2008 Subaru Impreza Review
28 Dec, 2007
91 Comments 
I’ll go out on a limb here and say the difference in terms of handling between the new RS and WRX is not that evident (unless tracked). Of course the RS lacks the power and the WRX has a rear limited slip differential (LSD) and better suspension, but around tight corners, the RS will keep up with the best.
Speaking of power, the 2.0-litre engine produces 110 kW at 6400 rpm and 196 Nm of torque at 3200 rpm – a 20 per cent improvement in power and 7 per cent in torque over the old one. In comparison, the SP23 puts out 115kW and 203Nm, the Mazda also weighs less (partially due to the Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system).
The five-speed manual gearbox will take first-time AWD buyer a little while to get used to given the heavier than average clutch, but with hill start assist, even your grandmother will eventually get the hang of it.
Subaru’s four-speed auto is a little outdated now with the competition having moved up to five-gears (the manual variant is our pick, as always), nonetheless the gearbox now utilises SPORTSHIFT (takes into account cornering, braking and acceleration rate in making gear selection) and uses less fuel (8.8L/100km) than the five-speed manual (8.9L/100km).
The Impreza is stopped by 15-inch (diameter) front and rear discs with ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EBD) and brake assist. Across the range you get vehicle dynamics control (ESP), curtain airbags with dual front and side airbags all as standard. It’s no suprise the Impreza received a five-star safety rating.
If you’re thinking about buying a new small-medium car, go drive the new Impreza range. You won’t be disappointed.
- Impreza R manual (replaces 2.0i) $24,490
- Impreza R SPORTSHIFT automatic $26,490
- Impreza RX manual (replaces RV) $26,490
- Impreza RX SPORTSHIFT automatic $28,490
- Impreza RS manual (replaces 2.0R) $29,490
- Impreza RS SPORTSHIFT automatic $31,490
- Impreza WRX manual $39,990
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December 28th, 2007 at 3:53 pm
Subaru were stupid to change their design direction. The current WRX is lost in a sea of hot hatches and there isn’t a lot that differences it from any other, the old WRXs were somewhat unique. The new ones also lost the frameless windows.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:08 pm
Is the RS worth an extra $5k over the R though? Stiffer suspension and a bit more kit, but the same engine isn’t it?
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:10 pm
I was just getting my back up about the FWD ‘real performance car’ comment, and then you saved it by noting that only the Europeans do it right. Good save. :-)
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:28 pm
Masynee,
The RS used to be worth the extra amount of money. As it used to have all the optional extras as standard and it had more power. For example: 2004 RS Impreza has 112kw, where as the standard GX Impreza only had 92kw.
However power levels are identical now with new models.
Infact, the previous model Impreza RS (2006 Model) has 118kw… For some reason Subaru made the power decrease down to 110kw… I’m not sure why.
The RS Impreza 07 also has a much dearer sound system then what the standard R Impreza 07 has. In some ways that extra 5k is worth it.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:30 pm
Plenty of room for the baby carriage! Scooby owners rejoice.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:50 pm
I am thinking about either this or the Mazda, I do like the Mazda because the interior is cool, I hadn’t thought of the subaru yet, will have to give it a go now
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:53 pm
Sorry to say, but this is a very average review. It focused on your only pro Subaru Argument. AWD. It’s getting very boring. This car is half the car the SP23 is. Just read every other credible review in the land. No, or very little mention of cheap plastics, cheap seats, cheap dash, cheap interior in general, a 5 speed instead of a 6 speed manual box, an auto that hunts gears like crazy, and an underpowered engine. Journalism is supposed to be based on hard facts, not pre conceived ideas and biases towards certain brands. Fact is SP23 is a superior car, and anoher fact is that Mazda is handing Subaru its ass!
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 4:59 pm
LCat: I caught that too. 15″ brake discs are massive when the rims look like they are 15-16″. Subaru engineers must have struck upon a miracle in brake technology.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 5:04 pm
I heard through the grapevine that in europe they were making a diesel lineup to try and snag the young professional or cost concious people. I wouldnt blame impreza fans for firing up if it is true
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 5:13 pm
Bubba: Subaru have a turbo diesel boxer nearly ready to go. Looking to go head to head against the Golf, Citroens and Peugeots.
I would love a 2.5 Turbo Diesel Liberty Wagon please Subaru. Hopefully they can have it ready by the time my current lease is up in under 2 years.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 5:17 pm
MMM……..Nick..I thought Alborz had already gone over the interior and gearbox issues? I guess you don’t like the fact it is AWD and its very good at it still? Mate this site is one of very few you will read in Oz that isn’t biased to brands!!
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 5:24 pm
Im very dissapointed with subaru
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 5:31 pm
ah its a boxter engine. that should be interesting i got the impression that it was just going to be a regular diesel donk.
love to see the stats on that when it comes out
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 6:14 pm
Pig-eye? Don’t you mean ‘pig snout’
The car’s ok. But the styling is hideous, especially that rear end. An evolution of the previous models would have been more the ticket.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 6:22 pm
Nick, I do mention the interior, there is nothing wrong with the gearbox, infact a six-speed gearbox is almost unnecessary to a car with this much power, but Subaru have never given a six-speed to anything bar an STi and the Liberty GT.
The auto was not tested, as mentioned. The SP23 is a great car, but the RS is the better car, it handles better, it looks better, and I believe it will hold its value a lot better than the Mazda.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 6:59 pm
There’s no boot space! There’s a lot of plusses for the car (and AWD + 5 star safety are big plusses for your average punter) but the load space is very ordinary.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 7:20 pm
I guess you guys are all youngish!!
I think Subaru have gone after the Euro market……and I think they will get there!
I do love the old ones too but it makes us oldies feel like mutton dressed up as lamb when we drive it! We want a sheep in Wolves clothing!
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 7:43 pm
you sure you want a sheep in wolves clothing BM? =) I’m pretty sure they aren’t 15′ disc brakes too..
