • 205-55 R16 all-season tires
  • 4-wheel disc brakes
  • 5-speed manual transmission
  •  Incline Start Assist


Safety & Security

  • 3-point seatbelts for all seats (height-adjustable for outboard positions); front seatbelts
  • with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters
  • 4-channel,4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
  • 5-mph impact-absorbing bumpers
  • Daytime running lights (DRL)
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Subaru Advanced Airbag System (SRS)*
  • Front seat side impact air bags (SRS)*
  • Side-curtain air bags
  • LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) uniform child restraint anchorage system
  • Rear seat headrests, height-adjustable (all positions)
  • Remote keyless entry system
  • Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure with front and rear crumple zones 
  • Safety brake pedal system
  • Pre-wired for security system
  • Tire Pressure Monitoring System
  • Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with traction control system (TCS)


Design & Functional/Exterior

  • Body-color door handles
  • Body-color foldable side mirrors
  • Dual mufflers and tailpipe outlets (4-Door); single transverse muffler and single tailpipe (5-Door)
  • Gas-damper hood supports
  • Green-tinted glass
  • Roof-mounted antenna 


Comfort & Convenience

  • 24-hour roadside assistance for vehicle limited warranty period
  • 60-40 split fold-down rear seat backs
  • AM-FM stereo with single CD player, four speakers, Radio Data Broadcasting System; pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio
  • 12v power outlets: one in front and one in rear of center console
  • Air conditioning
  • Air filtration system
  • 3-spoke steering wheel with cruise control switches
  • Bottle holders integrated into door panels
  • Carpeted floor mats 
  • Cruise control
  • Cup holders, front: dual in center console
  • Chrome interior door handles
  •  Cloth upholstery
  • Digital clock
  • Digital dual-mode trip odometer
  • Dome light with off-delay
  • Driver’s footrest
  • Dual visor vanity mirrors with sliding lids
  • Front storage tray with LED illumination
  • Headlights/parking lights automatic-off with ignition switch
  • Height-adjustable driver’s seat with pump-type lever 
  • Illuminated ignition switch ring
  • Lockable, LED-illuminated glove box
  • Outside temperature gauge
  • Passenger assist grips (4)
  • Power door locks
  • Power side mirrors
  • Power windows with driver’s auto-down
  • Pre-wired for fog lights
  • Pre-wired for remote starter (automatic transmission only)
  • Pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® satellite radio
  • Rear window defroster with timer
  • Rear seat heater duct outlets (4)
  • Remote fuel door release
  • Remote trunk release
  • Seatback pocket on front passenger seat
  • Tilt-adjustable steering column
  • Trunk light (sedans)
  • Variable intermittent windshield wipers

 

Impreza 2.5i 5-Door adds:

  • Cargo area cover
  • Cargo area light
  • Cargo area tie-down hooks
  • Clear rear light lenses
  • Rear window wiper with washer
  • Rear gate spoiler

 

Impreza 2.5i Premium adds (to both models):

  • 16 x 6.5-inch 12-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
  • AM-FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and 10 upgraded speakers, SRS Circle Surround Sound, plus auxiliary audio input jack for iPod® and MP3 players
  • Fog lights
  • Leather-wrapped shifter handle
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control and audio system switches

 

Special Edition package (new for 2010) adds:

  • Projector beam fog lights
  • Power moonroof
  • All-Weather Package (heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and windshield wiper de-icer)

 

Optional Navigation and Moonroof Package (requires automatic transmission)

  • Touch-screen GPS navigation system
  • Single-disc CD player
  • Audyssey MultEQ technology
  • Bluetooth hands-free calling
  • Factory-installed SIRIUS Satellite Radio with roof-mounted antenna
  • RCA audio/video input jacks

Outback Sport adds/substitutes over Impreza 2.5i 5-door model:


Performance

  • 17x7-inch 6-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
  • 205/50R17 all-season tires
  • Heavy-duty raised suspension


Design & Functional/Exterior

  • Front and rear bumper underguards
  • Projector beam fog lights
  • Roof carrier base
  • Side molding
  • Silver painted exterior door handles
  • Two-tone body color


Comfort & Convenience

  • AM-FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and 10 speakers, SRS Circle Surround Sound, plus auxiliary audio input jack for iPod and MP3 players
  • Cargo area tray, removable
  • Dual-mode heated front seats
  • Heated exterior mirrors
  • Leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise control and audio switches
  • Leather-wrapped shifter handle

