Core summary
U.S. MY2024 Impreza Base, Sport and RS. Source-based specification and buying analysis.
The Impreza is worth shortlisting when you want a hatchback rather than automatically moving to an SUV. Decide whether RS engine output matters more than the Base or Sport price.
History & generations
Subaru's MY2024 brochure describes the redesigned sixth-generation Impreza. This reference does not borrow engines from the separately named WRX.
Body, platform & design
The hatchback has a 60/40 split-folding rear seat and standard roof crossbar mounting points.
Engine & drivetrain
Base and Sport use a 152-hp 2.0-liter flat-four; RS uses a 182-hp 2.5-liter. The range pairs AWD with a CVT.
Trim differences
Sport and RS include SI-DRIVE, while Base does not. RS is not a turbocharged WRX specification.
Interior & seating
Try loading a tall item with the rear seats upright before relying on folded-seat volume. The useful measurement is the space available during your normal passenger trips.
Efficiency & range
Compare the economy label for the trim you are buying, not an older manual-transmission Impreza. Transmission and model-year differences can invalidate an otherwise tidy cost comparison.
Safety & equipment
Ask for a parked demonstration of EyeSight controls and alerts. Driver-assistance capability should be understood through its operating limits rather than brand shorthand.
Strengths
Its strongest proposition is an AWD hatchback selected for everyday packaging. The RS premium should be justified by the particular engine and equipment you want.
Its strongest proposition is an AWD hatchback selected for everyday packaging. The RS premium should be justified by the particular engine and equipment you want.
Considerations
Inspect the wheel and tire condition on used Sport or RS examples before valuing cosmetic extras. Plan any necessary replacement into the purchase budget.
Recommended use
For commuting plus occasional bulky shopping, bring representative boxes to the loading test. For outdoor trips, check whether you need more ground clearance before choosing by image.
Rivals & related
Compare Crosstrek if access height or rough-road clearance is the unresolved need. Compare another hatchback if the Impreza's AWD is less important than your other requirements.
FAQ
Is RS a replacement name for WRX? No. Treat the naturally aspirated Impreza RS and the separately specified performance model as different buying decisions.
What makes the Subaru Impreza different?
Its strongest proposition is an AWD hatchback selected for everyday packaging. The RS premium should be justified by the particular engine and equipment you want.
Who should consider it?
All-weather commuting and practical daily travel
Sources & updates
Reference scope: U.S. MY2024 Impreza Base, Sport and RS. Research-based guide; no hands-on road test is claimed. Manufacturer specifications are distinguished from Cariary buying interpretation. Text reviewed 15 October 2026. Sources for the revised text:
https://www.subaru.com/content/dam/subaru/downloads/pdf/brochures/2024/MY24_Impreza_Brochure.pdf
- Manufacturer reference — U.S. MY2024 Impreza Base, Sport and RS →Source used for the stated historical model-year specification; not a claim of a current range.
- Photo 1 — Kevauto →Resized and encoded as WEBP; original composition retained. Front exterior. 2024 Subaru Impreza displayed at the 2023 New York auto show; the roof carrier is display equipment, not a standard feature on every trim.
- Photo 2 — Kevauto →Resized and encoded as WEBP; original composition retained. Rear exterior. 2024 Subaru Impreza displayed at the 2023 New York auto show; the roof carrier is display equipment, not a standard feature on every trim.
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- Photo reuse terms — CC BY-SA 4.0 →Applies to the photographs carrying this license above.
Last editorial review: October 15, 2026. Specifications remain market- and model-year-specific.