Introducing the 2013 Impreza

Subaru this week announced the release of the fourth-generation 2013 Subaru Impreza,with fuel economy comparable to 2WD vehicles but with Subaru's renowned symmetrical full-time AWD system, and a choice of two body styles.

Power comes from a 2.0-litre boxer engine and a choice of five-speed manual or second-generation Lineartronic CVT. With the best fuel economy of any AWD car in North America, Impreza is rated at 75. L/100 km city and 5.5 L/100 km highway. (5.5! We're impressed.)

Bluetooth connectivity is now standard on all models (impressed again!), and all will have a MediaHub with Bluetooth streamining audio for quick iPod or USB connection.

The Limited Package now comes with a voice-activated in-dash GPS nav system with back-up camera, part of an audio system that features XM Satellite Radio, XM NavTraffic and Bluetooth connectivity with voice activation.

The five-door model features 638 litres of cargo space, while the sedan gets 340 litres of trunk volume, enough to "easily" (says Subaru) accommodate four golf bags; the four-door also provides an almost flat load floor with standard 60/40-split rear seatbacks in the folded position.

All 2013 models are equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control, four-wheel disc brakes with four-wheel, four-channel, four-sensor ABS with EBD and brake assist. The 2013 Impreza also features a brake override feature that lowers engine output when both the brake and throttle are depressed simultaneously.