2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
in Affordable Performance Cars
Based on analysis of 16 Impreza-WRX reviews and test drives.
Subaru Impreza WRX - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX ranks 3 out of 3 Affordable Performance Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 16 published reviews and test drives of the Subaru Impreza WRX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX ranks near the bottom of its class because although it performs extraordinarily well, its exterior design can't compete with other performance-tuned vehicles in its class.
Redesigned to appeal to a broader audience, the WRX earns praise for improved interior refinements, as well as its superb performance and handling dynamics. Still, many WRX enthusiasts are disappointed with Subaru's decision to modify their beloved pocket rocket -- especially its exterior design. In the end, however, many concede that it performs just as well as past iterations, and that the STI trim offers enthusiasts exactly what they're looking for. "What's the take-home message for the forum trolls? Give it a chance," says Motor Trend. "With all the content Subaru has managed to cram under its controversial skin, the new WRX should have you laughing out loud."
The Impreza WRX is available as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback. Performance enthusiasts may opt for the hatchback's performance-tuned STI trim.
- "WRX fans might not love the styling of the new Impreza, but Subaru says there is method behind the apparent madness -- the company wants to tone down the current car's import-tuner image and appeal to a wider audience through more conservative and mature looks, better interior quality, and improved packaging." -- Car and Driver
- "It's immediately obvious that the new Impreza WRX has become more civil and comfort-oriented. ... Although WRX purists may gripe, saying the new car lacks the hard-edge character of past WRXs, it's safe to expect that this car will appeal to a broader audience." -- Road and Track
- "Styling arguments aside, the WRX remains fun to drive and decently priced at $25,495 to start; mine, with satellite radio and G.P.S. navigation, was $29,833." -- New York Times
Impreza-WRX Performance - 7.7 (Good)
Test drivers find that the new WRX's performance and handling dynamics are comparable to last year's model, but that slight modifications make it even more appealing to non-enthusiasts. According to the New York Times: "The 2008 WRX adheres to Subaru's established formula, taking the bare-bones Impreza compact and adding chunky plastic armor, a stout suspension and a turbocharged engine that is 54 horsepower more muscular than the base Impreza's 170-horse power plant." Still, the WRX ranks near the bottom of its class in the category of performance. Continue with our full Impreza WRX Performance Review. continue
Impreza-WRX Exterior - 4.9 (Mediocre)
Auto writers point out that Subaru designed the 2008 WRX to look less like a rally racer in order to appeal to a broader audience. While some like the change, most don't. According to AutoWeek: "Styling is stale and looks as if the folks at Subaru have the Kia Spectra designer working weekends for them. Not that it's ugly; it's just boring." The WRX ranks low in its class for its exterior design. Continue with our full Impreza WRX Exterior Review or check out the Impreza WRX Photo Gallery to see it for yourself. continue
Impreza-WRX Interior - 7.9 (Good)
Critics agree that this year's WRX has a more refined cabin than previous generations. "Inside, Subaru has upped the comfort and sophistication levels significantly," writes Motor Trend. "Gone are the stark silver plastics and restrictive rear legroom; occupants are now treated to more room in every direction, richly textured surfaces, and seats redesigned to support the entire back. Getting in and out is easier, too; the rear doors now open wider by one full stop and close with a satisfying thunk." The WRX ranks near the top of its class in the category of interior. Continue with our full Impreza WRX Safety Review or check out the photo gallery. continue
Impreza-WRX Safety - NA
The WRX has not yet been crash tested by the federal government or insurance industry, but its sibling, the 2008 Subaru Impreza, performs well. Standard WRX features include Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and side-curtain air bags. Continue with our full Impreza WRX Safety Review. continue
Impreza-WRX Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Subaru covers every 2008 Impreza WRX with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. Continue with our full Impreza WRX Reliability Review. continue
