In early 2008, an updated model “Subaru Impreza” in the hatchback was released. She retained the main advantages of Subaru cars - all-wheel drive and a boxer engine, interior comfort and a signature exterior.
But what has changed? How did motorists react to this?
Engine Opinions
"Impreza" in the hatchback was released with two engine volumes: 1.5 liter and 2.0 liter. Both had a manual and automatic transmission. Some drivers chose a smaller volume for themselves - 1.5 liters, in the hope of saving on fuel; and others - 2.0 l, preferring an aggressive driving style.
The most common review about the “Subaru Impreza” hatchback, 2008, 1.5 liter with manual transmission, is that this volume is not enough. When the car is loaded at the start, it is possible to stall if gas is not added on time. Power in 107 liters. from. turned out to be few.
The engine starts to pick up speed well after 3000 rpm, but if you don’t immediately shift the gear (hold the lever in the neutral position), the rpm drops and you have to accelerate again.
Such a car is suitable for driving outside the city, but not in a metropolis in traffic jams. It will be difficult for the Impreza driver with manual transmission to move in traffic jams in low gears, constantly manipulating the gas pedal.
The engine requires maintenance, constant control of the oil level. From replacement to replacement, you will have to add 1–1.5 liters. Run-in consumption (the first 15,000 km after buying a new car) reaches 18 l / 100 km. After the break-in, it drops to 13 l / 100 km in the city and 10 l / 100 km on the highway.
There may be problems with starting the engine in cold weather. The manufacturer does not guarantee that the engine will start if the temperature drops below -17 ° C. In order to change the candles, it is necessary to spend a lot of time, since they are closed by an air filter and a battery.
Reviews about the "Subaru Impreza" (hatchback, 2008) with 2.0 engine displacement are mixed. On the one hand, the design of the motor is the same as with 1.5 liters, it is necessary to add oil between replacements, and on the other, it is a proven and reliable engine. Its power is enough for a sharp start. To leave the snowdrift in winter is also not difficult.
Transmission Impressions
Manual transmission, according to car owners, “Subaru Impreza” (2008, hatchback), is the best option for those who like speed. The gears are short. There is a lowering row.
The only minus manual transmission: it is difficult to reverse gear. On the first try, it almost never succeeds. Manufacturers call this a "feature" that is not subject to warranty repairs.
All reviews of the "Subaru Impreza" (hatchback, 2008) 1.5 on the machine come down to the fact that the automatic transmission in this car is designed for a calm, measured ride. Reacts to the driver’s actions with a slight delay. The 4-speed gearbox smoothly accelerates to 5,000 rpm. (about 140 km / h), then the increase in speed is very slow, no matter how you press the gas pedal.
"Subaru Impreza" hatchback, 2008. Suspension reviews
Four-wheel drive is the Subaru classic. Front suspension - standard independent MacPherson strut, rear - independent multi-link. Torque is distributed between the axles always 50/50. There is no exchange rate stabilization system, which pleases extreme driving enthusiasts.
The suspension is moderately stiff, smooths out unevenness well. Keeps the road, at any turns does not go into a skid. Such stability was achieved by Subaru engineers using a clear balance between the stiffness of springs, stabilizers and shock absorbers; careful selection of dimensions of disks and tires.
What's new in the cabin "Subaru Impreza"?
The interior is simple, but at the same time comfortable. The driver has everything at hand. On the dashboard there is an information board with data on time and fuel consumption. True, it is shown how much you can drive on 1 liter of fuel. To find out how much gasoline is spent per 100 km, you need to divide 100 by the number indicated on the scoreboard.
The chip of the speedometer and tachometer is that when the engine starts, their arrows rise to the maximum mark, and then lower to their original position. It looks as if all the sensors come to life, reacting to the start of the motor.
Landing in the cabin is quite low, as in sports cars, but the seats are so comfortable that the back does not get tired even after a long trip. The seats are adjustable both in reach and in height.
There is enough space in the back to accommodate two adult passengers, there is already not enough space for three people.
Cons of the cabin in the poor location of the front seat heater buttons (they are under the handbrake lever) and in very low-cost plastic - it is tough, cracking or ringing in the cold until the car warms up; door inserts are quickly erased.
Weak insulation, especially for cars with a 2-liter volume.
The luggage compartment is small due to the fact that under its floor is a full-size spare wheel, plus the rear shelf steals space. Trunk volume can be increased only by folding the backs of the rear seats.
Exterior and paintwork
Appearance "Subaru Impreza" aggressive and at the same time ergonomic. The contour lines of the headlights smoothly transfer to the body, making the car streamlined. An elongated front end adds aerodynamics, but off-road driving will be difficult.
The varnish and paint used at the Subaru plant comply with all environmental requirements, but because of this they lose strength. Everything that flies out from under the wheels makes a chip or a dent in the body. A trip to the forest will leave a web of scratches from the branches. Experienced car owners recommend immediately after the purchase to glue the body of the Impreza model with a protective film.
Glasses are also not durable. After a year of operation, the windshield in a new car is covered with small dots and scratches from brushes.
Conclusion
Despite the negative opinions of some owners, it is worth noting that the car "Subaru Impreza" can not be compared with any car of its class. Recognizable boxer engine roar, reliable suspension, sporty exterior make this car unique.