SUBARU has unveiled the all-new 2017 Impreza saloon and hatchback at the New York International Auto Show.

It's the first model to be underpinned by Subaru's advanced new Global Platform which will be used on a variety of upcoming Subaru vehicles, including hybrids and the next generation of Subaru's all-terrain SUV and crossover models.

As before, every Impreza is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which maximises driving agility, stability and traction on all surfaces, and gives the car a key advantage over front-wheel drive motors.

The all-new Impreza five-door hatchback is currently under consideration for the European market and is bigger all round than the outgoing model. It creates a roomier cabin, while a 10mm lower height aids aerodynamics with a lower coefficient of drag.

Subaru claims it has designed the new Impreza to provide even higher levels of safety than the outgoing model, notably by accommodating EyeSight collision avoidance technology for the first time.

This system uses stereo colour camera technology to monitor the road and traffic ahead of potential hazards and includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure and Sway Warning, plus a Lane Keep Assist function. Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are also available.