The Inside

The interior is quiet enough at idle that one time I didn't even realize it was running. That's when I recognized Subaru finally seems to have licked this engine's chronic idle vibration. In this model and others, the turbo four previously exhibited a rough idle that caused the car to bounce gently but irritatingly when waiting at a stoplight.

Even back at the 2007 New York auto show, where we first saw the 2008 WRX, it was clear that its interior had been much improved — enriched and definitely up to date. The sport seats are comfortable and supportive, with modern tight-weave fabric and sky-blue stitching. The dashboard shares its overall design with other newish Subaru models. Though plentiful, the faux-metal trim is inoffensive, maybe even effective. The gauges are bright and supplemented by a centrally positioned display at the base of the windshield that includes stuff like a trip computer and clock. The optional navigation system is right below it — nice and high and with a touch-screen interface. Well done.

    See also:

    Before checking or servicing in the engine compartment
    - Always stop the engine and set the parking brake firmly to prevent the vehicle from moving. - Always let the engine cool down. Engine parts become very hot when the engine is running and ...

    Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch
    Vehicle Dynamics Control OFF switch Pressing the switch to deactivate the Vehicle Dynamics Control system can facilitate the following operations: - a standing start on a steeply sloping ...

    Checking the fluid level when the fluid is cold
    When the fluid level has to be checked without time to warm up the automatic transmission, check to see that the fluid level is between the lower level and upper level on the “COLD” range. If it i ...