2008 Subaru Impreza
Long Term Update 4: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Ron Kiino
Photography by William Walker
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
As the proud owner of a 2003 WRX wagon, online editor Michael Floyd says, "This new WRX is worlds better in almost every conceivable area. While the shift throws are longish and the pedal is softer, I find it nicer to row through the gears, and the overall clutch operation to be easier to manage than with the previous-gen. The horizontally opposed 2.5-liter is plenty willing, and the turbo sends it into a frenzy past 3000 rpm, all the way up to redline.
"And inside, it's no contest, thanks to available navigation, much better interior materials, improved ergonomics, superior creature comforts, and framed windows, the last of which help decrease interior noise, one of my wife's (our WRX is her daily driver) biggest complaints with the 2003."
Saturday, October 4, 2008
2008 Subaru WRX - Update 3
2008 Subaru Impreza
Long Term Update 3: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Ron Kiino
Photography by Jessica Germiller
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
"Had a good time driving the WRX this weekend," says senior editor Ed Loh. "Fast and tossable, the Rex seems invincible, feeling like a budget rally car right out of the box. There's a ton of suspension travel, and it's all very well damped-as though you're constantly riding in the sweet spot of the springs. Bumps literally get soaked up, and there is some body roll, too, but as you corner, this imparts the feeling the loaded wheels are getting max traction (again, like a rally car)."
He adds, "It's geared to go fast. Shifts under full throttle like rapid-firing slingshots-the engine winds and thwacks you every time you clutch out." With the WRX parked back in the Motor Trend garage, Loh ponders, "I remember when the first WRX came out in 2002-how much buzz there was that we finally got this world famous rally car. Now that it's been here a few years, and we've had several iterations of the STI, we've become jaded. Perhaps we've forgotten how capable and competent the WRX is."
Long Term Update 3: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Ron Kiino
Photography by Jessica Germiller
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
"Had a good time driving the WRX this weekend," says senior editor Ed Loh. "Fast and tossable, the Rex seems invincible, feeling like a budget rally car right out of the box. There's a ton of suspension travel, and it's all very well damped-as though you're constantly riding in the sweet spot of the springs. Bumps literally get soaked up, and there is some body roll, too, but as you corner, this imparts the feeling the loaded wheels are getting max traction (again, like a rally car)."
He adds, "It's geared to go fast. Shifts under full throttle like rapid-firing slingshots-the engine winds and thwacks you every time you clutch out." With the WRX parked back in the Motor Trend garage, Loh ponders, "I remember when the first WRX came out in 2002-how much buzz there was that we finally got this world famous rally car. Now that it's been here a few years, and we've had several iterations of the STI, we've become jaded. Perhaps we've forgotten how capable and competent the WRX is."
2008 Subaru WRX - Update 2
2008 Subaru Impreza
Long Term Update 2: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
by Ron Kiino
Photography by Jessica Germiller
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
Photographer Julia LaPalme, who in the WRX's last update claimed Subaru seemed to be "dumbing down what used to be an award-winning vehicle," has, following another stint, reconsidered.
"Well, after a second go in this sporty sedan, I'm over my initial shock. Just adjusting to changes in a beloved rally car. It's actually starting to grow on me." Indeed, LaPalme, former owner of a 2002 WRX, fully appreciates the 2008's fold-down back seat, large sunvisors, quiet cabin, comfy front seats, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. After more drive time, editor-in-chief Angus MacKenzie has changed his tune, as well.
"I may have been too hard on this thing during Car of the Year. Around town, it's a pleasant device. The ride is smooth and well controlled, and the engine is punchy. As a reasonably quick, yet slightly stealthy all-weather commuter, it has its attractions."
Long Term Update 2: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
by Ron Kiino
Photography by Jessica Germiller
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
Photographer Julia LaPalme, who in the WRX's last update claimed Subaru seemed to be "dumbing down what used to be an award-winning vehicle," has, following another stint, reconsidered.
