New York: 2008 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 5-Door

Along with the redesigned Impreza WRX, Subaru is also launching redesigned versions of the regular Impreza hatchback and sedan for the 2008 model year. Like the new Tribeca, the Impreza gets more conservative styling up front and a refreshed look at the rear.

[Source: Autoblog]

Continued- Article, hi-res image gallery

The new Impreza has a longer wheelbase, creating more interior space. Subaru used new materials and styling to improve the look and feel of the interior, too.

The 2.5-liter Boxer engine has been modified to
improve emissions and fuel efficiency. It also have improved mid- to low-end torque. The 2.5-liter SOHC normally aspirated engine adopts a new intake port and other design changes that improve low-end torque and fuel efficiency.

Incorporating a newly designed intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger, the 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged also delivers improved torque and fuel economy.

Transmissions, both manual and automatic, have been modified for faster, more responsive shifting.



PRESS RELEASE:

FHI Unveils All-New Subaru Impreza at the New York International Auto Show

Tokyo, April 3, 2007 – Fuji Heavy Industries Inc. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the unveiling of its all new Subaru Impreza (U.S. specifications) at the New York International Auto Show, which will be held from April 6 through 15. (Press days : April 4 and 5) The third-generation Impreza will hit the market around the world starting this summer.

Developed around the product concept of new, more refined designs for comfort, the latest Impreza incorporates sophisticated styling and rich interior design, roominess and space, and outstanding comfort and utility, while offering a pleasant and safe ride enhanced by Subaru Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) with the Horizontally-Opposed engine.

1. Advanced core mechanism

The new Impreza showcases a redesigned chassis, body construction and drivetrain, as well as substantially improved overall performance, under the theme "Only Subaru can deliver such attractive performance and values."1 It also provides a pleasant ride with ease of handling and integrates performance with advanced safety and environmental considerations.
1) FHI recently set forth a new theme for Subaru cars that stipulates Subaru's goal: Subaru offers a comfortable, pleasant drive for the driver and passengers; provides peace of mind and reliability; and extends convenience, utility and functionality.

Chassis

• The newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension effectively absorbs shocks from road surfaces, ensuring high levels of ride comfort and agile handling.
• The lower center of gravity, enabled by the Boxer engine, has been enhanced by mounting the engine slightly lower in the chassis, thereby further improving stability.
• Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), available on a wider grade range of the Impreza lineup, increases active safety.

Body construction

• Additional use of high tension steel and reinforced joints has greatly improved rigidity.
• Streamlined body construction, while ensuring safety, makes weight reduction possible, which in turn improves fuel economy and maneuverability.

Engines and transmissions

• The 2.5-liter Boxer engine features ideal power output characteristics under a practical range of driving speeds through improved mid- to low-end torque. The engine has also been modified to improve emissions and fuel efficiency.
• The 2.5-liter SOHC normally aspirated engine adopts a new intake port and other design changes that make improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency possible. Improved emissions were realized by a new catalyst system that optimizes catalyst efficiency.
• Incorporating a newly designed intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger, the 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged engine delivers improved mid to low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
• Transmissions, both manual and automatic, were modified for faster, more responsive shifting and better maneuverability.

Safety

• Advancing the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure with front and rear crumple zones, the new Impreza has realized high levels of safety and crash worthiness.
• All models are equipped with dual SRS airbags, side SRS airbags, and curtain airbags.
• A collapsible safety pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk to feet in accidents.

2. Refined styling and elegant interior design
The new Impreza combines sporty styling with ample interior space and integrates functionality with elegance.

Exterior Design

Refined styling is highlighted by a perfectly proportioned body, well calculated panel curves that reflect light and shadow in harmony, and quality details.
• Sweeping character lines on both sides express a sense of speed and individuality.
• A sporty image is underscored by projecting front fenders and rear quarters.
• Projector lamps, used in the headlights, give a dynamic three-dimensional appearance.
5-door model
• A clean and elegant line flows continuously from the front grille, up the A-pillar, across the roof down to the rear gate.
• An aerodynamic rear spoiler, standard on all models, heightens the car's sporty image.
4-door model
• The rear overhang is 165 mm longer than on the 5-door model, which gives the car a more elegant sedan look.

Interior Design

• Spacious and open interior provides comfort and improves visibility.
• Aluminum-look insets in the center panels and door trim add a sporty feel and airiness.
• The navigation screen, as well as the vehicle information and audio displays are placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality.
• High-grade, double-stitched seat fabrics provide a feeling of quality.

3. Packaging and utility

• The new Impreza rides on a 95-mm-longer wheelbase than its predecessor, which enables expanded interior space.
• The all-new double-wishbone rear suspension makes room for a wider and deeper luggage compartment, enhancing the utility of the car.
• On the 5-door model, the rear seats feature a 60/40 split folding mechanism that allows various seating arrangements and increases cargo capacity. The wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags, or five carry-on bags.
• The 4-door model provides a larger trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. The rear seats feature standard 60/40 split backs, giving pass-through access to the trunk.
• Larger door openings, which are enabled through new sash construction, afford improved ingress and egress, and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear seat access.
• The door panels house molded recesses that can hold 720-mL PET bottles.

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