2023 Subaru Impreza Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons.

Available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, the 2023 Subaru Impreza remains a top-rated compact car. Although the Impreza may not deliver the segment’s most adrenaline-stirring performance, it still delivers a quite satisfying driving experience. When it comes to tackling bad weather, Subaru’s standard Symmetrical AWD system gives the Impreza a clear advantage over the competition.

There are some other great attributes that help the Impreza stand out. Many people applaud this car for affordability and easy-to-use features. When searching for a new Impreza, there will be four main trim grades to decide on. Here’s a rundown of how these trims compare to each other.

Compare the Base vs Premium Trim Levels. What is the difference?

The base Impreza Sport proves to be a strong value. It’s highly recommended for car shoppers who’re looking for an economical daily-driver. Like every other Impreza trim, it’s motivated by a 152-horsepower engine. While the car’s five-speed manual transmission is less expensive, many drivers will want the optional automatic continuous variable transmission.

One of the base Impreza’s biggest highlights is its full-time AWD system. Virtually all the key competitors come with a standard front-wheel-drive setup. This is a key reason why the Impreza has become a favorite among commuters living in snow-prone regions.

Luckily, all-wheel drive doesn’t drastically hinder the car’s fuel economy.
When equipped with a manual gearbox, the base Impreza has a government-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg town/31 mpg freeway. Efficiency dramatically jumps to 28 mpg town/36 mpg freeway with the automatic transmission. Subaru recommends the use of regular unleaded gas.

Of the available Impreza trims, the base model is the most likely to become lost in the crowd. It has a rather plain appearance. Cheaper wheel covers and halogen headlights help reduce the car’s price tag. On the bright side, Subaru does equip the base Impreza with power side mirrors. There are six available exterior colors, including Crimson Red Pearl and Ocean Blue Pearl.

On the inside, the base model features comfortable cloth upholstery as opposed to a more luxurious material. Drivers will also need to manually adjust their seat. However, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel does make it easier for people to obtain a good drivibg position.

Most drivers will have no issues with the base Impreza’s Starlink multimedia system. This easy-to-use interface features a 6.5-inch touch display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone linking. Other parts of the infotainment unit include a four-speaker stereo, a single USB-A port, and an auxiliary input jack. Bluetooth, audio, and cruise control settings can all be adjusted using steering wheel-mounted controls.

Buyers don’t have to pay extra for keyless entry with push-button start. The system makes locking/unlocking the doors and starting the engine easier. A multi-function display is also found on the base Impreza.

Like virtually every new vehicle, the Impreza has a backup camera. Four-wheel anti-lock braking helps ensure good stopping power. Traction control is standard as well.

Buyers who desire Subaru’s excellent EyeSight safety package must opt for the car’s automatic transmission. It adds multiple driver-assist technologies. Designed to help motorists to overcome driving distractions, Lead Vehicle Start Alert notifies drivers when the next vehicle ahead begins to pull away. This feature is a great convenience in city traffic.

Adaptive cruise control replaces the standard electronic cruise control system, thus making highway commutes less stressful. Lane-keeping technology, pedestrian detection, and pre-collision braking are also included in the EyeSight package.

The base model’s sedan and hatchback body styles have a virtually identical list of equipment. However, only the hatchback features a rear wiper/washer system and rear cargo hooks.

Another notch up the trim ladder is the nicer Impreza Premium. While this trim is equipped with the same engine, paddle shifters enable drivers to experience more fun. They make the car’s gearless continuous variable transmission feel more like a traditional automatic transmission.

To boost the car’s fun factor, Subaru equips it with a special SI-Drive system. This system enables drivers to custom-tailor performance. While the Sport setting optimizes throttle response for quicker acceleration, switching to the Intelligent mode promotes peak fuel efficiency.

Subaru also tuned the Premium trim to offer tighter handling. An upgraded suspension with performance shocks and a rear stabilizer bar help reduce body roll on curvy roads.

Appearance upgrades give the Premium trim more style. Its 16-inch machine-finished wheels are definitely more eye-catching. Body-colored side mirrors further improve the car’s curb appeal. Cold-weather features, such as a windshield wiper de-icers and heated mirrors, prepare you to face wintry conditions. Fog lights help improve visibility on murky nights.

The inside of the Premium trim is a touch more luxurious. While a sound-reducing windshield helps minimize wind noise, heated front seats help passengers to stay cozy when the thermometer begins to dip towards freezing. Automatic climate control is another great convenience.

With the Impreza Premium comes an enhanced Starlink multimedia system. Although the screen remains the same size, Subaru adds an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot and dual front USB ports. A six-speaker stereo with HD Radio and satellite radio heightens your music-listening experience.

