• Bottom Line
• Full Review
• • Styling
  • Performance
  • Quality
  • Safety
  • Features

Likes:

• Impressive acceleration from WRX, stunning from STI
• Solid ride quality despite impressive handling ability
• Comfortable, stylish, and sporty interior treatment
• Good record for occupant protection

Dislikes:

• Both engines are thirsty
• Hatchback body style is tighter in cargo space than rivals
• STI is priced in BMW territory

Other Choices:

The arch-nemesis of the 2008 Subaru WRX STI—whether on the street or a gaming screen—is the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Compared to the STI, the Evolution is hard-edged, with a firmer ride, crisper handling in the tightest corners, and an intense, almost twitchy driving experience; comfort suffers a bit in the Evolution, as engine and road noise dominate relative to the WRX and STI, and the ride isn’t as settled. The MazdaSpeed3 and Caliber SRT4 are also worthy competitors to the WRX, but they’re both front-wheel drive and, thus, not as confidence inspiring. Also, neither one feels as refined as the WRX. The Audi A3 might be the closest competitor to the base WRX. It gives the WRX a run in safety protection, as it’s also an IIHS Top Safety Pick; the A3’s 2.0T engine provides a very peppy, engaging experience. In addition, it has a larger interior and is more fuel-efficient than the WRX. Then there’s the new BMW 135i coupe, which boasts a 300-horsepower turbocharged six-cylinder engine and comes in the same price range as the rally-tuned STI; in contrast, the 135i should be much more refined inside.

Read More About the 2008 Subaru Impreza:

• 2008 Subaru Impreza Bottom Line

  To compile this comprehensive review of the 2008 Subaru WRX and 2008 Subaru WRX STI, the experts at TheCarConnection.com consulted with a host of other review ... Read full bottom line

• 2008 Subaru Impreza Full Review

   2008 SUBARU IMPREZA WAGON STYLING | [7 out of 10] Automotive.com: "2008 models may disappoint some faithful fans" Cars and Driver: "fans of the old wagon ... Read full review

• 2008 Subaru Impreza Latest News (2)
• 2008 Subaru Impreza Photo Gallery (107)
• 2008 Subaru Impreza 360° Tour
• 2008 Subaru Impreza Specifications (27 Trims)
• Other Expert Reviews for 2008 Subaru Impreza (5)
• Consumer Opinions for 2008 Subaru Impreza (250)

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By  Rex Roy, Detroit Editor

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