The year two of the sixth-generation Subaru Impreza lacks a sedan option or a manual transmission, and that’s a bit disappointing. Still, there’s plenty of tech on offer, a practical interior layout, and Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system to keep things exciting.
For 2025, the Impreza brings a simple three-trim lineup and a still-fresh platform loaded with solid tech and family-friendly interior space. It’s the Subaru formula done right, even if it’s not quite as sporty as older models.
2025 Subaru Impreza – subaru.com | Shop 2025 Subaru Impreza on Carsforsale.com
Stylish, practical design
Strong non-hybrid fuel economy
Spacious, family-friendly interior design
Choice of 2.0L or 2.5L engine
Still relatively underpowered
No hybrid option available
Affordable & efficient all-wheel hatchback
Subaru follows a familiar formula with its non-performance models: efficient, practical, and not particularly sporty. The upside is one of the most efficient non-hybrid drivetrains you can buy in a car right now. The base 2.0L four-cylinder boxer engine found in the Base and Sport trims makes 27 MPG in the city and 34 on the highway. The downside is that the engine only generates a meager 152 horsepower.
The 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine in the RS trim adds a little more oomph. We’re talking 182 horsepower and 26 MPG city plus 33 on the highway. In short, even this “sporty” engine is geared towards efficiency. What you’re paying for with the bigger engine is being slightly less burdened by a steadfast devotion to efficiency.
Sure, it stinks that the Impreza doesn’t come in sedan form anymore. But the benefit is an interior better suited for families of five than just about any new vehicle at its price point. Trunk space is magnificent, with 20.4 cu-ft if the rear seats are in place and 56 cu-ft when they’re stowed away. When rear-seat occupants are strapped in, they’re pretty spoiled with legroom as well. With 36.5 inches to its name, there’s certainly worse choices.
As for seat upholstery, a car with a maximum MSRP under $30,000 isn’t getting leather seats or even vegan leather. Still, the RS trim livens things up with red accented cloth seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. All in all, it’s pretty unremarkable. But then again, it never needed to be spectacular inside.
In the tech and features department, Subaru usually has two modes. Of course, those are either quirky and weird, or futuristic and technical. The 2025 Impreza manages to fill both niches thanks to the unorthodox seven-inch dual-split infotainment screen offered on the base trim. The top screen is used to manage most of the infotainment controls, while the bottom screen is regulated to the HVAC controls and other vehicle settings.
The top two trims opt for an all-new 11.6-inch Multimedia display. Along with an upgraded 6-speaker sound system. This high-resolution display is much more conventional control scheme for smartphone connectivity. The RS has an optional Harmon Kardon premium upgrade that includes and upgraded 10 speaker layout and 432-watt amplifier.
Standard across the line up is Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assistance package. Offering automatic emergency steering, blind spot detection, lane keep assist and more. IIHS rates the Impreza with an overall “Good” rating in their crash test, and the IIHS gives the Impreza a 5-star overall safety rating.
The Base trim comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, EyeSight Driver Assist, and dual-zone climate control. Add in LED headlights and roof rack mounting points, and you’ve got yourself a weekend warrior on a weekday budget.
The Sport trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, paddle shifters, and a sport-tuned suspension. Keyless entry, a big 11.6-inch touchscreen, and wireless smartphone integration add modern flair. Opt for the available moonroof to add some more sunlight to your drive.
A 182-hp 2.5-liter engine gives it a bit more punch, while the dark gray 18-inch alloys and red-accented interior bring the attitude. Additions like heated seats, a leather-wrapped wheel, and enhanced driver safety tech make the RS a solid value, but its still not particularly powerful and does not live up to its Rally-Sport inspiration.
Do you want an affordable, efficient family runabout with very solid legroom and trunk space? Then the Impreza will get the job done. It’s sad there’s no hybrid or stick shift, but there’s still a lot to like about this little Japanese hatchback.
2025 Subaru Impreza – subaru.com | Shop 2025 Subaru Impreza on Carsforsale.com
The Impreza is not going to wow you in the power department. But its low price, great infotainment system, and renowned AWD system is appealing for an everyday driver. The Impreza is worth a look for those buying their first new car, or a family looking for a second vehicle. It might not be the same legendary powerhouse rally car of the 90s, but it’s still worth a look if your budget is under 30K.
The Subaru Impreza is AWD
Subaru Imprezas are built at Subaru’s plant in Lafayette, Indiana
A boxer engine is an engine using horizontal rows of pistons instead of a V or inline formation.