"Well, after a second go in this sporty sedan, I'm over my initial shock. Just adjusting to changes in a beloved rally car. It's actually starting to grow on me." Indeed, LaPalme, former owner of a 2002 WRX, fully appreciates the 2008's fold-down back seat, large sunvisors, quiet cabin, comfy front seats, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. After more drive time, editor-in-chief Angus MacKenzie has changed his tune, as well.
"I may have been too hard on this thing during Car of the Year. Around town, it's a pleasant device. The ride is smooth and well controlled, and the engine is punchy. As a reasonably quick, yet slightly stealthy all-weather commuter, it has its attractions."
2008 Subaru WRX - Update 1
2008 Subaru Impreza
Long Term Update : 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Ron Kiino
Photography by Julia LaPalme
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
As a former owner of a 2002 WRX, photographer Julia LaPalme isn't especially impressed with this 2008 model: "Everything feels softened on this Subie. The clutch engagement is squishy (sometimes I let it out too soon, other times too late). The engine is so quiet and smooth at 3000 rpm that I find myself speeding a bit too easily (me+WRX=trouble). And I hope trouble doesn't require quick braking-the binders feel soft and slow to bite, making me dig in my foot much deeper to get the stopping action I expect, a disappointing trait for a rally-bred car."
Alas, LaPalme continues venting: "I'm rowing through this slushy gearbox, half the time bumping my elbow on the center armrest latch, causing it to pop up unexpectedly. What's with that? Overall it feels like Subaru is dumbing down what used to be an award-winning vehicle. I, for one, will be nursing a broken heart because of it."
Long Term Update : 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Ron Kiino
Photography by Julia LaPalme
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
As a former owner of a 2002 WRX, photographer Julia LaPalme isn't especially impressed with this 2008 model: "Everything feels softened on this Subie. The clutch engagement is squishy (sometimes I let it out too soon, other times too late). The engine is so quiet and smooth at 3000 rpm that I find myself speeding a bit too easily (me+WRX=trouble). And I hope trouble doesn't require quick braking-the binders feel soft and slow to bite, making me dig in my foot much deeper to get the stopping action I expect, a disappointing trait for a rally-bred car."
Alas, LaPalme continues venting: "I'm rowing through this slushy gearbox, half the time bumping my elbow on the center armrest latch, causing it to pop up unexpectedly. What's with that? Overall it feels like Subaru is dumbing down what used to be an award-winning vehicle. I, for one, will be nursing a broken heart because of it."
2008 Subaru Impreza
Long Term Arrival: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Edward Loh
Photography by Jessica Germiller
Exactly one year ago, our May 2007 cover of the all-new Subaru Impreza WRX lit the Interwebs on fire. It also ignited a still-burning debate about the value of embargoed vehicle launches, but only in the backbiting, internecine world of hack auto journalists.
Long Term Arrival: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
By Edward Loh
Photography by Jessica Germiller
Exactly one year ago, our May 2007 cover of the all-new Subaru Impreza WRX lit the Interwebs on fire. It also ignited a still-burning debate about the value of embargoed vehicle launches, but only in the backbiting, internecine world of hack auto journalists.
Turns out John Q. Public is more concerned about the way the new Rex looks and drives, so we decided to investigate and requested that Subaru immediately send us over one of its very latest.
CLICK TO VIEW GALLERY
Say what you want about the looks (we say they're growing on us), but this is one well-equipped vehicle. Not only does it have the segment standard bells and whistles-such as automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, and an audio AUX-in jack-but Subaru also includes endearing features like optional heated front seats and side mirrors, windshield wiper de-icers, and an incline start-assist system that prevents the vehicle from rolling backward.
The WRX is bigger, too, though this has been a sore point for some fans who've also lambasted Fuji Heavy for simply repurposing chassis and powertrain components from the larger Legacy sedan. Of course, another way to look at it is that consumers are getting many of the flagship goodies at a much lower price. Plus, there's no denying the larger body and redesigned rear suspension mean significantly more rear passenger and cargo room than previous-generation WRX sedans, without an appreciable drop in performance. Our WRX's 224-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four propelled it to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds.
