Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2023 Subaru Impreza. If you're eyeing a compact car that's reliable, safe, and offers standard all-wheel drive, the Impreza might just be your ride. But is it really worth your hard-earned cash? Let's break it down and see what this car brings to the table.

Overview of the 2023 Subaru Impreza

The 2023 Subaru Impreza is a compact car available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. Renowned for its standard all-wheel drive (AWD), a rarity in its class, the Impreza offers enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The Impreza is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The Impreza comes in four trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited. Each trim offers a different set of features and amenities, catering to a variety of needs and preferences.

Subaru has built a reputation for safety, and the Impreza is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies provide an extra layer of protection for drivers and passengers, making the Impreza a safe and reliable choice. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Impreza is a well-rounded compact car that offers a unique combination of features, including standard AWD, a comfortable interior, and a strong focus on safety. Whether you're looking for a daily commuter or a versatile vehicle for weekend adventures, the Impreza is worth considering.

What's New for 2023?

For the 2023 model year, the Subaru Impreza sees only minor changes. The biggest update is the discontinuation of the manual transmission option for the base hatchback model. All other trims and configurations remain largely the same as the previous year. This means that the 2023 Impreza carries forward the same reliable performance, safety features, and overall design that have made it a popular choice among compact car buyers. While some may be disappointed by the loss of the manual transmission in the base hatchback, the Impreza continues to offer a compelling package with its standard all-wheel drive, comfortable interior, and advanced safety technologies.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk performance. The 2023 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 152 horsepower. Now, that might not sound like a lot, and you're right, it's not going to win any races. But for daily driving, it's adequate. The engine provides enough power for city commutes and highway cruising. However, when you need to accelerate quickly or climb steep hills, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more oomph. One of the Impreza's standout features is its standard all-wheel-drive system. This gives the car excellent traction and stability, especially in wet or snowy conditions. Whether you're navigating slick city streets or tackling unpaved roads, the Impreza feels confident and composed.

The handling of the 2023 Impreza is decent, with precise steering and minimal body roll. The suspension is tuned for comfort, so it absorbs bumps and potholes well, providing a smooth ride for both the driver and passengers. While it's not the sportiest car in its class, the Impreza offers a balanced driving experience that's suitable for everyday use. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be a bit polarizing. Some drivers find it smooth and efficient, while others dislike its droning sound during acceleration. If you prefer a more engaging driving experience, you might want to consider the five-speed manual transmission, which is available on some trims. However, keep in mind that the manual transmission is not available on all models, so you'll need to check the specific trim levels to see if it's an option.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2023 Subaru Impreza, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. The cabin is made with quality materials that feel durable and look appealing. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives more enjoyable. There's plenty of room for both the driver and front passenger, and the rear seats offer adequate space for adults, although taller passengers might find the legroom a bit tight. The Impreza also offers a decent amount of cargo space, especially in the hatchback version. With the rear seats up, there's enough room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. And when you need to haul larger items, you can fold down the rear seats to create even more space.

The 2023 Impreza comes with a range of standard and available features that enhance comfort and convenience. Depending on the trim level, you can get amenities like heated front seats, automatic climate control, and a sunroof. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. It also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, so you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the car's system. Overall, the Impreza's interior is a comfortable and practical space that's well-suited for daily driving. While it might not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, it offers a good balance of comfort, convenience, and functionality.

Technology and Features

The 2023 Subaru Impreza is equipped with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. The base model comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation services. Higher trim levels offer an 8-inch touchscreen display with additional features like satellite radio and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The Impreza also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. Adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. Other available technology features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. These features provide additional visibility and awareness, making it easier to navigate tight spaces and avoid potential hazards. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Impreza offers a comprehensive suite of technology features that enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety, the 2023 Subaru Impreza excels. It has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave the Impreza a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+. These accolades reflect the Impreza's robust construction and advanced safety features.

The 2023 Impreza comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, while lane departure warning alerts the driver if the car starts to drift out of its lane. Automatic emergency braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. In addition to these standard features, the Impreza also offers available safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera. These features provide additional visibility and awareness, making it easier to avoid potential hazards. With its strong safety ratings and comprehensive suite of safety features, the 2023 Subaru Impreza is a safe and reliable choice for drivers and families.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 Subaru Impreza is available in four trim levels: Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited. Each trim offers a different set of features and amenities, catering to a variety of needs and preferences. The base model starts at around $20,000 and comes standard with features like all-wheel drive, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Premium trim adds features like heated front seats, a sunroof, and a larger 8-inch touchscreen display. The Sport trim offers a more sporty appearance with unique styling elements and upgraded interior features. The top-of-the-line Limited trim includes all of the features of the lower trims, plus leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, and a premium audio system.

The price of the 2023 Impreza varies depending on the trim level and options you choose. The base model is the most affordable, while the Limited trim is the most expensive. However, even the Limited trim is still relatively affordable compared to other compact cars in its class. Overall, the 2023 Subaru Impreza offers a good value for the money, with a range of features and amenities that make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you're looking for a basic commuter car or a fully-loaded hatchback, there's an Impreza trim that's right for you.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. What are the pros and cons of the 2023 Subaru Impreza?

Pros:

• Standard all-wheel drive: This is a huge selling point, especially if you live in an area with snow or rain.
• Good safety ratings: The Impreza consistently earns top marks in safety tests.
• Comfortable ride: The suspension is tuned for comfort, making it a great daily driver.
• User-friendly technology: The infotainment system is easy to use and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Cons:

• Engine power: The 152-horsepower engine can feel a bit sluggish, especially when accelerating or climbing hills.
• CVT transmission: Some drivers don't like the droning sound of the CVT during acceleration.
• Rear seat legroom: Taller passengers might find the rear seat legroom a bit tight.
• Fuel economy: While not terrible, the Impreza's fuel economy isn't as good as some of its competitors.

Final Verdict: Is the 2023 Subaru Impreza Worth It?

So, is the 2023 Subaru Impreza worth it? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. If you value safety, reliability, and all-wheel drive, the Impreza is definitely worth considering. It's a practical and well-rounded car that's great for daily commuting and weekend adventures. However, if you're looking for a sporty car with lots of power, you might want to look elsewhere.

Overall, the 2023 Subaru Impreza is a solid choice in the compact car segment. It offers a unique combination of features, including standard AWD, a comfortable interior, and a strong focus on safety. While it's not perfect, it's a well-rounded car that's worth a look if you're in the market for a new compact car. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons and consider your own needs and preferences before making a decision.