2017 Subaru Impreza Hatchback Spied with New Front End

A five-door Subaru Impreza concept will make its way to the Tokyo motor show soon, but now we've caught an actual fifth-gen Impreza hatchback prototype out testing. This is the first time we've seen the model out and about, and we can already see a few changes under the camo.

The next-gen Impreza will be underpinned by the new "Subaru Global Platform" and will receive power from an updated direct injection 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine. We expect the engine to be paired with either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission. The prototype was spied sitting on 17-inch wheels outfitted with 205/50R17 Firestone FT140 tires.

At the front, the only thing we can really see is an updated headlight and grille design. The lights lose some of their bulk for a more streamlined appearance, while the grille looks to have a larger honeycomb design. At the back, the taillights appear to be more squared off, with less of the lights moving to the side of the body. However, the heavy camouflage hides nearly every other aspect of the prototype.

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We expect Subaru to launch both the sedan and hatch versions of the all-new Impreza, with production on both beginning late next year. The Imprezamodel lineup should remain the same with a WRX and WRX STI model continuing to the new model year. However, it's unclear if a hybrid, plug-in, or other model will make it into the lineup.

Photo Source: Chris Doane Automotive

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