Manual vs Automatic
The manual gearbox is the winner in a landslide. Mated to a smoother clutch (which Catherine didn't like, though), shifts are now easier and takeoffs, more progressive. In addition, the Sport Package includes a standard Hill Holder system as an answer to those dreaded hill starts. True, I would have liked a shorter, sportier throw with the manual transmission but, in comparison, the autobox is slow to react to throttle inputs and its Sportshift manual mode simply doesn't cut it. In terms of acceleration, we reached 100 kph in 8.5 seconds with the manual and in 9.8 seconds with the automatic. Likewise, from 80 to 120 kph, our times were 7.0 and 9.5 seconds, respectively. As for fuel economy, the automatic Impreza burns two more liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. So, all I can say is, Hail to the manual!

The 5-speed manual transmission means less stops at the gas station.

Absolutely worth it
The Impreza offers greater value than its closest, if not lone rival, the Suzuki SX4 (I'm talking about AWD 5-door hatchbacks). The 2008 model offers a surprisingly smooth ride and sure-footed handling in all conditions. Significant progress was also made inside in terms of versatility and functionality. "I'd want a black Impreza with Sport Package, sunroof and manual transmission," Catherine told me at the end of our road test.

No problem, my dear university grad, but you'll have to pay for it...


Styling
Interior room and storage
Ride and handling
AWD

Passenger seat
Automatic transmission
Fuel economy (autobox)



None


Photo Credit : Philippe Champoux