You certainly pay for what you get, though the way WRXs are bundled, you won't see a string of dollar signs on the window sticker. The MSRP for our Lightning Red WRX came in at $24,995. Tack on $2100 for a premium package (those heated goodies, foglights, etc.), $2000 for navigation and Sirius Satellite Radio, and $163 for a center armrest, and you're looking at $29,258.
So far we've had the WRX for five months, and it's rarely spent a weekend in our G3 garage. In fact, we recently spent $111.48 at the local dealership for the standard 7500 service: a chassis lube, oil and oil filter replacement, and tire rotation.
Motor Trend was the first to break cover on the all-new Subaru WRX, so why not join us for the ride through the ownership experience?
Sunday, July 6, 2008
What if you could "Make it Up In Volume'!
Conventional wisdom is that a small to mid-sized automobile dealership has a very difficult time trying to make it in a high volume environment. The larger volume stores get all the additional breaks when it come to incentive bonuses and assistance from their corresponding manufacturers.
Some smaller dealerships are bucking this trend. It takes an enormous amount of faith in their system and a relentless passion for selling.
There is a particular segment, Subaru WRX Cincinnati Dealers, that can be exampled as a prototype for this process. If you start with a small segment, as opposed to the entire model line, your risk versus reward ratio tips into your favor.
We will discuss the step by step process in a later blog.
Some smaller dealerships are bucking this trend. It takes an enormous amount of faith in their system and a relentless passion for selling.
There is a particular segment, Subaru WRX Cincinnati Dealers, that can be exampled as a prototype for this process. If you start with a small segment, as opposed to the entire model line, your risk versus reward ratio tips into your favor.
We will discuss the step by step process in a later blog.
2008 Subaru WRX, better than you think?
Chris Powell, a reader and new owner of a 2008 WRX, left an interesting comment on this blog about the new 2008 WRX. Seeing as the new car has received pretty bad comments from readers of this blog, I think Chris’ opinion is worth sharing.
He says:
“Interesting list of quotes from the trade magazines, even more interesting comments from the readers of this blog. My only question is, do you own one? Well I do! I think the car is great. I’ve had it a week now and traded in my 2003 WRX Wagon for the 2008 5 door.
The previous blogger Timis posted “make a comparison with latest VW Golf / Audi A3 / BMW 120i / Opel-Vauxhall Astra models”. Well he is right, only one big difference, it’s a Subaru! I upgraded the car with STI metal pedals and a short-throw shifter. Unfortunately that is all you can get right now from SPT at Subaru. I’ll add intake and exhaust upgrades from the dealership as soon as they become available.
The first thing you notice (apart from the more stylish and mature look of the car) is the sound of the doors when you close them. They sound and feel much more like a BMW or Audi rather than that “tin” door feel of my 2003 WRX. As soon as I took off from the dealership I immediately noticed the lower end torque of the 2.5 Liter engine versus my old 2.0 liter block. You also notice much more of the hood out the front windshield in the new version of the car.
The handling is completely legendary Subaru. Just yesterday I flew in to a 90 degree left turn on the way to work. I remember quite distinctly in the old wagon that I tried the same turn some years back “a bit too fast”. In that “incident”, I under-steered and nearly slid off the road on the right hand side of the corner as I came out of the turn. This time in the 2008, I hit that hard left (well in to the oncoming lane), and only slid a half lane to the right. I was in much better control of the situation. I was probably well over 100-110kph around the turn in third gear and I mean a two lane, hard 90 degree left (we drive on the right here in the US just in case you haven’t been here). It was only then that I noticed the car also has additional traction control and I saw a wonderful little orange indicator light come on in the dash to let me know I had lost traction. I‘m going to light up that baby more often! I didn’t have any indicators like that at all in the 2003.
All in all, the car is very impressive and with the new quiet in the cockpit, the 6 C/D stereo sounds much, much, better. Buy one if you can, we only had five, 5 doors here in Houston (Sept. 07) and the charcoal grey one is smoking tires on the street as you read this!”
Well it sure sounds like a fun car to drive and I’m glad people are actually enjoying the new car!
