Father-daughter road test
My daughter Catherine has been driving a 2003 Limited Edition Impreza for three years now. With the arrival of a new generation for 2008, we wondered how much progress Subaru achieved with this car. We put two 5-door Imprezas to the test, including the base 2.5i model with manual gearbox and the high-end Sport Package with automatic transmission. Our verdict was unanimous: the new generation is gorgeous, smooth and every bit as nimble and tenacious under the rain or during wintertime.
Dressed up
Catherine's initial reaction when she saw the new Impreza was: "Wow! I want one!" Her group of friends (age 18 to 23) also acknowledge that this redesigned model is sleeker than its predecessor. Thirty-something folks appreciate the less macho attitude and the smooth lines, although they used to make a more direct association with the previous Impreza's rally heritage, which the new generation has yet to showcase. The grille gets mixed reviews, while the rear-end treatment wins the young over. They find the rounded shapes attractive. Clearly, the Impreza is what you would call a modern car that stands out from the crowd.
On the other hand, everyone deplored the absence of a sunroof, even on the option menu. Don't worry, though, as Subaru will make one available in the near future. Personally, I'm sad to see that the wagon body style has been discontinued despite strong Canadian sales. As a result, buyers enjoy less cargo room. On the plus side, the hatch remains and offers interesting versatility, especially with the split-folding rear bench.
Finally, room to spare
In Catherine's opinion, the Imprezas seriously lacked convenient storage -- I concur. Thank God, the new 2008 models are much more flexible, offering multiple compartments for small items, including cups and water bottles. You can store your sunglasses and portable computer while always keeping an eye on them. Also, the doors now include larger bins to stow your bottles and maps.
Revised interior
Getting on board is easy. Notice the new side window frames? They give a more solid feel when closing the doors, but they also increase wind noise. Inside, the dashboard is rounder (similar to the outside), which enhances the driving experience. The driver gets a height-adjustable seat and a telescopic steering wheel, even in base trim. Other standard features include power windows, climate control and cruise control.
My daughter Catherine has been driving a 2003 Limited Edition Impreza for three years now. With the arrival of a new generation for 2008, we wondered how much progress Subaru achieved with this car. We put two 5-door Imprezas to the test, including the base 2.5i model with manual gearbox and the high-end Sport Package with automatic transmission. Our verdict was unanimous: the new generation is gorgeous, smooth and every bit as nimble and tenacious under the rain or during wintertime.
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| Despite the complete redesign, the Impreza is as charming as ever. |
Dressed up
Catherine's initial reaction when she saw the new Impreza was: "Wow! I want one!" Her group of friends (age 18 to 23) also acknowledge that this redesigned model is sleeker than its predecessor. Thirty-something folks appreciate the less macho attitude and the smooth lines, although they used to make a more direct association with the previous Impreza's rally heritage, which the new generation has yet to showcase. The grille gets mixed reviews, while the rear-end treatment wins the young over. They find the rounded shapes attractive. Clearly, the Impreza is what you would call a modern car that stands out from the crowd.
On the other hand, everyone deplored the absence of a sunroof, even on the option menu. Don't worry, though, as Subaru will make one available in the near future. Personally, I'm sad to see that the wagon body style has been discontinued despite strong Canadian sales. As a result, buyers enjoy less cargo room. On the plus side, the hatch remains and offers interesting versatility, especially with the split-folding rear bench.
Finally, room to spare
In Catherine's opinion, the Imprezas seriously lacked convenient storage -- I concur. Thank God, the new 2008 models are much more flexible, offering multiple compartments for small items, including cups and water bottles. You can store your sunglasses and portable computer while always keeping an eye on them. Also, the doors now include larger bins to stow your bottles and maps.
Revised interior
Getting on board is easy. Notice the new side window frames? They give a more solid feel when closing the doors, but they also increase wind noise. Inside, the dashboard is rounder (similar to the outside), which enhances the driving experience. The driver gets a height-adjustable seat and a telescopic steering wheel, even in base trim. Other standard features include power windows, climate control and cruise control.
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| Subaru products all come with a very comprehensive list of standard features. |