Used 2008 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews

review

I've had it less than a month and i love it. pretty quick and decent handling. love the interior space and AWD is GREAT in the rain and snow. mpg is alright considering i drive pretty fast

Best Fuel Economic AWD on the Market

I searched for the most fuel economic (freeway), AWD (for frequent dirt-roading/all weather) on the market with good interior loading capacity. This car blew the SX4 Crossover AWD (which I test drove) out of the water, especially in loading capacity, and was ~$10k cheaper than the Ford Escape Hybrid (which was great to drive but had about the same fuel economy as the Impreza 180hp). I've already driven through fields with my Outback Sport in wet weather and it plowed through it like a champion - I can't wait for snow to come this season! This car has already been superior on road trips. I've noticed the gear ratio used makes for a slight lack of power switching from 4th to 5th. @ ~50-55 mph

2.5i sedan!

Very fun, safe, and reliable. I installed new rims, exhaust, and aux jack. Great in snow

Comfortable and affordable

This is my first Subaru, and I'm impressed so far. The ride is a near perfect blend of road feel and impact isolation. Not even major potholes transfer into the car as harsh impacts. The steering and brakes are almost perfectly weighted, though I had hoped for more road feel and feedback from a Subaru. They got most of the interior details right (the steering wheel buttons light up!), but some cost cutting is definitely visible. I think they did it in the right places, it's certainly forgivable in exchange for AWD and an engine that makes 30 more HP than competitors do. Overall it drives very nicely for a sub-20K car is getting 5-6 MPG more than my CR-V that had the same MPG rating.

First car I loved long after buying it

Wanted AWD and comfort without a 3 series price. Found it in the Impreza. 130 mph without the turbo. 65 mph = 34.5 mpg. 80 mph = 27 mpg. Feels pinned to the road in the rain. Snow is manageable with the stock tires; rather have some snow tires. Premium sound system is ok. Audiophiles won't live with it for long. Durable interior. I'm hoping for 200,000 miles and I think I'll get it.

Nice looks, good performance

This car handles better than my last car (1999 Passat). It holds the road well and has good power across the RPM range. I would like more cargo space, but knew I was making a compromise for reasons of cost. Car looks sharp in the Outback trim and is well equipped. I wish the driver's seat had adjustable lumbar support and the ability to angle the headrest back. Could also benefit from a telescoping wheel. Overall happy with my purchase 1000 miles into ownership.

For All the Right Reasons!

It's super safe with front, side and curtain airbags and child latches in rear seat. It's super fast with a turbo that has some lag but the most hustle at the price range and even into the next. The AWD is also safe and fast, gripping corners, bends, and off-ramps. Driving in the rain feels like the traction is that of a tank and its control is superb like the feel of a running back on a highway full of blockers. Interior material is much more durable than other imprezas. Highway driving at 23.5 mpg, city at 18.6 right now, the trip computer allows for an average mpg reading. Very roomy and easy to make use of the hatch area.

Great New Car - Body Rust after 7 Months

I purchased a new Impreza last November, this is the Canadian Sports Model (similar to the US sold "2.5i with Premium Package, VDC". A great car to drive, and have thoroughly enjoyed it. We had a severe winter that had snow on the ground over a 6 month period - and this is definitely a fantastic car for these conditions. Only negative was when I noticed rust on the rear panel (around the license plate) in a number of spots in June. The dealer has been very helpful and concurred that yes, this is rust, and this should not happen.

2008 STI with NAV

This car has been decent overall. It is a lot of fun to drive and is useful for hauling smaller items. It has been very reliable with the exception of the NAV system. SOA has replaced it 4 times, and the 4th unit is defective, and has been since Feb 2009. The reason it hasn't been fixed properly is that Subaru will only install used "remanufactured" nav units, not new ones, even though I am the original owner and had nav problems less than a week after taking delivery. The car is fun to drive and I am happy with it. Subaru of America service is terrible. As of 11/26/09, my car has 9800 miles and STILL has a defective nav unit.

It's a great car.

I've had my WRX 5 dr for 2 years now; 22k miles @ 24.5 avg mileage. I wrote a review on 11/23/07 and what I wrote then still holds. On top of that, I believe that the Subaru AWD system is superior to my Audi's, even w the performance tires on it. I've been the only one to make it up our hill several times over the past two winters (on ice), passing sport utes of all types splayed across lawns and shoulders. I've also had no problem following large Mercs at high speed on interstates - slowing only when my senses returned and the realization that a large fine would be very painful to me. It's a great car.