By Phil
He says:
“Interesting list of quotes from the trade magazines, even more interesting comments from the readers of this blog. My only question is, do you own one? Well I do! I think the car is great. I’ve had it a week now and traded in my 2003 WRX Wagon for the 2008 5 door.
The previous blogger Timis posted “make a comparison with latest VW Golf / Audi A3 / BMW 120i / Opel-Vauxhall Astra models”. Well he is right, only one big difference, it’s a Subaru! I upgraded the car with STI metal pedals and a short-throw shifter. Unfortunately that is all you can get right now from SPT at Subaru. I’ll add intake and exhaust upgrades from the dealership as soon as they become available.
The first thing you notice (apart from the more stylish and mature look of the car) is the sound of the doors when you close them. They sound and feel much more like a BMW or Audi rather than that “tin” door feel of my 2003 WRX. As soon as I took off from the dealership I immediately noticed the lower end torque of the 2.5 Liter engine versus my old 2.0 liter block. You also notice much more of the hood out the front windshield in the new version of the car.
The handling is completely legendary Subaru. Just yesterday I flew in to a 90 degree left turn on the way to work. I remember quite distinctly in the old wagon that I tried the same turn some years back “a bit too fast”. In that “incident”, I under-steered and nearly slid off the road on the right hand side of the corner as I came out of the turn. This time in the 2008, I hit that hard left (well in to the oncoming lane), and only slid a half lane to the right. I was in much better control of the situation. I was probably well over 100-110kph around the turn in third gear and I mean a two lane, hard 90 degree left (we drive on the right here in the US just in case you haven’t been here). It was only then that I noticed the car also has additional traction control and I saw a wonderful little orange indicator light come on in the dash to let me know I had lost traction. I‘m going to light up that baby more often! I didn’t have any indicators like that at all in the 2003.
All in all, the car is very impressive and with the new quiet in the cockpit, the 6 C/D stereo sounds much, much, better. Buy one if you can, we only had five, 5 doors here in Houston (Sept. 07) and the charcoal grey one is smoking tires on the street as you read this!”
Well it sure sounds like a fun car to drive and I’m glad people are actually enjoying the new car!
By Phil
It's Cool To Drive An Impreza...Just Ask KBB
In April of 2008, Kelly Blue Book (KBB) announced their Top 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000.00. The 2008 Subaru Impreza made the list."We are honored to have the Impreza recognized as not only cool, but also practical, especially at a time when gas prices keep rising," says Tim Mahoney, chief marketing officer for Subaru of America, Inc.
The kbb.com editors used the following criteria in determining The top 10: safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, the vehicle's fun-to-drive-factor, as well as the subjective "cool" factor. The editors said that the 2008 Impreza, with 170 horsepower, all-wheel drive and a double-wishbone suspension, "adds a sporty and capable touch" to their cool car selections.
There are plenty of Subaru Imprezas in stock at your local Subaru Impreza Cincinnati Dealers. From the entry level Subaru Impreza 2.5 to the off the charts power of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Along with the "Cool" accoladates, the all-new 2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i was awarded the "Top Safety Pick Gold" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and comes at a starting price of $16,995.
Super Cool and Great Safety...the 2008 Subaru Impreza is a car you should have at the top of your list for 2008.
The Japan-Spec WRX Shows Us the Face of Its New Personality
Just before we climbed into the long-awaited 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX at its presentation in Japan, we got some bad news. A Subaru stylist told us, "Our Impreza needs to reach a bigger cross-section of buyers."
A lot of things have been done to the third-generation Impreza in the name of sales success, and our drive of the new car at the Subaru proving ground at Tochigi, Japan, makes us wonder if a wider audience is really what this car needs.
The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX (known here in Japan as the S-GT), is really about change. And when the U.S.-specification version of this car arrives soon, we'll see if Subaru gets the wider audience it longs for.
Clipping Subaru's Wings
Now that Subaru has abandoned its flirtation with the big-grille design ethic that has changed the look of so many cars in the last five years, its designers have gone for something more mainstream.
The Impreza's new front end is bland at best. Its clean lines have been well-executed, but the nondescript headlights and grille clash with the dramatic treatment of the rear end. At least the former tacked-on, aircraft-inspired front grille gave the Impreza a certain distinctive identity, but the new car has the bland look of an overnight collision between a Toyota Camry and a BMW 1 Series sedan.
