CR’s 6 Most Reliable New Hatchbacks, Here’s Subaru’s New ‘Impresser’

The Impreza gets a new name.

I've renamed the 2024 Subaru Impreza. It's now the new "Impresser" just for fun. It's impressive. An updated Consumer Reports (CR) study (by subscription) says the remodeled Subaru Impreza is one of the six compact models that are the most reliable new sedans you can buy.  

Did you catch that? CR says the new Impreza is a great new, reliable sedan. 

The only problem with the Consumer Reports information is that the models on its updated report are not sedans; they are compact hatchbacks. You'd think that Consumer Reports would know the difference. Sedans are on their way out, and hatchbacks are in because of their utility and usability. 

Subaru dropped the Impreza sedan for the 2024 model year, and it is now only available in hatchback body styles. It was a good move by Subaru. 

Consumer Reports says, "These vehicles performed well in CR's tests and won't leave you stranded." 

Good. So now I have come up with my own report on the best and most reliable new hatchbacks. I've pulled from the CR sedan list and compiled the six best hatchbacks in order of their Overall CR Score, which is a combination of factors.

Consumer Reports says, "These (sedans) are all recommended by CR. That means they scored well in our road tests, which comprise more than 50 objective and subjective evaluations. On top of that, they have above- or well-above-average reliability." 

Consumer Reports most reliable new hatchbacks you can buy. I've listed them in order of CR's ranking. 

• Kia Niro Plug-In Hybrid
• Toyota Prius
• Kia Niro
• Toyota Prius Prime
• Subaru Impreza
• Toyota Corolla Hatchback

What does CR say about the 2024 Subaru Impreza?

• Price Range:  $22,995 - $27,885
• CR MPG:  Overall 29 / City 19 / Highway 42 mpg
• #7 of 18  Compact cars

"With its 2024 redesign, Subaru didn't make the Impreza radically different from the previous version. Now only available as a hatchback, the Impreza gets a rather weak 152-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder that just barely gets the job done. Fuel economy is a decent 29 mpg overall, which is commendable for a vehicle with full-time AWD. The new RS has a livelier 182-hp, 2.5-liter engine." 

"Both engines are matched to a continuously variable transmission that simulates shifts for a more natural feel. The ride is comfortable and composed, handling is capable and secure, and the cabin isn't too loud, barring some rather flagrant engine noise. The interior is a no-frills affair, and the new infotainment system is user-friendly. BSW and RCTW are optional but not available on the base trim."

Can you get a good deal on the Impreza?

Another update from Consumer Reports says the Impreza is among ten new models with the lowest transaction prices, selling below the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP). Check out my report here.

Consumer Reports says, "The cheapest cars in America can be found by looking at transaction prices—what people are actually paying—rather than looking at just the window stickers."

CR says the best deals can be found on the 2024 Subaru Impreza Sport trim level.

• The average transaction price: $24,639
• The average spent under MSRP: $356
• MSRP: $24,995

CR says, "Over the last several years, we've seen the demise of many small-car choices. Chevrolet canceled the Cruze; Dodge dashed the Dart; Ford flamed out the Focus; and Volkswagen shanked the Golf. So, we celebrated the arrival of the redesigned Impreza and gave it a thumbs-up for being such a nice-driving car that's light on the wallet. However, the base engine needs a serious infusion of horsepower since it can barely get out of its own way."

What is the MSRP of the 2024 Impreza?

The 2024 Subaru Impreza Base hatchback starts at $24,115, the Sport hatch starts at $26,510, and the all-new RS hatch with the 2.5-liter Boxer engine starts at $29,005. Pricing includes destination and delivery fees ($1,120). 

What sets the Impreza apart from the other models?

The Impreza comes standard with the Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which means it's all-weather capable, and you won't get stuck in the snow, mud, dirt, or sand. 

The Impreza gets the highest safety score from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and earned the Top Safety Pick award. All 2024 Impreza trims come standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist safety technology and will keep you safer than other small cars in the event of a crash.

What is the 2024 Impreza fuel mileage?

The Impreza is not just reliable and affordable but also fuel-efficient. The 2024 Impreza RS, with the new 2.5-liter engine, boasts an impressive 26/33 city/highway mpg and 29 combined mpg, as per the EPA. The 2024 Impreza with the 2.0-liter engine's EPA-estimated fuel economy is 27/34 city/highway mpg and 30 combined mpg.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza is not just reliable and fuel-efficient, it's also affordable. With all these qualities and the standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, it's a smart choice for any buyer. Let's change its name to the "Impresser" and make it more appealing. 

What do you say? 

Are you interested in a new compact hatch? We value your opinion. Click the red 'Add new comment' link below and let us know your thoughts about the 2024 Subaru Impreza.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Tucson Subaru