Plush, but cool.

We bought this car for my wife to drive, but I like it a lot, too. Its interior and exterior styling are cool and futuristic. (I even like the weird LED tail lights!) The upgraded stereo rocks, but I would rather listen to the unique sounding boxer engine. That engine is a little different than an inline 4. It produces punchy low end torque, but levels off the higher you rev. There's really no point in revving it over 3500 rpm! The slick shifter, loose clutch, and peppy engine make it ridiculously easy to drive. It's obvious that Subaru focused on utility and comfort for this model, at the sacrifice of agility and handling, but the full time all wheel drive rules!

'08 WRX SEDAN

This is my second Subaru. I owned a 2005 WRX sedan before, which was a terrific little car. As for the '08, I initially didn't think that an extra half liter in engine size would make much difference, but I was wrong. This car revs so smooth and effortless, if you're not careful you can touch 100mph on the freeway without even realizing it. The handling in this car is superb, with some minor body roll, but it's not noticeable in everyday driving. Fuel economy could probably be better, I used to average 20mpg on the stock tires (tires = awful), switched to lighter, performance tires and am getting 22-23mpg in mixed driving, up to 30mpg at non-freeway speeds if I set cruise and stay off turbo.

2008 WRX Premium

I was in the market for a daily driver that was reliable, had excellent crash test ratings, affordable, and was fun to drive. The Subaru WRX was the answer. My wife and two kids fit comfortably in the car and the trunk has just the right amount of cargo space for our gear for our weekend getaway trips. This includes luggage, a stroller, and other miscellaneous things for the kids.

I really like it, but...

This car does a lot of things really really well, but a couple of things keep me from giving it a 10 across the board. First and foremost, with 450 miles on it we have already developed a squeak/rattle from the dashboard. We've also had the radiator light come on for a minute when the car was only on for about 2 minutes. Other than that I love the way the car looks and it is very comfortable to drive. It's not quick, but it has enough power and it handles decently. The automatic trans seems a bit clunky, but I'm used to a manual so perhaps it's just me adjusting. For 21k I don't think there are too many cars out there that offer the features the Impreza does and also have 4WD/AWD.

Great Car Great Price

Lots to love about this car. For the low price, you get AWD, tight suspension, pretty good MPG, fun, and room. The base stereo (4 speakers) is actually OK and doesn't distort at high volume. I will be adding the Subaru subwoofer soon. The ride is great and the car feels like it has claws that attack the road. 5 spd is fun since you have more control. Trunk loses some space as it raises toward the back because of the new double wishbone suspension. Interior is good for the price. Plastic used on the door and dash, but for $16k I don't mind. I like the looks of the 2007 better, but oh well. The 08 is more "grown up" looking.

OBS

Purchased this OBS 4A a week ago and now have almost 600 miles on it. Nice little car with a roomier interior than one would think. My first Subaru (I've owned 62 vehicles including all the German and most Japanese). I'm averaging 25 mpg in mixed driving and expect it to go up another 10 to 15%. The OBS has good content. It does lean a bit as others have mentioned but not to a point of concern. My only complaint is of some dash plastic vibrations, lack of a sorely needed 5 speed auto, and lack of moonroof. I was aware of the latter two shortcomings going into this and purchased it anyway. I expect my OBS to serve my purposes for a couple of years and I am really quite pleased with the vehicle

Best car i've ever owned

I've had this car a couple years and plan to keep it for a long time. Handles great, comfortable, lots of features, solid, great visibility and performs! It may have "only" 170 Hp, but a very broad power band. This car flies up the Colorado mountain passes. I could easily do 20 over even the steepest grades here, while many cars struggle to hold the speed limit. AWD is extraordinary in the winter, in all but true off road and deep snow(say over a foot) this car does better than my truck. Its economy is rated at 19-22, but I've NEVER been close to that low. I consistently get just under 30 mpg combined driving. I've had it in the mid 30's on the highway.

