The Impreza RS Is Subaru’s Hot Hatch

Unfortunately, a very versatile vehicle type has been disappearing from the United States, but Subaru isn’t about to let it go. A hot hatch is a tidy package filled with many good things. It will efficiently perform all the practical things you need for a daily driver, such as seating five comfortably, providing helpful cargo space, and running efficiently. At the same time, it can be a blast to drive with agile handling and fortuitous power-to-weight ratios. Subaru, of course, adds the optimized traction of all-wheel drive, giving you confidence when the roads get slippery. This is why Twin Falls Subaru gladly welcomes the return of the Impreza RS.

Bigger Engine

As with all 2024 Imprezas, the RS is a hatchback. The 2.0-liter engine found in the Base and Sport is replaced with the 2.5-liter boxer-4 found in the Outback and tuned to produce 182 @ 5,800 rpm and 178 lb-ft of torque @ 3,700 rpm. The extra power easily gives the small, lightweight, compact RS enough scoot to bring a smile to your face. To be specific, it gets to 60 in about 7.6 seconds.  The all-wheel drive immediately directs the power to the road. You get instant and linear throttle response from the naturally aspirated engine, and the Continuously Variable Transmission includes paddle shifters to enable you to run up and down eight preset ratios efficiently.

Sport Tuned Suspension

Of course, it isn’t just about acceleration. A hot hatch is expected to be nimble and sure-footed in the curves. To that end, the RS is gifted with the dual-pinion electronic power steering rack from the WRX, resulting in quicker response and a more direct and natural feel. The 10% increase in torsional rigidity of all 2024 Impreza models keeps the car tight over bumps and enables the suspension to be more precisely tuned. On the Base and Sport Imprezas models, the increased rigidity is manifested in a smoother ride and quieter cabin. For the RS, it also brings about a more dynamic performance, particularly when encountering bumps on a curve. The standard Active Torque Vectoring built into the all-wheel drive system also becomes more apparent the harder you drive the RS, as it helps rotate the car in each curve and corner.

Looking the Part

The RS may have a practical shape but still visually communicates its capability. The exterior features a blacked-out treatment on the grille flanked by upgraded LED headlights and LED fog lights, with the black-out treatment continuing to the rear spoiler and side mirrors. The car rides on striking, light gray 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, gunmetal gray and simulated carbon fiber trim adorn the dash, which is anchored by the large 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK touchscreen. The front seats are wrapped in black cloth with bold red cloth bolsters. Other interior upgrades include the leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter, and aluminum alloy pedals. As the flagship of the Impreza model line, the RS is available with a 10-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system, power moonroof, and 10-way power front driver seat with lumbar support. 

Both intentionally fun and sporty, as it is inherently practical and safe, The RS is also well-equipped at its starting MSRP of under $30K. Visit Twin Falls Subaru and see how much the Impreza RS hot hatch delivers on what you need and want in a car.