Subaru New Impreza Sport (GP2/GP3/GP6/GP7) and Impreza G4 (GJ2/GJ3/GJ6/GJ7)

Back in the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, Subaru unveiled the Impreza Concept, which they refer that this is the next Impreza, then on the following, at the 2011 New York Auto Show, the fourth-generation Impreza was revealed in sedan and hatchback form. With the concept "New Value Class", the all-new fourth-generation Subaru Impreza provides customers with new value design, new value performance, new value safety, and new value economy.

2012 Subaru Impreza Sport

2012 Subaru Impreza G4

The 5-door Impreza hatchback is labeled as "Impreza Sport" while the 4-door Impreza sedan is called "Impreza G4". In case we're wondering what's up with the G4 name in this 4-door version, there's a huge possibility that you may end up mistaking this as G4U, which is a limited edition IDOLM@STER video game where you can take pictures of your favorite 765 idols.

This car is not all about "Gravure four You", but the new Impreza uses Subaru's new signature design as seen on the Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept with some hints derived from the 2010 Subaru Impreza Concept. This new design really adds sportiness and glamour at all sides.

2012 Subaru Impreza G4 interior

2012 Subaru Impreza Sport interior

The new interior provides better refinement than the previous Impreza thanks to the improved wheelbase while retaining the same height and width as the original. What drives the attention of the new Impreza's interior is the new Center Display that checks real-time information, which is essential for the drivers. However, even if the interior is all new for the new Impreza, you'll regret that it's not somewhat of a big clarity because it looks rather dull and lacks luxury features. Oh well, that's the way this new Impreza's capable of. As for the Impreza Sport model, the rear seats can be folded for luggage capacity, which is great for today's lifestyles.

Firstly, the new Subaru Impreza is fitted with the newly-developed FB16 and FB20 engine, in natural aspiration guise. The new FB16 engine produces 115PS of power and 148Nm of torque. The FB20 engine, lifted from the Subaru Forester, produces 150PS of power and 196Nm of torque. Most models come with the Lineartronic CVT lifted from the fifth-generation Subaru Legacy series. This Subaru-developed CVT with 6-speed Manual Mode provides smooth operation, fuel efficiency, improved response, and (it claims to be) fun to drive. When equipped with this transmission, it promises to accumulation of 17.6km/L JC08 of fuel economy on 1.6L variants and 17.2km/L JC08 on 2.0L variants, making the new Impreza the most fuel-efficient car in its class, beating out the likes of the Mazda Axela (especially with SKYACTIV Technology). This is the first model that comes with a Subaru-developed idling stop system that shuts off the boxer engine automatically when stopped, reducing emissions and optimizing fuel economy. There's also a 5-speed manual transmission offered at some models but it'll cost you.

Like most Subarus, the trademark SYMMETRICAL AWD is the driving force of the Impreza, providing better distribution of power, enhanced stability, and traction that is beyond compared to conventional 4WD layouts. For the first time ever, the Eyesight Ver. 2, lifted from the fifth-generation Legacy, is now offered on the new Impreza Sport and Impreza G4. The "Eyesight Ver. 2" is a driver assistance system that provides Active Cruise Control, Emergency Braking, and Lane Departure Warning systems.

Available in seven colors; Satin White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Dark Grey Metallic, Obsidian Black Pearl, Camellia Red Pearl (Sport only), Deep Cherry Pearl, and Plasma Blue Silica.

My comment:
What we've seen now on this new, 4th-generation, Subaru Impreza (in Sport & G4 guise) is the future of Subaru. To sum up, we are impressed with its fuel efficiency, new look, and that's it. What we're not impressed that the interior's a bit more similar to the Mazda Axela and there are no turbo versions yet. So what we're saying is that this new Impreza is now focused on practicality than performance. It's no longer the rally-born sports car we adorned for, it's now just a baby Legacy.

Sales start this December 20, 2011, at all Subaru dealerships in Japan!

Photo: Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd.