2017 Subaru Impreza Review

Name: 2017 Subaru Impreza Review
Brand: Subaru

Price Range: $3,699 - $17,884

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport Sedan Exterior Shown

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Subaru Impreza model years

Subaru Impreza for Sale

Subaru Impreza types

Sedan
Hatchback

Edmunds' Expert Review

byTravis Langness^{Reviews Editor
Travis Langness has worked in the automotive industry since 2011. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career.}

Pros

Quiet, comfortable and roomy cabin for a compact car
Standard all-wheel drive delivers secure handling and wet-weather traction
Long list of available safety features

Cons

Slow acceleration even with the new, more powerful engine
Transmission is loud under heavy loads
Lower-quality interior materials than those of some rivals

What’s new

The 2017 Subaru Impreza is completely redesigned and built on an all-new platform. It's wider, longer and lower, and it features a fresh new look. Other highlights include a roomier interior, a more powerful engine, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a suite of new safety features.

Vehicle overview

Completely redesigned for 2017, the Subaru Impreza is available as a compact sedan or hatchback. Known in the past for its roomy interior, Subaru has moved the wheels even farther apart to open up additional space in the cabin. The interior has also been upgraded with better materials, more modern technology and several useful safety features. Along with fresh exterior styling and additional power for the four-cylinder engine, this Impreza is well positioned in this competitive segment.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.07 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$139/mo

$161/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

Even with all its upgrades, though, the Impreza still has a few key faults. Even with the addition of extra power for 2017, the standard four-cylinder engine is underpowered. The quality of the interior materials isn't quite at the top of the class either. The optional continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) can be a little loud at times as well, but none of these shortcomings is enough to cross it off your list.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds owned a Subaru Impreza for one year and nearly 20,000 miles. To learn more about our experiences, visit the long-term page for our 2017 Subaru Impreza Limited. We cover everything from seat comfort to real-world fuel economy. All-wheel-drive performance was a staff favorite, but we were less impressed with its engine responsiveness and interior materials. If you have questions, chances are good we've answered them during our long-term test.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

3.5 / 5

The 2017 Subaru Impreza is completely redesigned with new looks and updated features. It's quiet and comfortable and has more space on the inside than the previous model. This newest Impreza is now competitive with some of the best compact sedans on the market.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our first drive of the 2017 Subaru Impreza Premium (2.0L 4-cyl.; CVT).

Scorecard

Overall	3.5 / 5
Driving	3.5
Comfort	3.5
Interior	4.0
Utility	3.0

Driving

3.5

Aside from poor acceleration, the new Impreza performs well. Handling is confident and flat without much body roll. It has responsive brakes, and the steering is quick even in base (i.e., not Sport) trim levels.

Acceleration

2.5

We haven't been able to do an instrumented test with the new Impreza yet, but what we've experienced on-road isn't promising. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine only gets 4 additional horsepower, and it just isn't enough to make it feel quick.

Braking

4.0

Brake performance is strong, especially around town. You get lots of pedal pressure up high in the travel, and the brakes inspire confidence when you're driving fast on a back-mountain road.

Steering

3.5

The steering is quick and responsive and doesn't require much effort. There isn't a very direct connection between the steering wheel and the tires, but for most shoppers, the overall feel is just right for most types of driving.

Handling

4.0

Handling is a strong point for this Impreza regardless of trim. Even in the Premium model, it corners flat and doesn't push wide in corners.

Drivability

3.0

Between the lack of engine power and the lazy feel of the continuously variable transmission, the Impreza doesn't come across as particularly quick or responsive around town.

Off-road

4.0

While it's not a true off-road vehicle, the Impreza does come with all-wheel drive as standard, and in that regard it outclasses many compact sedans.

Comfort

3.5

A relatively quiet and smooth ride (especially on the Premium's 16-inch wheels and tires) makes the Impreza a breeze to drive on the highway. The seats are comfortable and well bolstered, but they are a bit firm for long road trips.

Seat comfort

3.5

The base cloth seats are comfortable, well bolstered and filled with a good amount of seat foam. They're a bit firm, though, and can get tiring after a few hours.

Ride comfort

4.0

Ride comfort is especially good with the wheels and tires that come on the base and Premium trim levels.

Noise & vibration

3.0

Wind noise is very minimal on the highway. Road noise is a bit more pronounced, however, even with the base tires. There is a pronounced whining from the engine under full throttle, but there's also a nice rumble as it moves up to higher engine speeds.

Climate control

3.0

The knobs are large, legible, tactile and easy to use, with a quiet fan (even on full blast). On the downside, the vents are right next to the steering wheel, so your hands easily block the airflow.

Interior

4.0

The new Impreza's interior is a big leap forward for Subaru, but it's still not as nice as the Honda Civic or Mazda 3. Those two vehicles sit right at the head of the class and edge the Impreza out in most categories.

Ease of use

3.5

The radio controls, touchscreen interface and climate control knobs are generally easy to read and use. Most controls are well laid out too.

Getting in/getting out

4.5

The seats are mounted high enough that sliding in and out isn't a problem for most average-height adults. Also, the Impreza's roof, while lower than the outgoing model's, is still high enough that you don't have to duck your head too much to get in.

Driving position

4.0

The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel allows for a lot of adjustment, and the seats are adjustable four ways, so there's plenty of wiggle room to get a good fit.

Roominess

4.5

Massive amounts of headroom, along with tons of front and rear legroom. Even when you've got one 6-foot adult sitting behind another, there's space to spare. This Impreza is bigger than ever before, and it's noticeable on the inside.

Visibility

4.5

Forward visibility is great thanks to a big windshield, thin windshield pillars and small sectional windows near the windshield. A big rear window in both the sedan and the hatchback makes for excellent rear visibility as well.

Quality

3.0

While the interior of this redesigned Impreza is a big improvement, it still isn't a class leader, especially not on lower trim levels.

Utility

3.0

Of the two available Imprezas (sedan and hatchback), we'd definitely go with the hatch. The sedan we tested has merely average trunk space, but child seat accommodation is excellent.

Small-item storage

3.0

Small item storage is good but limited compared to similar storage in class leaders such as the Civic. The center storage console and door pockets aren't as deep or long as we'd like. There are several cupholders, though, all capable of holding a standard water bottle or soda can.

Cargo space

3.0

Access to the trunk is much wider this year (4 inches wider on the hatchback, 5 inches wider on the sedan), but the trunk still offers only 12.4 cubic feet of storage. That's less than in the Mazda 3, Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra. If you want a utilitarian Impreza, go for the hatchback.

Child safety seat accommodation

5.0

Car seat accommodation is as excellent as it ever was in the Impreza. There's easy access to rear latches through Velcro straps, and there are three anchor points behind the rear seats. There's plenty of space for a big rear-facing seat, too.

Technology

Tech is much improved with an all-new touchscreen interface as well as the addition of Apple CarPlay/Android Auto as standard. Our preproduction test car had some issues with Apple CarPlay, but otherwise the base touchscreen is easy to operate and responds quickly to inputs.

Compare 2017 Subaru Impreza trim levels

Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart

2017 Subaru Impreza models

The 2017 Subaru Impreza is available as a four-door sedan or a hatchback. It comes in 2.0i base, Premium, Sport and Limited trim levels. The base trim level has enough equipment to be considered more than just basic transport, but the Premium, Sport and Limited models really step up the game for Subaru.

The Premium has a few basic tech items, while the Sport is the driving enthusiast's choice. The Limited trim level is loaded with almost every feature as standard. New options for the Impreza include an optional Harman Kardon sound system, adaptive cruise control and reverse automatic braking.