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 7:56 pm
Hey Nick my man. I drove a mate’s SP23 last year with a set of decent wheels and tyres and I can say without any bias whatsoever, that is was the most uncomfortable car I’ve driven in a long time. So harsh was the suspension that I feared the suspension fitters on the factory line had gone on a break and forgot to come back.
You are in fantasy land if you think that the Mazda is a better car than the new Impreza!
Oh, and for what its worth – Bavarian is spot on – this is the only independent motoring site in Australia that calls a spade a spade.
Wake up man!
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 7:58 pm
Jbot, I think BM means exactly as she said there! Something aggressive looking but nice and simple to drive.
BM, Subie need a diesel for the euro market
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 8:06 pm
Thanks Importjap…..yep thats pretty much it! Like a cheap M3! BY the way hubby took my M3 out to get his headers adapted to the new o2 sensors{grrr in my boot} and as normal someone tries to race you! He didn’t bother cause hes done them before!I still think there great value though!I myself have nailed one………..up hill!
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 10:15 pm
Tony I think you are exaggerating as much as Nick. The Mazda Sp23 is a very good car to drive, the suspension is good and unless it is going under certain hard bumps it has no problems at all.
I haven’t driven the new Impreza, so i can’t compare. Subarus are decent cars though. If you think Nick is in fantasy land for saying Mazda is better than Subaru, then you can say the same to most of the car journalist in the media as well.
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 10:31 pm
not so Kiasu – I have driven both cars. The Subaru is a superior vehicle in many ways.
You have to call it as you see it mate. Most of the big media companies are so cuaght up in making money that you really can’t believe what they write.
At least I’ve found this site to be fair dinkum mate
Vote:December 28th, 2007 at 10:48 pm
Tony, and Bavarian Missile, I say this with all due respect, but you guys are car advice “groupies” trying to be all prim and proper. This site is not a place for personal attacks, and if it sounded like one, im sorry. Tony, look at the sales, and you will soon realise that you are in fantasy land. Read every car review ever made between the SP23, and the new Imprezza RS, and not one goes in the RS’s favour. Again you are in fantasy land. Im not refuting the fact that the Subaru is a great little car, but to talk about it like it is an F430, and saying things like “a car with THIS MUCH POWER” does not need a 6 speed box etc etc, is a bit young. A 6 speed box is the norm these days, and the use of a 5 speeder is simply a cost cutting measure. Also Tony, I worked at BMW germany as an engineer for 3 years, tuning chassis and suspension on a lot of the models on the road today. I can honestly tell you that Mazda has done a brilliant job on the SP23, and has found a sweet spot in terms of handling, and comfort. A few NVH issues, but otherwise really good. Ask your mate what size wheels were on the car, and what suspension “mods” he has had done.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 7:26 am
Hey Nick can’t talk sales mate – the Suby is only just released buddy. mazda has done a terrific marketing job = Toyota has done env better than them.
Its much safer for the overwhelming majority of punters to be in car with AWD as an engineer, you would have to agree with that.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 8:20 am
Tony, AWD does a good job of masking some mediocre chassis and suspension tunes. Im not talking Subaru, but some other cars out there like older Audi’s for example. It could be argued that AWD would ultimately be safer, but with the current cars on the road today, TC,ABS, EBFD, BA, DSC, etc, it almost makes AWD redundant on A-B cars. Im not talking RS-4, STI, EVO type cars, just run of the mill showroom models. Physics will always prevail, so it is foolish to think that AWD is your saviour. If you go into a corner too fast, your going straight. Simple as that. Besides, would most punters out there know how to use AWD to their advantage to be able to get out of a sticky situation. Also, will they react efficiently before the DSC does it’s work. Will it make a difference if it’s AWD or FWD when the DSC intervienes? Will the outcome be any different? These were the types of discussions RE AWD at BMW during my time, and we could never say yes to all of them.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 8:46 am
I have driven the new impreza RS auto over a two week period!! at first i thought its ok! but its the sort of car that really grows on you the more you drive it! you start to appreciate its exceptional handling/ride quality. then you realise how quite it is and how well it insulates road noise compared to all other small cars. then there is the solid safe feel on the road, and the nice sporty sound of the boxer engine when u wind it out, then the comfy seats that hold you in, I grew to love it and everyone that saw it loved the new look! AWD is definately a big advantage in roadhoding/safety and a solid feel on the road, well done subaru for buliding the best/safest/most refined/best resale small car on the market, and still keeping up subaru traditions..
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 9:16 am
I would have bought an Impreza RS if only the boot had been bigger! As it was, it was too small for my needs, if only they had bought out a sedan version at the same time!
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 9:18 am
Mechanically the new Subie is just as good as previous models.. Yet; the impreza has lost some of its trademark looks such as the flared guards and the frameless windows Whereas the new Lancer still looks aggressive which is why a number of subie fans are upset about the new one.. at least the STi has retained its muscular looks.
Which could be why the Base model looks so sedate/bland.. to make the STi look more distinctive and unique
I however will keep MY02RS because its as close to a Rex as you can get – same 2.5 Litre and Bucket seats without paying the extra insurance premuim for the turbo or for the fuel.. and it looks better.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 9:57 am
I can speak from experience here. When it starts to rain AWD is so far superior to FWD\RWD – without a shadow of a doubt. I’ve driven a VT commodore berlina (6cyl) in the wet and the slightest bit of acceleration on cornering has the tail going wide. That may not alarm some people – but if you’re then on the wrong side of the road with a semi-trailer barrelling down at you – you’re as good as gone.
There’s no doubt why young drivers who speed in powerful (ie, 6cyl falcons and commodores) die in crashes – without a limited slip diff, these cars are potentially very dangerous to drive in a sports like manner (which young males, without money to spend on a proper sports spec, will inevitably do anyway with whatever they can afford).
Parents – do yourself a huge favour when buying your kid’s very first car; do not buy a powerful (ie, 6cyl or 8cyl) RWD car. Play it safe, first of all, by purchasing a 4cyl – one thing they’ll at least appreciate is the fuel economy. At the very least, in terms of car cost (if there are budget issues), get them a FWD where the tail cannot ’spin-out’. At the very best, it’s AWD – no contest. But, final advice – stay away from heavy 4WD’s with a high-centre of gravity (I won’t provide any specific models here – but the real large four-wheel drives that look like trucks) which younger drivers find hard to control.
