Japanese automobile manufacturing giant Subaru released the first picture of the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza. This is a calculated move by Subaru to build up excitement for the car’s debut at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. The sales of the new version are expected to begin in the U.S. in August. Subaru had so far been uncertain about the launch dates of a production version of the Impreza Concept unveiled at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show last November.
The angle of view provided displays only a side view of the Impreza which places us in confusion if the car looks anything like Subaru revealed last year in Los Angeles. The confirmation from Subaru that the new Impreza will deliver an estimated 36 MPG places the car at No. 1 spot in fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car on sale in the U.S. This was, in fact, very necessary for Subaru considering competitors like the Ford Focus and the Hyundai Elantra which are setting the standards with highway fuel economy ratings of 40 MPG.
There is assurance for roomier interior and improved levels of comfort and refinement. The interior of the Impreza concept featured a platinum leather-wrapped steering wheel with D-shaped spokes set off by piano-black center sections. It also gets touch panel technology and shows a smooth integration of the instrument panel with the door trim and armrests.
If we believe in the Impreza Concept at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the coupe-like roofline, similar to that of the Volkswagen CC and the Mercedes-Benz CLS, creates a sleek profile while the narrow, angled headlights and large grille project a sporty attitude. Hopefully the 2012 Impreza`s design will tantamount to the Impreza Concept which will place it as the best looking Subaru.
It has been announced that both the sedan and hatchback body style are scheduled to appear at the 2011 NYIAS. Subaru of America executive Vice President Tom Dol has confirmed that the 2012 Impreza will be launched in Japan at the same time as in the U.S. Until the upcoming NYIAS, we have to hold our excitement.