The base 2.0i comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (152 horsepower, 145 pound-feet), a five-speed manual transmission (a continuously variable transmission is optional), cloth upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power windows, a 60/40-split folding rear seat, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The base-level touchscreen and Android/Apple integration are both new to the Impreza this year and bring it more in line with competitors.

A model you're more likely to see on dealer lots, the Premium trim is a bit better equipped than the standard 2.0i base. It gets the CVT as standard, plus 16-inch alloy wheels, Subaru Starlink services, heated front seats, windshield and exterior mirrors, and automatic headlights. Premium Impreza hatchbacks also feature standard roof rails. At the Premium level, there are also a few more available options including a power sunroof, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and steering-responsive foglights.

For drivers who want a more exciting version of the Impreza, there's the Sport. It builds on the Premium trim and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, LED running lights, unique suspension tuning, keyless entry and ignition, an 8-inch touchscreen display, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a Harman Kardon audio system, unique interior and exterior trim, and active torque vectoring for improved traction. Also notable for the Sport is the availability of a five-speed manual transmission if you prefer to do the shifting yourself.

At the top of the Impreza range, there's the Limited model. It gets most of the Sport trim's tech equipment (the Harman Kardon system becomes optional) and also gets 17-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a six-way power driver seat and automatic climate control system.

Options for the Limited include a Harman Kardon premium audio system, automatic high beams, navigation and Subaru's EyeSight system (adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert and lane keeping assist). Blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and reverse automatic braking are also available.

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Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

3.5/5Above Average

#35 out of 46 among Compact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

^{The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Subaru Impreza from 2008-2022.}

$514/yr

vs. $416/yr
for Average Compact Car

Frequency

^{The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).}

1x/yr

vs. 1.01x/yr
for Average Compact Car

Severity

^{The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).}

16.4%

vs. 10.4%
for Average Compact Car

powered by RepairPal ^{Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.}

Subaru Impreza Reviews

Owner Reviews

3.4

66 reviews

5(35%)

4(16%)

3(16%)

2(18%)

1(15%)

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Most Helpful Owner Reviews

1st Subaru and it's great! ISSUES WITH TECHNOLOGY

Samantha Courtney, 01/28/2017

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

After owning Hondas, Toyotas and a Nissan, we test drove this vehicle on a whim. We were trying to replace a Nissan Versa that was extremely gas friendly, but not great on the interstate. We test drove the Corolla, Mazda 3, and Impreza back to back. The CVT transmission was surprisingly responsive and didn't cause the engine to produce the horrible whining noise I have heard in other …

Fun, solid car

JMW, 04/21/2017

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl 5M)

My wife and I were both civic owners for 13+ years each. She got a Crosstrek a few years back, which has been really good to us so far. So when my civic started overstaying its welcome I decided to include subaru in my search. Also test drove a honda civic and toyota corolla. While the Subaru does't exactly have the most potent acceleration- slowest of this group - it is the most fun …

What a difference a year makes

Nitpicker, 01/25/2017

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

Serious problems with the electronics system. When we bought this car, we loved it, but recurring problems with the electronics system have made it a source of stress. When we bought the car about a year ago, we had no problems for the first three or four months. Then the radio kept cutting in and out, and the presets kept disappearing. In spring 2017 we took the car to the dealer, but …

Poor engineering, cannot trust vehicle for trips

Joe, 02/22/2017

2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl CVT)

