When we think of the Subaru brand, the first thing that springs to mind is speed, thanks largely to the WRX rally thoroughbred. Well, this has all changed and the all-new 2008 Subaru Impreza has taken a docile approach to life.
The new shape has enabled Subaru to make a fresh start and to head for new pastures. The car has been transformed into a five-door hatchback driven by normally aspirated 1.5- or 2.0-litre engines.
This, combined with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive while retaining the original boxer engine configuration, is aimed at appealing to a wider audience.
Externally, the car has retained basically the same length of its older sibling; however, miracles have been performed in seating space. One thing that the Impreza suffered was lack of space for rear seat passengers.
This has now been transformed to sheer comfort: the rear door opens at three angles, with the widest at nearly 90°, facilitating getting in and out of the car; luggage space has also been increased; and, most importantly, the centre of gravity has been lowered to promote even more road stability all around.
A new platform with new multi-link, double-wishbone rear suspension gives agile handling combined with an exceptionally absorbent ride. Noise reduction has also been addressed.
Subaru are aiming the new Impreza at a new niche, which I feel is quite a strong challenge. However, it is a case of delivering the large amount of experience to a family car that is bound to attract newcomers to driving its brand.
A first glance at the front of the car shows a certain aggression, tamed by a 1.5- or 2.0-litre engine, leaving a subtle, tranquil shape.
The car will be available around September 27 when local agents Liaco will be launching the car at their Mosta Road, Lija, showrooms.
A more comprehensive test drive will feature in next's month Motoring supplement when both car variants were put through their paces in and around Prague.
The new shape has enabled Subaru to make a fresh start and to head for new pastures. The car has been transformed into a five-door hatchback driven by normally aspirated 1.5- or 2.0-litre engines.
This, combined with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive while retaining the original boxer engine configuration, is aimed at appealing to a wider audience.
Externally, the car has retained basically the same length of its older sibling; however, miracles have been performed in seating space. One thing that the Impreza suffered was lack of space for rear seat passengers.
This has now been transformed to sheer comfort: the rear door opens at three angles, with the widest at nearly 90°, facilitating getting in and out of the car; luggage space has also been increased; and, most importantly, the centre of gravity has been lowered to promote even more road stability all around.
A new platform with new multi-link, double-wishbone rear suspension gives agile handling combined with an exceptionally absorbent ride. Noise reduction has also been addressed.
Subaru are aiming the new Impreza at a new niche, which I feel is quite a strong challenge. However, it is a case of delivering the large amount of experience to a family car that is bound to attract newcomers to driving its brand.
A first glance at the front of the car shows a certain aggression, tamed by a 1.5- or 2.0-litre engine, leaving a subtle, tranquil shape.
The car will be available around September 27 when local agents Liaco will be launching the car at their Mosta Road, Lija, showrooms.
A more comprehensive test drive will feature in next's month Motoring supplement when both car variants were put through their paces in and around Prague.