A WRX for rational drivers
The redesigned 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX disappointed, if not shocked, some of the brand's hardcore fans. But the automaker had to see it coming. After all, the move to appeal to a wider audience was a risky one, as it could alienate a legion of buyers and admirers who literally grew up idolizing this model, which was launched about 15 years ago.
Indeed, upon being introduced to Canadians back in 1993, the Impreza did not make a lot of friends. Some ridiculed the wagon (or 5-door hatchback, whatever you want to call it) by comparing the model to the old AMC Pacer and giving it the nickname of "aquarium".
But then, the 2.5RS coupe arrived in the late 1990s, followed by the WRX in 2002. Together, they changed people's perceptions and helped develop the kind of mythic status the Impreza was already enjoying elsewhere on the planet. That's why most purists now spell "WRX" almost like a prayer. Upgrade to a WRX STi and some will genuflect!
For rational buyers
The 2008 Impreza WRX targets more rational buyers, an evolution which is not surprising at all. With a roomier interior and a softer suspension (even to the detriment of body roll), this car is clearly influenced by the Americans, who generally demand more comfort.
Yet, the WRX hasn't lost its soul. On the contrary, there's still the same dependable AWD system which made Subaru famous all over the world. The power steering is as effective as always, not to mention razor-sharp and progressively assisted, making the driving experience so much fun.
Also virtually unchanged is the personality of the manual transmission. True, the gears are nicely spaced, but if you're one of those aggressive drivers, you'll find the stick somewhat restive. Subaru's manual gearboxes simply don't like to be rushed. While they have been considerably improved throughout the years (as a long-time Subaru owner, you can take my word for it), they still require a smooth manipulation: you have to handle the shifter with your fingertips as delicately as possible. Once you get used to it, though, it works like a charm!
The redesigned 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX disappointed, if not shocked, some of the brand's hardcore fans. But the automaker had to see it coming. After all, the move to appeal to a wider audience was a risky one, as it could alienate a legion of buyers and admirers who literally grew up idolizing this model, which was launched about 15 years ago.
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| Upgrade to a WRX STi and some will genuflect! |
Indeed, upon being introduced to Canadians back in 1993, the Impreza did not make a lot of friends. Some ridiculed the wagon (or 5-door hatchback, whatever you want to call it) by comparing the model to the old AMC Pacer and giving it the nickname of "aquarium".
But then, the 2.5RS coupe arrived in the late 1990s, followed by the WRX in 2002. Together, they changed people's perceptions and helped develop the kind of mythic status the Impreza was already enjoying elsewhere on the planet. That's why most purists now spell "WRX" almost like a prayer. Upgrade to a WRX STi and some will genuflect!
For rational buyers
The 2008 Impreza WRX targets more rational buyers, an evolution which is not surprising at all. With a roomier interior and a softer suspension (even to the detriment of body roll), this car is clearly influenced by the Americans, who generally demand more comfort.
Yet, the WRX hasn't lost its soul. On the contrary, there's still the same dependable AWD system which made Subaru famous all over the world. The power steering is as effective as always, not to mention razor-sharp and progressively assisted, making the driving experience so much fun.
Also virtually unchanged is the personality of the manual transmission. True, the gears are nicely spaced, but if you're one of those aggressive drivers, you'll find the stick somewhat restive. Subaru's manual gearboxes simply don't like to be rushed. While they have been considerably improved throughout the years (as a long-time Subaru owner, you can take my word for it), they still require a smooth manipulation: you have to handle the shifter with your fingertips as delicately as possible. Once you get used to it, though, it works like a charm!
 |
| With a roomier interior and a softer suspension, the new WRX is clearly influenced by the Americans, who often demand more comfort. |