The Subaru Impreza IV Hatchback 1.6i Lineartronic, produced between 2011 and 2015, represented an entry point into the fourth generation (GE/GH/GR/GV) of Subaru’s popular compact car. Positioned within the broader Impreza lineup – which also included 2.0-liter naturally aspirated and turbocharged variants – the 1.6i Lineartronic aimed to deliver fuel efficiency and comfortable, if not overtly sporty, driving experience. This model was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions outside of North America, where the Impreza was often offered with different engine options. It utilized Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system, a hallmark of the brand, even in this base trim level, setting it apart from many competitors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza IV Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6i (114 Hp) Lineartronic |
| Start of production | 2011 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.6 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 | 1295 kg (2854.99 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza 1.6i Lineartronic 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 emissions compared to its predecessors. The FB16 utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The Boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed pistons, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling characteristics. Paired with this engine is Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT). This CVT, unlike traditional stepped automatic transmissions, provides a seamless and theoretically infinite number of gear ratios, optimizing engine speed for fuel economy or performance. The Lineartronic transmission in this application is tuned for comfort and efficiency rather than aggressive acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6i Lineartronic Impreza delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience. With 114 horsepower and 110 lb-ft of torque, acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, but it’s not particularly brisk. The 0-60 mph time of around 11.2 seconds reflects this. The CVT transmission contributes to a smooth, linear power delivery, but can sometimes feel somewhat detached, lacking the responsiveness of a traditional automatic or manual gearbox. The Lineartronic transmission offers simulated “shift points” to mimic a conventional automatic, but these are largely for driver feel. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions, a key benefit of the Impreza. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza models, the 1.6i feels noticeably less powerful, especially during overtaking maneuvers or when climbing hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6i Lineartronic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and alloy wheels. Safety features such as ABS brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, and multiple airbags were standard. Higher trim levels, available with the 2.0-liter engines, offered features like automatic climate control, a more advanced infotainment system, and leather upholstery. Optional extras for the 1.6i could include a sunroof, upgraded audio, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza IV Hatchback utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a double wishbone rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The 1.6i model typically featured ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear disc brakes. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride. Stabilizer bars are present at both the front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering, but they are generally smaller in diameter compared to those found on the more performance-oriented Impreza models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza 1.6i Lineartronic was generally well-received as an affordable and fuel-efficient option within the compact hatchback segment. Critics praised its comfortable ride, standard all-wheel drive, and practical interior space. However, the engine’s lack of outright power was a common criticism. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza variants, the 1.6i offered significantly better fuel economy – around 40.6 US mpg combined – but at the expense of performance. It also tended to be more affordable to insure and maintain. Competitors in this segment included the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Toyota Auris, all of which offered similar levels of practicality and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The FB16 engine, while not known for being a powerhouse, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. The Lineartronic CVT transmission, however, can be more prone to issues if not serviced according to Subaru’s recommended intervals. Regular fluid changes are crucial for the longevity of the CVT. On the used car market, the Impreza 1.6i Lineartronic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and all-weather capable hatchback. Its relatively simple mechanicals and readily available parts contribute to its affordability and ease of maintenance. While it may not offer the excitement of the higher-performance Impreza models, it remains a solid and dependable choice for everyday transportation.