They're on to something here

This is a great car. Safe, fun, practical, and great looking both inside and out. I had been saving up for about 4 years to buy my first car (I am 17) and after test driving cars like the Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Versa, and the Suzuki SX4 Sport, I am much happier with an Impreza parked in my driveway. I live in NY and the winter here, though not the worst in the country, are still pretty bad. The geography doesn't really help with winter driving either. Having all wheel drive vehicle is a necessity and this car fits the bill perfectly. It gives me peace of mind to know that I have the added safety of traction from all wheel drive, no matter what the weather is.

Great car!

I've been wanting one of these for a long time and am thrilled to finally own a Subaru!

Dialed In

As my third Impreza and second STI, this is definitely my favorite Subaru. The ride is smoother than the 05 model and generally feels more refined. The interior has plenty of little features I'd be wishing for in the previous iterations.

Wife's Car

I know what I have to say sounds a lot like nit picking. However If you are going to lay out 19k on a car you should know a few things. Over all it really is a good little car. However to make it a great car you are going to need to do some work.

One of many VeeDubbers to Subaru

I recently traded in my '07 VW GTI on a used (17,000 miles)-'08 Impreza 2.5i. So I lose 30 hp, gain awd, lose handling, but gain a more grown up, and comfortable car. I wanted something I would be somewhat happy with along with reliability. With the reliability of Subaru, I had my choice. If you want something that will be a 6-7 on the fun scale, that looks good, will drive through anything, and that will be as reliable as a rock... buy one of these.

129,000 miles and I enjoyed every one.

Do not purchase this car!

I bought this car for my wife new in 2008. We test drove the car and liked it. It is a good driving car, and thats all. We have had back to the dealer several times. Everything from the struts, sway bar bushings. Had to replace the brakes a little over a year of driving it. We live in an area with alot of snow, and the AWD is not very good. Only two wheels will spin at a time, one front and one opposite rear. There is no traction control what so ever. Save your money!

2008 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport

I bought this car brand-new in September 2008 to replace my 2005 Impreza RS wagon. I love the looks of the new car versus the old - it was long due for a ground-up remodel and they (IMHO) got it right. Upgrading to the outback sport was a no-brainer considering what the package gives you; roof-rack, larger 17" alloy wheels, a far better stereo, 4 wheel disc brakes, upgraded suspension and the very slick VDC. Oh, and you get to say 'Outback' even though it's also an Impreza. :) So Subaru calls it a wagon. Why? It doesn't look or smell or taste like a wagon. With the seats up & even with a mild trip to the market, it can't even stuff like a wagon. Call it what it is. A great little 5 door!

Worst Car I've Ever Purchased

Words cannot explain how bad my Subaru Impreza has been. The dealership sold me the car with a dirty interior, and damage to paint on the doors. I was told this was to be fixed by a painter, but even he agreed that the paint was too far beyond repair for a minor touch-up. Needless to say I'm going to have to sue the dealership and have them investigated for fraud if this isn't fixed. Thanks for Subaru for not standing behind your cars at all. I feel bad for anyone who is going through the same problems with this company since there is a known paint problem with the 2008 Imprezas.

Great buy

I recently purchased this vehicle, the gas mileage is great and it is a pleasure to drive. The back seat and trunk are both a bit tight but I would recommend this car to anyone.

First new car

It's a sharp looking car. Gets me a lot of complements. Not a lot of people know what it is which I like. I can't seem to find a comfortable spot to put the seat, and the clutch is the most unforgiving I've ever used. Fuel economy is pretty good I get about 25 city and 32 highway but I really baby it. There is no use trying to strangle power out of this thing. The interior is super nice, I love the blue accent light next to the shifter to put your phone or whatever. Fit and finish are exellent, interior is beautiful! Overall though I'm really impressed with the car.

Good winter car

Great winter car for northern NY. The combination of all wheel drive plus stability control is fantastic for icy / snow covered roads which are the norm here in the winter

A great car that could be better

The STI is a great daily driver: fast, comfortable, good visibility and the hatch makes it practical. Handling is good with some understeer but the AWD grip is amazing. The interior quality is a little sub-par but it is an Impreza after all. Road noise is a bit on the high side but much quieter than the previous generation. What's missing are heated mirrors and headlight washers, heated seats and the push button start system.

The best STI yet

This is my third STI. So far it is my favorite! It is more grown up now, which is perfect for someone that has graduated from the blue interior and giant wing (which I STILL love). The hatch is really great for hauling around stuff or for a guy with a family. The car has lost a little edge from the old one, but for my needs, it's for the better. I do recommend a 3M clear bra as the water based paint is still not as durable as it should be and rock chips WILL happen. The car is a little more incognito because of the new shape and isn't quite as much of a cop magnet.

