2016 Subaru Impreza: A Practical and Capable Compact
The 2016 Subaru Impreza continued Subaru's tradition of offering a reliable, practical, and capable compact car, distinguished by its standard all-wheel-drive system. Available as both a sedan and a five-door hatchback, the Impreza appealed to a wide range of buyers seeking a sensible all-weather vehicle.
Highlights
- Engine: The 2016 Impreza was powered by a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine produced 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful in its class, it provided adequate performance for daily commuting and a smooth, refined power delivery thanks to the boxer design. It was paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or Subaru's Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), known as Lineartronic.
- Safety Features: Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2016 Impreza was no exception.
- Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Unlike most competitors that offer AWD as an optional upgrade, the Impreza's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system was standard on all trims. This system continuously monitors driving conditions and sends power to the wheels with the most grip, enhancing traction and stability in various weather conditions, from rain and snow to light off-road situations.
- Advanced Airbag System: The Impreza featured a comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags, providing excellent occupant protection in the event of a collision.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control System (TCS): These electronic stability and traction control systems work in tandem with the AWD to help prevent skids and maintain control during sudden maneuvers or slippery conditions.
- Available EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: For higher trims, Subaru offered its EyeSight system, a suite of advanced driver-assistance features that utilized stereo cameras to monitor traffic. This system could include:
- Pre-Collision Braking: Automatically applies the brakes if a frontal collision is imminent and the driver doesn't react.
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management: Reduces engine power if a frontal collision is imminent and the driver presses the accelerator.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed.
- Lane Departure Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane.
- Trim Levels: The 2016 Impreza was offered in several trim levels, each building upon the previous:
- 2.0i: The base model, providing essential features and the standard AWD.
- 2.0i Premium: Added features like a rearview camera, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels.
- 2.0i Sport: Focused on a more engaging driving experience with sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, and sport cloth seating.
- 2.0i Limited: The top-tier trim, offering more premium amenities such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and the EyeSight system.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious Interior: The Impreza offered a surprisingly roomy cabin for its class, with comfortable seating for five adults. The hatchback version, in particular, provided excellent cargo capacity with its rear seats folded down, making it a practical choice for hauling groceries, sports equipment, or weekend getaway luggage.
- Subaru's Reputation for Durability: Subaru vehicles are generally known for their longevity and build quality, and the Impreza is no exception. This translates to a vehicle that can hold up well over many years of ownership.
- Excellent Visibility: The Impreza's greenhouse design offered excellent outward visibility, contributing to a feeling of openness and ease of maneuvering in tight spaces.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Subaru Impreza is typically a straightforward and satisfying experience, particularly for those who value practicality and all-weather capability.
- Maintenance: Subaru maintenance schedules are generally reasonable. Routine tasks include oil changes, tire rotations, and filter replacements. The boxer engine's design can sometimes make certain maintenance tasks, like spark plug replacement, slightly more involved than in inline engines, potentially leading to a bit higher labor costs for those specific jobs at a dealership. However, with regular adherence to the maintenance schedule, the Impreza is known for its reliability and can be a dependable vehicle for many miles. Brake pad and rotor replacement will be typical wear items.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the Impreza are generally competitive for a compact car. However, factors such as the standard AWD system (which can be perceived as a higher-value feature by insurers), the availability of advanced safety features, and your personal driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will influence your premiums. It's always advisable to get quotes from multiple insurance providers.
- Driving Experience: The Impreza offers a comfortable and composed ride, well-suited for daily commuting. The standard AWD provides confidence and stability in adverse weather, making it a popular choice in regions with challenging climates. The steering is typically well-weighted and provides good feedback, contributing to a secure driving feel. While not a performance car, the Impreza handles competently, especially the Sport trim with its sport-tuned suspension.
Potential Considerations
While the 2016 Subaru Impreza is a solid choice, there are a few aspects buyers should be aware of:
- Engine Power: As mentioned, the 148-horsepower engine, while adequate, is not the most potent in the compact segment. Acceleration can feel somewhat leisurely, especially when fully loaded or merging onto a highway, particularly with the CVT. Those seeking brisk acceleration might find it lacking.
- Fuel Economy: The standard AWD system, while a significant advantage, does have a slight impact on fuel economy compared to front-wheel-drive competitors. The Impreza's MPG ratings are generally respectable for an AWD vehicle but may trail some of its FWD-only rivals. The CVT generally offers better fuel efficiency than the manual transmission.
- Interior Materials: While the interior is functional and well-assembled, some of the interior materials, particularly on lower trims, can feel a bit basic or hard to the touch compared to some more upscale competitors. This is a common trade-off in the compact car segment.
- Infotainment System: The infotainment system, especially on base models, was functional but might not be as modern or feature-rich as some newer systems found in competitors. However, models equipped with the touchscreen and smartphone integration offered a more contemporary user experience.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Subaru Impreza stands out as a practical, safe, and highly capable compact car, primarily due to its standard all-wheel-drive system. It offers a comfortable ride, a spacious interior, and the peace of mind that comes with Subaru's reputation for reliability and safety. While its engine power and fuel economy might not lead the class, its all-weather prowess and versatile hatchback option make it a compelling choice for individuals and families seeking a dependable and sensible vehicle for everyday life, especially in areas where traction is a concern.
