Out with the individualistic winged grille, and in with the common denominator front end. The all-new Impreza is here and its looks, as well as its new hatchback body style, are set to cause quite a stir. After the uproar over the 2000 model 'bug-eye' Impreza, and the subsequent rush job to redesign it, you might be forgiven for thinking that Subaru was about to repeat a past mistake. However, speak to its designers about this departure from accepted Subaru styling and brand image, and it becomes obvious that there is method in the apparent madness.

It turns out that the nondescript front end actually has a purpose, toning down the current car’s boy-racer image and aiming for a wider audience.