While we get hard at work on the full review of the new Subaru Impreza WRX, we figured there was enough interest out there to warrant a video. After you watch the staffers hit the highlights, don’t forget to read our first impressions of the redesigned sedan. If you’re a member of the Mitsubishi Lancer camp — it’s like a Hatfield vs. McCoy thing — you can check out our expert review of the new GTS, along with a video of its own, here.
Whenever we get a consumer review of a hot new model before we even get a stab at the car ourselves, we’re impressed. One Seattle-based WRX driver gives a really well-done take on his new purchase. He relates it to the outgoing model and talks quite a bit about its style. We always like to think we know what’s what on the style fronts, but hearing what a shopper who plunked down the cash on the car feels is always intriguing. Especially when he doesn’t like the way it looks! Find out why he bought it anyway below.
We sift through a lot of information when a new model comes out, but sometimes a reader astutely uncovers a tidbit here and there. This time, an Ask.cars.com reader wanted to know why a moonroof isn’t available on the redesigned 2008 Subaru Impreza. Our Ask.cars.com research staff dutifully dug up the answer, which you can find below.
Why can't I get a moonroof on a 2008 Subaru Impreza? (Ask.cars.com)
One of the more controversial new cars from last year’s auto show season was the redesigned Subaru Impreza and WRX. Even after months of digesting the new design, it’s hard to tell how people will react to it. The prices announced recently seem to be right on target with what the car delivers. The new models will start showing up at dealers in August, and in anticipation Subaru has released some new photos for the press. We’ve put them together with the photos that were released when the new model debuted in April. Check out the gallery here and tell us what you think of the new look.
Subaru debuted its radically restyled 2008 Impreza in April at the New York auto show, and now prices have been announced just before it goes on sale in August. The Impreza comes in two body styles: sedan and four-door hatchback, with the sedan starting at $16,995 not including a $645 destination charge. The higher-powered Impreza WRX will start at $24,350, and an Outback Sport version will start at $19,995. There are a variety of option packages as well, which Subaru has also provided pricing for, including navigation packages.
For a full list of prices, keep reading.
A little earlier, we dispensed full details on the redesigned Subaru Impreza 2.5i and its turbocharged WRX twin. Both cars were on display last night at a Subaru reception a few blocks from the auto show, and I had a chance to poke around inside.
The seats are a big step forward. I only wish there were a way to get the sporty seats in the WRX with the fabric from the 2.5i. The latter model has rich, well-cushioned upholstery that could satisfy me for the long haul. Not the case with the WRX; its high bolsters are sure to keep drivers fastened in tight corners, but the woven texture isn’t the sort of stuff I’d escape to the parking garage to take a lunchtime snooze on. (Not that I’ve ever done that…)
The intrepid web surfers out there might have already seen images of the all new Subaru Impreza WRX sedan and wagon elsewhere on the internet. Today, we’re bringing you everything we have on the highly anticipated — and somewhat controversial — new model.
Car enthusiasts loved the WRX’s turbocharged 224-hp boxer engine powering all four wheels; the look of the vehicle was something of an afterthought. Now Subaru has delivered a dramatic new look, especially in wagon form, for the totally redesigned model. The signature hood scoop is much more subtle, the grille flows into the headlights and the beltline is quite high. Unfortunately, the engine and transmission setup remains exactly the same as the old model.
We’d guess the overhaul to the chassis, body and interior were more important for Subaru at this time and that improvements to the engine and transmission can be dropped in as the design ages a bit. That would be a wise move. Even more importantly, the interior looks vastly improved. The base Impreza 2.5i’s 170-hp engine remains as well, but the important model is the WRX.
We'll have more on the WRX tomorrow from the New York auto show, but for now click below for more photos.
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