From the C-pillar back, the WRX actually looks quite sleek. The combination of glass and angular sheet metal culminates in an aesthetically pleasing rear treatment with interesting taillights. Point an inquiring finger at the front end of this car, however, and the design team starts making excuses.
After the overstyled second-generation Impreza and a failed attempt to find some heritage, it might be that Subaru is a little lost between what it has designed in the past and what it wants to design in the future.
Boy Racer No More
With the new WRX, Subaru wants to exchange the car's boy-racer image for a more mature, Euro-style vibe. Apart from the front-end treatment, the WRX-signature bonnet bulge has been de-emphasized. The scoop comes forward 6 inches to improve airflow to the turbocharged engine's intercooler and also give the driver a better field of view. Surely a less bulbous bonnet scoop is one way to tone down the car's visual aggression.
This concern with reducing aggression has unfortunately affected the new WRX's performance as well. Subaru feels the car already has the grunt it needs, so there's not much beneath the hood that you haven't seen before. So if you're waiting for a big boost in engine power, you might be let down by the engine specification, which amounts to a collection of pieces from Subaru's parts bin. The Japanese-spec car we drove at Tochigi featured our local turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-4, which generates 248 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 246 pound-feet of torque at 2,400 rpm.
Based largely on the 2.0-liter boxer-4 of the current Subaru Legacy GT, the WRX version features a remapped ECU, revised intake ports and combustion chambers, and a significantly modified twin-scroll turbocharger. While this combination develops almost the same power as the engine combination it replaces, more than 95 percent of peak torque arrives at just 2,400 rpm.
Yawning Rather Than Grinning
Now that the WRX's torque curve is more user-friendly, the car doesn't deliver the same wow factor when you're behind the wheel. The progressive build-up of torque from low rpm makes the WRX feel like a far mellower machine. This car is quick when you've got your foot to the floor, but it's as if the volume has been turned down, and we don't just mean the newly quiet interior environment, thanks to added acoustic insulation.
This Japanese-spec car still sprints to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds, but you find yourself yawning rather than grinning. Bolted to the 2.0-liter turbo is the WRX's familiar five-speed manual transmission with double-cone synchros in the first three gears. The shift action is a bit notchy, but the gears engage precisely.
From what we understand from our sources at Subaru, the same story will unfold for the U.S.-spec WRX fitted with a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer-4 that comes from the U.S.-spec Legacy. As with the Japanese-edition car we drove at Tochigi, it will have modified intake ports and combustion chambers plus a new twin-scroll turbocharger. It's meant to produce better fuel economy and cleaner air emissions, so don't expect big power gains.
Our source tells us that the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX will generate around 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, but more of that torque will arrive lower in the rpm range. A five-speed manual remains the standard transmission and a four-speed automatic is optional.
On the other hand, Subaru also reports that we can expect a turbocharged boxer-4 diesel for the WRX by early 2009. The company is eager to drop a high-mpg diesel into the Forester and Impreza soon after the Legacy gets Subaru's first diesel next summer, so the WRX is part of the program. And word from inside Subaru City also confirms that the company is working on a five-speed automatic and a continuously variable transmission, and both these options could be offered as early as mid-2009.
Some Magic Remains
The WRX chassis has lost none of its magic, though. A redesigned rear suspension features a more compact setup with double wishbones that affords a more compliant ride and improves luggage capacity. On the road, there's far less body roll through the corners, yet the suspension is compliant enough to soak up the bumps, and a new feeling of stability is the result.
But if you provoke this new car, the rear tires will slide. Even so, the well-balanced chassis encourages you to dial in a little opposite steering lock and use throttle control to keep the car on track. And even when you reach the limit of adhesion, the superb Subaru all-wheel-drive system with its viscous-type, limited-slip front differential helps bring the chassis under control. The optional Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) available on our test car also helps maintain a precise arc through the corners, a reminder that this technology should be standard equipment for every Impreza.
