2008 Subaru Impreza: Road Test
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2008 Subaru Impreza ▼
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- MSRP: $16,995 -$34,995
- Invoice: $16,246 -$33,010
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Our road test for the 2008 Subaru Impreza includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Subaru Impreza from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Subaru Impreza, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Subaru Impreza help you decide if a 2008 Subaru Impreza is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 4.8 |
Only Impreza WRX models with the manual transmission have been made available for testing so far. Some turbo lag is evident, but overall, these Imprezas offer very good power in most any situation. STi feels stronger still, especially above 3500 rpm. On all, shifter and clutch action is smooth and precise.
FUEL ECONOMY
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission WRX models averaged 19.5 mpg in city/highway driving and 22.2 with more highway use. Test STi averaged 21.0 mpg. Turbocharged Imprezas require premium-grade gas. Other models use regular.
RIDE QUALITY
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 5.1 |
WRX models show a good balance of compliance and control. They're expectedly taut but are never harsh. STi is stiffer, and occasionally jarring over sharp bumps.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 9 | 5.9 |
Steering feel is responsive, if not as razor sharp as would be expected in a sporty car. Body lean in turns is minimal, and dry-pavement grip is excellent. In wet and snowy conditions, though, the AWD system in one test WRX seemed slow to react when accelerating from a stop. STi has impressive balance, quick and accurate steering, and strong stopping power.
QUIETNESS
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.5 |
Wind and tire noise are moderate at highway speeds. The turbocharged engine whines under full throttle but it's more relaxed at cruising speeds. Noise from all sources is more pronounced in STi.
CONTROLS
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.7 |
The audio and climate controls are within easy reach and are clearly marked. The available navigation system absorbs most audio functions and slightly complicates their use, but redundant steering-wheel controls help. The navigation system itself is easy to negotiate.
DETAILS
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5 | 5.2 |
Subaru aims for an upscale feel, but comes up short. While the cabin materials look nice, they're comprised mainly of cheap feeling, hard plastic. The "mouse fur" headliner is particularly cut-rate, given the WRX's near-premium pricing. STi's specific trim goes some distance to upgrading the overall ambiance.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Six-footers have good headroom and legroom, particularly in models not equipped with the sunroof. The WRX's sport bucket seats have good side bolstering but not enough lumbar support to make them comfortable for long trips.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Average for the class. Six-footers will fit in back but they'll have barely adequate legroom, and knee space. Foot space is also good. Entry and exit are acceptable for a compact car.
CARGO ROOM
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 8 | 8 | 4.9 |
Not a strong point in the sedans. In those models, the floor rises over the rear axle, and standard sickle-type lid hinges dig deep into the load area. Hatchbacks are more versatile with good space behind the rear seats. On both body styles the headrests may have to be removed before folding if the front seats are set far back. Interior storage is poor, with a small center console and just average-sized glovebox and door map pockets.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 3 | 6.2 |
Only WRX versions of the Impreza have been made available for us to test. For better or worse, these sporty compacts have a softer, more mainstream feel to them than their edgy predecessors. They still don't quite match the refinement of the Mazdaspeed 3 or Volkswagen GTI, but WRX models are fun to drive and boast standard all-wheel drive, a feature unavailable on either of those rivals. The STi offers amazing all-around performance, but its high sticker price and raucous nature make it for serious enthusiasts only.
Total Score
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 63 | 62 | 58.7 |
Total Score: 61
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