AWD is the smartest purchasing decision you will ever make. Don’t believe me? Take one out for a test drive in the wet, you won’t believe it’s road-holding abilities.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 11:38 am
^ how fast do you want your kids to go in the wet?
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 12:02 pm
Nick, Yes a six-speed would be nice, but as I said, Subaru have never given a six speed in anything bar the STi and Lib GT, and in reality, you really don’t need it,
I meant “this much power” as in, its a limited amount of power so a six speed would only be beneficial for marginally better fuel efficiency,
When I drove the RS and the SP23 back to back, there was something about the RS that seemed right, it just felt better to drive, its a more sturdy car and you would feel far more confident behind the wheel.
But don’t take it from me, go drive both, if you think the SP23 is the better car, than no one is stopping you! It’s by far the more popular car, but the Corolla is even more popular, it doesn’t mean its better!
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 2:11 pm
i think a major cause of dislike towards the new design is that people get confused between the wrx and the wrx sti.
they dont realise that suby has created a much greater variation in the new models. the new sti looks hot
what i’m saying is.. how does the new wrx look any less aggressive than its competitors? (mazda 3 MPS, golf gti, hsv vxr, rs megane, xr5 etc) they are all just mundane hatches with a body kit)
the sti on the other hand looks like the performance flagship people associate with suby
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 3:48 pm
Alborz, i have driven both, and there is no doubt about which one i’d buy. The SP23. The Subaru’s automatic transmission is disgraceful by todays standards, hunting through the gears to keep the engine on the boil. This is peecisely why another cog is needed. An extra gear does not necessarily mean a taller final drive ratio. It means that the ratios can be a bit closer together, meaning that the gearbox does not have to go up and down like a bride’s nighty, to keep the engine happy. This equates to a smoother, nicer drive, with improved fuel consumption. The reason why Subaru has a 4 Speed slush box, and a 5 speed manual is purely cost saving. Again, i would just like to make clear that if i were in the market for a 30K hatch,i would definately consider the Subaru, but in the end, it would ultimately fall short.
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 8:47 pm
Nick – come on now mate. Come clean, you work for Mazda in some capacity or you haven’t got a mechanical bone in your body.
There is no way you could drive these two cars and come up with the tired and now dated SP23. It just doesn’t add up mate!
Vote:December 29th, 2007 at 11:34 pm
Tony, Mazdas are like a bottle of good red! They get better with age. Oh, and by the way, your right, im not a mechanical person. Just a mechanical engineer by default
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 12:43 am
Nick, I haven’t driven the auto and as I said in the review, I’d rather buy the manual regardless, you also have to remember Mazda offer a four-speed on the entry model 3 and it only goes to five for the SP23.
I think you should drive the five-speed manual RS, it will surprise you.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 4:41 am
Alborz owns a Subaru so he’s biased regardless of what he writes.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 6:38 am
I think it was Drive or someone… they voted the Mazda 3 as the top car in its class over the Impreza (in auto). But as said the manual, which I have driven, is alrite… although I really have doubts as to why AWD is needed for a car with such little power (so you really only get the drawbacks such as poor fuel economy… and rarely the benefits of additional grip)
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 10:49 am
when it comes to driving a AWD or RWD or FWD… its mainly comes down to Driving styles… if you drive along like a old granny and not testing the limits of ur car FWD is fine for ever day use….
If you are going for more a proformance and handling side of things for a car then look in to a RWD or AWD… again this comes down to what you want to car for.. Straight line speed RWD is fine but if you want to handle the tight stuff while really going at it… go AWD…
i have driven all 3 types of cars… for me i like my RWD car because i am not in to hambering thru the tight stuff, i am more about straight line speed and big open corners, but my car can handle most i throw at it still… So i will always have a RWD because it suits what i use it for and my driving style… i own a 2004 BA XR6 with the sports suspenion and etc so it handles pretty good even when trying to go thru the tight stuff with some speed i take the corners knowing that ass will step out when pushing it but i allow for it knowing how my car acts and feels… its all about knowing ur car and its limits…
and then there is my mate with a 2004 WRX… with full custom exhaust and intake… soon to be remapped… he does things in that thing i could only dream about at high speeds that things handles so well in the tight stuff while pushing it… again it suits he needs and his driving style… but saying that its a all rounder… it handles great, and is FAST but just doesnt have the Top end of a V8 or Typhoon this would be different for say a RS4 or something thou…
and there is my other mate… not really in to racing or anything its more about just getting A-B… he owns a 2002 Mazda 6 Luxary… again its a great car for normal day to day driving… but not a car you would throw around… personally i dont feel in control of a FWD when pushing it….
SO again when it comes to FWD,RWD,AWD it comes down to what you want it for and your driving style… and knowing the limits of your car… for exmaple when its raining my mate in the rex can push it as AWD i have to back off a little(i just to accelarate a little later in the corners) so i can stay in control of the vehicle… But if you want are that is really use to be in control of at all times in all conditions i would go for AWD….
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 11:59 am
^ accelerating in corners in the wet?
Vote:maybe this discussion should be based more on driver limitations rather than awd v rwd v fwd or how fast your granny drives.
December 30th, 2007 at 1:23 pm
why did subaru include awd on all models?
because its what they’re all about, their motto/philosophy if you will.
all suby’s have their awd system marketed and advertised heavily
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 1:43 pm
yea if you have a good enough car under you with good handling and Control….and you know the limits of urself and the car under you….. why not???? again its all about knowing the limits of your car and urself….
this is where Driving training comes in to play… its not about how much power the car has as stated in above comment… its all about the drivers abilty to handle it and know when and when not to push the car… i think every one should push there car to the limit in a safe envirvo so they know what it and isnt capable of and what there themselves are capable of…..
