2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback: A Comprehensive Review

Hey everyone, and welcome back to the blog! Today, we're diving deep into a car that’s been a solid choice for many drivers looking for a blend of practicality, performance, and value: the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback. If you're in the market for a compact car that doesn't shy away from a bit of adventure, stick around, because we're going to break down everything you need to know about this versatile ride. We’ll cover its features, how it drives, what makes it stand out, and who it's best suited for. So, grab a coffee, get comfy, and let's get started on this in-depth look at the 2017 Impreza Sport Hatchback!

Performance and Handling: Is it Fun to Drive?

Let’s talk about the heart of the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback: its performance. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a respectable 152 horsepower. Now, while that might not sound like a race car on paper, it's important to remember what Subaru is known for: symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD). This is standard on every 2017 Impreza, which is a huge selling point, especially if you live in an area with unpredictable weather or just appreciate the added grip and stability. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or Subaru's Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). The manual offers a more engaging driving experience for those who love to be in control, with crisp shifts and a decent clutch feel. The CVT, on the other hand, prioritizes fuel efficiency and smooth acceleration. For the Sport trim, Subaru did a bit of tuning to make the suspension feel a little more responsive. You’ll notice a slightly firmer ride compared to lower trims, which translates to better handling when you’re taking corners. It’s not going to be an aggressive sports car, but for daily driving, commuting, and even some spirited weekend drives, the Impreza Sport Hatchback handles itself quite admirably. The steering is direct and provides good feedback, letting you feel connected to the road. The AWD system really shines here, giving you confidence in slippery conditions and making the car feel planted and secure. Braking is also solid, providing reliable stopping power when you need it. Overall, the performance of the 2017 Impreza Sport Hatchback is a well-balanced package. It’s not about raw power, but about accessible, confident, and all-weather capability, making it a practical and enjoyable car for a wide range of drivers.

Interior and Comfort: Is it Practical for Daily Use?

When you step inside the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback, you’re greeted with an interior that’s designed with practicality and everyday use in mind. Subaru has always focused on creating functional and durable cabins, and the 2017 Impreza is no exception. The Sport trim adds some nice touches that elevate the feel of the interior. You’ll typically find sport cloth seats with unique stitching, which not only look good but also provide good support during longer drives. The layout of the dashboard is straightforward and user-friendly. All the controls are within easy reach, and the materials used, while not exactly luxurious, are solid and feel built to last. In terms of space, the hatchback body style really shines. The rear cargo area offers a generous amount of room, especially when you fold down the rear seats. This makes the Impreza Sport Hatchback incredibly versatile for hauling groceries, luggage, sports equipment, or whatever else life throws your way. For passengers, there’s ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for four adults on a road trip, though five can fit in a pinch. The visibility from the driver's seat is also excellent, thanks to the large windows and relatively slim pillars. This makes maneuvering in tight spaces and parking a breeze. Standard features on the Sport trim usually include things like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which is a huge plus for staying connected and entertained. You'll also often find automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a host of other convenient features. The ride quality is generally comfortable, absorbing most road imperfections well, though the slightly firmer suspension on the Sport trim means you might feel sharper bumps a bit more than in some competitors. However, for its class, the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback delivers a comfortable, quiet, and exceptionally practical interior that makes it a joy to live with on a daily basis. It’s a cabin that’s built for real life, offering a great blend of technology, comfort, and cargo capacity.

Technology and Safety: What Features Does it Offer?

