2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback: Horsepower & Specs

Hey guys! Let's dive into the nitty-gritty of the 2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback, focusing on what really makes it tick: its horsepower and overall specs. If you're a Subaru enthusiast or just curious about this model, you're in the right place. We'll break down the engine options, performance figures, and other important details to give you a solid understanding of what this car brings to the table. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Engine Options and Horsepower

The 2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback came with a couple of engine choices, each offering a different level of performance. The base model is equipped with a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine. This engine is designed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate power for daily driving. For those looking for a bit more oomph, there's the WRX version, which boasts a turbocharged version of the same 2.5-liter engine. Let's take a closer look at each:

2.5-Liter Naturally Aspirated Engine

The standard 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine in the 2008 Impreza Hatchback produces around 170 horsepower. This is a decent amount of power for a compact car, making it suitable for commuting, running errands, and even some light road trips. The engine is known for its reliability and smooth power delivery, making it a comfortable choice for everyday use. The torque output is also respectable, providing enough low-end grunt to get you moving without any hesitation. This engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission, giving buyers some flexibility in their driving experience.

For those who prioritize fuel economy, the naturally aspirated engine is the way to go. It offers a good balance between power and efficiency, making it an economical choice for those who do a lot of driving. While it may not offer the exhilarating acceleration of the turbocharged WRX, it's more than capable of handling most driving situations with ease. Plus, the lower maintenance costs associated with a naturally aspirated engine can be a significant advantage over the long term. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and filter replacements, will keep this engine running smoothly for years to come.

2.5-Liter Turbocharged Engine (WRX)

Now, if you're after a more thrilling driving experience, the WRX version of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is where it's at. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine cranks out around 224 horsepower, a significant jump from the base model. This extra power transforms the Impreza into a much more exciting car to drive, with brisk acceleration and plenty of passing power. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in performance, making the WRX a blast on twisty roads and open highways. The increased horsepower also means quicker acceleration times, making it a fun and engaging car for enthusiasts. The WRX is equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, which allows drivers to fully exploit the engine's potential.

The turbocharged engine also comes with some additional features to enhance performance, such as an intercooler to keep the intake air cool and a more robust exhaust system to improve airflow. These upgrades help to maximize the engine's output and ensure that it performs optimally under various driving conditions. Of course, with the added power comes a slight decrease in fuel economy, but for many drivers, the trade-off is well worth it. The WRX is not just about straight-line speed; it also features a sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes, which improve handling and stopping power. These enhancements make the WRX a well-rounded performance car that's capable of tackling a variety of driving challenges.

Performance Specs

Beyond just horsepower, the 2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback has a range of performance specs that contribute to its overall driving experience. These include acceleration, handling, and braking, all of which work together to make the Impreza a capable and enjoyable car to drive. Let's take a closer look at some of these key performance specs:

Acceleration

The acceleration of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback varies depending on the engine and transmission. The base model with the naturally aspirated engine can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 8.5 to 9 seconds, which is respectable for a compact car in its class. The WRX, with its turbocharged engine, is significantly quicker, achieving 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds. This makes the WRX a much more exciting car to drive, with plenty of punch for overtaking and merging onto highways. The difference in acceleration is immediately noticeable, with the WRX offering a more exhilarating and responsive driving experience.

The acceleration figures also depend on the transmission. The five-speed manual transmission generally provides slightly quicker acceleration times compared to the four-speed automatic transmission. This is because the manual transmission allows drivers to have more control over the engine's power output and can shift gears more precisely. However, the automatic transmission offers more convenience, especially in city driving, where frequent gear changes can become tiresome. Ultimately, the choice between the manual and automatic transmission comes down to personal preference and driving style.

Handling

One of the standout features of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is its handling. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, making the Impreza a confident and capable car in all types of weather conditions. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power evenly to all four wheels, which helps to prevent wheel spin and maintain grip on slippery surfaces. This is especially beneficial in snow, rain, or gravel, where other cars might struggle to maintain control. The Impreza's handling is also enhanced by its well-tuned suspension, which strikes a good balance between comfort and performance.

