Subaru holds ASEAN debut for 2017 Impreza

Say hello to the 2017 Subaru Impreza — an all-new model that is set to rival the likes of the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, and the Toyota Corolla Altis. The Impreza made its ASEAN debut in Singapore and it is scheduled to make its Philippine debut at the Manila International Auto Show by the end of March.

The 2017 Impreza is the first Subaru to be underpinned by the brand’s new Global Platform, which enhances the vehicle’s overall driving performance and safety. It is said to improve the vehicle’s straight line stability (smoother steering response), Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH), and comfort.

Moreover, The all-new Subaru Impreza was recently honored as the 2017 Car of the Year Japan (COTY). This is the 2nd time the Japanese carmaker received the award since the Legacy’s win in 2003.

Design-wise, the Impreza looks more exciting as compared to its predecessor. Through the “DYNAMIC x SOLID” design language, the all-new Impreza is more aggressive and integrated with sharper character lines. The front end of the vehicle has a revamped hexagonal grille, new C-shaped headlights, and a restyled bumper. It also has prominent fender flares and wraparound taillights.  

The interior comes with a straightforward design. It has an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, a 3-spoke steering wheel, and chrome trims. Subaru says the Impeza has a more spacious cabin and cargo room; thanks to its 2670mm wheelbase.

During the regional launch in Singapore, the Impreza is introduced in 2 body styles: a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback. It also comes with 2 engine options: 1.6L with 114 hp and 2.0L with 153 hp, which is 3 hp higher than the outgoing, locally available Impreza model. Both models are mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Locally, the all-new Impreza 2.0i-S (4-door sedan) is now available for reservation at Subaru showrooms across the Philippines. It will have a price tag of P1,380,000. 

Subaru Philippines Deputy Manager Gerry Hernandez said in an interview that they will also offer the 5-door Impreza (hatch version) in the near future. He did not give the exact date as to when will it be locally available and said "timing is everything."

On the other hand, Subaru Executive Director Glenn Tan shared that the all-new XV will be launch in the Philippines by Q3 (around August/September).