2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback Review: The Heart is the Problem
Small cars may not be all too popular in the USA right now but there are still some car fans and driving enthusiasts that see and admire the perks and performance potential these little runabouts deliver. Unfortunately, with just 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque from its 2.0-liter flat-4 engine, performance from the 2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback isn't exactly exciting. A crude 5-speed manual gearbox or half-dead CVT only makes matters worse.
The Impreza Hatch doesn't disappoint in any other regard, though. It's a sporty-looking, handsome compact 5-door hatch that delivers a surprisingly comfortable ride and some poised handling dynamics. It's brimming with contemporary features and technology, and crammed with advanced driver assists and safety systems, even at the base level. The Impreza's powertrain is the only thing holding it back from being one of the class-leaders alongside the likes of the Honda Civic and Mazda 3.
2021 Impreza Hatchback Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 176.2 in | 105.1 in | 57.3 in | 70.0 in | 60.6 in | 60.8 in | 2,989.0 lbs |
2021 Impreza Hatchback Performance
2021 Impreza Hatchback Interior
2021 Impreza Hatchback Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback A Good car?
The 2021 Impreza is held back only by its lackluster engine and uncouth gearbox options. It is otherwise a genuinely attractive vehicle, offering a sporty, eye-catching design, fun handling characteristics, and a surprisingly comfortable ride quality. It also upholds some confidence-inspiring reliability and safety ratings sustained by its meticulously well-built frame and many driver assists and safety systems. Impressive, considering the 2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback underwent review by both the NHTSA and the IIHS. There are also not many cars out there that come with standard AWD at the 2021 Subaru Impreza Hatchback's price, which stands at just $19,295 for the Base.
To really boost the Impreza's standing in the classification, Subaru needs to fix the heart of the problem, its powertrain. Hopefully, Subaru will debut a sixth-generation Impreza Hatch with a more modern turbocharged mill and more refined gearbox.
What Subaru Impreza Hatchback Model Should I Buy?
For what it gets in cosmetic enhancements and feature upgrades over the Base model, the mid-spec Premium is the one we'd go for. It is restricted to just the CVT but considering that the CVT is the more economical option and performance from the manual is just as unpleasant, it's no big deal. Over the Base, the Premium comes outfitted with fog lights, body-color heated side mirrors, roof rails, and 16-inch alloy wheels. On the inside, the front seats get two-stage heating, the infotainment system is upgraded with two additional speakers, HD radio, and SiriusXM satellite radio connectivity. Throw in the Optional Package and you get yourself some desirable luxuries and more driver assists.