2012 Subaru Impreza G4: Horsepower & Specs

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4, focusing on what really makes it tick: its horsepower and overall specs. For car enthusiasts and potential buyers, understanding these details is crucial in appreciating what this model brings to the table. The 2012 Impreza G4 marked a significant redesign for the model, bringing with it changes under the hood that are worth exploring. We'll break down the engine, its performance capabilities, and how it measures up against other vehicles in its class. So, buckle up and let's get into the details that define the power and performance of the 2012 Impreza G4.

Under the Hood: Engine and Horsepower

The heart of the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 is its engine, a key factor for anyone interested in its performance. This model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder horizontally-opposed boxer engine. The boxer configuration is notable because it helps to lower the car's center of gravity, which enhances handling and stability. Now, let's talk horsepower: The 2012 Impreza G4 delivers around 148 horsepower at 6,200 rpm. This might not sound like a massive number, but it's essential to consider the context. This level of horsepower is well-suited for daily driving, providing adequate power for commuting and navigating city streets. The engine is designed to offer a balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for many drivers. Furthermore, the engine's torque output is also significant. Torque, measured in pound-feet (lb-ft), determines how much pulling power the engine has. The 2012 Impreza G4 produces about 145 lb-ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. This means the car has enough grunt to accelerate smoothly and handle moderate loads without struggling. This makes the Impreza G4 a reliable choice for various driving conditions, not just a speed demon, but a balanced performer.

Performance Specs: Beyond Horsepower

When evaluating the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4, it's crucial to look beyond just the horsepower figures. Several other performance specs contribute to the overall driving experience. Let's start with the transmission options. The 2012 Impreza G4 comes with either a 5-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience, allowing drivers to have direct control over gear changes. On the other hand, the CVT provides smoother acceleration and better fuel economy. Speaking of fuel economy, the 2012 Impreza G4 shines in this area. With the CVT, it achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of around 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. These numbers are quite impressive for a car with all-wheel drive, making it an economical choice for daily use. The all-wheel-drive system is another critical performance aspect. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive provides excellent traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or ice. This system distributes power to all four wheels, reducing the risk of slippage and enhancing control. The suspension system also plays a significant role in the car's handling. The 2012 Impreza G4 features a four-wheel independent suspension, which helps to absorb bumps and provide a comfortable ride. This setup also improves the car's cornering ability, making it feel more planted and stable on winding roads. Overall, the 2012 Impreza G4 offers a well-rounded performance package that combines adequate power, good fuel economy, and excellent handling, making it a practical and enjoyable car to drive.

Real-World Driving Experience

The 2012 Subaru Impreza G4's specifications translate into a very practical and satisfying real-world driving experience. The 148 horsepower engine provides enough pep for everyday commutes and errands. It's not a sports car, but it's definitely capable of keeping up with traffic and merging safely onto highways. The engine is responsive, and the car feels relatively light and nimble. The all-wheel-drive system truly shines in challenging conditions. Whether you're dealing with a snowy winter or a rainy day, the Impreza G4 maintains its composure and provides a sense of security. The symmetrical all-wheel drive ensures that power is distributed effectively, minimizing wheel spin and maximizing traction. This is a significant advantage over front-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive cars, which can struggle in slippery conditions. The CVT transmission, while not as engaging as a manual, does a commendable job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. It provides smooth and seamless acceleration, and it helps to maximize fuel economy. Some drivers might miss the feeling of shifting gears, but the CVT is a practical choice for those who prioritize efficiency and ease of use. The interior of the 2012 Impreza G4 is functional and well-designed. The seats are comfortable, and the controls are easy to reach. The car offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs to haul gear. Visibility is excellent, thanks to the car's large windows and relatively upright seating position. Overall, the 2012 Impreza G4 provides a balanced and enjoyable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most luxurious car on the road, but it's a reliable, practical, and capable vehicle that's well-suited for a wide range of driving conditions.