In Summary

I have to say - this is my first Subaru and I'm pretty impressed with it. It seems well put together and pretty solid. It's a great commuter that handles well. With all the negative hype about Subarus and fuel economy, I seem to average 26 mpg in mixed driving and during my daily commutes. Good little car - I can see myself getting another Subaru!

Great Impressions

For the money the car can't be beat! Even with the lower fuel enconomy, Honda and Toyota don't compare. Upgrading to the Premium package is worth the extra $. I've only put 400 miles since buying it and have yet to run above 4000 rpm (break-in period) but the engine is itching to perform! The standard AWD is perfect for Colorado weather. Seats are much more comfortable in '08 than earlier models! Great car and very happy so far!

WRX - Great Car!

The 2008 WRX is one fun car! I have the premium model because I wanted the heated seats. This car is fast, fun, safe and reliable. Reviews say this latest model is tame and now marketed to a larger audience. So what. For around $26K, this car delivers tons of performance for the dollar.

Impressed with Impreza

Subaru has won me over! I build the best selling import in the US and it doesn't have anything on Subaru's!! This car drives great. Excellent performance in all driving conditions. Gets 29 mpg HWY and 20 mpg city, averages 24.9 in the summer and 23.5 in the winter, great numbers for AWD. So far I've got 16600 miles with absolutely no problems. All I've done is changed the oil and rotated the tires. Quality of the build is A-1. Watch out Toyota! No wonder Subaru was one of only two manufacturers reporting sales increases for 2008!!! Buy one you'll love it!

Fun little car

A fun car to drive. Not nearly as comfortable as my older VW, but for the same price, I have better handling, AWD for winter snow & ice, and better reliability. The premium package is a must. In Canada, it is the Sport Package, and heated seats are now a necessity, (I had them in the VW, and will never be w/o them again). The 170hp/170lb-ft N/A engine is adequate, but if you want some thrills, you may be disappointed. I am selling my '08 2.5i and have already ordered an '09 STI.

Always looking forward to driving

So far at 5k miles I am happy. This car has exceptional power and still gets ~23mpg with spirited driving. I have not driven much in the snow with the car, but so far the AWD has been great at keeping me gripping all the time. Transmission is smooth although the clutch makes odd noises occasionally. Seats are comfy. The tires should be upgraded at some point, however so far they are evenly wearing. Trunk in sedan is short where it meets the back seats. The brakes don't seem quite as "grippy" as one would assume. Also road noise is loud in this car, but I can deal with that. The stereo is somewhat weak but the engine is wonderful to listen to. Overall very satisfied with purchase.

Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing

I was looking for a car that was a great performing sports car, fun to drive, good daily driver, 4 doors, could be used to get groceries, and did not scream ‘sports car’. I found the perfect combination with the my black 2008 WRX STI with silver BBS wheels. This car just rocks. Here are the things that I like best about this car: 1. The ability to tune the car between ‘intelligent’ for daily driving and sport and serious fun with Sport # -- nothing like it on the market. 2. The ability to change the differential for power to the front and rear wheels - tons of options, tons of power, this car moves! 3. The clean simple design of the interior - very nice but not complicated and overdone.

2008 Outback Sport

The 2008 OBS, as with the Impreza/WRX family, is substantially changed from 2007. Most of the major issues on the earlier models (interior quality, handling, braking, climate control, tires, etc.) have been addressed, mostly successfully. The 2008, IMO, is far closer to the ideal of a WRX w/o the turbo than past attempts. The OBS's ability to travel through rain/sleet/snow, etc. is superb. Still, its appeal will likely be limited to those who value 4wd and a sporty image over size, utility, and gas mileage.

New to Subaru and Happy

So far I have really enjoyed my new Impreza (3000k miles/two months). I opted for the simplified and economical 2.5i auto 5-door in dark grey with a center armrest ext. I've already added on the aux jack, rear seat net, and rear bumper cover. It's definitely a joy to drive around. It makes you hate city traffic, bored with open highway, and eager for some empty country roads. It would be nice if it were a bit quieter, but then it would be a Saab. I originally wanted a Saab 9-2 a few years ago, but it was discontinued and this car substitues perfectly, with the added bonus of AWD. I'm getting 25 mpg on mixed travel. Measuring highway trips gets me 28-32 mpg. Had absolutely no problems.

