2008 Subaru Impreza Review

The Impreza is an all-wheel drive compact car that was introduced in 1993. The second generation debuted in 2002, along with the WRX trim. The two-door was dropped in favor of a four-door sedan and wagon. The sporty WRX STi debuted in 2004. It’s won several awards, including Wheels Magazine’s “Car of the Year” in 2000, and Automobile Magazine’s “Automobile of the Year” in 2002.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The new Subaru Impreza is indeed impressive. With its standard AWD and impressive crash test scores, it’s a solid choice for a family vehicle. Although its lost some of its quirky styling. If you don’t need AWD and/or want better fuel economy, you have better options. Otherwise, the Impreza delivers on all fronts.

What’s New For 2008:

The third generation debuts for 2008. It’s now available as a four-door sedan or a five-door hatchback. The WRX trim remains and the STi has been dropped, but may return as early as next year. The new Impreza has a more rigid body, and is lighter overall. A 170-hp engine comes standard, and the WRX includes a 224-hp turbocharged engine.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Impreza 2.5 stars for mechanical quality, 3.5 stars for design quality, and 2 stars for performance. Problems with the first generation include engine misfires, engine noise, hard starting and flawed parking rods. It was recalled twice. Problems with the last generation include sticky clutch pedals and faulty seatbelt latches. It was recalled seven times for issues including defective parking rods, loose seat bolts, defective cruise control, loose oil valve bolts, and oil leaks. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Impreza earned perfect IIHS crash test scores. It is one of the IIHS’ “Top Safety Picks” for 2008. In government tests it earned 5 stars for the front and 4.5 stars for side impacts. Anti-lock brakes and side airbags come standard. The Premium package adds brake assist, hill assist, and stability control. The WRX includes all these features standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Standard AWD
+ Excellent crash test scores
+ Available as a sedan or hatchback

Cons
- Subpar gas mileage
- Bland exterior
- Uncertain first-year reliability

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Honda Civic Si Coupe includes traction control and almost 30 more horses, but costs thousands more and lacks AWD. The Mazda MAZDA3 s Sport is very similar, but lacks AWD. The Volkswagen Jetta Sedan S has standard traction control and more trunk space, but lacks AWD.

What Others Are Saying:

“If you don’t want or need AWD, there are a lot of other cars that are just as good as the new Impreza, all of which can be had for less money. They may be less powerful, but most drivers in this class are more than willing to sacrifice the extra oomph of a 2.5i engine for higher gas mileage.” – The Truth About Cars

“Except for fuel economy, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX works well as an all-purpose car. But if you want something more tightly tuned, wait for the STi version.” – C|Net

“So when you get down to it, the Subaru Impreza is a great deal on a very safe and well-equipped car. Would I want my wife to drive an Impreza? Definitely. Would I want my kids to drive an Impreza? Well, they’re 8 and 11, so no, not just yet — but eventually, yes. But would I buy an Impreza 2.5i for myself? Probably. Maybe. I’d definitely consider it. At least I think I would. Because the bottom line is that the Subaru Impreza 2.5i has almost everything it needs to take on the Civic and Sentra — all it’s lacking is style.” – About.com

Read more about the 2008 Subaru Impreza at the Subaru manufacturer web site.