Comparing with Competitors

When considering the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4, it's essential to see how it stacks up against its competitors in terms of horsepower and other performance metrics. One of the main rivals of the Impreza G4 is the Honda Civic. The 2012 Honda Civic offered a range of engines, with the base model producing around 140 horsepower. While this is slightly less than the Impreza's 148 horsepower, the Civic is known for its fuel efficiency and reliability. Another competitor is the Toyota Corolla. The 2012 Toyota Corolla came with a 1.8-liter engine that produced around 132 horsepower. Again, this is less than the Impreza G4, but the Corolla has a reputation for being a dependable and affordable car. The Mazda3 is another strong contender in this segment. The 2012 Mazda3 offered multiple engine options, including a 2.0-liter engine that produced around 155 horsepower. This is slightly more than the Impreza G4, and the Mazda3 is known for its sporty handling and stylish design. The Ford Focus is also worth considering. The 2012 Ford Focus came with a 2.0-liter engine that produced around 160 horsepower. This is more than the Impreza G4, and the Focus offers a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior. One area where the Impreza G4 stands out from its competitors is its standard all-wheel-drive system. Most of the other cars in this segment come with front-wheel drive, which doesn't offer the same level of traction and stability as all-wheel drive. This makes the Impreza G4 a better choice for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather or who frequently drive on unpaved roads. In terms of horsepower, the 2012 Impreza G4 is competitive with its rivals, but it's not the most powerful car in its class. However, its combination of all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and practicality make it a compelling choice for many buyers.

Why Horsepower Isn't Everything

While we've spent a lot of time discussing horsepower, it's important to remember that it's not the only factor to consider when choosing a car. In fact, for many drivers, other factors like fuel economy, reliability, safety, and comfort are just as important, if not more so. The 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 is a great example of a car that offers a well-rounded package, even if it's not the most powerful car in its class. As we've discussed, the Impreza G4 comes standard with all-wheel drive, which provides excellent traction and stability in all kinds of weather. This is a significant advantage over many of its competitors, which only offer front-wheel drive. The Impreza G4 also offers good fuel economy, especially when equipped with the CVT transmission. It's rated at up to 36 mpg on the highway, which is quite impressive for a car with all-wheel drive. In terms of reliability, Subaru has a good reputation, and the Impreza G4 is generally considered to be a dependable car. It's not uncommon to see Imprezas with well over 100,000 miles on the odometer, still running strong. Safety is another area where the Impreza G4 excels. It earned high scores in government crash tests, and it comes standard with a variety of safety features, including anti-lock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Comfort is also an important consideration, and the Impreza G4 offers a comfortable ride and a well-appointed interior. The seats are supportive, and the controls are easy to reach. The car also offers plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. So, while horsepower is certainly a factor to consider, it's just one piece of the puzzle. The 2012 Impreza G4 offers a compelling combination of features and benefits that make it a great choice for many drivers, even if it's not the most powerful car on the road. Think about what's most important to you in a car, and choose the one that best meets your needs and preferences.

Is the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 Right for You?

So, after all this talk about horsepower, specs, and comparisons, the big question remains: Is the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 the right car for you? To answer that, let's recap its strengths and weaknesses. On the plus side, the Impreza G4 offers standard all-wheel drive, which is a huge selling point for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. It also provides good fuel economy, especially with the CVT transmission, making it an economical choice for daily commuting. The Impreza G4 is known for its reliability, so you can expect it to last for many years with proper maintenance. It also has a good safety record, giving you peace of mind on the road. The interior is comfortable and functional, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. On the downside, the Impreza G4's horsepower is not class-leading. If you're looking for a sporty car with lots of power, you might be disappointed. The CVT transmission, while efficient, isn't as engaging as a manual transmission. Some drivers might find the Impreza G4's styling to be a bit bland compared to some of its more stylish competitors. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value all-wheel drive, fuel economy, reliability, and safety, the Impreza G4 is definitely worth considering. If you prioritize horsepower and sporty handling above all else, you might want to look elsewhere. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to take the car for a test drive and see how it feels. Get a sense of its handling, acceleration, and overall comfort. Compare it to other cars in its class, and consider your budget and long-term ownership costs. With careful research and consideration, you can make an informed decision and choose the car that's right for you. Whether it's the 2012 Subaru Impreza G4 or something else, happy driving!