6-Speed Manual (with Driver Controlled Center Differential - DCCD)
Optional
Optional Transmission:
N/A for performance models
Features
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Sti Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential for manual torque distribution adjustments.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Sedan
Length:
179.9 inches
Width:
70.7 inches
Height:
58.1 inches
Exterior Hatchback
Length:
173.8 inches
Width:
70.7 inches
Height:
57.7 inches
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
103.0 inches
Weights
Curb Weight Wrx:
3197 lbs (Sedan)
Curb Weight Sti:
3373 lbs (Sedan)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver:
5-Star (2008 Impreza models)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger:
5-Star (2008 Impreza models)
NHTSA Side Driver:
5-Star (2008 Impreza models)
NHTSA Side Passenger:
5-Star (2008 Impreza models)
NHTSA Side Rear:
4-Star (2008 Impreza models)
IIHS Front Crash Rating:
Good (2008 Impreza models)
IIHS Side Crash Rating:
Good (2008 Impreza models)
IIHS Rear Crash Rating:
Good (2008 Impreza models)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard (Anti-lock Braking System)
Ebd:
Standard (Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Traction Control:
Standard (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control, with Off-road mode)
Subaru AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as a core safety feature for traction.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front, side-curtain, and driver's knee airbags (depending on trim and market).
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Base models featured AM/FM/CD stereo; optional upgraded audio systems with subwoofer available.
Display:
Multi-function display for clock, outside temperature, fuel economy, and system warnings.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Trip Computer:
Integrated into the multi-function display.
Connectivity
Audio Input:
Auxiliary audio input jack on some models.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving), or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving). Consult manual for specific conditions.
Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 30,000 miles.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Check every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or every 15,000-30,000 miles.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium-tipped plugs typically good for 60,000 miles, but check manual.
Timing Belt Replacement:
N/A for EJ255/EJ257 engines; they use a timing chain.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3, GF-4).
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 Liters) with filter change.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4 75W-90 Gear Oil (for 5-speed) or API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (for 6-speed STI). Refer to manual for exact Subaru specs.
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (for WRX), Subaru Limited Slip Differential Oil (for STI VLSD).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While later EJ engines are generally more reliable than earlier ones, head gasket leaks can still occur, particularly with modifications or heavy use.
Piston Ringland Failure:
More common in heavily modified or aggressively driven EJ25 engines (especially EJ257) due to detonation or excessive boost. Manual covers engine inspection and repair procedures to mitigate this.
Clutch Wear:
Performance clutches can wear faster with aggressive driving; manual details clutch inspection and replacement.
Turbocharger Issues:
Turbo seals can degrade over time; regular oil changes and proper cool-down procedures are crucial. Manual details turbocharger inspection and replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru Rally Legacy:
Subaru's long-standing success in the World Rally Championship (WRC) heavily influenced the development of the WRX and STI models.
Model Evolution
Third Generation Impreza:
The 2008 model marks the beginning of the third generation (GE/GH chassis), introducing a significant redesign with a more rounded, less angular aesthetic compared to the previous GD generation.
Styling Change:
The 'hawkeye' (2006-2007) styling was replaced by a 'wide body' design on certain WRX and all STI models, improving track width and stability.