A 1.0-in. longer wheelbase paired with shorter overhangs mean the overall footprint stays the same, but there’s 2 in. more rear-seat knee room. The extra shoulder room (approximately an inch) on the other hand, is attributed entirely to a smart door panel design, not added car width. The soft-touch dash sits lower, which adds to the impressive panoramic view through the windshield. This effect was created via thinner A-pillars (that have been moved forward by 7.9 in.), a slim secondary pillar with a small window partition, lower door sill heights and, last, the door-mounted sideview mirrors.

For suspension, both 4 and 5-door models retain their double-wishbone rear setups and MacPherson struts in front, although various improvements in bushings and pillowball mounts help to better locate the chassis. The most interesting tweak in the suspension are the new rebound springs inside the front dampers, which help the wheels stay better glued to the ground in transitions. This comes standard on the higher trim models of the 2012 Impreza, which also get a rear anti-roll bar.

The final crowning achievement for the new Subie—especially with looming oil prices—is its fuel economy, which sees an increase of a whopping 30 percent (with the CVT), which Subaru estimates will register an EPA rating of 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway (25/33 for the 5-speed manual) and a tank range of over 500 miles.

If you’re worried that these improvements will also come with a higher price tag – don’t fret. The base model Impreza 4-door 2.0i with a five-speed manual transmission will start at $17,495 – the same as last year. Adding the newly designed contin continuously variable transmission (CVT) starts at $18,495. The base 5-door Impreza 2.0i starts at $17,995 when equipped with a five-speed transmission and $18,995 for the CVT-equipped model.

If you’d like to be one of the first to drive the most fuel efficient all-wheel drive car in America, we are now taking orders. Visit our website to see all the details for your next Subaru!
http://www.subarugeorgetown.com/all-new-2012-impreza.htm