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2008 Subaru Impreza Full Review
Date Published: 7/01/08
Also in the 2008 Subaru Impreza Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Subaru Impreza Full Review
7.
8.
9.
2008 Subaru Impreza Review
The 2008 Subaru Impreza lineup, which includes the base 2.5i, the SUV-flavored Outback Sport, and the performance-oriented WRX and WRX STi, is redesigned with fresh styling and additional safety features. Two body styles are offered: a 4-door sedan and 6-inch-shorter 4-door hatchback, both on a wheelbase nearly four inches longer than before. The 2.5i and WRX are offered in both body styles; the Outback Sport and WRX STi come only as hatchbacks. All models have all-wheel drive and a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine; it makes 170 horsepower in the 2.5i and Outback Sport, 224 in the turbocharged WRX, and 305 in the turbocharged WRX STi. A manual transmission is standard and available with a hill-holder clutch. An automatic with manual shift capability is optional on all but the STi. Safety features on all Imprezas include ABS, front side airbags, and, new for '08, curtain side airbags. An antiskid system with traction control--also new for '08--is standard on Outback Sport and WRX, optional on 2.5i. The Outback Sport has a raised suspension and 17-inch wheels vs. 16s, while the WRX gets a sport suspension, 17-inch wheels, hood scoop, and automatic climate control. A navigation system and remote engine start are optional. Heated seats are optional only on the WRX.
Competition
Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.
Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Elantra and Mazda 3.
New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer, Saturn Astra, Scion xB, and Subaru Impreza.
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2008 Subaru Impreza Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Acceleration (WRX models) | Engine noise |
| All-wheel drive | Fuel economy |
| Handling | Interior materials |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
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.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 4.9 |
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
In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission WRX models averaged 19.5 mpg in city/highway driving and 22.2 with more highway use. No opportunity to measure with STi. Turbocharged Imprezas require premium-grade gas. Other models use regular.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 6.5 |
In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission WRX models averaged 19.5 mpg in city/highway driving and 22.2 with more highway use. No opportunity to measure with STi. Turbocharged Imprezas require premium-grade gas. Other models use regular.
Ride Quality
WRX models show a good balance of compliance and control. They're expectedly taut but are never harsh. STi is significantly stiffer, and occasionally jarring over sharp bumps.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 3 | 5 |
WRX models show a good balance of compliance and control. They're expectedly taut but are never harsh. STi is significantly stiffer, and occasionally jarring over sharp bumps.
Steering/Handling/Braking
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.
| 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
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.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
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
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.
| 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
Subaru aims for an upscale ambiance, 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.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 5.2 |
Subaru aims for an upscale ambiance, 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.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
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.
| 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)
Average for the class. Six-footers will fit in back but they'll have barely adequate headroom, legroom, and knee space. Foot space is also good. Entry and exit are acceptable for a compact car.
| 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 headroom, legroom, and knee space. Foot space is also good. Entry and exit are acceptable for a compact car.
Cargo Room
Not a strong point, at least 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 rear seatbacks don't fold flat with the cargo floor, and the headrests may have to be removed 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.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 3 | 8 | 8 | 5 |
Not a strong point, at least 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 rear seatbacks don't fold flat with the cargo floor, and the headrests may have to be removed 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
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.
| WRX sedan, manual | WRX hatchback, manual | WRX STi | Class Average |
| 4 | 5 | 3 | 6 |
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 | 60 | 58.4 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 50 | |
| Average Score | 58 | |
| High Score | 71 |
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2008 Subaru Impreza Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 04/29/2008
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| 2.5i 4-door sedan | $16,995 | $16,246 | $645 |
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| 2.5i 4-door hatchback | $17,495 | $16,711 | $645 |
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| Outback Sport 4-door hatchback | $19,995 | $19,003 | $645 |
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| WRX 4-door sedan | $24,350 | $22,997 | $645 |
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| WRX 4-door hatchback | $24,850 | $23,461 | $645 |
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| WRX STi 4-door hatchback | $34,995 | $33,010 | $645 |
Price note: Prices are for vehicles distributed by Subaru of America. Prices may vary in areas served by independent distributors.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
2.5i
Powertrain
2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock brakes, front-seat active head restraints, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, tilt steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats, height-adjustable driver seat, center console, split folding rear seat, power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, intermittent rear/wiper washer (hatchback), cargo cover (hatchback), floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, rear spoiler (hatchback), 205/55VR16 tires, wheel covers.
Outback Sport adds to 2.5i:
Powertrain
Hill-holder clutch, traction control.
Safety
Brake assist, antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather-wrapped steering wheel w/radio controls, heated front seats, heated power mirrors, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, digital-media player connection, wiper deicer.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Fog lights, raised heavy-duty suspension, 205/50R17 tires, alloy wheels.
WRX adds to 2.5i:
Powertrain
2.5-liter turbocharged 224-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, hill-holder clutch, traction control.
Safety
Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Automatic climate control, tilt/telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel, digital-media player connection.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Deletes: front-seat active head restraints.
Sport suspension, 205/50R17 tires, alloy wheels.