This 2008 WRX has floating two-pot front brake calipers instead of the former four-piston design, but they seemed to deliver adequate stopping power in conjunction with the 205/50R17 Bridgestone rubber.
An Upgraded Room With Quality Furnishings
So what's the deal? Is the new WRX bigger and heavier as well as more refined and mature? Fortunately, no. The new model is 1.7 inches shorter, 1.7 inches wider, 0.5 inch taller, and sits on a wheelbase that's nearly 4 inches longer. Meanwhile, the 2008 WRX's curb weight remains almost identical to that of the former car.
These dimensions create a five-door hatchback that has more leg- and headroom than before. Also the seat height has been lowered by more than an inch, so this helps enhance headroom as well. And there's more rear-seat legroom and more storage space to boot.
Higher-quality materials are used throughout the new WRX's interior, while the dash design resembles the good-looking layout of the Tribeca. Quicker-ratio steering and a smaller turning radius complement each other.
Still a Driver's Car
You can't argue with a turbocharged engine, a tight chassis and exceptional poise on the road. While the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX might not look as aggressive as before, it still drives well, and the upgraded interior package might indeed have a stronger appeal to mainstream car shoppers.
But on the flip side, the 2008 WRX's lack of identity in the aesthetics department and the shortcomings of its engine enhancements might alienate current WRX owners. Perhaps they're supposed to move on to the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Now there's a car worth waiting for, although it won't appear in public until the Tokyo auto show. It will look somewhat different, with a more prominent hood scoop and a bigger grille to enhance airflow to the 300-hp turbocharged boxer-4, and prominent fender flares will accentuate the 18-inch wheels. The hardware underneath will be familiar, however, including Brembo brakes, a more aggressive suspension setup and a recalibrated all-wheel-drive system. Apparently it will not feature a dual-clutch sequential manual transmission with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. Aisin, one of the largest transmission manufacturers in Japan, is developing this technology for Subaru, but it won't appear until the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Based on our drive of this Japan-specification car, we'd say that the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX has a slightly different personality to match its new looks. It'll make a lot of new friends, but we'll have to see if it can keep its old friends, too.
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
A lot of things have been done to the third-generation Impreza in the name of sales success, and our drive of the new car at the Subaru proving ground at Tochigi, Japan, makes us wonder if a wider audience is really what this car needs.
The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX (known here in Japan as the S-GT), is really about change. And when the U.S.-specification version of this car arrives soon, we'll see if Subaru gets the wider audience it longs for.
Clipping Subaru's Wings
Now that Subaru has abandoned its flirtation with the big-grille design ethic that has changed the look of so many cars in the last five years, its designers have gone for something more mainstream.
The Impreza's new front end is bland at best. Its clean lines have been well-executed, but the nondescript headlights and grille clash with the dramatic treatment of the rear end. At least the former tacked-on, aircraft-inspired front grille gave the Impreza a certain distinctive identity, but the new car has the bland look of an overnight collision between a Toyota Camry and a BMW 1 Series sedan.
From the C-pillar back, the WRX actually looks quite sleek. The combination of glass and angular sheet metal culminates in an aesthetically pleasing rear treatment with interesting taillights. Point an inquiring finger at the front end of this car, however, and the design team starts making excuses.
After the overstyled second-generation Impreza and a failed attempt to find some heritage, it might be that Subaru is a little lost between what it has designed in the past and what it wants to design in the future.
Boy Racer No More
With the new WRX, Subaru wants to exchange the car's boy-racer image for a more mature, Euro-style vibe. Apart from the front-end treatment, the WRX-signature bonnet bulge has been de-emphasized. The scoop comes forward 6 inches to improve airflow to the turbocharged engine's intercooler and also give the driver a better field of view. Surely a less bulbous bonnet scoop is one way to tone down the car's visual aggression.
This concern with reducing aggression has unfortunately affected the new WRX's performance as well. Subaru feels the car already has the grunt it needs, so there's not much beneath the hood that you haven't seen before. So if you're waiting for a big boost in engine power, you might be let down by the engine specification, which amounts to a collection of pieces from Subaru's parts bin. The Japanese-spec car we drove at Tochigi featured our local turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-4, which generates 248 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 246 pound-feet of torque at 2,400 rpm.
