Context and model-year identity
The US 2024 Subaru Impreza is a hatchback-only sixth-generation car, which immediately differentiates it from earlier Impreza generations sold as both sedan and hatchback. It should also be separated from a WRX performance sedan, despite their shared Subaru naming history. For a 2026 second-hand shopper, the Impreza offers a simpler on-road case than the raised Crosstrek: load luggage at hatchback height, assess cabin room, and decide whether the standard AWD is worth the packaging and fuel-use trade-off relative to front-drive compact rivals. All information here is from Subaru’s 2024 US trim comparison.
2024 powertrain and market specifications
Subaru split the 2024 Impreza into Base, Sport and RS grades. Base and Sport feature the 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine, while the RS uses a 2.5-litre unit; each grade includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a continuously variable transmission in the American range. Subaru’s comparison lists headline EPA highway/city figures of up to 34/27 mpg for the 2.0-litre cars and 33/26 mpg for RS. These are US-cycle figures, not WLTP equivalents and not guarantees under winter tyres or urban traffic. Screens, upholstery, driver aids and wheel specifications vary considerably by grade.
What to inspect on a used vehicle
Inspect a used Impreza for tyre uniformity and alignment, especially if it has been driven year-round in snow regions. Sport and RS wheels may be more vulnerable to harsh potholes than smaller-wheel configurations. Confirm that the CVT responds consistently during steady and low-speed driving and that a dealer can explain any warning lights before purchase. Rear-seat folding and a hatch opening can make the car surprisingly useful for weekend equipment, but its lower stance will not replace a tall crossover on unpaved access roads. Verify service documentation and repair history rather than making unsupported failure-rate claims.
Who it suits and alternative choices
The Impreza makes sense for a buyer looking for a compact road car with standard AWD, especially where wet-weather traction is useful. A Crosstrek is worth the extra height if rough track access is routine; an ordinary Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic hatchback may make more sense if efficiency and quiet motorway cruising matter more. The RS is the version to sample if the 2.0-litre engine feels strained with passengers, but its larger engine should not be confused with turbocharged WRX performance.