Return of the Subaru Impreza

The iconic Subaru Impreza is back on sale in the UK from May 1.

A combination of a more favourable exchange rate and customer demand has led to the decision to make the Impreza available again after a year out in 2013.

Subaru says the latest version, the Impreza RC, been enjoying sales success in both its home market of Japan and in the US since its launch in 2012.

However, choices are limited for British buyers – the RC is only available in all-wheel-drive with a single Boxer 1.6-litre non-turbo petrol engine, but it comes with a choice of two gearboxes – a five-speed manual or six-speed Lineartronic CVT auto.

In manual mode, the Impreza has a 0-60mph time of 12.3 seconds and 114mph top speed, with economy of around 45mpg and CO2 emissions of 147g/km are promised.

The Impreza features a new stop-start system which restarts the engine when you put your foot on the clutch in a lightening quick 0.2 seconds.

The 1.6-litre Impreza RC will be priced from £17,495 (on-the-road) for five-speed manual models and from £18,995 for models fitted with Lineartronic transmission.

Ok, it’s not a WRX or STi, but if you’re looking for a family hatchback, it’s an AWD alternative to a Focus or Astra.

It’s also safe and features goodies including 16-inch alloy wheels, rain-sensor windscreen wipers, heated seats, leather steering wheel, air-conditioning, USB connectivity and a reversing camera. A Pioneer satellite-navigation system is optional.

The original Impreza was launched in 1992 and quickly established itself to become the most famous of Subaru model names.