For over five decades, Subaru vehicles have captivated adventurous Kiwis with their synchronous all-wheel-drive system and rugged spirit. Recently, the brand introduced two new additions to their line-up, the 6th generation Impreza and the long-awaited all-electric Solterra, we were imprezed with both.
Impreza – Since its debut in 1992, the Subaru Impreza has been a force to reckon with, both on and off the road. The latest iteration takes this legacy (pardon the pun) to new heights, boasting higher specifications and embracing the brand’s pillars of safety, reliability, versatility, and driving pleasure.
Sporting a sleek and dynamic design, the new Impreza promises a quintessential Subaru driving experience. Equipped with an all-wheel-drive system and a horizontally-opposed boxer 2L engine (115kW@6000rpm/ 196Nm@4000rpm). Combined fuel consumption is claimed to be 7.5L/100km, with CO2 emissions sitting around 170g/km.
The LinearTronic gearbox offers improved acceleration, while enhancements in cornering, steering, and handling elevate the driving dynamics, courtesy of insights from Subaru’s WRX engineering team. Moreover, the refined global platform enhances torsional rigidity by 10 percent, resulting in a smoother ride and increased stability.
Even Subaru concedes that the previous generation lacked some of the brand’s expected premium offerings, but rest assured this is not the case this time around. Inside, the new Impreza showcases a redesigned cabin with elevated seating comfort and support for all occupants. In fact, collaborating with medical experts, Subaru identified factors affecting ride comfort, and revamped the front seats to be more supportive, with the seat rails now mounted directly to the chassis, thus reducing the swaying motion of the seat and you.
Infotainment technologies include an 11.6-inch HD touchscreen, wireless smartphone charging, and a 360-degree panoramic camera, while added to its safety portfolio, the Impreza now has ‘stereo’ cameras (so double the vision), lane centre assistance, speed sign recognition and a new monocular camera has been integrated to further improve pedestrian and cyclist protection.
Solterra – Positioned between the Forester and Outback in terms of size, the Solterra is Subaru’s first all-electric SUV. Built on the e-Subaru Global Platform (in conjunction with Toyota) and powered by two 80kW/168.5Nm electric motors, it stays true to Subaru’s DNA with symmetrical all-wheel drive and a low centre of gravity, embodying both durability and adventure.
Although quiet and refined on paved roads, the Solterra also shines when the asphalt ends. With class-leading ground clearance, X-mode adjustable grip levels, and ample torque, it tackles rough terrain with ease, and we’re not just talking ‘soft road’ here. On top of this, the all-electric SUV’s 71.4kWh battery, combined with regenerative braking and ‘one-pedal’ driving, offers an impressive range of up to 485km (NEDC), taking you to those out of the way places, and will DC fast charge up to 150kw.
Available in AWD and AWD Touring models, the Solterra boasts a range of features, with the Top of the line Touring offering additional luxuries such as 20-inch alloys, a panoramic glass roof and synthetic leather seats. However, both models come equipped with a vast suite of advanced driver assist technologies, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
NZ new Subaru Solterra Recommended Retail Price (List) is $79,990. Solterra Touring (List) is $84,990. And the new Subaru Impreza comes with a (List) $44,990+ORC price tag.
