2024 Subaru Impreza 2.0S Review

With the full lineup spanning from the $35,482 Impreza 2.0L to the $39,087 Impreza 2.0R, and $42,177 for the 2.0S model we're reviewing here, the Impreza offers a range of choices for various budgets.

Each model offers Subaru's promise of safety with all safety systems present from the base model up.

Outwardly it says "I'm great for families, won't strain your wallet, and yes, I look good too."

The 2.0S, at its price point, makes a compelling case for those looking for a bit more refinement without veering into luxury car territory.

What's the Impreza 2.0S like inside?

Lets start with the seats: wrapped in a leather, it adds a nice touch for the car's price tag, and offers the kind of comfort that could make a 5-hour traffic jam bearable.

Front and centre, you find an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment touchscreen that is fairly sharp and easy to use. While not exactly groundbreaking, it includes all the modern necessities: Apple CarPlay, Android Auto which you can connect to wirelessly aswell as a navigation system that's actually more helpful than confusing.

For those who care about audio – and let's face it, who doesn't on a long drive? – The Impreza 2.0S comes equipped with a Harman Kardon sound system. It's the sort of setup that can make even your parents' playlists sound palatable.

Additionally, there's DAB+ radio, which ensures a range of digital stations and a clarity that makes AM/FM radio feel like a distant, static-filled memory.

There also a wireless charging pad – a feature that's as much about showing off to your passengers as it is about utility. No fumbling with cables; just drop and charge.

In the second row there is a surprising amount of leg and head room, meaning even if someone draws the short-straw and doesn't get to ride shotgun, they won't be uncomfortable.

What's the Subaru Impreza 2.0S like to drive?

Under the hood, the 2.0-liter engine churns out a sensible 115 kW and 196 Nm of torque. It's not going to give you the thrilling back-push of a sports car, but for everyday commuting it's more than adequate.

Then there's the CVT transmission which, in my humble opinion, is this Impreza's Achilles' heel.

It's smooth, yes, but every burst of acceleration is met with a kind of resigned whine, like a stubborn old dog being coaxed off the sofa. It's functional; it does its job, but it won't make your heart race.

During our time reviewing the Impreza, we saw a fuel consumption rate of over 10 litres per 100 km in mixed driving conditions. It's a puzzling figure, especially when compared to the manufacturer's claimed consumption of around 7.5 litres per 100 km under optimal conditions. Ideally the CVT should optimise fuel efficiency.

Handling, however, is where the Impreza redeems itself.

Thanks to Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, it clings to the road through bends and curves. This is where you feel the Impreza's rally heritage peeping through its family-friendly facade, offering a glimmer of excitement and reassurance that is deeply ingrained in its chassis.

The suspension is on the firm side, perhaps too firm for those looking for a cushy ride. You'll feel most bumps and potholes – feedback you might appreciate on a spirited drive but could do without while sipping a morning coffee on the way to work.

The Impreza, so far, seems to be the car you recommend to a friend who wants reliability and safety over excitement; a dependable daily driver, if not an exhilarating one.

What's Impreza 2.0S boot like?

The boot of the 2024 Subaru Impreza 2.0S provides a practical 345 liters of space.

This capacity is adequate for typical daily requirements such as grocery shopping or accommodating luggage for weekend trips. However, in the competitive compact car segment, it holds a middle ground when compared to its peers.

For example, the Kia Cerato offers a slightly larger boot with about 428 liters of space, providing a bit more flexibility for users who might carry more or bulkier items.

On the other hand, the Mazda 3 offers a boot space of approximately 295 liters.

How safe is the Subrau Impreza 2.0S?

The 2024 Subaru Impreza 2.0S is equipped with a comprehensive array of safety technologies that are standard across the range:

• eyesight driver assist technology
• rear cross-traffic alert
• blind spot detection
• reverse automatic braking
• subaru starlink safety and security
• vehicle dynamics control (VDC)
• traction control system (TCS)
• advanced airbag system
• rear-vision camera
• tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS)

The Verdict

The 2024 Subaru Impreza 2.0S is a car of contradictions.

It promises efficiency but guzzles more than expected. It offers a premium interior and safety technology but is let down a little by a lacklustre transmission.

In a segment filled with contenders, the Impreza holds its ground – not through sheer excitement or standout performance, but through reliability and a well-rounded package that does enough to satisfy, if not entirely thrill.

It's the car you recommend to the friend who values comfort over flair, safety over speed and value in general.