With the largest and most powerful engine in the group
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MotorTranscript
00:00 We're here with the 2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i.
00:15 This new Impreza has a 2.5 liter boxer engine.
00:18 It makes 170 horsepower and 170 pound feet.
00:21 It's paired to a four speed automatic.
00:23 It's the only four speed in this group and it's the only car to offer all wheel drive.
00:27 Compared to the previous car, this new Impreza is quite a bit bigger.
00:31 It feels a lot more solid.
00:32 It also feels softer, not quite as nimble.
00:36 But I think that's mostly because the old car was quite a bit smaller as well as being
00:41 lighter.
00:42 This car is a little over 3,100 pounds, so it's the heaviest car in this group.
00:46 I think the styling is rather bland.
00:49 This car really just blends in.
00:50 It doesn't really stand out at all.
00:52 I think the WRX stands out a little bit more mostly because it has fancier wheels and the
00:58 hood scoop.
00:59 This car's wheels are 16 inch alloys, but they look really plain.
01:02 It doesn't help the styling.
01:04 It's rather droopy, really.
01:06 It doesn't really strike you at all.
01:08 I think the interior is very nice.
01:10 It's a huge leap forward from the old car.
01:12 The old car was rather tinny and cheap.
01:16 This car, the materials are quite nice.
01:20 Styling is very luxurious and sporty.
01:22 The downside is this particular model had a very beige interior and some of the editors
01:27 found it too Buick-like, that it would not offend your grandmother at all.
01:32 But I think part of that whole Buick feel comes from not only the interior but the rather
01:37 soft ride, which was the best of the group.
01:39 But it feels like the car floats down the road more so than the others.
01:43 With the 2.5 liter engine making the most power, you'd think that this car would be
01:47 the quickest.
01:48 It's actually the slowest.
01:49 And the problem with the car really is the four-speed automatic, only four gears, space
01:54 so far apart.
01:56 It never really feels lively and quick at all.
01:59 Compared to the previous Impreza, I would say this new one is a success.
02:04 I think styling is a bit of a letdown.
02:06 The driving experience, it's a much nicer car.
02:10 It's more solid.
02:11 It's quieter.
02:12 Materials are way richer inside.
02:13 And while it feels softer and it rolls more, in the end, the numbers it puts up are better.
02:20 It handles better than its predecessor.
02:22 And throw that in with the better ride and better quality, and it's a much better car.
02:27 ♪MUSIC♪
02:33 (logo whooshes)