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 2:50 pm
FWD v RWD v AWD for street purposes is useless, all have similar limits as far as Im concerned… not feeling comfortably with one particular design doesnt make it worse. Anyway Im not sure what this has to do with the regular Impreza, the fact is it shouldnt be AWD… clearly its no performance car and its target market isnt enthusiasts, AWD is pointless and only reduces its fuel efficiency.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 4:14 pm
TP that couldn’t be further from the truth, try driving your regular FWD corolla in the wet and then drive the standard Impreza. AWD saves lives, its much less likely to let go on you at any stage.
Subaru have built their image and brand on All-Wheel-Drive technology and its one of the main reasons they have been so successful.
As the reviewer says, there is no such thing as a fwd sports car, and if u can get an AWD for the same price as a FWD, you’d be a fool to go for the FWD.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 4:16 pm
Finally, a review that puts this above the SP23. Yes the SP23 has a better interior and what not, but this is a Subaru, you get Allwheeldrive plus … its not a mazda!
But Subaru really need to fix up their interiors.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 5:09 pm
Adam J, you do realise that if you can get an AWD for the same price as a FWD, the FWD would have more invested into other parts of the car – ie interior fit-out. You’d be a fool to not recognise the cost benefits of FWD.
And in a car with this much power, AWD is of very little benefit. How often to you drive your car to its limit through the bends in the wet?????
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 7:33 pm
TP is spot on. With this measly power output, and relatively high weight, AWD is just extra ballast. Ditch the AWD i.e. rear diff, driveshafts etc, and include one extra gear, and watch the fuel consumption fall. This will equate to a net gain 100KG+. Now for the wet argument. If your traffic light starts are 5000RPM, drop the clutch, yeah the AWD will get off the line better. In most other scenarios, no real advantage. What seems to be obvious is that Alborz is quite biased towards Subaru, as is Tony, and me towards Mazda. My main issue is that it is a journalists responsibility to report on facts, and not personal preferences. Fact is that SP23 has won every comparo with the new Impreza according to every other net and major magazine review, and i seem to agree with them. I’ll finish by saying that everyone is entitled to their opinions, and i’ll repects differing opinions, but it’s important not to mistake opinions for facts.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 9:38 pm
Nick, firstly, this wasnt a comparo as such, secondly just because some magazines said the SP23 was better, doesn’t mean it is, thirdly, you are probably remembering what you read about the old impreza, not the new one.
As I said in the review, the Impreza does not compete with the mazda it terms of interior refinement, but it beats the SP23 in every other way, the five-star safety rating alone would make me buy this car over the Mazda, standard ESP, AWD (yes I’d rather have it than not).
Consider this, the Mazda SP23 is more expensive, doesnt have a five-star safety rating, doesnt have standard ESP, and it isn’t AWD – the choice is easy!
I am bias towards subaru because its the better choice.
If you don’t agree with me, thats okay! Pick the Mazda, many do, but as I said, sales figures don’t reflect a car’s worth, besides most Mazda3 sales are of the base model, and not the SP23.
I also think the new WRX is significantly superior to the MPS3 (always have), but thats a whole new argument, one which I won’t go into at this stage!
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 9:52 pm
Its funny reading all these comments, I actually thought this was one of the better reviews I have read here, I own a Mazda, and I don’t think its the better car in comparison to the new impreza,
Why would you buy a car which is almost 4 years old design wise and has a four-star safety rating, when you can get a brand new car with standard stability control and 5 star safty rating?
I got limited idea on the FWD and AWD argument, i’ve never thought about it. but it makes sense why would you not want AWD for the same dosh…?
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 10:00 pm
Nick, give it up mate, alburz is right, the safety rating alone would make me buy this car over the mazda, and the whole AWD is unneccary argument is stupid, its not that subaru are charging more for it! Its actually cheaper
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 10:07 pm
Alborz, it’s pretty clear that your clutching at straws, hence starting a new point of discussion. When it rains, bring your WRX out for a traffic light grand prix. This is about the only time a WRX will even come close to an MPS3. This is Australia, the land of the drought unfortunately. For all the dry days (vast majority), you better keep it on the garage to save the embarassment lol.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 10:14 pm
Nick I think its best to agree to disagree.
For what I do on a weekend basis (mountain runs etc) I find the WRX significantly more capable than the MPS3 (which I am guessing you own).
I have driven both cars on track, they are both quick, the MPS3 is actually probably quicker in its stock form, but, the WRX is still my choice. Lets leave it at that.
Vote:December 30th, 2007 at 10:27 pm
Mazda6 MPS –hmmm? isn’t that awd? so i wonder if there was an internal debate by Mazda as to whether the 3MPS was to have had it also ?
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 2:02 am
There was Lcat, when I was at the mazda driver training day I asked that exact question and they told me it was a cost decision. Although I try not to mention that to Mazda fans, they don’t want to believe it :D
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 7:34 am
Interesting review Alborz. I have no problem with you coming to a different conclusion to other reviewers. If there aren’t some different opinions, I may as well only read one review of each car.
I’m not a fan of the Subbies styling, although is has grown on me since I have seen it more. I can live with the interior, but I am disappointed there’s no 6th gear. Top marks for 5 Star safety and AWD. Perhaps in 95% of driving you’ll never know it’s there, but I’d prefer to have it than not for no extra money.
But I’d be interested to know if you think the RS is worth the extra $5k over the R for identical performance?
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 7:50 am
Thanks for that info Alborz. I guess also that the fitment of AWD to the 3MPS would have pitched it squarely at the feet of WRX territory at STi prices?
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 10:14 am
I think anyone here who gives negative comments on the impreza without actually driving one has no clue and shouldnt voice there opinion!!! as i said previously i drove one for two weeks and came away extremely imprezzed!!!
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 10:39 am
Just to clarify if anything was directed at me, Im not saying the Impreza is worse then the Mazda (although Nick is correct, many reviews have SAID it is… it did win car of the year for its category from I think Drive)… in fact in many regards its better, safety being a huge one. But in relation to AWD, it really is pointless… Adam Im well aware in the wet there is some benefit however even then its very limited given the cars lack of power nor do the target market for this kind of car really push to gain such benefits (This isnt the WRX). Simply, the key features of this vehicle, its safety… would still be a key features without AWD, it would still have 5 stars it would still have ESP. One thing it would gain however, is better fuel consumption. Currently to me understanding its last in the class in this area, an area which people now more than ever are focusing on… all for the benefit of AWD or should I say lack there of given the cars primary use.
