Redefining the Motoring Experience

When Subaru released the pre-launch photos of the all-new 2008 Impreza, some members of the international press and local motoring media immediately criticized it for deviating from the aggressive look of the previous model, which is an icon in the world rally scene. They also decried the absence of a sedan variant from the Impreza line-up after Fuji Heavy Industries, the makers of Subaru, announced that the new generation will come only as a 5-door hatchback for better front-to-rear weight distribution. Looking at the photos of the new car’s aesthetics, one would be inclined to believe that Subaru has indeed “tamed” its all-wheel-drive (AWD) super sports sedan.

But looks can be deceiving.

When Motor Image Pilipinas, distributor of Subaru vehicles in the country, brought local motoring journalists to test drive the new-generation Impreza and witness its launch in Singapore, we found that the naysayers who were condemning the new model were grossly mistaken. Subaru didn’t “tame” its Impreza; they redefined it to fit the times. Let me explain…

Redefined Design

The new Subaru Impreza was developed around the concept of redefined design, resulting in a more compact and streamlined look. The flowing line from the tip of the front hood through the rear window highlights its agility and aerodynamics. Despite a shorter rear overhang, the interior of the new Impreza is roomier than the previous model. The vehicle height, width and wheelbase were also enhanced with the new design.

The interior spaciousness of the new Impreza is augmented by the all-new double wishbone rear suspension, which makes room for a wider luggage compartment and improving its utility. Besides endowing the trunk with enough space to carry two large golf bags or suitcases, the new suspension also absorbs road shock better and ensures a higher level of road holding, drivability and riding comfort while reducing noise levels in the roomier cabin.

The new Impreza’s chassis features improved rigidity, lower body weight and a lower mounting point for the powerful Subaru Boxer engines and the trademark Symmetrical AWD. This design allows for a lower center of gravity which enhances the overall feel of stability, agility and safety. All these design changes redefines the new Impreza as not only a solid and sharp road scalpel, but a comfortable and spacious one as well.

Redefined Experience

Lest you think that the new Impreza has become soft, Philippine Subaru fans will be treated to a choice of two powerful Subaru Boxer engine models – the 148hp (110kW) 2.0-liter DOHC flat-4 in the Impreza 2.0R Sport and the 227hp (169kW) 2.5-liter turbocharged and intercooled DOHC flat-4 in the Impreza WRX 2.5. While the turbo 2.5 is a torque monster with a staggering 320Nm at 2800rpm, the 2.0-liter is no slouch either with its 196Nm of torque at 3200rpm. Nothing is more satisfying than launching either Impreza model with all four wheels grappling for grip, resulting in impressive acceleration times that had our backs pinned to our seats.

And the driver’s seat is a nice environment to be pinned in. The aircraft-inspired cockpit features a highly-visible instrument panel that highlights the engine tachometer in the middle. The push-button start switch likewise reminds the driver of the Impreza’s sporty intentions while the 3-spoke steering wheels and the shifter are ergonomically located to aid the driver in reaching extra-legal velocities. In spite of the right hand drive models that were arranged for us to drive, we felt at ease in taking the new Impreza to blistering paces because of the new car’s great ergonomics.

Genteel Ferocity

After driving the all-new Subaru Impreza and getting a couple of wild rides in two previous-generation Impreza WRXs driven by champion rally drivers Cody Crocker and Rifat Sungkar, I began to understand the logic behind the new design. While the new model retains and even improves on the powerful ferocity and the handling tenacity of the old model, the new Impreza is a more genteel warrior; one that pampers its occupants with endearing comfort and yet it will not hesitate to go into battle at a moment’s notice.

Similarly, while the old WRX is a boy racer’s radical ride, the new WRX is more of a Jeckle-and-Hyde machine for dads who need a safe and stylish family car during the week and a sleek and high-performance sports car for the weekend. For young urban professionals, as well as those who are young-at-heart, the new Subaru Impreza represents a rare chance to merge a need (a sensible car) and a want (a sporty car) in one dynamic and reasonably-priced package. Thus, we say that the new Impreza certainly fits the times.

After experiencing the new car in Singapore and seeing the WRX STi version and concept rally car during the 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007 a week after, I have to disagree with the detractors of new Subaru Impreza. I would also like to remind them of a street fighters mantra that this car obviously employs: “Walk softly but carry a big stick!” Glenn Tan, the Group Chief Executive of Motor Image Enterprises, said it best during the launch: “I believe that the new Impreza truly embodies our slogan of ‘Experience Redefined’ because it has everything a driver could ask for – performance, safety and style.” Looks can indeed be deceiving.

The new Subaru Impreza will be launched in the Philippines on November 22. Visit the Motor Image showroom in EDSA Greenhills and redefine your motoring experience.