The new 1.6i Impreza RC has gone on sale here priced from €24,995 for the 5-speed dual-range manual model, and for the automatic 6-speed Lineartronic model, writes Trish Whelan.
This new 5-door, 5-seater hatchback is the only car in the C-segment to offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard on every model.
Since its introduction to the global market in 1992, the Impreza has become the most famous of Subaru model names, with the brand's high-tech Symmetrical AWD system and 4-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engines core to the car's road-going abilities and appeal.
This new-generation 1.6, 114hp Boxer petrol engine can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 12.3 seconds and returns 6.4 L/100km (44.1mpg) on the combined cycle. C02 emissions are 147g/km, improving to 6.1 L/100km (46.3mpg) and 140g/km when fitted with Lineartronic.
Body stiffness and collision safety have been improved with the use of high-tensile steel throughout the body. Safety is also enhanced by the eight airbags.
The model on sale here comes in RC specification so that customers benefit from high levels of standard equipment including automatic headlamps and wipers, front fog lamps, cruise control, 16-inch alloy wheels, a tyre repair kit, daytime running lights, and reversing camera.
Comfort features include dual-zone air conditioning, rear passenger heating, six-way driver's seat adjustments, heated front seats, a 60/40 split fold rear seats, and Bluetooth. Leather seats are an upgrade option.