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 11:03 am
Alborz, I previously owned an STI V, and it remains one of my favourite all time cars. At the moment i do own a 3 MPS which does not spend much time on the road at all. It has an exede piggyback system, Turbo back exhaust, R Spec tyres, coilovers, no rear seats, no spare tyre, and has gone on a diet. It spends most of it’s time on the track. As a daily driver, I took delivery of a white S3 a coupe of months ago. p.s. I’ll settle on the agree to disagree part! Cheers
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 2:01 pm
People seem fixated on the AWD thing. Firstly FWD isn’t crap and doesn’t automatically mean crap handling or track times. The new RenaultSport Megane F1 R26 or whatever they call it is 1.5 seconds faster around a track than the new WRX. Can’t remember which one. Doesn’t mean ALL tracks, but the suggestion of great track speed is there. And who can forget the “original” type-R and various Peugeots.
Witness: MazdaSpeed 3 MPSes lapping the Nurburgring (go find the YouTube videos).
AWD, especially on a track, does not mean that it is automatically a better handling proposition or faster.
AWD can give better safety in the wet. But you know what? For a car of modest power, I’ve never felt in danger in the wet driving a FWD. I have a Pulsar and an Accord. In normal driving conditions, which is the usage of the majority of car owners, a FWD will almost never be pushed into a dangerous situation, even in roundabouts in the wet, especially at “normal” speeds.
How fast do you need to go around corners anyway?
If you are like me and enjoy spirited driving, then you can still achieve reasonable speeds around corners in the wet in a FWD. But the question must be asked again: How fast do you need to go? Does an extra 5 or even 10kmh corner speed give you more thrills? What about the good ol’ days of fairly slow, but fun cars (like Minis or old Geminis).
No, for the average motorist FWD is fine, and for enthusiasts that know how to handle cars, FWD is just as fun for that 5% of the time when you are on the edge.
I have no problem with AWD. But to argue that it is a necessity (especially where fuel consumption is concerned) is wrong.
Subaru have pulled a clever marketing trick on the world where AWD = Safety. This is not entirely true and not entirely necessary.
As for this new Impreza, I’d certainly consider one. I haven’t driven one, but I get the impression its a great car, if a little compromised for cost saving. I’d check out the SP23 and probably a plethora of other cars in the same bracket or the one just above with all the Turbos and such.
Vote:December 31st, 2007 at 2:15 pm
fwd can be good in the right car!! it has to be light weight and have good top end power but not to much torque especially down low in rev range otherwise creates to much torque steer!! also nees a good rigid well set up chassis
Vote:with light wheels and good tyres!! other wise AWD is the only way to go especially with a hard hitting turbo engine..
January 2nd, 2008 at 1:10 am
Ive just brought a subaru impreza 2007 rs and there were only 199 made they came out with the wrx sports shifter and sti springs with wrx rims and suspension I brought this car over the lastest model due to the new one looking like a mazda 3 and i didnt like that but I love this car
Vote:January 2nd, 2008 at 10:44 am
Agree with Nick 100%
Totally biased review.
I test drove the new impreza RS and walked away laughing. Pig of a car. Would be embarrassed to have it in my drive way. (My ride is an VW R32….so no, I don\’t drive a Mazda.)
Vote:January 4th, 2008 at 3:06 pm
I have an updated sp23 with stability / traction ect 6sp manual $30500 cost – it appears the Subaru only has 15″ wheels apposed to 17″ on the Mazda. My main reason for buying the Mazda sedan was the interior, the large boot, folding seats (bigger than many hatchbacks with their seats up) and reliability. It is bigger than the Subaru h/ b
Vote:January 7th, 2008 at 12:59 am
The RS has 17″ wheels, and the brakes at 15″ – in diameter.
Vote:January 9th, 2008 at 10:52 am
I have been reading the for and against the Sp23 and the RS. I test drove both cars, i liked the Sp23 on paper with the upgrade to the bose system and the bigger engine..but thats where it ended. The clutch was a cable clutch…it was really easy to hold in but as soon as you let it out it just jumps out and is really heavy…
The gear stick was extremly notchy, i even had trouble changing gears with it. and the Suspension especially in the back, was really jumpy and very unsure of it self.
As soon as i jumped in the RS i loved it.
The Suspension is great, clutch was soft, turn off the stereo and it is so peaceful, and maybe a bit quite, sometimes you cant even hear the engine..i started it twice a few times.
I brought it about 3 months ago and ive racked up 6000km, ive just come back from a road trip to the 12 apostles and back to sydney. and it is the best car i have ever brought without a doubt.
Whenever i see a SP23 i just laugh and say to myself that guy didn’t try the suby.
Vote:January 13th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Hello,
I have driven both cars, the SP23 and the IMPREZA RS. The SP23 is quick indeed, good handling for a FWD and comfortable. I was impressed when I drove it, no doubt.
However here in northern Sweden, I have to admit the IMPREZA outdid the SP23 for me, for the fact of the extreme snow conditions we have here, and the AWD does help me , while normal FWDs squiggle about on the slippery and hilly roads.
Its also kinda nice to be able to drive away like Audi Quattros and R32s (from open parking lots), without being stuck in the snow like other hatchbacks.
Furthermore, the IMPREZA is indeed quieter, a lot quieter than the previous models and pretty smooth on acceleration.
A mate of mine had stated that it was actually quiter than the new Audi A3, after he drove it.
With extreme low temperatures at times that we have here, Im really impreZAD with this car’s handling and performance on the snow with good speeds. Have already done 4000 km, without any worries of slipping away in a ditch, especially when the roads become ’slushy’ and water logged. I do wish, though, that this car had a 6th gear, for the price tag it comes with.
I guess its all down to personal choice, and what you need in the car at the end of the day.
Max Gerrard
Vote:Riksgränsen, North Sweden.
