Subaru Impreza Design Concept (2010) first pics

This is our best hint yet at the new Subaru Impreza, surely a car that seems to have suffered an identity crisis of late. The new Subaru Impreza Design Concept was shown at the 2010 Los Angeles auto show.

Subaru dubs its new design mantra Confidence in Motion. A throwaway phrase, but it is supposed to encapsulate the company's new brand strategy.

Let's hope they don't seek inspiration in the miles of Burberry on show around the Subaru stand at LA.

Subaru calls this a four-door coupe, yet claims a roomy four-seater interior. It seems that the Golf-alike hatchback has not been the success Subaru had hoped.

There's a prominent Subaru viking badge at the front with a heavily accented horizontal flavour. This new nose is said to be bound for all future production Subarus.

We don't expect the rear-view cameras to be standard on the next Impreza, which is due to arrive in late 2011.

There is space for four and a couple of interesting innovations. The steering wheel has touchpads built into the spokes, allowing drivers to access minor switchgear without moving their hands from the wheel. There's also a camera-based EyeSight system to help spot hazards around the car.

Underpinning the Subaru Impreza Design Concept is the latest iteration of the 2.0-litre nat-asp boxer four, mated to a CVT auto box. Four-wheel drive is, naturally, standard.

By Tim Pollard