The 2022 Subaru Impreza continues the legacy of this reliable compact car, offering standard all-wheel drive, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for longevity. As a seasoned auto repair expert at cardiagnosticnearme.com, I’ve seen my fair share of vehicles, and the Impreza consistently stands out for its practicality and dependability. Let’s delve into what makes the 2022 Impreza tick, its strengths, and potential areas to consider before making a purchase.
Performance and Handling: The Subaru Advantage
Under the hood, the 2022 Subaru Impreza houses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 152 horsepower. While not a powerhouse, this engine provides adequate performance for daily driving and commuting. The real draw here is Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which comes standard on every Impreza. This provides superior traction and control in various weather conditions, making it a confident choice for drivers in snowy or rainy climates.
The Impreza’s handling is responsive and predictable, contributing to a pleasant driving experience. It’s not designed for sporty performance, but it navigates corners and city streets with ease. The continuously variable transmission (CVT), while sometimes criticized for its droning sound, is tuned to maximize fuel efficiency and provides smooth acceleration. For those who prefer a more engaging driving experience, a five-speed manual transmission is available on the base and Sport trims.
Fuel Efficiency: Economical for an AWD Vehicle
Despite its standard all-wheel drive, the 2022 Subaru Impreza manages respectable fuel economy figures. EPA estimates vary slightly depending on the trim and transmission, but you can generally expect around 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway for models equipped with the CVT. The manual transmission versions see slightly lower figures. This fuel efficiency is commendable for a vehicle with AWD, making the Impreza a practical choice for budget-conscious drivers.
Interior and Features: Practical and User-Friendly
The interior of the 2022 Subaru Impreza prioritizes functionality and ease of use over outright luxury. The cabin is well-built with durable materials, and the layout is straightforward and intuitive. The seats are comfortable for both front and rear passengers, and the visibility is excellent thanks to the car’s design.
Standard features on the base 2022 Impreza include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring smartphone integration. Higher trims offer larger touchscreens, upgraded audio systems, and additional convenience features like automatic climate control, keyless entry, and heated seats.
Image alt text: Interior view of a 2022 Subaru Impreza dashboard, highlighting the infotainment screen, simple layout, and user-friendly controls.
Cargo space in the Impreza hatchback is particularly generous for the compact class, offering ample room for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear. The sedan version also provides a decent trunk space.
Safety and Reliability: Subaru’s Strong Suit
Subaru has a long-standing reputation for safety, and the 2022 Impreza continues this trend. It earns top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features include multiple airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.
Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology is available on higher trims and includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These systems enhance driver awareness and can help prevent accidents.
From a repair perspective, Subaru vehicles, including the Impreza, are generally known for their reliability. Regular maintenance is key, but they tend to hold up well over time. Common maintenance items include oil changes, tire rotations, and brake service, which are typical for any vehicle.
Potential Considerations: What to Keep in Mind
While the 2022 Subaru Impreza has many positives, there are a few aspects to consider:
- Engine Power: The 2.0-liter engine is adequate, but some drivers may find it lacking in power, especially when merging onto highways or carrying a full load of passengers and cargo.
- CVT Noise: As mentioned earlier, the CVT transmission can sometimes be noisy under hard acceleration.
- Base Trim Features: The base trim is relatively basic. Stepping up to higher trims is necessary to get more desirable features.
Conclusion: A Practical and Dependable Compact Car
The 2022 Subaru Impreza remains a solid choice in the compact car segment. Its standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, safety ratings, and reputation for reliability make it a practical and dependable option for a wide range of drivers. While it may not be the most exciting car in terms of performance or luxury, it excels in providing a comfortable, safe, and capable daily driving experience. If you’re looking for a compact car that can handle various weather conditions and offer long-term value, the 2022 Subaru Impreza is definitely worth considering.
