In 2008, the Subaru Impreza got a major overhaul, including a new chassis, a new body style, new interior, new suspension and a new drivetrain.
Like all Subarus, it came with all-wheel-drive as standard equipment, and Subaru positioned the engine 22 mm closer to the ground to enhance the car's centre of gravity – which was already one of the lowest in the industry. The result was a remarkably stable and predictable ride, in a car with better handling and balance than most of its peers.
Power was provided by the ubiquitous 2.5-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that delivered 170 hp normally aspirated and 224 hp in turbocharged form. An engine tweak – revamped cylinder head, different camshaft timing and slightly different exhaust setup – gave it better fuel economy and a flatter torque curve than its predecessor. Transmission choices were a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The former featured a manual shift option and the latter, an optional Hill Holder Incline Start Assist.
Subaru also extended the wheelbase and shortened the body slightly. Two body styles were offered: hatchback wagon and sedan, and the result was more interior room and better weight distribution. Depending upon your point of view, this was arguably the best-looking version of this car to date, and the wagon model, in particular, was very easy on the eyes. This vintage of Impreza was also Subaru's best seller, and the four-door sedan version was exclusive to the North American market.
Two versions of the non-turbo model were offered: base and Sport. Equipment level was high, with things like air conditioning, power windows, four wheel disc brakes with ABS, rear window wiper (on the hatchback), driver's "dead pedal" foot rest, full instrumentation and power mirrors all coming standard. There was also a cool-looking "bee stinger" roof mounted antenna that added to the car's upscale flavour.
Options included a traction control system, a vehicle dynamics control system, fog lights, aluminum alloy 16-inch wheels, heated seats and so on. These items were usually grouped together in packages.
For performance buffs, the WRX version was offered in the same body configurations, but – thanks to a turbocharger and intercooler – developed 54 more horsepower. It, too, was available with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, but the stick shift had it over the automatic, mainly because it allowed the driver to regulate vehicle speed and weight transfer much more accurately.
This vintage of the WRX was a road-hugger, with a refined sense of balance and way above-average handling and performance. The STI version has since gone on to achieve almost legendary status among tuners and performance enthusiasts. Twin exhaust tips, a functional hood scoop and larger 17-inch wheels and tires distinguished the WRX from the base Impreza.
A couple of safety recalls to report. One, fairly serious, involves a possibly improperly fastened oil supply pipe for turbocharged models. According to the U.S National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "vibration would occur while driving and, over time, could eventually result in cracking the pipe, which would allow oil to leak. If leaking oil contacts components operating at high temperatures, an engine compartment fire could occur." This recall affects other Subaru models as well, including the Legacy and later Foresters. The second recall concerns aftermarket roof racks manufactured by Thule, which could come loose because of inferior mounting bolts.
Seven technical service bulletins are on file for the '08 Impreza. These include possible water leakage into the front passenger compartment, problems filling up with gas after prolonged driving in sub-zero weather, and, for the high-performance turbocharged models, a warning that extensive operation above the engine's red line will harm internal components, such as piston rings.
Mostly favourable reviews from Consumer Reports, which gives this year of the Impreza top marks virtually right across the board, and a well above-average rating for the non-turbo models. The WRX, however, receives an average grade. Paint and trim and brakes seem to be problem areas. Kind of a mixed bag from owners: "some hardware rattling, road noise and bumpy ride," "could use a five-speed auto," "fantastic in the rain" are a few comments.
Good marks for predicted reliability from market research firm J.D. Power – but not the best. Although this organization likes the overall design and features accessories quality of the 2008 Impreza, it has issues with things like comfort, style and overall mechanical quality. One thing worth noting: this generation of the Impreza received a perfect five-star ratings for both driver and front passenger in frontal crash tests from NHTSA, and another five stars for front-seat occupants and four stars for back seaters in side-impact tests.
From a base price of less than $21,000 in 2008, the Impreza has held its value well. The wagon models seem to be fetching $1,000-$2,000 more than the sedan, and both are priced in the mid-teens to high-$20,000 range. Unsurprisingly, the high-performance WRX is substantially more expensive.
globedrive@globeandmail.com
2008 Subaru Impreza
Original Base Price: $20,695-$33,895; Black Book: $15,200-$22,450; Red book: $14,025-$19,850
Engine: Normally aspirated and turbocharged 2.5-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder
Horsepower/Torque: 170 hp/170 lb-ft for non-turbo; 224 hp/226 lb-ft for turbocharged
Transmission: Five-speed manual and four-speed automatic
Drive: All-wheel
Fuel Economy (litres/100 km): 10.6 city/7.3 highway (manual transmission, non-turbo); regular gas
Alternatives: Dodge Caliber, Suzuki Aerio, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Matrix, Volkswagen Jetta, Mitsubishi Lancer, Hyundai Elantra
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