Automotive Faqs

The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX is similar to the standard Impreza and the Impreza WRX STi. It certainly gains its power from its turbocharged 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine – which allows it accelerate below 2,500 rpm. If you were trying to accelerate at a fast rate then you would be happy to discover that it performs this task with ease.

The five-speed manual transmission is a carryover from the 2007 model. Because of its wide ratios it doesn’t make for particularly fast launches – a short throw close ratio gearbox would do better. But since you can go from 5 to 55mph in second gear, you can keep it in second while negotiating winding mountain roads, without having to shift up to third.

The WRX includes sport seats for the driver and passenger. These seats have fixed headrests and a sculpted look that goes well with the general interior theme. The dashboard curves in to meet the center stack, somewhat like the cabin of the Subaru Tribeca. The interior also has a clean look, with few buttons marring the curving surfaces. The stack is particularly simple, only hosting HVAC controls, vents, and an LCD for the navigation and audio systems.

Handling is a big part of the WRX’s reputation, but is wasn’t all that impressive by the steering response. The wheel has some looseness about it, but the all-wheel-drive compensates well enough. In the hard cornering you will never feel the tires break free, although it will drift a little.

The EPA gives the 2008 Subaru WRX 19mpg in the city and 24mpg on the highway. In heavy city traffic, we dropped below 19mpg, but our overall observed average was 20.8mpg. These numbers could probably be improved by a sixth gear, allowing better economy at freeway speeds. The WRX hasn’t been rated for emissions yet.

The base price for a 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX with the satellite radio and navigation package is $28,450. A $645 destination charge brings that total up to $29,095. For less than 30 grand you’re getting a sporty little car that works well as an everyday driver, except for its mediocre fuel economy.

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