WRX Would you have wanted the '08 Subaru WRX to look like this?

[Mr. M]

 

[siko]

It looks a little cartoonish (exaggerated lines) but far more exciting that what Subaru usually delivers.

 

[martinbo]

Gross, as a Subaru owner I can't approve. Doesn't fit in with the brand persona.

 

[ateekt]

Damn, it's mad hot & futuristic ...! If she's coming for real, than bye bye to Evo-X ...!

 

[Centurion]

huh

 

[Brendan Moore]

It seems tortured and overwrought.

 

[far2000]

 

[Mr. M]

Gross, as a Subaru owner I can't approve. Doesn't fit in with the brand persona.

What is the Subaru brand persona?

 

[LaArtist]

wow its crazy..i wouldnt mind..as i dont have any expectations on subaru

 

[Kowalski]

No way.

Actually, come to think of it, I may be one of the very few odds who actually like the 2008 WRX. The hatchback is a nice addition to the Impreza range.

 

[martinbo]

What is the Subaru brand persona?

Quite simply put, Mirage:

Understated, yet unconventional styling that in no way detracts from the unique mechanical configuration and performance characteristics of each of the models in the lineup.

~~~~

Subaru is an interesting phenomenon from a branding perspective. It's unusual in the sense that the model brands i.e. Legacy, Impreza, STI, Forester, Outback are the brand torch bearers, from a consumer awareness point of veiw, as opposed to the singular Subaru brand identity.

When asked what car people drive, most in the general public will answer, BMW, Audi, Mercedes Benz, Renault and VW and so on. A Subaru owner will more often than not describe the brand and the model in one go - such is the product awareness and informed disposition of the typical Subaru owner.

Many members here well-versed in the automotive industry will call this a lack of brand identity and design cohesion within Subaru. I prefer to call it function and form for the task at hand and not fashion and marketing for maximum market penetration.

Subaru is not a mass market competitor. One either "gets" the brand or one doesn't.

Oh yes, I'm perhaps a touch on the biased side but then again Subarus are what I experience the thrill of driving in. And having come off 2 hours of skidpan work and 26 laps of Zwartkops raceway this Monday in a 184 kW, 360 Nm Prodrive Impreza WRX... I suppose this is understandable.

Subaru: drive one (properly), and you'll understand.

 

[ateekt]

If they build it for real & follow it up with a sedan, it's gonna be a big "hit" for sure & Subaru can easily steal sales of Evo-X ...!