The WRX version takes the handling to another level with its sport-tuned suspension and upgraded brakes. The stiffer suspension reduces body roll in corners, making the WRX feel more planted and responsive. The upgraded brakes provide better stopping power, which is essential for a performance car. The combination of all-wheel-drive, sport-tuned suspension, and upgraded brakes makes the WRX a joy to drive on twisty roads, where it feels agile and composed. Whether you're commuting to work or tackling a challenging mountain road, the Impreza's handling will inspire confidence and provide an engaging driving experience.

Braking

The braking performance of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is also commendable. The standard brakes provide adequate stopping power for everyday driving, while the WRX version features upgraded brakes that offer even better performance. The anti-lock braking system (ABS) helps to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, which allows drivers to maintain steering control. The electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) system automatically adjusts the braking force between the front and rear wheels, which helps to optimize stopping performance. The combination of ABS and EBD ensures that the Impreza can stop quickly and safely in a variety of driving conditions.

The WRX's upgraded brakes are particularly noteworthy, as they provide a more firm and responsive pedal feel. This gives drivers more confidence when braking hard, whether they're on the track or on the street. The larger rotors and calipers of the WRX's brakes also help to dissipate heat more effectively, which reduces the risk of brake fade during repeated hard braking. Overall, the braking performance of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is well-suited to its performance capabilities, providing drivers with the confidence they need to drive safely and enjoyably.

Additional Specs and Features

Besides the engine and performance specs, the 2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback also comes with a range of other features and specifications that are worth considering. These include interior space, fuel economy, safety features, and available options. Let's take a closer look at some of these additional specs and features:

Interior Space and Comfort

The 2008 Impreza Hatchback offers a decent amount of interior space for both passengers and cargo. The rear seats can comfortably accommodate two adults, and the hatchback design provides plenty of room for luggage, groceries, or other gear. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more cargo space, which is useful for hauling larger items. The interior is well-designed and functional, with all the controls and features within easy reach. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making the Impreza a pleasant car to drive on long trips.

The interior also features a range of amenities, such as air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player. Higher trim levels may include additional features, such as leather seats, a sunroof, and a premium audio system. The overall fit and finish of the interior are good, with durable materials and solid construction. While the interior may not be as luxurious as some of its competitors, it's practical and well-suited to the Impreza's sporty character. The hatchback design also makes it easy to load and unload cargo, which is a significant advantage over traditional sedans.

Fuel Economy

The fuel economy of the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is respectable, especially considering its all-wheel-drive system. The base model with the naturally aspirated engine achieves around 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The WRX, with its turbocharged engine, gets slightly lower fuel economy, with around 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. While these numbers may not be class-leading, they're reasonable for a car with all-wheel-drive and decent performance.

The fuel economy can also vary depending on driving style and conditions. Aggressive driving and frequent acceleration will decrease fuel economy, while smooth and steady driving will improve it. Regular maintenance, such as keeping the tires properly inflated and changing the oil regularly, can also help to optimize fuel economy. Overall, the 2008 Impreza Hatchback offers a good balance between performance and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for daily driving.

Safety Features

The 2008 Impreza Hatchback comes with a range of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. These include front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). The Impreza also features a strong and rigid body structure, which helps to absorb and distribute impact forces. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2008 Impreza Hatchback good ratings in its crash tests, indicating that it provides a high level of protection in a collision.

The all-wheel-drive system also contributes to safety by providing enhanced traction and stability, which can help to prevent accidents in slippery conditions. The Impreza's excellent handling and braking performance also make it easier to avoid accidents. Overall, the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is a safe and reliable car that provides peace of mind for drivers and passengers.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! The 2008 Subaru Impreza Hatchback offers a compelling combination of horsepower, performance specs, and practical features. Whether you're drawn to the fuel-efficient reliability of the base model or the thrilling performance of the WRX, there's an Impreza Hatchback to suit your needs. With its all-wheel-drive system, decent interior space, and solid safety ratings, the 2008 Impreza Hatchback is a versatile and capable car that's well worth considering. Happy driving, folks!