2020 Subaru Impreza Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

When shopping around for a new compact car, don’t overlook the new 2020 Subaru Impreza. It’s essentially a more practical version of the race-bred Subaru WRX. Buyers are especially drawn to the Impreza’s standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which helps set it apart from top-selling rivals like the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla. Strong resale value also makes the Impreza an appealing choice.

While some drivers prefer the sedan body style, others enjoy the hatchback’s larger cargo area. For 2020, both models benefit from refreshed exterior styling. Model’s equipped with an automatic CVT also now come standard with Subaru’s excellent EyeSight advanced safety package. This guide will help you to sort through the available Impreza trims. After finding out what each trim brings to the table, you'll have a better idea of what to expect before walking into the dealership.

Compare the 2020 Subaru Impreza 2.0 vs Premium Trims. What is the difference?

If you’re trying to limit your spending, the base Impreza 2.0 deserves some serious consideration. It comes equipped with the same powertrain as the rest of the lineup. Under the hood sits a 2.0-liter, Boxer four-cylinder engine with dual overhead cams. Subaru tunes it to crank out 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, which is just enough for muscle for the average commuter. While a five-speed manual gearbox lowers the car’s MSRP, Subaru’s optional continuous variable transmission enables you to save more money at the pump.

One of the base Impreza 2.0’s biggest highlights is its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. While this all-wheel-drive system does add some extra weight, there’s no overlooking its ability to aid traction on slick roads. Folks who must travel during wintry weather will greatly appreciate Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. No other car in the segment delivers a better performance in the snow.

The base Impreza 2.0 does force you to make a few sacrifices in the styling department. It comes equipped with a cheaper-looking set of 16-inch steel wheels. You have a total of seven different paint options to choose from, including an all-new Ocean Blue Pearl color.

As expected, the base Impreza 2.0 is not very luxurious on the inside. Nevertheless, it does have a high-quality feel. Cloth upholstery lines the interior. You’ll also receive carpeted floor mats. A 60/40-split folding rear seat allows you to expand the available cargo space. To enhance comfort, Subaru equips the base model with a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a height-adjustable driver’s seat.

Most people will be more than satisfied with the Impreza 2.0i’s list of standard features. Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system is a key highlight. It pairs a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto mobile support. Popular apps, like Pandora, are already downloaded onto the interface. Other features include remote locking, hands-free Bluetooth, and a basic stereo system with four speakers. You can charge your phone and stream audio via the Impreza’s USB port. A driver information display with fuel economy readouts and cruise control come standard as well.

Plenty of great safety features are found on the Impreza 2.0i. While a backup camera with steering lines aids your ability to spot obstacles when reversing, daytime running lights make the car more visible to other motorists. Models equipped with an automatic transmission provide Subaru’s top-rated EyeSight driver-assist system. It provides pre-collision braking, smart cruise control, and lane keeping.

Vehicle Dynamics Control is standard on every new 2020 Subaru Impreza. This system helps you to quickly regain a loss of traction. Unlike other stability control systems, Vehicle Dynamics Control actually enhances performance.

In terms of performance, the Impreza Premium holds no advantages over the base Impreza 2.0i. However, you can’t get the Premium trim with a manual gearbox. Subaru upgrades the Impreza Premium’s automatic CVT with a seven-speed manual mode. You can sort through the simulated gears using the standard paddle shifters. Of course, Symmetrical All-Wheel drive is part of the Impreza Premium’s standard equipment.

In regard to exterior styling, Subaru does outfit the Premium trim with a more attractive set of 16-inch alloy wheels. The same paint options are offered. Roof rails are featured on the hatchback body style.

The Impreza Premium provides a few more creature comforts. It comes standard with an All-Weather Package. While heated front seats help you to overcome the frigid winter temperatures, a windshield wiper de-icer makes morning commutes more rewarding. Heated mirrors are included as well.

There’s also a better list of features on the inside. Music fans will appreciate the upgraded six-speaker audio system, which includes satellite radio and a CD player. A noise-reducing windshield helps quieten the interior. All of your passengers can take advantage of the Premium trim’s 4G Wi-Fi connectivity. An extra USB port is also found on the Impreza Premium.

Drivers can take full advantage of this trim’s Starlink Safety and Security system. It allows you to remotely perform vehicle functions using your smartphone. You can also use the system to contact emergency personnel. If you happen to get involved in a crash, Starlink Safety and Security can automatically call for help.

Drivers who demand more equipment have access to an optional package. It enhances safety by providing blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert. Push-button start and a six-way power driver’s seat also come in the package. If desired, you can get this package with a sunroof.

Compare the 2020 Subaru Impreza Premium vs Sport Trims.  What is the Difference?