Let's dive into the tech and safety features that make the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback a smart choice. In 2017, Subaru really stepped up its game with technology, and this Impreza came equipped with some impressive offerings for its class. Standard on the Sport trim is a 6.5-inch Subaru STARLINK touchscreen infotainment system. What's really cool is that this system supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This means you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone, accessing your favorite apps, music, navigation, and making calls directly through the car’s screen. It’s incredibly convenient and keeps you connected without being distracted. Beyond the infotainment, you’ll find other tech conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, a USB port for charging devices, and a rearview camera as standard, which is invaluable for parking and reversing. For those who love music, the audio system is decent, providing clear sound for your daily commute or road trips. Now, let's talk about safety – this is where Subaru truly excels, and the 2017 Impreza is a prime example. As mentioned, all-wheel drive is standard, which is a significant safety advantage, especially in adverse weather conditions. Beyond that, the Impreza Sport Hatchback earned excellent safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, thanks to its robust construction and available safety technologies. A standout safety feature for the 2017 model year is the availability of Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This advanced package includes features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, and lane departure and sway warning. While not standard on all Sport trims, it was a highly recommended option that provides an extra layer of protection and peace of mind. Other available safety features might include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The overall structural integrity of the Impreza is a testament to Subaru's commitment to safety. The combination of a solid chassis, standard AWD, and available cutting-edge driver assistance systems makes the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback a vehicle that prioritizes the well-being of its occupants. It’s a car that not only gets you where you need to go but does so with a strong emphasis on safety and modern technology.

Fuel Efficiency: Is it Easy on the Wallet?

Let’s talk about a big factor for many car buyers: fuel efficiency. The 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback, especially when equipped with the CVT transmission, offers a pretty respectable gas mileage for a car that comes standard with all-wheel drive. We all know that AWD systems can sometimes eat into fuel economy, but Subaru has done a commendable job balancing performance and efficiency here. For models with the CVT, you can expect EPA estimates around 28 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. Those are solid numbers, guys, especially for an AWD vehicle. If you opt for the five-speed manual transmission, the numbers are slightly lower, typically around 25 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. While the manual offers a more engaging drive, the CVT is definitely the way to go if maximizing your miles per gallon is your top priority. These figures mean that for your daily commute, running errands, or even longer road trips, the Impreza Sport Hatchback won't be a constant drain on your wallet. It’s efficient enough to compete with many front-wheel-drive competitors, which is a significant achievement given that AWD is standard. This makes it a very practical choice for budget-conscious drivers who still want the added security and capability that all-wheel drive provides. So, when considering the overall cost of ownership, the good fuel economy of the 2017 Impreza Sport Hatchback is definitely a major plus. It’s a car that’s designed to be both fun to drive and economical to run, making it a smart all-around package. Keep in mind that real-world mileage can vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and maintenance, but these EPA estimates give you a very good idea of what to expect. For a car that offers standard AWD, a comfortable ride, and a practical hatchback design, the fuel economy is definitely a strong point for the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback.

Why Choose the 2017 Impreza Sport Hatchback?

So, why should the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback be on your radar? Let’s wrap things up and highlight the key reasons this car stands out. First and foremost, standard all-wheel drive is a massive differentiator. In a segment where AWD is often an expensive option or not available at all, Subaru includes it on every Impreza. This means superior traction and stability in rain, snow, or even just on gravel roads, giving you confidence no matter the conditions. This alone makes it a compelling choice for many drivers, especially those in less temperate climates. Secondly, the hatchback body style offers incredible versatility. It provides significantly more cargo space than a traditional sedan, making it perfect for active lifestyles, hauling gear, or just handling those big shopping trips with ease. The ability to fold down the rear seats opens up a cavernous space for larger items. Thirdly, Subaru has a strong reputation for safety and reliability. The 2017 Impreza earned excellent safety ratings, and the available EyeSight technology adds an extra layer of advanced protection. Plus, Subarus are generally known for holding their value well and lasting for a long time with proper maintenance. The Sport trim specifically adds a touch of style and sportier suspension tuning, enhancing the driving dynamics without sacrificing too much comfort. Combined with the modern tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, this trim offers a great balance of fun, functionality, and connectivity. Lastly, let’s not forget the value proposition. The 2017 Impreza Sport Hatchback often comes in at a competitive price point, especially when you consider the standard AWD and the comprehensive feature set. It offers a lot of car for the money, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers who don’t want to compromise on capability or safety. If you’re looking for a practical, safe, and capable compact car that can handle almost anything you throw at it, the 2017 Subaru Impreza Sport Hatchback is definitely worth a serious look. It’s a well-rounded vehicle that provides peace of mind and versatility in one practical package.