January 13th, 2008 at 4:39 pm
The Impreza looks better in the flesh; otherwise pictures would render it a 1-Series knock-off. As always, it will handle like a regular Subaru, but they need more than a 4-speed auto.
Vote:January 17th, 2008 at 5:45 am
Just like what Maxwell said…if you live where there is snow …you are better off with an affordable AWD.. i have test drove the ugly impreza sedan(atleast the hatch looks a bit better) and was impress with its perfomance in snow….
but if you live in a nice and sunny weather (sun/rain) i will soooooo go for the sp23.
Vote:February 29th, 2008 at 11:16 pm
Coming from a 2004 GX Impreza owner, I can honestly say that owning an AWD car that has less than 130kw is an absolute waste of petrol and not to mention an environment killer.
Prior to purchasing the Subaru, I read a lot of their White Papers on the benefits of AWD in cornering etc. I got sucked into the whole marketing thing.
In reality, unless you are an avid skier and hit the slopes pretty often, I would say that an AWD drive car has a lot of disadvantages:
1. Sucks more fuel as your are driving more wheels, gears, shaft.
2. Noisier drive due to the reasons described above.
3. Performance suffers also due to the reasons described above.
Do you know why the non-turbo versions feel so secure? Its because the AWD system slows acceleration down by such a significant degree that it doesn’t get a chance to slip.
Try getting behind even a really crappy car immediately after driving a lardy AWD…by crappy car I mean a non drivers fridge on wheels like a Toyota Corolla…you will feel like the Corolla has grown wings all of a sudden because it isn’t being bogged down by the AWD system.
This reviewer has lost a lot of credibility in my books by selling the strenght’s of AWD without balancing this with the associated disadvantages.
You don’t need AWD unless you have a hyper speed engine. Its chasis balance and suspension tuning that play an important role in a vehicle’s handling ability.
If you were refering to the WRX then I would say different story but we are talking about a sub 200NM torque vehicle here.
Vote:March 5th, 2008 at 4:58 am
…….don’t hate. I just bought one…… well atleast its good in snow…
Vote:May 4th, 2008 at 5:37 pm
All the Mazda supporters must be city and expressway drivers as the Mazda has only 110 mm ground clearance – not enough for country roads or many Sydney rapid change of grade driveways. The Subaru has 155 mm which is abit over 6 inches on the old scale and this was proven adequate by early Holdens and Falcons before everyone thought you needed a truck to drive on country roads. The standard Subaru R has 16inch wheels and 205 mm wide tires to give it much better road grip than the Mazda.
Vote:Magani
May 4th, 2008 at 8:17 pm
I was just dreaming of a RWD “R”. It would get more power to the tar and be a lot of fun to throw around! Has anyone ever done it???
Vote:May 19th, 2008 at 9:06 pm
Ive driven the new imprezza and at first was not impressed, went back a second time and gave it a bit more of a caneing, and drove it like I owned it rather than had borrowed it.
It has grown on me and reckon I will buy it.
I do 35,000 country miles per year and have always driven SUV’s including Toyota and Ford.
The only thing I am concerned about is it feels close to the road after what I have driven, But thought it handled pretty well on the gravel as well as on the bitumen?
Any other ladies out there doing country miles with one?
Olive
If so what do you think?
Vote:June 12th, 2008 at 7:16 am
Subaru in Brisbane is lucky enough to be situated right next to Mt Cootha. For me it was the toss up between the Mazda and the Subaru – The test drive in the RS meant taking it up the mountain. I was sold and didnt even go for the Mazda test drive.
This is a great car, after a month of driving, couldn’t be happier. Having never owned an all wheel drive car, I will never go back. You can’t move off the road, the rain means nothing. Hopefully a year or two and a payrise or two! and I’ll see myself in a WRX
Vote:June 18th, 2008 at 6:05 am
A few years ago I owned both a Peugeot 205GTI (FWD) and Lancia Delta Integrale (AWD). Contrasting cars of a similar size but both great fun. The Pug was beautifully balanced and simply phenomenal for it’s time but by comparison, the Integrale came into a class of it’s own for grip and performance.
My current car is the Renault Megane R26 and I know that without any doubt, it can be coaxed through winding tarmac much, much faster than either of the above. The magic that Renault have worked with the R26 completely redefines FWD.
Vote:June 23rd, 2008 at 9:51 pm
For all you pro Mazda3 fans……have you actually sat in one? If you think the Impreza 08 is plastiky with cheap seating, you wouldn’t want to put your behind on the brick seating in the Mazda3! PS…plastic is easy to clean and maintain………no more vac for the doors!!Woohoo.
Vote:July 6th, 2008 at 12:35 am
I test drove both the SP23 and the Impreza RS (both auto) today and have called a pretty dead even heat. The RS to me is the better car in terms of external styling whereas the Mazda, although slick, seems tired given that I see countless numbers on the road. Interior styling went to Mazda hands down.
Vote:The Mazda had a lot of pick up and felt like a smooth drive. The Subie seemed more stable and held the road better. My wife said she felt safer in the Subie. However, the tired 2 litre engine of the Subie is annoying. If it was a 2.5 litre or even a 2.3 litre, there’d be no contest. However, it is a VERY hard decision.
August 14th, 2008 at 12:51 pm
Interesting discussion. It’s amusing to see how heated people can get. I had a GT Forester for 10 years and hated letting it go at over 200k. My increasing age, health problems and less money than I used to have, meant I had to buy a smaller car and it had to be an automatic. (I’ve always hated automatics!)
Vote:While I agree AWD is rarely important in day-to-day driving, it saved my arse at least three times in the past 10 years so I test drove an auto Imprezza. Very comfortable. Despite being over 6ft, I found it was like sitting in an armchair — and about as mobile. But what the heck, I’m too old to go racing around so I bought one.
Fast forward a couple of months. I was wrong. The Imprezza can be a very spirited little creature. Turbo it ain’t, but now I’ve learned how to flick from Auto to Sports to Manual shift, I’m finding it the perfect combination. Auto for the dull days when I wish I hadn’t had to get out of bed, Sports for burning off uppity Mazdas and Manual for winding mountain roads.