While the Impreza Sport does not accelerate quicker than the other trims, it is designed to offer sharper handling. Subaru equips it with Active Torque Vectoring, which enhances body control when taking corners. Furthermore, no other trim in the lineup has a sports-calibrated suspension.

This year, SI-DRIVE performance management has been added to the Impreza Sport. It allows you to adjust the car’s driving character. While the Intelligent mode helps you to maximize fuel economy, the Sport mode optimizes throttle response. An upgraded manual transmission with short-throw shifter is featured on the Sport 5-Door (hatchback), which helps you to quickly churn through the gears.

When comparing the Impreza Sport to the Impreza Premium, you’ll notice the Sport trim’s slightly more aggressive look. While a larger set of 18-inch alloy wheels give the Impreza sport a meaner stance, body-color rocker spoilers give it a sleeker profile. A trunk-mounted spoiler comes equipped on the sedan version. Subaru separates the Sport 5-Door by adding a gloss-black rear tailgate.

Subaru designed the Impreza Sport’s interior to match its racy exterior. Sport Cloth upholstery with red stitching helps give the cabin a more exciting atmosphere. Aluminum pedals and performance gauges further elevate this trim’s racy nature. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle also make the Sport trim feel special.

There are just a few more high-tech goodies inside the Impreza Sport. Its larger 8.0-inch multimedia display instantly stands out. While push-button start and a power driver’s seat are optional on the Impreza Premium, these upgrades are standard on the Impreza Sport.

There’s an optional package available for Impreza Sport. Aside from blind-spot monitoring, it also brings an amplified Harmon Kardon audio system. Music fans will appreciate the more powerful soundtrack.

Compare the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport vs Limited.  What is the Difference?

If you desire a greater sense of luxury, step up to the range-topping Impreza Limited. While it may not come equipped with the Impreza Sport’s extra performance goodies, it does have an especially plush feel. It replaces the Sport trim’s 18-inch wheels with a smaller set of 17-inch alloy wheels. Subaru also equips the Impreza Limited with LED Steering Responsive Headlights. While these headlights really don’t add more style, they turn to better illuminate the street at night. Fog lights and automatic high beams are also found on the Impreza Limited.

When you slide behind the wheel of the Impreza Limited, look forward to enjoying more luxury. This is the only trim that boasts leather upholstery. You’ll also appreciate the automatic climate control system, which helps keep the interior at your preferred temperature and humidity. Passengers sitting in the backseat can enjoy a rear armrest. Navigation and the Harman Kardon sound system are optional.

Like every other new Impreza fitted with an automatic CVT, the Limited trim comes standard with Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist package. However, it also benefits from reverse automatic braking. When backing up in high-traffic areas, this feature gives you extra peace of mind.

Which Trim to Choose?

Before you go shopping for a new 2020 Subaru Impreza, first consider how much money you’re willing to shell out. If you’re trying to keep your expenses under $20,000, strongly consider the base Impreza sedan. It has a starting MSRP of roughly $19,595. Folks interested in the 5-Door version will have to spend an extra $500.

Although the base Impreza 2.0i may sit at the button of the lineup, it still has a lot of appealing qualities. It comes loaded with the features today’s drivers protoritize the most. Subaru’s latest Starlink infotainment system is effortless to use and easily pairs to your smartphone. You don’t even have to pay extra for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

The base Subaru Impreza 2.0i is just as safe as the other trims. You'll also receive the same four-cylinder Boxer four-cylinder engine. While some drivers will enjoy the manual transmission, getting the automatic CVT rewards you with Subaru’s highly recommended EyeSight driver-assist system. Its accident-avoidance technologies will come in handy when you least expect it. Most importantly, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a standard feature.

If you have an additional $3,400 to spend, consider stepping up to the Limited trim. Alloy wheels boost its appearance. If you live an area that experiences harsh winters, you’ll be thankful for the Limited trim’s Cold Weather Package. The heated front seats and windshield wiper de-icer will make a big difference. Instead of using up your mobile phone’s data, take advantage of the Impreza Premium’s Wi-fi hotspot.

Folks who desire a more exciting drive shouldn’t hesitate to choose the Impreza Sport. The 5-Door version will only cost you an additional $800. For 2020, only the Impreza 5-Door Sport offers a traditional manual gearbox. Nevertheless, both the hatchback and the sedan feature a performance suspension and Active Torque Vectoring. Drivers will also enjoy the “Sport” mode. Although blind-spot monitoring and the amplified sound system demand more money, these features will enhance your overall driving experience.

With a starting sticker price of roughly $27,000, the range-topping Impreza Limited proves to be a good alternative to a genuine luxury sedan. It provides a few features not offered on the other trims, including LED Steering Responsive Headlights and leather upholstery. You can also benefit from the reverse automatic braking system.