 

Impreza 2.5GT adds/substitutes over Impreza 2.5i Premium with Special Edition upgrade


Performance

  • 2.5-liter DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder Boxer engine; turbocharged with intercooler, 224 horsepower and 226 lb.-ft. peak torque
  • 4-speed automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT®
  • 17 x 7-in. 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
  • 205/50 R17 all-season tires
  • Larger diameter front disc brakes
  • Sport-tuned suspension with rear stabilizer bar


Design & Functional/Exterior

  • Integral hood scoop (supplies air to intercooler)


Comfort & Convenience

  • Automatic climate control system
  • Coolant temperature gauge
  • Electroluminescent gauges
  • Rear seat center armrest (4-Door)
  • Tilt/telescoping steering wheel


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Prices

Model - Trim

Transmission

Options

MSRP

MSRP including Dest & Delivery

Impreza 4-Door Models

2.5i

5MT

01

$17,495

$18,190

2.5i

Auto

01

$18,495

$19,190

2.5i Premium

5MT

01, 11

$18,495

$19,190

2.5i Premium

Auto

01, 11, 12

$19,495

$20,190

2.5GT

Auto

01

$26,995

$27,690

WRX

5MT

01

$24,995

$25,690

WRX Premium

5MT

01, 14

$27,495

$28,190

Impreza 5-Door Models

2.5i

5MT

01

$17,995

$18,690

2.5i

Auto

01

$18,995

$19,690

2.5i Premium

5MT

01, 11

$18,995

$19,690

2.5i Premium

Auto

01, 11, 12

$19,995

$20,690

Outback Sport

5MT

01

$19,995

$20,690

Outback Sport

Auto

01

$20,995

$21,690

2.5GT

Auto

01

$27,495

$28,190

WRX

5MT

01

$25,495

$26,190

WRX Premium

5MT

01, 14

$27,995

$28,690

STI

STI

6MT

01, 15, 16, 25, 26

$34,995

$35,690


Options

Option Code

Description

MSRP

01

Base Model

N/A

11

Special Edition Package

$500

12

Navigation and Power Moonroof Package

$3,000

14

Navigation System

$2,000

15, 25

Silver/ Gold BBS Package

$2,000

16, 26

Silver/ Gold BBS Package + Navigation System

$3,800


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Press thoughts and competitors

"The base 2010 Subaru Impreza rides and handles satisfactorily for a compact car, and its tenacious all-wheel-drive grip is a boon for wet-weather driving. The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer has more aural character than your typical economy-grade four-cylinder, and it delivers adequate punch when called on. The 2.5 GT is decently fast in a straight line, but its performance is perceptibly blunted by the lazy four-speed auto. Moreover, the GT is uninspiring when the road gets twisty, owing to its incongruously soft suspension." (Edmunds)

"Both the sedan and hatch do exceptionally well in crash tests. In government crash testing, the 2010 Subaru Impreza scores a perfect five stars for frontal crash protection, five stars for front occupants in a side crash, and four stars for rear occupants in a side crash (...) Compared with its rivals, the 2010 Subaru Impreza comes well-equipped with quite a few creature comforts, even in base form." (TheCarConnection)

Competitors

Nissan Sentra->ke557 - $17,160

A standard Nissan Sentra is powered by a 2,0 liter four cylinder engine that delivers a total of 140 hp at 5100 RPM and has a fuel economy of 26 mpg (city) and 34 mph (highway). For the price you will get Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Anti-lock Braking System, 16" Steel wheels with wheel covers, Interface System for iPod, Remote keyless entry and Trip computer and outside temperature display.

Honda Civic->ke236 - 15,655

The Honda Civic is powered by a 140-hp 1.8-Liter, 16-Valve SOHC i-VTEC 4-Cylinder Engine with a fuel economy of 26 mpg (city) and 34 mph (highway).

Mazda 3 - $16,045

Mazda 3 is powered by a 2,0 liter 4-cylinder engine with a total output of 148 hp. It achieves 24 mpg in city driving-a two mpg improvement-and 33 on the highway.

So, why to buy the Subaru Impreza? First it comes with all-wheel drive system. Then it comes with turbocharged engines and offers plenty of interior space for both front and rear passengers.

Why not to buy? It comes with four-speed automatic transmission and has a below-average fuel economy.