The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that was first introduced by Fuji Heavy Industries in 1993 after the popular Leone/Loyale was cancelled with the aging EA series engine. The Impreza was introduced with the popular EJ series engine found in the larger Subaru Legacy. In Japan, the Impreza sells more than the larger Legacy due to Japanese vehicle size legislation, which offers a reduced tax liability because of its smaller exterior dimensions. Compared to vehicles in a similar size class such as Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Nissan Sentra, Suzuki SX4, Mitsubishi Lancer and Mazda... Protegé/Mazda Axela, only the Impreza has always offered AWD. Subaru Impreza made this feature standard equipment in all trims, while its competitor, Mitsubishi Lancer puts this feature to Ralliart trims and Evolution versions. Subaru produces a lower volume of slightly upscale, well-equipped, sportier Impreza models, unlike other contemporaries in the compact category that offer no-frills base trims. Subaru chose to continue their longstanding use of the boxer engine in the Impreza.
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