Overall not too bad of a car

Have had car for over a year now with 30k miles. I like it with no major complaints, just minor ones. Handling is a little soft, but it gives a very nice ride. After driving manual for 18 years, I feel the 4spd Auto Trans is very weak. Should have gone with the 5M, I really miss it. That is my mistake. I have a black two tone and the paint scratches very, very easily, more so than any car I have ever had. AWD is great, and the VDC is really cool. Next year snow tires will go on, which should really improve the AWD. Even with AWD, 17 inch, wide, low profile tires, aren't the best in the snow. After 30k miles, averaging about 27mpg in all sorts of driving.

08 Impreza Sedan

I have had this vehicle for 2 weeks now and it is great, lots of highway driving and have had no problems. Can't wait to try out the AWD in the Colorado winters.

Can't go wrong with a Subaru

We have only had this car for a week or two and love it. The ride is great and we are very happy with the purchase. What other cars can you buy with AWD standard and great mileage. The EPA mileage estimates are all low for every car starting this model year. We went on a short highway trip about 100 miles at 70 mph and got 33 mpgs. Bought car for wife as a grocery getter and trip car. We actually test drove the legacy because that was the car I wanted but felt the new Impreza had more leg room and a better ride than the Legacy.

Nearly Perfect

Have had the car since the end of Nov. and I am loving it. Outback package is the best of the bunch, larger wheels, two tone, great features for a great price. Great in the snow, after 3000 miles I am averaging 24.6 mpg in mixed driving. The look grows on me more and more. Roof rack is noisy, but easy to take off. Not a big fan of the stereo, the sound never seems to fill the cabin or your ears. I think I will upgrade or get the amp. Heated seats and mirrors are great. Overall I am very happy.

It rocks!

Had been looking at the WRX. But cost of gas using this as a commute car , made me look at the regular Impreza. I was under the idea that the Outback sport had drum rear brakes. That is wrong. My salesman pointed this out to me on a just delivered silver Outback sport. I look the looks of it. It drives so solid. If you haven't driven a Subaru before take a test drive, it is the oddest feeling and it is great. Try this car and you will buy one. The winter package is only available on the outback sport and the WRx. Interior is great and the car handles very well. No regrets buying one.

2008 Subaru 2.5i

I leased this car and after 21 months with it I would highly recommend it. It has been completely reliable and has returned decent fuel economy (25 mpg overall). The only major nit I have to pick is with the passenger seat. It is mounted way too low and has no height adjustment. Makes one feel like a four year old trying to see out.

My first Subaru

All the reviews about paint problems are true. I bought this car 9 months ago and can't believe how fragile the paint is. I've only got 6,000 miles on the car and it looks like there's 4 years of abrasion on the rear qtr panels. Severe chips on the hood and front of the vehicle. Hopefully Subaru officials read these reviews and do something because they're losing customers. This was my first and believe me last Subaru. Unless you want to pay for a total repaint every 3 years stay away from this car. Other Subaru models have the same problem. Oh and do something about the ridiculously low passenger seat and what's with the holes in the front bumper?? Not all states have front license plates!

Excellent car for the money

I just purchased the car last week. I tried several before buying (Volvo V50, Honda Accord and Volkswagen Jetta) and like this car better for several reasons. This car handles better, rides quieter and has the options that sealed the deal. I love the fact that my five door can bee a family car and a performance car at the same time. I have now switched to seeing how well I can make the MPG go up with the nav display. It can get around 30 or maybe a tad more on the highway. If you want to race, don't expect stellar gas mpg performance. Stay out of the turbo and things get pretty nice for the wallet. Very satisfied with this car and the dealership of purchase.

My 3rd Subaru

Subaru makes great cars. This is my third. After having owned 2 used Legacys, over the last 10 years, I decided to spring for a brand new Impreza. For a small car the larger than normal 170 HP really gives it some kick and the AWD and stability control make it do amazing things. Best car in its class. In fact it outclasses everything else which is why it is so under reviewed. It must just confuse auto reporters about how this car fits in with everything else.

great car

I just purchased the Impreza. The 170 HP and AWD make the car perform exceptionally. The seats are of a 70s type found in cars in the 80s the velor which i prefer stitched cloth. I have test driven many cars this was my choice.