2024 Subaru Impreza RS Oasis Blue

• The RS trim uses a 2.5‑liter Boxer engine, producing 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque, paired with Subaru’s CVT simulating eight gears.

• All-wheel drive remains standard, and the RS adds a sport-tuned suspension, 18‑inch alloy wheels, cloth performance seats, and a sportier exterior.

• Interior upgrades include standard EyeSight safety features, sunroof, 11.6‑inch portrait infotainment screen, wireless charging, and heated cloth seating.

Return of the RS and Engine Upgrades

The RS badge has been revived for the 2024 Impreza. It differs from the base and Sport trims by swapping the 2.0‑liter flat‑four for a 2.5‑liter Boxer engine, delivering 182 hp (136 kW) and 178 lb-ft (241 Nm). Power is sent to all four wheels via Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT, which simulates eight manual shifts in RS trim.

Subaru’s move returns a nod to the past RS nameplate, offering a higher level of power and responsiveness for the compact hatch format.

All-Wheel Drive and Handling Upgrades

Subaru retains its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system as standard across the Impreza range. The RS trim comes with a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes for sharper response and better road contact. 18‑inch alloy wheels in a layered spoke design complete the visual upgrade, giving it a distinct look over lower trims.

This enhances the drive feel while staying within the Impreza’s familiar composure and predictability.

Exterior Styling and Dimensions

The 2024 RS receives a refreshed grille, slimmer headlights, and sharper taillight graphics for a more athletic appearance. Gloss elements and RS badging distinguish it from lower trims. It retains the hatchback silhouette and measures approximately 176.2 in (4475 mm) in length, 70.1 in (1780 mm) in width, and 58.3 in (1482 mm) in height, riding on a 105.1 in (2670 mm) wheelbase.

The vehicle is slightly larger than its predecessor, but cargo space is modest at 20.4 cu ft (576 L) with all seats up and 56 cu ft (1586 L) with the rear folded flat.

Technology, Interior Comfort, and Features

Inside, the RS steps up with unique cloth sport seats with red contrast stitching, aluminum pedal covers, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever. The interior is anchored by an 11.6‑inch vertical infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A wireless phone charger and sunroof are also standard on RS.

Safety features include Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, speed sign recognition, and facial driver monitoring. Some higher trims also use a 360° camera system.

Power and Fuel Economy

With the 2.5‑liter flat-four, the RS accelerates adequately and offers smoother performance compared to the base 2.0‑liter engine. Official EPA fuel economy is approx. 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined, thanks to the CVT setup.

Acceleration feels brisk—0–60 mph in the high 7‑second range—but longer stretches at wide-open throttle reveal the CVT making noise. Ride comfort remains strong as deficiency in pace is substituted by smoothness and predictability.

Market Position and Comparison

Priced around USD 28,975 plus destination, the Impreza RS is nearly $3,000 more than the Sport trim. This puts it close to segment rivals such as the Toyota Corolla Hatchback and Mazda3, though Impreza offers standard AWD.

Its closest competitors in sporty compact hatch include the Mazda3, Civic Sport, and VW Golf. However, very few offer AWD unless at higher trims—Subaru retains a unique advantage in certain climates and conditions.

Safety, Warranty and Practicality

All trims, including RS, come with a full suite of driver assist features and nine airbags. Subaru offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and covers a five-year/unlimited-mile powertrain warranty.

Maintenance packages are available. Impreza remains compact inside—rear bench space is decent but boot capacity is modest relative to compact SUVs.

Technical Specification

• Trim: 2024 Subaru Impreza RS (hatchback only)
• Engine: 2.5‑litre Boxer flat‑four; 182 hp / 178 lb-ft torque
• Transmission: CVT with eight simulated gears; AWD standard
• Fuel Economy (EPA): 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway / 29 mpg combined
• Dimensions: 176.2″ L × 70.1″ W × 58.3″ H; wheelbase 105.1″
• Cargo Volume: 20.4 cu ft / 56.0 cu ft with rear seats down
• Exterior Features: Aggressive grille, RS badges, 18″ Dark wheels
• Interior Features: Cloth sport seats, sunroof, 11.6″ touchscreen, wireless charging
• Safety: EyeSight Driver Assist including AEB, adaptive cruise, lane assist, 360° camera (higher trims)
• Price: ~$28,975 + destination (US MSRP)

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