The Subaru Impreza IV Hatchback 1.6i, produced between 2011 and 2015, represented an entry point into the fourth generation of Subaru’s popular compact car. Positioned as a more economical and accessible option within the Impreza range, it offered Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive system combined with a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter boxer engine. This variant primarily targeted buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and all-weather capable hatchback, particularly in markets where fuel efficiency and affordability were key considerations. It sat below the more powerful 2.0-liter variants in the Impreza lineup.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza IV Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (114 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.3 l/100 km (44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4000 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | FB16 |
| Engine displacement | 1600 cm3 (97.64 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 78.8 mm (3.1 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.1 l (8.56 US qt | 7.13 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1315 kg (2899.08 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1270 l (44.85 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4415 mm (173.82 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2645 mm (104.13 in.) |
| Front track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Rear track | 1515 mm (59.65 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza 1.6i is the FB16 1.6-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine, part of Subaru’s FB series, was designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce internal friction compared to its predecessors. It features a chain-driven dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The FB16 utilizes multi-point fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed pistons, inherently provides a lower center of gravity, contributing to improved handling characteristics. The engine produces 114 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm. This power is then sent to all four wheels via a five-speed manual transmission, Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system being a standard feature. The AWD system employs a viscous coupling center differential, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6i Impreza offers a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. The 114 hp engine provides adequate power for everyday driving situations, but acceleration is modest. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.7 seconds reflects this. The five-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, offering smooth shifts. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza variants, the 1.6i feels noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. However, the all-wheel drive system provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a confident handler in rain or snow. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel economy rather than outright performance, meaning the engine needs to be revved to extract maximum power.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Impreza 1.6i typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system with CD player and auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, often denoted by additional packages, could add features like a sunroof, upgraded audio system, automatic climate control, and keyless entry. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza IV Hatchback utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, resulting in a slightly softer ride compared to the more performance-oriented WRX and STI models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza 1.6i was generally well-received as a practical and affordable all-wheel drive hatchback. Critics praised its fuel efficiency, reliability, and standard all-wheel drive system. However, some reviewers noted its lack of outright performance compared to the 2.0-liter models. Fuel economy figures of around 37.9 US mpg combined were competitive for its class. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza, the 1.6i offered a lower purchase price and slightly better fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 1.6i appealed to buyers who prioritized practicality and all-weather capability over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The FB16 engine, while not known for being a powerhouse, proved to be a reliable and durable unit. Properly maintained examples of the Impreza 1.6i continue to be relatively common on the used car market. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system remains a key selling point, particularly in regions with inclement weather. While not a collector’s item, the Impreza 1.6i represents a solid and dependable choice for buyers seeking an affordable and practical hatchback with the added security of all-wheel drive. Common issues reported with these vehicles are generally related to routine maintenance items, such as oil leaks and worn suspension components, rather than major mechanical failures.
