There’s no denying the new Impreza has been a failure for Subaru even before it’s gone on sale. The industry was expecting a new model that would allow Subaru to step up and reposition its brand as affordable Japanese luxury but what we got was a car that is so derivative it could well be from Mazda, Toyota, or even a Chinese car company.

With the company under fire from journalists and the car-buying public, Subaru has introduced the first of what we’re sure will be many changes to the Impreza WRX. Subaru’s Australian arm has decided to have the front grille replaced with mesh instead of the egg-carton front on overseas models. We expect a full-facelift from Subaru within two years, especially with Mitsubishi’s hot new Evo looking very handsome indeed.

This isn’t the first time Subaru has had to facelift a model due to poor styling. The Tribeca SUV was restyled after only two years on sale. Our message to Subaru? It’s time to get yourselves a real designer. If Kia can do it, so can you.

Comparison between the two models below; Australian car on the right.

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