Sure, it’s a compromise. Name me a car that isn’t.
November 1st, 2008 at 9:40 am
I think this discussion is such a fascinating one because of the differing ways each car us presented – Battles within Battles if you catch my drift (no PUN intended)
AWD Vs FWD
RS 2.0L Vs SP23 2.3L
RS 5 Sp v SP23 6 speed
NCAP Rating 5 vs 4
Cheap Plast-icky interior Vs Mazda quality
There is one thing that has not been mentioned (that I can tell) that wins me over each and every time. Vision through the front windscreen. Hard to describe what it means to be quality but I know when I found it.
Focus, Corolla, Mazda, Lancer, Astra and Golf DONT HAVE IT.
Along with the qualities talk about adnauseum, the Impreza HAS IT and wins in my book. Can any Impreza owners better describe the front windscreen vision factor? It just seems like you can see more.
Vote:February 5th, 2009 at 11:24 pm
I own a RS -12 months now.
Apart from the AWD which is brilliant – it has a great re sale value.
Yes the interior is average, but I do not live in mine. The luggage space is small, but I didn’t order a semi trailer.
It goes like the clappers when I need it to and the sportshift is a bonus.
It’s a great drive and cheap to tun.
Sid
Vote:February 20th, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Very interesting blog – the discussion more than the main article.
I am unfortunately – in a toss right now. The options being: Subaru R , Lancer ES , Mazda 3 neo, Focus CL.
Honing down to Subaru, Mazda or Lancer.
How is the REAL fuel efficiency of Impreza??
Vote:February 24th, 2009 at 11:45 am
Ravith,
I just went through the same process.
When comparing those base models (Mazda, Lancer or Subaru), the Suby R wins hands down. Just comparing features and performance and safety is enough to show that. The slight extra price for the Suby R is worth it.
Mazda3 is now dated with a new model due within the next 6 months so don’t be sucked into the Mazda dealer sales. The dealers will throw anything at you to move the current stock below retail.
The new shape CJ Lancer on-road handling is nasty. Take one for a drive (you will see what I mean) and then avoid them.
Drive the Suby R and you will not be disappointed.
Vote:March 4th, 2009 at 5:52 am
Mazda will never match a Subaru! Subaru has awd and a boxer engine. Boxer engines handle better because they have a lower center of gravity.
Vote:March 6th, 2009 at 2:45 am
I’ve noticed in the last month Subaru have dropped the prices or included extra equipment on the Impreza range (R comes with alloys and starts at $22,990, etc).
I’m looking at a few options to replace my incredibly unreliable Holden Astra SRI 2.2. The Impreza RS appeals as I end up on plenty of unsealed roads and find the average modern FWD car (especially if equipped with electro-mechanical steering as opposed to hydraulic) can not comfortably drive on them. I don’t need an SUV as ground clearance isn’t a problem (I coped with the Astra’s 102mm), just better stability and confidence inspiring handling and steering feel on both mountain roads and gravel tracks.
I am disappointed the current Impreza RS only comes with the 2.0 when in the US and Canada the non-WRX Imprezas only come with the 2.5 engine from the Forester etc. It is also a bit rough accepting the low-rent Subi interior when for the same money you can get a VW Golf, but I think I will actually utilise the AWD. We shall see!
Vote:March 7th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Long time reader first time poster.
After reading reviews, notwithstanding caradvice.com’s review of the Imprezza RS and at the sametime forced by the breakdown of my old forester 97 model (bloody mechanics) I went out and purchased a Imprezza RS in Oct 08.
Now I was a little hesitant but then again for $30k what else is there in the market that has AWD and isn’t a piece of crap? Really there isn’t that much to choose from, apart from other Subuaru’s and they at the time were quite a bit more (they weren’t doing drive away deals on Foresters).
Now i guess i’m a little biased, for one reason or another my entire family, my in laws combined, all own Subaru vehicles. Sure they’ve had others makes, but for one reason or another over the last 10 years they’ve all purchased, and kept purchasing Subarus. I guess understand why now. They go and go (nay a problem, except with a dodgy mechanic), they are as stable as a fricken rock (no slip sliding whatsoever) and when you need it they have a bit of grunt.
Back to the story, so after purchasing Lucky (name so for the period of terrible luck I was going through, damn mechanics). The RS, looks fine inside. Yeah its got a plastic console but for $30k so does pretty much everything else. Personally I find the interior quality to be much better then a Holden or Ford. If you want to talk about sterile design, plastic galore then by all means we can engage in a bit of cockney word play.
Definitely a step above a Toyota who’s designs are just weak (and talk about plastics), a bit more exciting then a Nissan. Against Honda, well Honda are good but then again your paying $5-10k more. Against the Mazda 3, well I’d say I’d prefer the cabin over the Mazda 3, it feels taller, wider, and not so claustrophobic. The quality, well I just feel better in the Subaru and the seats against the wooden pews of the Mazda….
So yes it could be better but its functional, looks great at night with the red glow (far better effect the Mazda 3). The wife reckons the cup holder should be up in front of the vents like the forester but personally i like them down next to the handbrake. Definitely don’t have to worry about a ton of coke spilling all over the place. Stereo is a bit weak, can be played loud but with many bodies in the car, it seems to lose detail and fidelity. probably will get it replaced one of these days. 3.5mm jack in the centre console is quite handy though.
Best of all the seats. I found the seats on many other makes to be harder, lacking support. The RS’s seats just cup your ass up and well hold you like a baby. To be frank it was the seats that did it for me, the moment i sat in it i knew i’d buy the car. I just can’t stand to be uncomfortable, and thus so far so good, on the long journeys up to the mountains it seems to be working. Definitely not feeling fatigued by the seats or the driving position.
The engine will disappoint you for the first 4,000km, you’ll get to about 1,000Km and be wondering “is that it”, a bit annoyed that whenever you want a bit of oomph you’ve got to stick it 2nd, that 3rd doesn’t seem to be all that effective unless you’ve got the rev’s up high (like 4000rpm), which your not meant to do until you’ve got past 5,000km.
