Australia is one of the first markets to sell the new Subaru Impreza range. Available in four variations, the R, RX and RS models are powered by a 2.0L petrol boxer engine. The WRX has a 2.5L petrol turbo boxer, and, for a car that travels from 0 -100 in 5.8 seconds, is great value at $39,990.

The new Impreza range is safer, lighter and more fuel efficient. It’s alsomostly cheaper –up to $1000 over previous models.

Impreza has achieved a maximum five-star rating for occupant protection in crashworthiness testing by the independent Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) and the highest possible four-star pedestrian rating. Subaru now has a 5 star rating over its entire model range. The Impreza is the first locally tested Australian specification vehicle to achieve the ultimate double star rating.

Innovations such as the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability system are standard across the line-up, along with six airbags, ABS, ESP and all-wheel drive.

We drove two models in the range, the R and the RS, unfortunately both as automatics. All models come standard with five-speed manual gearboxes, including the turbo WRX, while a four-speed automatic can be optioned with all non-turbo models.

The cabin is quieter, the car feels more rigid but the automatic sports shift transmission left me a little underwhelmed. I am sure the manual driving experience would be considerably different. Though driven a leisurely pace on country roads and around the city the auto is a pleasure to drive.

While the new Impreza's cabin is claimed by Subaru to offer greater space, it is still a little cramped compared to others in its class. The fact that the engine and transmission has to transversally mounted, something the long bonnet emphasizes, impinges on the cabin space.

The dash has a flowing, curvaceous design that sweeps back slightly and flows through to the doors, on each side of the centre console. The plastic trim is attractive, and the location of the audio and air-conditioning control units, high in the centre, makes them easy to reach and operate. The deeply recessed instruments, with white on black graphics, could benefit from permanent illumination.

The 2008 Impreza range is currently only available in hatch form, with sedan versions of the Impreza not available in Australia until next year. The new Impreza WRX STI will be launched in early 2008. Its ergonomics, and space have been improved, but its safety credentials are impeccable.  It is a much more refined, sophisticated and comfortable car than its predecessor and, at base model level, represents good value at $24,490.

AUTO FACTS
Price: $24,490-$39,990
Engine: Petrol - 2.0L four, 2.5L turbo four
Transmission: Five-speed manual, four-speed automatic
Power: 110kW, 169kW; 196Nm, 329Nm
Fuel: 8.9, 10.7
Good: Great safety and features list
Not so good: Auto transmission

by ANDREW KOCH