Selecting the right alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza can significantly enhance its appearance and performance. Not only do they contribute to the vehicle's overall aesthetic, but they can also influence its handling, fuel efficiency, and even safety. This article dives deep into everything you need to know about choosing the perfect alloy wheels for your 2017 Impreza, covering sizes, styles, materials, and key considerations to ensure you make the best choice for your needs and preferences. Let's get started and explore the exciting world of alloy wheels!

Understanding Alloy Wheels

Before diving into specific recommendations for your 2017 Subaru Impreza, let's first understand what alloy wheels are and why they are a popular choice for many car owners. Alloy wheels are made from a mixture of aluminum or magnesium alloys, which offers several advantages over traditional steel wheels. These advantages include reduced weight, improved heat dissipation, and greater design flexibility. The reduced weight can lead to better fuel economy and improved handling, while the enhanced heat dissipation can improve braking performance, especially under demanding driving conditions. Moreover, the design flexibility of alloy wheels allows for a wide variety of styles and finishes, enabling you to customize the look of your vehicle to match your personal taste.

Alloy wheels come in various types, each with its own set of characteristics. Common types include cast alloy wheels, forged alloy wheels, and flow-formed alloy wheels. Cast alloy wheels are the most common and are produced by pouring molten alloy into a mold. They are generally more affordable but may not be as strong or lightweight as other types. Forged alloy wheels, on the other hand, are made by compressing a solid piece of alloy under high pressure, resulting in a wheel that is both stronger and lighter than cast wheels. Flow-formed alloy wheels are a hybrid of the two, combining casting with a flow-forming process to create a wheel that offers a good balance of strength, weight, and cost. When choosing alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza, it’s important to consider the type of wheel and its specific properties to ensure it meets your performance and budget requirements.

Benefits of Upgrading to Alloy Wheels

Upgrading to alloy wheels offers numerous benefits that extend beyond just aesthetics. One of the primary advantages is the reduction in weight. Lighter wheels reduce the unsprung weight of the vehicle, which is the weight that is not supported by the suspension. This can lead to improved handling, as the suspension can react more quickly to changes in the road surface. Additionally, lighter wheels can improve acceleration and braking performance, as less energy is required to rotate them. Another significant benefit is improved heat dissipation. Alloy wheels are better at dissipating heat compared to steel wheels, which can help to prevent brake fade and improve overall braking performance, especially during aggressive driving or in hot weather conditions. Furthermore, alloy wheels are less prone to corrosion compared to steel wheels, which can extend their lifespan and maintain their appearance over time. Finally, the wide variety of designs and finishes available for alloy wheels allows you to personalize the look of your 2017 Subaru Impreza and make it stand out from the crowd. From sleek and sporty designs to classic and elegant styles, there is an alloy wheel to suit every taste and preference.

Choosing the Right Size

When selecting alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza, size is a critical factor to consider. The right size ensures proper fitment, optimal performance, and prevents any potential issues with the vehicle's handling or safety systems. Wheel size is typically expressed in terms of diameter, width, and offset. The diameter refers to the overall size of the wheel, usually measured in inches. The width refers to the distance between the inner and outer edges of the wheel, also measured in inches. The offset is the distance between the wheel's mounting surface and its centerline, measured in millimeters. It’s crucial to choose wheels that are compatible with your vehicle’s specifications to avoid any clearance issues with the brakes, suspension components, or fenders.

The 2017 Subaru Impreza typically comes with wheel sizes ranging from 16 to 18 inches in diameter, depending on the trim level. It’s important to consult your vehicle's owner's manual or a trusted tire and wheel professional to determine the correct size and offset for your specific model. Using the wrong size can lead to a variety of problems, including rubbing against the fenders, interfering with the suspension, or affecting the accuracy of the speedometer. In addition to diameter and width, the bolt pattern is another important consideration. The bolt pattern refers to the number and spacing of the wheel studs or bolts that attach the wheel to the hub. The 2017 Subaru Impreza typically has a 5x100 bolt pattern, which means it has five studs spaced 100mm apart. It’s essential to choose wheels with the correct bolt pattern to ensure a secure and proper fit.

Impact of Wheel Size on Performance

The size of your alloy wheels can have a significant impact on your 2017 Subaru Impreza's performance. Larger diameter wheels, for example, can improve handling and cornering by reducing sidewall flex. This can result in a more responsive and precise steering feel. However, larger wheels can also increase the overall weight of the wheel and tire assembly, which can negatively affect acceleration and fuel economy. Smaller diameter wheels, on the other hand, typically weigh less and can improve acceleration and fuel efficiency. They may also provide a more comfortable ride, as the taller tire sidewalls can absorb more of the road's imperfections. The width of the wheel also plays a role in performance. Wider wheels can accommodate wider tires, which can increase grip and improve handling. However, wider wheels can also increase rolling resistance, which can negatively affect fuel economy. Ultimately, the ideal wheel size for your 2017 Subaru Impreza depends on your specific driving needs and preferences. If you prioritize handling and performance, you may want to consider larger diameter and wider wheels. If you prioritize fuel economy and ride comfort, you may want to stick with smaller diameter and narrower wheels.