So soon after hitting 5,000km and the first service the car’s behaviour changed completely. Its almost like owning a new car. Now i got the auto (i sit in a bit of traffic so no point destroying my leg on the clutch) and thus noticed that I no longer need sports mode. Car just leaps when ever you put a little pressure on and its just so much more quicker.
sure the auto can forget, fairly rarely, to pick the right gear but “sports” (ha) mode allows you to choose the gear and hey the auto seems to do the right thing most of the time. Far superior to the old imprezza’s, and much better then any other 4 gear auto i’ve driven.
I really think Subaru needs run 5000km on the clocks before they sell an Imprezza, they’d be selling them like hot cakes.
Lastly the handling. Now i’ve driven many a car, holdens, Nissan silly car (a Silvia), Subarus (liberty’s, foresters, imprezza’s) etc and they all had body roll. Things would slide around the cabin depending on speed and angle of turn, and yet irrespective of what I throw at the car I, my belongs, the thousands of toys that litter my vehicle, seem to do nothing, it is like the universe is turning around me and the car is staying absolutely straight.
Suspension, well its pretty good. I reckon to have good suspension is not to even notice or remember that you’ve a teeth rattling trip, or journey. It soaks it up.
Brakes are also quite effective, with much progression.
Perhaps Subaru need to run obstacle outside of every dealership.
So that’s with the good. The bad, well its a bit small. The boot is a bit of a squeeze with the pram and, well if you’ve got a baby seat, and want to go somewhere, with the pram and luggage, well you’ll be playing tetris for about 30 minutes whilst you load the car. A little annoying.
Petrol wise, well on long trips you can squeeze nearly 460-80km out of the tank, very impressive. During the week going to work, you might be lucky to get 360-400km out of it.
That said, when you’ve got it on the Woodford bends, in 2nd, sun shining brightly and doing the legal speed limit of 80kmph then you’ll find with your Imprezza RS that things ain’t so bad. especially for $30k
Vote:June 3rd, 2009 at 7:01 pm
people, seriously, no oppence.
its about the driver, not a car!
if u’re shit at driving and u’re driving one of the fastest car that can beat anyone but you can’t handle yourself, you’re just talking full bs!
the way to keep a car at its best performance, not hurting any gears and engine, as a real pro driver, any car can beat you guys.
trust me! i’m driving a 6 years car and i can kill a GTR easy!
you guys talk trash…btw, my car is a corolla…
Vote:June 20th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Dear All
We have both Mazda 3 (MAXX) 06 and Impreza (RX) 09, so no bias.
None of them is better over the other. Let me point out pros and cons – the only fair way to compare.
MAZDA3
Pros:
Better interior style (design, finish and functionality). Examples: better plastic, door trims, much more functional glove box, middle compartment, etc.
This car is great in the city while driving in traffic. Active-matic is comfortable and still gives the zoom-zoom when used in the semi manual mode.
Longer wheel base gives extra stability.
More consistent torque across the rev range.
Some external features look more stylish. I like mud flaps – should be compulsory in all cars in Australia.
Cons:
Poor visibility looking back, when reversing.
Since the boot and engine bay are deep, there is a little less leg room inside.
Lower ground clearance.
Since it has long wheel base and FWD, the rear is dragged behind. Sometimes the rear wheels would go their own way on the corners, touching road kerbs.
IMPREZA RX
Pros:
To take full advantage of AWD and its capability, manual is the way to go. Then, it is a far more interesting car to drive then Mazda.
Safety is a big plus, including inherent stability with the boxer engine sitting low. That engine – working nicely so nicely. Sometimes you want to turn the radio off and listen to the engine.
Superior, strong pickup at 3000 rpm.
Cons:
Heavier due to AWD. The torque dies off outside the optimum 3000rpm.
On a bad-mood-day looks cheaper than Mazda; plastics can be annoying, no mud flaps.
With manual version, the gear box can be stubborn when trying to put the reverse gear in.
PERSONAL PREFERENCE
Mazda3 – red colour and tinted windows look great.
Impreza – grey or black look far better. These colours blend with interior plastic well, so the plastic is much less annoying.
Vote:June 20th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Dear All
We have both Mazda 3 (MAXX) 06 and Impreza (RX) 09, so no bias.
None of them is better over the other. Let me point out pros and cons – the only fair way to compare.
MAZDA3
Pros:
Better interior style (design, finish and functionality). Examples: better plastic, door trims, much more functional glove box, middle compartment, etc.
This car is great in the city while driving in traffic. Active-matic is comfortable and still gives the zoom-zoom when used in the semi manual mode.
Longer wheel base gives extra stability.
More consistent torque across the rev range.
Some external features look more stylish. I like mud flaps – should be compulsory in all cars in Australia.
Cons:
Poor visibility looking back, when reversing.
Since the boot and engine bay are deep, there is a little less leg room inside.
Lower ground clearance.
Since it has long wheel base and FWD, the rear is dragged behind. Sometimes the rear wheels would go their own way on the corners, touching road kerbs.
IMPREZA RX
Pros:
To take full advantage of AWD and its capability, manual is the way to go. Then, it is a far more interesting car to drive then Mazda.
Safety is a big plus, including inherent stability with the boxer engine sitting low. That engine – working nicely so nicely. Sometimes you want to turn the radio off and listen to the engine.
Superior, strong pickup at 3000 rpm.
Cons:
Heavier due to AWD. The torque dies off outside the optimum 3000rpm.
On a bad-mood-day looks cheaper than Mazda; plastics can be annoying, no mud flaps.
With manual version, the gear box can be stubborn when trying to put the reverse gear in.
PERSONAL PREFERENCE”
Mazda3 – red colour and tinted windows look great.
Impreza – grey or black look far better. These colours blend with interior plastic well, so the plastic is much less annoying.
Vote:June 20th, 2009 at 2:50 pm
Very balanced opinion, Catch. You sound like no-ego-to-the-point guy.
Vote:I might add, as I am biased, that hill assist feature of Impreza wins my heart over Mazda.