I am reluctant to trust this vehicle for long distance trips at 55,000 miles on the odometer. Here is why. Car was plagued with bearing and brake problems, three computer and head unit recalls, and issues regarding poor quality rubber components. Ongoing issues exist regarding tire and wheel noise that may be continued bearing or brake issues. Overall, Subaru did not roll out a … well engineered vehicle, and appears to have cut corners on bearing quality and plastic/rubber quality. I think Subaru's attempt at utilizing environmentally friendly plastics, plastic brake caliper cylinders, and probable outsourcing bearings overseas resulted in a poor overall product. I am afraid this may show up in other areas--e.g. engine longevity, rear bearings, possible failure of engine and transmission rubber/plastic seals, possible failure of wiring insulation, possible weakness in hose quality, etc. -Alignment was needed off the lot. Aligned under warranty. -The backup screen froze at 120 miles and Subaru implemented a full recall on the basic head unit. -Oil pan bolt was overtightened to the oil pan from factory. Made of soft metal, and is too short. Replaced under warranty. -Right and left front wheel bearings failed within 30,000 miles and were replaced under warranty. -Left front CV axle boot failed at 25,000 miles due to failed clamp. CV shaft was replaced under warranty. -All rubber brake lines were recalled and replaced under warranty due to poor quality rubber. -Rear brakes squeaked at 30,000, so replaced with superior aftermarket ceramic pads at my expense. -Rear rotors rusted on edges badly, making excessive noise by 50,000 miles, so replaced both with superior aftermarket rotors at my expense. -Both front calipers failed at 51,000 miles, ruining both rotors. Replaced at my expense with redesigned OEM calipers. Replaced rotors with superior aftermarket rotors at my expense. Subaru and dealership mishandled this badly. Redesigned caliper availability was very poor. No recall was issued. Car was parked for over three months due to unavailable diagnosis and unavailable parts. -4 coils replaced under recall. ECU reprogrammed. Other issues: -No place to put change for tolls. -Lack of a CD player when CDs are still in use. -Visibility out the back is not very good. Camera helps. -Power steering understeers yet is very sensitive, leading to wandering if a jittery driver. - If you change your own oil, it is a very low car, and the drain plug is easy to ruin.

See all 66 reviews of the Subaru Impreza

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2017 Subaru Impreza video

2017 Subaru Impreza Review

Edmunds' Josh Sadlier takes you on a walk around of the 2017 Subaru Impreza. He goes over specs, design, the interior and more.

2017 Impreza Highlights

Type:

Sedan

Trim:

2.0i

Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee	$18,395
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	27 MPG
Cost to Drive	$139/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	12.3 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the Impreza models:

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Gives an audible warning when vehicles are approaching from the side, such as when backing out of a parking space.
Subaru EyeSight: A package of safety equipment that includes features such as adaptive cruise control, emergency braking and lane keeping assist.
Subaru Starlink: Optional emergency roadside assistance, automatic collision notification and stolen-vehicle recovery service.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover9.5%

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Small Overlap Front Driver-Side Test
Good
Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side Test
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Original
Good
Moderate Overlap Front Test – Updated
Not Tested
Side Impact Test – Original
Good
Side Impact Test – Updated
Poor
Roof Strength Test
Good
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Good

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2017 Subaru Impreza Review

Price & Payment

For sale nearby

2017 Subaru Impreza2.0i Premium 4dr Hatchback

AutoCheck Vehicle History Summary

2017 Subaru Impreza2.0i Sedan

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2017 Subaru Impreza2.0i Limited 4dr Hatchback

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Edmunds' Expert Review

Pros

Cons

What’s new

Vehicle overview

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2017 Subaru Impreza 2.0i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.0L 4cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.07 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.

What's it like to live with?

Edmunds' Expert Rating

Trim tested

Scorecard

Driving

Acceleration

Braking

Steering

Handling

Drivability

Off-road

Comfort

Seat comfort

Ride comfort

Noise & vibration

Climate control

Interior

Ease of use

Getting in/getting out

Driving position

Roominess

Visibility

Quality

Utility

Small-item storage

Cargo space

Child safety seat accommodation

Technology

Which Impreza does Edmunds recommend?

2017 Subaru Impreza models

Reliability Ratings by RepairPal

Cost

Frequency

Severity

Subaru Impreza Reviews

Owner Reviews

Most Helpful Owner Reviews

1st Subaru and it's great! ISSUES WITH TECHNOLOGY

Fun, solid car

What a difference a year makes

Poor engineering, cannot trust vehicle for trips

2017 Subaru Impreza video