Impreza broadens appeal - Teresa's View
Teresa McCallion
Marketing Department Columnist
Teresa's View
Mazda may have the “zoom, zoom’’ tag line locked up, but not the spirit. That belongs to the Subaru Impreza, especially the WRX trim that includes one of the most fun-to-drive cars on the market; the performance-oriented WRX STi.
But that’s not important right now. We are here today to talk about one of the other Impreza trims, the Outback Sport. Outfitted with the telltale gray lower-body trim that indicates it’s an Outback, the two-toned Sport got a major redesign for 2008. Although it no longer looks as funky as the previous generation, it’s still easier to spot in a parking lot than your average Honda or Toyota.
Based on the base Impreza – creatively called the 2.5i and offered in a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback – the Outback Sport comes as a hatchback version only. Unlike the 2.5i, it’s fairly feature-heavy, including dual-mode heated seats, keyless entry, security system, power windows and mirrors, cruise control and air conditioning with filtration system. A leather-wrapped steering wheel with redundant audio and cruise controls is also standard.
Let’s not fool ourselves here. The Impreza is targeting a youthful market and, as such, there are certain standards that must be met. First and foremost is the audio system. Subaru knows that tossing a few extra speakers and random auxiliary jack into the Outback Sport just isn’t going to do. So, the standard set-up includes an 80-watt, 10-speaker audio system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, pre-wiring for satellite radio, MP3/WMA capability, SRS Circle Surround Automotive audio enhancement, vehicle speed-sensing volume adjustment and, oh yeah, an auxiliary audio jack. An iPod Interface Kit is also available, but not if you get the satellite radio or optional navigation.
The redesigned Outback Sport also gets an interior upgrade. For 2008 the cabin is definitely quieter and noticeably roomier. The much-needed makeover brings a contemporary look-and-feel. However, the swoopy dash is strictly space-age and there’s still too much hard plastic to be considered truly comfortable.
Unchanged in this third generation redo is Subaru’s unique Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system. Standard on all Subies, it enhances both traction and driving performance and serves as the backbone for the car’s safety features. It’s also a major reason why Subarus are so popular in our neck of the woods. (Look out your window. ’Nuff said.)
Other safety features include four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution. Vehicle dynamics control and traction control are standard, as are front, and front seat side-impact air bags. Side curtain air bags run the length of the car on both sides to protect precious noggins. Special height-adjustable front-seat headrests help prevent whiplash. Daytime running lights and a tire-pressure monitor round out the safety list.
While some Subie aficionados are complaining that the newly refined Impreza has lost some of its raw zoom, zoom spirit, Subaru is hoping that the makeover helps the Outback Sport gains a wider, albeit less enthusiastic, audience.
What Is It?: The 2008 Subaru Outback Sport is a compact, five-door hatchback. Technically there is seating for five, but unofficially, there’s only room for four adults. The Outback Sport with manual five-speed transmission sells for just over $20K; equipped with the four-speed automatic it goes for just under $22K including destination charges.
The Grocery Sack Test:The hatchback lifts easily for a wide opening to the well-appointed cargo space that includes a grocery bag hook, four tie-down hooks, a retractable cover and removable tray. Split rear seat backs fold for additional room.
Fill ’Er Up: The Outback Sport takes regular gas, but it’s a thirsty tart for a compact. EPA estimates are 20 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway.
Cheat Sheet: General Motors owns 20 percent of Subaru.
So, Where Are Ya From?: Final assembly point for the Impreza is Ota Gunma, Japan.
