Six Star Magazine Six Star Magazine Autumn 2007 | Page 21

Inspired handling, control, and safety
As noted earlier, the new Impreza has
grown in size – and it has grown in
strength. The new, longer wheelbase has
not only created more interior space,
but it’s also generated improved driving
dynamics combined with lower levels of
noise vibration and ride harshness.
The larger platform also boasts
improved rigidity with the addition
of high-tensile strength steel at key
structural points. These improvements
result in crisper handling and improved
crashworthiness, which was already a key
feature of the outgoing Impreza models.

Impreza WRX

A stronger chassis has also allowed
the Subaru engineers to optimize the
suspension system to create better ride
comfort and handling than ever before. The
new double wishbone rear suspension also
makes a strong contribution: improved ride
refinement, decreased road noise, a quieter
cabin and, as a bonus, increased cargo
space in the back.
To complete the picture, the SUBARU
BOXER engine is placed even lower in the
chassis, thereby lowering the centre of gravity
further and, again, creating better handling.
The 2008 Subaru Impreza comes in
three exciting variations: the 2.5i, 2.5i
(Sport Package) and WRX. The Impreza
2.5i, base model in name alone, offers a
wealth of standard features including
16-inch wheels, integrated roof brackets
for accessory crossbars and a 4-channel,
4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD).
Also on the safety front, the 2.5i comes
standard with dual front airbags, dual front
side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags
and front-seat active head restraints.
Inside, the Impreza 2.5i impresses as
well with an information centre with external
temperature gauge and average fuel
economy displays, an illuminated
storage area, a dynamite audio system
(complete with pre-wiring for satellite radio,
MP3 compatibility and speed-sensitive
volume control) and 60/40-split flat-folding
rear seats.
The Impreza 2.5i (Sport Package)
boosts the value equation even more with
Vehicle Dynamics Control, 16-inch alloy
wheels, an underbody rear aerodynamic

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Impreza 2.5i 5-door (Sport Package)