Subaru Australia has announced significant safety enhancements for its popular 2025 Crosstrek and Impreza models, accompanied by a uniform $500 price increase across both vehicle lineups.
These updates have earned both vehicles coveted five-star ANCAP safety ratings, positioning them as leaders in their respective segments for safety-conscious Australian buyers.
Enhanced Safety Features Drive Price Adjustments
The entry-level Crosstrek L now starts at $35,990 before on-road costs, while the Crosstrek Hybrid L begins from $39,590, with the base Impreza L priced at $31,990 before on-road costs.
This $500 increase reflects Subaru’s commitment to advancing safety technology across its most popular models in the Australian market.
The timing of these updates is particularly strategic, as the Crosstrek serves as Subaru Australia’s second-best selling model after the Forester SUV, making these safety improvements accessible to a broad range of consumers seeking reliable, secure transportation.
ANCAP Five-Star Achievement
The most significant development in this model year update is the achievement of five-star ANCAP safety ratings for both vehicles. ANCAP used shared crash-test results for both Crosstrek and Impreza given they are closely related, using essentially the same body, platform and powertrains.
The comprehensive testing revealed impressive safety performance across multiple categories. The Crosstrek received an adult occupant protection rating of 83 per cent, a child occupant protection rating of 91 per cent, a vulnerable road user protection rating of 85 per cent and a safety assist rating of 73 per cent.
Distinguishing Safety Performance
While both models share the same fundamental platform, their safety ratings revealed interesting distinctions. The Crosstrek achieved a higher vulnerable road user protection score of 85 per cent as it showed superior upper leg (femur) protection than the Impreza. Conversely, the Impreza scored better for pedestrian head and lower leg protection which the safety organisation said was due to the difference in bonnet and front bumper designs.
Technical Updates and Compliance Enhancements
Beyond safety improvements, the 2025 model year brings important technical refinements, particularly to the Crosstrek Hybrid variants. The Crosstrek Hybrid has received a petrol particulate filter in order to comply with Euro 6e emissions standards, outpacing the introduction of Australian requirements to meet less stringent Euro 6d standards from December 1, 2024.
Hybrid Performance Adjustments
The environmental compliance upgrades have resulted in minor performance modifications. Outputs have been reduced marginally in the Crosstrek Hybrid – offered in L and S model grades – from 110kW/196Nm to 100kW/182Nm, but with the same 6.5L/100km combined official fuel consumption. This change demonstrates Subaru’s proactive approach to meeting future environmental standards while maintaining fuel efficiency.
Powertrain Consistency
Despite these hybrid adjustments, the core powertrain offerings remain unchanged for petrol variants. The 115kW/196Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and continuously variable transmission used on the petrol-only Crosstrek and across all Impreza model grades remains unchanged.
Market Positioning and Competitive Landscape
The price adjustments position both models strategically within Australia’s competitive automotive market. The Impreza hatch – which isn’t offered with a hybrid powertrain locally – remains more expensive than the Toyota Corolla, though the Crosstrek still undercuts the most affordable all-wheel drive versions of the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Corolla Cross.
Value Proposition
Despite the price increases, both models maintain compelling value propositions for Australian consumers. The standard all-wheel drive capability across the Subaru range, combined with the newly enhanced safety features, provides differentiation in segments often dominated by front-wheel drive alternatives.
The safety upgrades represent a significant advancement for Australian families seeking vehicles that prioritise occupant protection. The comprehensive ANCAP testing validates Subaru’s engineering approach, particularly in areas crucial for Australian driving conditions where vehicle versatility and safety are paramount considerations.
Manufacturing Timeline
The enhanced safety features will be available in Australian showrooms soon. An updated five-star ANCAP safety rating for the MY25 Crosstrek and Impreza is applicable to vehicles manufactured from April 2025 and in Subaru dealers from June.
Industry Context and Consumer Impact
This safety-focused update reflects broader industry trends toward enhanced vehicle protection systems. Subaru’s decision to implement these improvements across both the Crosstrek and Impreza demonstrates the company’s commitment to democratising advanced safety technology rather than restricting it to premium model variants.
The $500 price increase, while notable, remains relatively modest considering the comprehensive safety enhancements included. For Australian consumers, this represents an investment in proven protection technology backed by independent testing and verification through ANCAP’s rigorous evaluation process.
Future-Proofing Strategy
The early adoption of Euro 6e emissions standards for the hybrid variants signals Subaru’s forward-thinking approach to regulatory compliance. This proactive stance helps ensure that current purchasers won’t face compatibility issues as Australian emissions standards evolve.
The technical refinements, combined with the safety upgrades, position the 2025 Crosstrek and Impreza as future-ready vehicles that meet both current consumer expectations and anticipated regulatory requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the 2025 Crosstrek and Impreza with safety upgrades be available in Australia? A: Vehicles with the enhanced safety features will be manufactured from April 2025 and available in Subaru dealerships from June 2025.
Q: How much more expensive are the 2025 models compared to previous versions? A: Both the Crosstrek and Impreza have received uniform $500 price increases across all trim levels for the 2025 model year.
Q: Do both vehicles share the same five-star ANCAP safety rating? A: Yes, both achieved five-star ratings, though with slight variations in specific categories due to design differences between the SUV and hatchback body styles.