Subaru’s all-new Impreza hatch has made its European debut at the Frankfurt motor show.

Safety has been at the forefront of development of Subaru’s new Global Platform and EyeSight, Subaru’s driver assistance system, is fitted as standard in the UK.

The Impreza is a compact hatchback and features all-wheel-drive paired to a Boxer engine. This is the fifth generation of the Impreza model, and the hatchback has found a place in the market for people who need go anywhere capability and the reassurance of permanent all-wheel-drive, but don’t want an SUV sized vehicle.

Subaru says its interior has been designed to make sure the driver is free to focus on the road ahead and enjoy driving the car. The quality of soft touch plastics and finishes have been improved across the interior but still retain the functionality and hard-wearing attributes that the brand is synonymous for.

An 8-inch touchscreen is fitted as standard. The system is equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and DAB radio.

The chassis has been designed to improve stability and dynamic capability, but also to redce vibration and noise.

Subaru’s EyeSight system consists of six different technologies: Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, Lane Keep Assist and Lead Vehicle Start Alert.

A Rear Vehicle Detection System adds Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

At launch in the UK, a 1.6-litre engine will be available with a 2.0-litre joining the range after launch.

The entry level powertrain develops 114PS, while the larger unit has 156PS. Emissions and fuel economy information is yet to be released.