Subaru’s smart compact Impreza is being updated and will be released in Fall 2011 for the 2012 model year. Available in four door sedan and five door hatchback, the all-wheel-drive Impreza offers impressive handling, a decent ride and if forecasts for the upcoming model year are correct, exceptional fuel economy.

Smallest Subaru

The Impreza is the smallest model sold by Subaru, a niche maker of all-wheel-drive cars. Every model Subaru makes is powered by all four wheels, giving its vehicles an edge that few other vehicles have. That edge, however, comes at a slight price premium and reduction in fuel economy, the latter though not as pressing an issue for 2012.

Indeed, Subaru estimates that the 2012 Impreza will deliver 36 mpg highway, about the same amount delivered by some of its front-wheel-drive competitors including the Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta and Chevolet Cruze.

Global Debut

The 2012 Subaru Impreza makes its global debut at the New York International Auto Show in April and will be built in Japan. Subaru production has been curtailed since a March 11 earthquake and tsunami affected a slice of the country, but the Impreza’s introduction isn’t expected to be delayed. Read the rest of this entry »