Home > News & Blogs > 2017 Subaru Impreza Car Seat Safety Review
2017 Subaru Impreza Car Seat Safety Review
Subaru Impreza: The Family-Friendly Compact Car That Stands Out
In the competitive compact car segment, the Subaru Impreza distinguishes itself with a winning combination of standard all-wheel drive, exceptional safety features, and family-friendly practicality. While many vehicles in this category sacrifice functionality for style, the Impreza delivers where it matters most for parents - offering ample space for car seats, top-tier safety technology, and the confidence of Subaru's renowned symmetrical AWD system.
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Why Parents Choose the Impreza
The Subaru Impreza isn't just another compact car—it's a thoughtfully designed vehicle that addresses real-world family needs. From its carefully positioned LATCH anchors to its generous rear seat dimensions, every aspect of the Impreza's design considers the challenges parents face when transporting children.
Unmatched Safety Features for Family Protection
Subaru has built its reputation on safety, and the Impreza continues this tradition with an impressive array of standard and available protective features:
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
- EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Standard on most trims, this system includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: Essential for busy parking lots when backing up with children
- Advanced Airbag System: Includes side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers
- Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame: Provides enhanced protection in collisions
- Reverse Automatic Braking: Helps prevent low-speed backing accidents
These features combine to give the Impreza top safety ratings from both the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), making it one of the safest choices in its class for families.
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Car Seat Compatibility: A Parent's Detailed Guide
One of the Impreza's strongest advantages is its exceptional car seat accommodation. We've evaluated the vehicle using our comprehensive grading system that assesses multiple factors important to parents:
| Grade | Evaluation Criteria |
|---|---|
| A | Ample space for car seat and child without compromising front passenger comfort. Easy LATCH and tether anchor access. No interference from head restraints or seat contours. Effortless third-row access when available. |
| B | Generous space with minor connection challenges. Slight difficulty accessing third row when present. |
| C | Marginal space with two fit or connection issues. Challenging third-row access when available. |
| D | Inadequate space with multiple fit or connection problems. |
| F | Unsafe installation or complete incompatibility. |
Impreza's Car Seat Performance
The Subaru Impreza consistently earns top marks in our car seat compatibility assessments. The rear seats offer:
--FIRST CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
- Clearly marked LATCH anchors positioned for easy access
- Generous 33.4 inches of rear legroom (sedan) for front seat adjustment
- Flat seat contours that accommodate most car seat bases securely
- Ample headroom that prevents interference with convertible seats
In real-world testing, the Impreza comfortably accommodated two rear-facing infant seats while still allowing adequate front seat legroom—a rare achievement in the compact class.
--THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
Interior Space and Practical Family Features
Beyond car seat compatibility, the Impreza offers thoughtful interior design elements that make family life easier:
Cabin Dimensions That Work
The Impreza's 100.9 cubic feet of passenger volume (sedan) rivals many midsize cars. Clever packaging provides:
- Wide rear door openings for easier child seat placement
- Rear seats that recline for child comfort on longer trips
- Thoughtful storage pockets for toys, snacks, and essentials
- Available heated rear seats for cold-weather comfort
Cargo Solutions for Family Gear
Whether you choose the sedan or hatchback, the Impreza delivers practical cargo solutions:
- Sedan: 12.3 cubic feet trunk with wide opening
- 5-Door: 20.8 cubic feet behind rear seats, expanding to 55.3 cubic feet
- Standard roof rails for additional storage options
- Available integrated crossbars for roof-mounted carriers
--SECOND CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
All-Wheel Drive Advantage in All Conditions
Subaru's symmetrical AWD system comes standard on every Impreza, providing confidence-inspiring traction that parents appreciate:
- Continuous power distribution to all four wheels
- Automatic response to changing road conditions
- Enhanced stability during emergency maneuvers
- Superior performance in rain, snow, and uneven terrain
This system operates seamlessly without driver input, making it ideal for parents who need to focus on the road and their children rather than adjusting vehicle settings.
--FORTH CAR LIST HERE--
Trim Level Comparison for Family Needs
The Impreza offers four well-equipped trim levels, each with family-friendly features:
Base Model (Standard Equipment)
- Advanced safety features including EyeSight on automatic transmission models
- High-strength steel body structure
- Rearview camera
- Automatic climate control
Premium (Adds)
- Alloy wheels
- 10-way power driver's seat
- Heated front seats
- Available heated rear seats
- --THIRD CONTENT ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Sport (Adds)
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Unique interior accents
- Upgraded infotainment
Limited (Top Features)
- LED steering responsive headlights
- Leather-trimmed upholstery
- 8-inch touchscreen
- Power moonroof
- --FIFTH CAR LIST HERE--
Why the Impreza Outperforms Competitors
When compared to other compact cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, or Mazda3, the Impreza stands apart in several key areas important to families:
Standard AWD Advantage
While competitors offer AWD as an expensive option (or not at all), Subaru includes it standard—a significant value for safety-conscious parents.
Superior Rear Seat Space
The Impreza offers more rear legroom and headroom than many rivals, making it more comfortable for children and easier to install car seats.
Better Visibility
With thinner roof pillars and larger windows, the Impreza provides superior outward visibility compared to competitors with more stylized designs.
--BOTTOM ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
Long-Term Value and Reliability
Subaru's reputation for durability makes the Impreza a smart long-term investment for growing families:
- Consistent top rankings in dependability studies
- Strong resale value compared to segment averages
- Available extended warranty options
- Proven powertrain design with minimal issues
The Impreza's 2.0-liter Boxer engine is known for its smooth operation and longevity, while the continuously variable transmission (CVT) has been refined over multiple generations for reliability.
Making the Right Choice for Your Family
When considering the Subaru Impreza against other compact cars, focus on these key decision factors:
- Safety: Compare crash test ratings and available driver aids
- Space: Measure car seat fit and rear passenger room
- Drivetrain: Consider weather conditions in your area
- Features: Prioritize the technologies that matter most
- Budget: Evaluate total cost of ownership, not just MSRP
- --SIXTH CAR LIST HERE--
The Impreza represents an outstanding value proposition for families who prioritize safety, practicality, and all-weather capability in a compact package. Its thoughtful design touches—from the easy-to-clean upholstery options to the rear door child safety locks—demonstrate Subaru's understanding of family transportation needs.
motorverorachael
Last Updated On Sep, 02-2025