Subaru Impreza hatchback - Interior & comfort (2018-2020)
Inside the Subaru Impreza you'll find good build quality, somewhat uninspired design and loads of standard kit
A major criticism of the previous Subaru Impreza was the disappointing quality of its interior, and the latest model is a huge improvement in that regard. However, rivals from Europe set the bar quite high and the Japanese car doesn't topple the Volkswagen Golf as the undisputed leader when it comes to family hatchback interior quality.
Comfort has made forward strides, too, with more space in the front and rear and a smooth ride that eclipses the Impreza's predecessor, despite the car's keenness for corners. The trouble is that the ride still isn't as comfortable as a Golf's, and the big letdown in refinement terms is engine noise, which soars when revs rise under hard acceleration.
Subaru Impreza dashboard
While the quality of the Impreza's dashboard impresses, its layout can't match the ordered simplicity and classy style of cars like the Volkswagen Golf or SEAT Leon, nor the futuristic feel of the Peugeot 308 or Gallic flair of the Renault Megane.
Some may prefer the Impreza's sporty style, though; it's certainly distinctive. The dials are clear and flank a central digital information display, while the eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system is mounted high for good access and visibility. There's an additional high-mounted central colour display that shows additional driving information, clock and climate control settings.
Equipment
With only one trim level, every Impreza has the same high level of standard equipment. Despite the large central touchscreen, the infotainment screen has no native sat nav capability, but standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay mean you can use the navigation system on your phone. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard, as are cruse control, a reversing camera, LED headlamps and wipers, dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
Autonomous emergency braking – controlled by Subaru's EyeSight technology – is among a long list of standard safety features which also includes lane-changing assistance, rear cross-traffic alert and auto-dipping headlights.
Options
Other than a choice of paint colours, no optional extras are available for the Impreza at launch.
