Taming the beast

Subaru likes to surprise us with the latest evolutions of the Impreza, but this one really has blind-sided us.

Far from the ever more extreme power outputs of the various Impreza WRX incarnations, this new 1.5R Sports Wagon features a 1.5-litre version of Subaru's 'flat' four engine.

Pumping out all of 103bhp, the new motor has less than half of the power of a standard WRX, but then it does cost only £12,495.

The new 1.5-litre engine is capable of 35.8mpg combined economy and Subaru says it's 'for those buyers not seeking the performance of the WRX'. No kidding. The 1.5R takes 13.5 seconds to get from 0-60mph.

Naturally, four-wheel drive remains standard, along with a low-ratio transfer box for slippier conditions. Also part of the deal is climate control, CD player, all round electric windows, and four airbags.

The Impreza 1.5R Sports Wagon is on sale from the start of October.

© Source: original article on topgear