Based largely on the 2.0-liter boxer-4 of the current Subaru Legacy GT, the WRX version features a remapped ECU, revised intake ports and combustion chambers, and a significantly modified twin-scroll turbocharger. While this combination develops almost the same power as the engine combination it replaces, more than 95 percent of peak torque arrives at just 2,400 rpm.
Yawning Rather Than Grinning
Now that the WRX's torque curve is more user-friendly, the car doesn't deliver the same wow factor when you're behind the wheel. The progressive build-up of torque from low rpm makes the WRX feel like a far mellower machine. This car is quick when you've got your foot to the floor, but it's as if the volume has been turned down, and we don't just mean the newly quiet interior environment, thanks to added acoustic insulation.
This Japanese-spec car still sprints to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds, but you find yourself yawning rather than grinning. Bolted to the 2.0-liter turbo is the WRX's familiar five-speed manual transmission with double-cone synchros in the first three gears. The shift action is a bit notchy, but the gears engage precisely.
From what we understand from our sources at Subaru, the same story will unfold for the U.S.-spec WRX fitted with a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer-4 that comes from the U.S.-spec Legacy. As with the Japanese-edition car we drove at Tochigi, it will have modified intake ports and combustion chambers plus a new twin-scroll turbocharger. It's meant to produce better fuel economy and cleaner air emissions, so don't expect big power gains.
Our source tells us that the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX will generate around 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque, but more of that torque will arrive lower in the rpm range. A five-speed manual remains the standard transmission and a four-speed automatic is optional.
On the other hand, Subaru also reports that we can expect a turbocharged boxer-4 diesel for the WRX by early 2009. The company is eager to drop a high-mpg diesel into the Forester and Impreza soon after the Legacy gets Subaru's first diesel next summer, so the WRX is part of the program. And word from inside Subaru City also confirms that the company is working on a five-speed automatic and a continuously variable transmission, and both these options could be offered as early as mid-2009.
Some Magic Remains
The WRX chassis has lost none of its magic, though. A redesigned rear suspension features a more compact setup with double wishbones that affords a more compliant ride and improves luggage capacity. On the road, there's far less body roll through the corners, yet the suspension is compliant enough to soak up the bumps, and a new feeling of stability is the result.
But if you provoke this new car, the rear tires will slide. Even so, the well-balanced chassis encourages you to dial in a little opposite steering lock and use throttle control to keep the car on track. And even when you reach the limit of adhesion, the superb Subaru all-wheel-drive system with its viscous-type, limited-slip front differential helps bring the chassis under control. The optional Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) available on our test car also helps maintain a precise arc through the corners, a reminder that this technology should be standard equipment for every Impreza.
This 2008 WRX has floating two-pot front brake calipers instead of the former four-piston design, but they seemed to deliver adequate stopping power in conjunction with the 205/50R17 Bridgestone rubber.
An Upgraded Room With Quality Furnishings
So what's the deal? Is the new WRX bigger and heavier as well as more refined and mature? Fortunately, no. The new model is 1.7 inches shorter, 1.7 inches wider, 0.5 inch taller, and sits on a wheelbase that's nearly 4 inches longer. Meanwhile, the 2008 WRX's curb weight remains almost identical to that of the former car.
These dimensions create a five-door hatchback that has more leg- and headroom than before. Also the seat height has been lowered by more than an inch, so this helps enhance headroom as well. And there's more rear-seat legroom and more storage space to boot.
Higher-quality materials are used throughout the new WRX's interior, while the dash design resembles the good-looking layout of the Tribeca. Quicker-ratio steering and a smaller turning radius complement each other.
Still a Driver's Car
You can't argue with a turbocharged engine, a tight chassis and exceptional poise on the road. While the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX might not look as aggressive as before, it still drives well, and the upgraded interior package might indeed have a stronger appeal to mainstream car shoppers.