Choosing the Right Style and Finish

Beyond size, the style and finish of your alloy wheels play a crucial role in enhancing the overall appearance of your 2017 Subaru Impreza. With a wide variety of designs and finishes available, you can truly customize the look of your vehicle to match your personal taste. Popular wheel styles include spoke wheels, mesh wheels, and solid wheels, each offering a unique aesthetic. Spoke wheels are characterized by their open design, with spokes extending from the center hub to the outer rim. They are a popular choice for their sporty and aggressive look. Mesh wheels feature a more intricate design, with a network of interwoven spokes. They offer a more sophisticated and refined appearance. Solid wheels, on the other hand, have a closed design with minimal openings. They are often chosen for their clean and modern look.

When it comes to finish, there are several options to choose from, including painted, polished, chrome, and matte finishes. Painted wheels are available in a wide range of colors, allowing you to match or contrast the color of your vehicle. Polished wheels have a shiny, reflective surface that adds a touch of elegance. Chrome wheels offer a similar look but are more durable and resistant to corrosion. Matte finishes provide a more subdued and understated appearance. The choice of finish depends on your personal preference and the overall style you are trying to achieve. It’s important to consider how the finish will complement the color and design of your 2017 Subaru Impreza. For example, a dark-colored vehicle may look best with polished or chrome wheels, while a lighter-colored vehicle may benefit from painted or matte wheels. Ultimately, the best style and finish for your alloy wheels is the one that you find most visually appealing and that best reflects your personal style.

Matching Wheels to Your Car's Color

Choosing the right alloy wheel color to complement your 2017 Subaru Impreza's paint job can significantly elevate its overall aesthetic. For instance, if you have a black Impreza, silver or gunmetal wheels can create a striking contrast, adding a touch of sophistication and sportiness. On the other hand, bronze or gold wheels can give your black Impreza a more aggressive and unique look. If your Impreza is white, you have even more options. Black wheels can provide a clean and modern look, while silver or polished wheels can enhance its elegance. For those with a blue Impreza, silver or gunmetal wheels can complement the car's cool tones, while bronze or gold wheels can add a touch of warmth and contrast. If you have a red Impreza, black wheels can create a bold and aggressive look, while silver wheels can provide a more classic and refined appearance. Ultimately, the best wheel color depends on your personal preference and the overall style you want to achieve. Consider the specific shade of your Impreza's paint and how it will interact with the wheel color. You can also use online tools or consult with a wheel specialist to visualize different color combinations and make an informed decision.

Key Considerations Before Purchasing

Before making a purchase, there are several key considerations to keep in mind to ensure you choose the right alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza. First and foremost, consider your budget. Alloy wheels can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size, style, and brand. Set a realistic budget and stick to it to avoid overspending. Next, consider the quality and durability of the wheels. Look for wheels made from high-quality materials and with a durable finish. Check online reviews and ratings to get an idea of the wheel's performance and reliability. It’s also important to consider the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A good warranty can protect you against defects in materials or workmanship.

Another important consideration is the reputation of the brand. Choose a reputable brand known for producing high-quality alloy wheels. Research different brands and read customer reviews to get an idea of their reputation. It’s also important to consider the weight of the wheels. As mentioned earlier, lighter wheels can improve handling, acceleration, and fuel economy. Look for wheels that are lightweight but still strong and durable. Finally, consider the ease of maintenance. Choose wheels with a finish that is easy to clean and maintain. Avoid wheels with intricate designs or hard-to-reach areas, as these can be difficult to clean. By keeping these key considerations in mind, you can ensure you choose the right alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza and enjoy them for years to come.

Where to Buy Alloy Wheels

When it comes to purchasing alloy wheels for your 2017 Subaru Impreza, you have several options to choose from. You can buy them from a local tire and wheel shop, an online retailer, or a dealership. Local tire and wheel shops offer the advantage of being able to see the wheels in person and get expert advice from the staff. They can also help you with installation and balancing. Online retailers offer a wider selection of wheels and often at lower prices. However, you won’t be able to see the wheels in person before buying them, and you’ll need to arrange for installation and balancing yourself. Dealerships offer the convenience of buying wheels that are specifically designed for your 2017 Subaru Impreza. However, they may be more expensive than other options. When choosing where to buy your alloy wheels, consider your budget, the level of expertise you need, and the convenience you desire. Compare prices and read reviews to find the best option for you.