WRX STi adds to WRX:
Powertrain
2.5-liter turbocharged 305-horsepower 4-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, front and rear limited-slip differentials.
Safety
Uprated brakes, tire-pressure monitor.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Leather/alcantara upholstery, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD changer, steering wheel radio controls.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Xenon headlights, performance suspension, 245/40WR18 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Premium Pkg.
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WRX
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$2,100
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$1,938
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Heated front seats, heated power mirrors, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, steering wheel radio controls, wiper deicer, body cladding, rear spoiler (sedan), rear diffuser (hatchback) fog lights.
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Satellite and Navigation Pkg.
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WRX
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$4,100
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$3,784
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Premium Pkg. plus navigation system, satellite radio.
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Popular Equipment Group 1/2
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hatchback
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$249
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$162
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sedan
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$206
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$134
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Center armrest, cargo net.
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Popular Equipment Group 3A
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$319
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$208
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, uprated security system.
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Popular Equipment Group 3B
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$404
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$263
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, universal garage door opener, security system upgrade kit.
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Popular Equipment Group 4
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX
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$559
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$407
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Remote engine start, security system upgrade kit. Requires automatic transmission. NA WRX STi.
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Popular Equipment Group 4B
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WRX STi
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$665
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$433
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Upgraded sound system, iPod adapter, security system upgrade kit.
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Audio Sound Pkg. 2
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$768
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$545
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Satellite radio, upgraded sound system.
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Protection Group
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2.5i hatchback, WRX hatchback
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$256
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$165
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Hood protector, rear bumper cover, wheel locks.
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Sport Trim Pkg. 1
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2.5i, WRX
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$493
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$321
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Unique grille, bodyside molding.
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Sport Trim Pkg. 2
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2.5i sedan, WRX sedan
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$675
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$477
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Unique grille, bodyside molding, rear spoiler. NA WRX w/Premium Pkg.
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BBS Pkg.
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WRX STi
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$2,000
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$1,857
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Fog lights, special alloy wheels.
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BBS and Navigation Pkg.
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WRX STi
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$3,800
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$3,527
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Navigation system, trip computer, upgraded sound system, wireless cell phone link, fog lights, special alloy wheels. Replaces in-dash 6-disc CD changer w/single-disc player.
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Powertrain |
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4-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX
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$1,000
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$917
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WRX requires Premium Pkg. Outback Sport, WRX delete hill-holder clutch. NA WRX STi.
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Short-throw shifter
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX
|
$374
|
$243
|
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NA w/automatic transmission. Std. WRX STi.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$192
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$125
|
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Includes compass.
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Automatic day/night rearview mirror w/universal garage door opener
|
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$277
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$180
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Includes compass.
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Digital-media player connection
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2.5i
|
$97
|
$63
|
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iPod adapter
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$223
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$145
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Upgraded sound system
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
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$315
|
$205
|
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Satellite radio
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX STi
|
$453
|
$340
|
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Remote engine start
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX
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$432
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$324
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Requires automatic transmission. NA WRX w/Premium Pkg., WRX STi.
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Appearance and Miscellaneous |
||
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Fog lights
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WRX STi
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$383
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$287
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Roof rack
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2.5i hatchback, WRX hatchback
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$250
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$150
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Rear spoiler
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sedan
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$380
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$285
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Bodyside moldings
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2.5i, WRX, WRX STi
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$198
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$129
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Std. Outback Sport.
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Mud guards
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2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX
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$132
|
$86
|
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NA WRX STi.
|
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Get a FREE Price Quote:
2008 Subaru Impreza Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Subaru Impreza 4-door sedan | Subaru Impreza 4-door hatchback |
| Wheelbase, in. | 103.1 | 103.1 |
| Overall Length, in. | 180.3 | 173.8 |
| Overall Width, in. | 68.5 | 68.5 |
| Overall Height, in. | 58.1 | 58.1 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3053 | 3064 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 11.3 | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 16.9 | 16.9 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.3 | 40.3 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 43.5 | 43.5 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.6 | 37.6 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 33.5 | 33.5 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| sohc H4 | Turbocharged dohc H4 | Turbocharged dohc H4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.5 /150 | 2.5 /150 | 2.5 /150 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 170 @ 6000 | 224 @ 5200 | 305 @ 6000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 170 @ 4400 | 226 @ 2800 | 290 @ 4000 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard | Standard |
|
EPA City / highway mpg
|
|||
| 5-speed manual | 20/27 | 19/24 | --/-- |
| 6-speed manual | --/-- | --/-- | 17/23 |
| 4-speed automatic | 20/27 | 20/24 | --/-- |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
 Antilock Brakes Traction Control Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags Curtain Side Airbags Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Subaru Impreza 4-door sedan | Subaru Impreza 4-door hatchback |
| 4WD Rollover | 4 | 4 |
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 | 5 |
| Side Impact, Driver | 5 | 5 |
| Side Impact, Rear Passenger | 4 | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 5/60,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 5/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 3/36,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | None/-- | -- |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Japan
Drivewheels:
all-wheel drive
Locate a Dealer
Get a FREE Price Quote:
Also in the 2008 Subaru Impreza Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Subaru Impreza Full Review
7.
8.
9.
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Vehicle History Report
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