Subaru Impreza STi (08 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 05 November 2009
Thanks to a high profile in rallying, Subaru is well-renowned for its performance cars - in particular the Impreza. You could spot the previous model a mile off with its huge spoiler and booming exhaust, but the firm has taken a different tack and the 2008 Impreza WRX STi is a very different car compared to what went before. For starters it is a rounded hatchback (rather than a four-door boxy saloon) and the extreme styling has been toned down. As a result it appears more grown up and less like it's been fitted with aftermarket extras. Unfortunately the interior looks and feels cheap while the unforgiving ride merely highlights the lack of refinement. It is quick of course and the 300bhp 2.5-litre turbocharged engine propels it to 60mph in a mere 4.8 seconds, but ultimately the Impreza STi feels dated and lacks sophistication.
3 out of 5

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2.5 out of 5

Buying new

The Impreza is well-priced, especially compared to similarly-powered alternatives, but that shouldn't prevent you from aiming for a decent discount on a new model. The 330S is the more powerful model but is only marginally quicker yet carries a £4,000 premium. It's better equipped but the standard car is fast enough for most and makes more sense.

4 out of 5

Buying used

A second hand Impreza WRX STi can be a real bargain if you're after an affordable, high performance car. It's important to avoid any heavily modified or thrashed examples though, plus cars that have been used on the race track. Subaru dealers are a good place to find cars via the Subaru Proven Used Cars scheme.

  • Boot/Load Space Subaru Impreza STi (08 on)
  • Interior Subaru Impreza STi (08 on)

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See 16 used Subaru Impreza STis for sale, starting at £13,994

4 out of 5

Selling

The Impreza has a strong following and although some fans of the previous model aren't keen on the new hatchback shape and bulbous styling, the WRX STi version will always be sought after. The more powerful 330S model should always be able to command a healthy premium.