2008 Subaru Impreza
The 2008 Subaru Impreza marked a significant redesign for the compact car, ushering in a new generation that broadened its appeal while retaining its core Subaru strengths. This model year introduced a more refined exterior, a refined interior, and continued Subaru's commitment to all-wheel-drive as standard.
Highlights
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: This is Subaru's hallmark feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in a variety of weather conditions, from rain and snow to dry pavement. It’s a significant advantage over many front-wheel-drive competitors in its class.
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L Boxer Engine: The standard engine across most trims was a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine layout provides a lower center of gravity, contributing to improved handling and balance. It typically produced around 170 horsepower.
- 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer Engine (WRX & WRX STI): For performance enthusiasts, the WRX and WRX STI models featured a more powerful turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter Boxer engine. The WRX offered a spirited performance with around 224 horsepower, while the legendary WRX STI pushed this further with a potent 305 horsepower, boasting a more aggressive tuning and performance-oriented drivetrain.
- Safety Features: Subaru prioritized safety, and the 2008 Impreza came equipped with a strong suite of standard and available safety technologies:
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): Helps prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD): Optimizes brake pressure between the front and rear wheels based on load conditions, improving braking effectiveness.
- Brake Assist: Automatically applies maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, reducing stopping distances.
- Front-Impact Airbags: Standard driver and front-passenger airbags designed to deploy in frontal collisions.
- Side-Impact Airbags: Available or standard on some trims, these airbags protect occupants in side collisions.
- Side Curtain Airbags: Available or standard on some trims, these deploy from the roofline to protect occupants' heads in side impacts and rollovers.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) / Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps prevent skidding and loss of traction by automatically applying individual brakes and/or reducing engine power when it detects a loss of steering control. (Standard on WRX/STI, available on other trims).
- Trim Summary:
- 2.5i: The base model, offering a comfortable and capable package with the standard AWD, a decent feature set, and the naturally aspirated 2.5L Boxer engine. Available as a sedan or hatchback.
- 2.5i Premium: An enhanced version of the 2.5i, often including features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and fog lights.
- 2.5GT (Hatchback Only): Introduced a more upscale hatchback option, often featuring unique styling cues and a slightly more refined interior, but still powered by the standard 2.5L Boxer engine.
- WRX: The performance-oriented model, featuring the turbocharged 2.5L Boxer engine, sport-tuned suspension, larger wheels and tires, and distinctive styling cues like a hood scoop. Available as a sedan and hatchback.
- WRX STI: The pinnacle of performance for the Impreza line. This model boasts the most powerful turbocharged engine (305 hp), a performance-tuned all-wheel-drive system with a driver-controlled center differential (DCCD), Brembo brakes, and aggressive aerodynamic enhancements. Available as a sedan.
- Refined Interior and Exterior: The 2008 model year saw a more mature and upscale design compared to its predecessor. The interior benefited from improved materials, a more modern dashboard layout, and generally better ergonomics. The exterior adopted a bolder, more aggressive stance, particularly in the WRX and STI variants.
- Hatchback Option: For those seeking versatility, the availability of a hatchback body style offered increased cargo capacity and practicality.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2008 Subaru Impreza typically revolves around its reliable and capable nature, especially for those who appreciate the all-wheel-drive system.
- Typical Ownership Experience: Owners often praise the Impreza's sure-footedness in adverse weather, making it a popular choice in regions with frequent snow or rain. The driving dynamics, particularly in the WRX and STI models, are a significant draw for enthusiasts. The cabin is generally comfortable for daily commuting, and the hatchback offers good utility for carrying groceries or gear. Expect a somewhat utilitarian feel in base models, with a more driver-focused and sportier ambiance in the performance variants.
- Maintenance: Subaru vehicles are generally known for their durability, and the 2008 Impreza is no exception. Regular maintenance, including oil changes, filter replacements, and scheduled inspections, is crucial for longevity. The Boxer engine design can sometimes make certain maintenance tasks (like spark plug replacement) slightly more involved than a traditional inline engine, potentially leading to slightly higher labor costs for some procedures. Timing belt replacement is a critical maintenance item for the 2.5L engine, typically recommended every 60,000 to 100,000 miles depending on the specific engine and driving conditions. Neglecting this can lead to catastrophic engine failure.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2008 Impreza can vary significantly based on the trim level, your driving record, and your location. The WRX and especially the WRX STI models, due to their higher performance and potential for spirited driving, will almost certainly have higher insurance premiums than the base 2.5i models. This is a common consideration for performance-oriented vehicles.
Potential Considerations
While the 2008 Impreza offers many strengths, there are a few points buyers should be aware of:
- Turbocharger Issues (WRX/STI): The turbocharged engines in the WRX and STI, while powerful, can be more susceptible to issues if not properly maintained or if they've been subjected to aggressive driving or aftermarket modifications without proper tuning. Regular oil changes with high-quality oil are paramount to the health of the turbocharger. Oil starvation can quickly lead to turbo failure.
- Head Gasket Concerns (Older Subarus): While Subaru addressed head gasket issues in earlier generations, it's still a concern for some buyers of older models. While less prevalent in the 2008 model compared to earlier generations, it's worth having a mechanic inspect for any signs of coolant leaks or milky oil during a pre-purchase inspection, especially if the vehicle has high mileage.
- Road Noise and Ride Quality: Base and even some premium trims can exhibit a noticeable amount of road noise, particularly on highway journeys. The ride can also be firm, especially on the WRX and STI models, which prioritize handling over comfort.
- Interior Material Quality: While improved over previous generations, some interior materials in the base and even some mid-level trims might feel less premium compared to some competitors in the compact segment.
- Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy of the 2008 Impreza, especially with the all-wheel-drive system and the performance-oriented WRX/STI models, will generally be lower than many front-wheel-drive competitors.
Overall Summary
The 2008 Subaru Impreza represents a solid choice for buyers seeking an all-wheel-drive compact car with engaging driving dynamics and a reputation for reliability. It offers a range of trims to suit different needs, from the practical and capable 2.5i to the thrilling performance of the WRX and the iconic WRX STI. While older models require diligent maintenance, particularly regarding the turbochargers and potential head gasket concerns, the core strengths of its standard AWD, robust build, and driving appeal make it a compelling option in the used car market for those who value capability and a connection to the road.