Some worthwhile upgrades come with the Premium trim’s optional Convenience package. The available power sunroof is especially popular. However, Subaru’s blind-spot monitor noticably improves the car’s safety profile. Aside from being able to sense oncoming vehicles in the next lane, this system can also scan for rear traffic when backing up. A keyless access system and a six-way power driver’s seat are included as well.

Keep in mind that the sedan and hatchback versions of the Premium trim have some slight differences. When taking out-of-town trips, drivers can use the hatchback’s roof rails to strap down additional cargo.

Compare the Premium vs Sport Trims. What is the difference?

The Sport trim is geared towards driving enthusiasts who crave a bit more excitement. To give the car enhanced stability, Subaru equips it with Active Torque Vectoring. This system diverts additional power to the outside front wheel when cornering, thus promoting sharper handling and more grip. Sports-tuned shocks further aid this trim’s ability to perform well on curvy roads.

Fortunately, the car’s sportier driving dynamics does noticeably diminish comfort. Most drivers are pleased with the smoothness of its ride.

Subaru also gives the Impreza Sport a spicier look. While larger 18-inch alloy wheels bring a meaner stance, body-color rocker spoilers enhance the car’s overall sleekness. A trunk spoiler further elevates the Impreza Sport’s styling.

The Impreza Sport’s interior also has a racier cockpit. Aluminum pedals and sport cloth upholstery help create a more stimulating atmosphere for driving enthusiasts. Simulated carbon-fiber trim and red accent stitching further set apart the Sport trim. Other cool touches include a leather-covered shift knob and steering wheel.

Upon moving up to the Sport trim, buyers will receive a bigger 8.0-inch infotainment screen with voice-command technology. A keyless access system also come standard, which enables drivers to unlock the car by entering a pin code.

Like the Premium trim, the Sport trim offers a tempting Convenience package. It includes the same features plus a 432-watt premium audio system. This eight-speaker unit’s clean and powerful sound will delight music listeners.

It’s important to note the differences between the Impreza Sport sedan and the Impreza Sport hatchback. When equipped with a manual transmission, the hatchback receives a high-performance STI shifter. This is a major upgrade for drivers who have a passion for manually changing gears. A rear roof spoiler is also found on the Impreza Sport hatchback.

When checking out the five-door Impreza Sport’s estimated fuel economy, car shoppers will notice that it’s a bit less efficient when fitted with a manual transmission. The EPA lists it with a rating of 22 mpg town/30 mpg freeway.

Compare the Sport vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

The Limited trim, which is only offered as a hatchback, isn’t as racy as the Sport trim. It lacks sports-tuned shocks and Active Torque Vectoring. However, no other trim is as luxurious. Exclusive 17-inch wheels give the Limited trim a special touch.

The leather-lined Impreza Limited comes standard with all the available creature comforts, including a power driver’s seat and automatic temperature control. Meanwhile, an upgraded 4.2-inch driver information screen is integrated into the gauge cluster. In the rear, there’s a folding armrest with cupholders.

Blind-spot monitoring becomes a standard feature. Subaru also improves safety at night by equipping the Limited trim with LED Steering Responsive Headlights. These headlights automatically pivot to provide enhanced visibility around corners. Another welcome feature is the reverse automatic braking system.

To obtain navigation and a 432-watt premium sound system, buyers must purchase an optional Technology package. A power sunroof is also included in the deal.

Final Thoughts

Because the new 2023 Subaru Impreza is so affordably priced, it’s hard to go wrong with either trim. Nevertheless, drivers who are on a strict budget will especially like the base Impreza sedan’s value. Prices start at less than $20,000.

Some of the standard conveniences include a smartphone-friendly touchscreen interface, a reversing camera, and remote keyless entry. Of course, no other car in this price class comes standard with a full-time AWD system. Not only does the optional automatic transmission boost the car’s gas mileage, but it also brings Subaru’s EyeSight safety package.

The Premium trim will cause buyers to fork over more money. However, it’s cold-weather upgrades and nicer alloy wheels will appeal to many people. For roughly $2,000 more, a Convenience package can be added. This package’s highlights include a power sunroof, a blind-spot sensing, and a powered driver’s seat.

Folks who want to experience sharper handing should go for the Impreza Sport. Along with its performance upgrades comes a sleeker look. While an upgraded touchscreen interface comes standard, a high-performance audio system is included in the Sport trim’s optional Convenience package.

With a starting price of more than $27,000, the more luxurious Impreza Limited is the lineup’s most costly trim. Its leather-appointed interior is loaded with the lineup’s most sought-after creature comforts. Drivers will especially appreciate the added security of having adaptive LED headlights and reverse automatic braking. Remember, Subaru does not offer the Limited trim as a sedan.

Previous Year Trim Configurations:

• 2022 Subaru Impreza Trim Levels