But on the flip side, the 2008 WRX's lack of identity in the aesthetics department and the shortcomings of its engine enhancements might alienate current WRX owners. Perhaps they're supposed to move on to the Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Now there's a car worth waiting for, although it won't appear in public until the Tokyo auto show. It will look somewhat different, with a more prominent hood scoop and a bigger grille to enhance airflow to the 300-hp turbocharged boxer-4, and prominent fender flares will accentuate the 18-inch wheels. The hardware underneath will be familiar, however, including Brembo brakes, a more aggressive suspension setup and a recalibrated all-wheel-drive system. Apparently it will not feature a dual-clutch sequential manual transmission with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. Aisin, one of the largest transmission manufacturers in Japan, is developing this technology for Subaru, but it won't appear until the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI.
Based on our drive of this Japan-specification car, we'd say that the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX has a slightly different personality to match its new looks. It'll make a lot of new friends, but we'll have to see if it can keep its old friends, too.
Edmunds attended a manufacturer-sponsored event, to which selected members of the press were invited, to facilitate this report.
Friday, July 4, 2008
Gas Crisis Not Slowing Down Sales
June Sales numbers north of the border were recently annonced and Subaru sales are still climbing. With gas prices soaring and car sales dropping like a rock, Subaru sales in Canada are on the rise.
Canada is not the only place we are seeing sales numbers climb for Subaru. Subaru as a manufacturer and individual models in certain US markets are on the move. Subaru Outback Cincinnati Dealers sales numbers are climbing as well. A strong mix of advertising and hard work by sales personel in the Cincinnati region are helping to boost sales in that region of the US.
It was also the second consecutive all-time best month for the Subaru Forester SUV, with sales hitting a record highs at over 150% more than were purchased in June of 2007.
Don't buy into the fact that all auto sales are on the decline. There are still some shining stars in this cloudy horizon.
Canada is not the only place we are seeing sales numbers climb for Subaru. Subaru as a manufacturer and individual models in certain US markets are on the move. Subaru Outback Cincinnati Dealers sales numbers are climbing as well. A strong mix of advertising and hard work by sales personel in the Cincinnati region are helping to boost sales in that region of the US.
It was also the second consecutive all-time best month for the Subaru Forester SUV, with sales hitting a record highs at over 150% more than were purchased in June of 2007.
Don't buy into the fact that all auto sales are on the decline. There are still some shining stars in this cloudy horizon.
Subaru Sales Climbing
CHERRY HILL, N.J., July 1 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported June sales of 18,007 total units resulting in the company having another month of increased sales.
The 2009 Subaru Forester continues its strong sales start, up 41 percent over the same period last year, while the Subaru Legacy maintains its increase in sales, up 19 percent over the same period last year.
Model 2008 June % v 2007
Total Legacy 2,339 +19%
Total Outback 4,704 -14%
(incl. Legacy Wagon)
Total Impreza 4,053 - 2%
Total Forester 5,830 +41%
Total Tribeca 1,081 -19%
Total 18,007 + 5%
"In a turbulent market, Subaru has seen continued growth," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America. "The market is clearly undergoing some major shifts as gas prices start to affect buying behavior. With gas at over $4 a gallon, consumers are actively looking for more efficient vehicles without sacrificing safety and versatility. Our vehicles score high marks in these areas and so Subaru has been able to increase market share every month in 2008."
About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2005.
The 2009 Subaru Forester continues its strong sales start, up 41 percent over the same period last year, while the Subaru Legacy maintains its increase in sales, up 19 percent over the same period last year.
Model 2008 June % v 2007
Total Legacy 2,339 +19%
Total Outback 4,704 -14%
(incl. Legacy Wagon)
Total Impreza 4,053 - 2%
Total Forester 5,830 +41%
Total Tribeca 1,081 -19%
Total 18,007 + 5%
"In a turbulent market, Subaru has seen continued growth," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America. "The market is clearly undergoing some major shifts as gas prices start to affect buying behavior. With gas at over $4 a gallon, consumers are actively looking for more efficient vehicles without sacrificing safety and versatility. Our vehicles score high marks in these areas and so Subaru has been able to increase market share every month in 2008."
About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics calendar year-end 2005.
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