by Subaru Files Trademark for Impreza TX
Subaru seems finally ready to add some passion and energy to the Impreza hatchback. Currently, the car is offered only with conventional four-cylinder boxer engines, but a recent trademark filing has revived hopes that a turbocharged version may be on the way, giving the hatch the character it has been missing.
Earlier this month, Subaru filed for the name “Impreza TX” in both the United States and Canada. This move was first noticed by Creative311. The automaker has used the “TX” badge before, most notably on several models available only in Japan, such as the Leone. More often, it has used the reverse designation, XT, to mark turbocharged engines (T) and all-wheel drive (X) on Forester and Outback models.
Why Does This Matter for the Impreza?
Subaru does not explain why it filed the TX trademark in the U.S. and Canada, or what this badge is meant to signify. However, there is certainly room in the Impreza lineup for a more powerful and exciting version that could serve as an alternative to the WRX hatchback.
Currently, the Impreza is sold exclusively with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated boxer four-cylinder engine producing 152 hp or a 2.5-liter engine producing 180 hp. Since the Impreza already has all-wheel drive as standard equipment, Subaru only needs to add a turbocharger and a top-mounted intercooler to bring the hatchback to life.
Turbo and Manual?
Admittedly, the transmission may need to change. The Impreza is sold exclusively with a CVT, but a turbocharged version would be much better suited to a manual gearbox. However, there are no guarantees this will happen, as the WRX works perfectly well with the CVT.
Perhaps in favor of the idea of an Impreza TX with a manual is a teaser image released by Subaru a few weeks ago. It showed three new models set to arrive by 2027, each equipped with a manual transmission. One was the WRX, another was the BRZ, and the third looked like an Impreza hatchback.
Subaru’s Chief Technical Officer and Executive Vice President Tetsuro Fujinuki referred to this last car as an “affordable base vehicle” with “a character different from the WRX and BRZ.”
This glimpse may have been the Impreza TX, captured before anyone knew its name.
Thus, the registration of the Impreza TX trademark, combined with the teaser of three new manual models, creates an intriguing picture. If Subaru truly plans to release a turbocharged Impreza with a manual transmission, it could be a real gift for enthusiasts seeking a more affordable and driver-focused car than the WRX. All that remains is to wait for official confirmation, but the prospect looks very promising, especially against the backdrop of the overall trend toward electrification and transmission automation. Such a move could not only revitalize the Impreza lineup but also attract new buyers who value active driving and a mechanical connection to the car.
