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The Virginian-Pilot (MCT) - When it comes to style, Subarus have often been the automotive equivalent of Earth shoes _ proudly utilitarian and practical.

So imagine how shocking the all-new 2008 Impreza 2.5i truly is: This car is actually _ gasp _ good-looking.

Wait a minute. Are there now 25 hours in a day? Is the Earth revolving backward? Is Ralph Nader running for president?

All jokes aside, the new Impreza sports crisp, sophisticated lines that take it off the trail and plant it firmly in front of the valet parking line, whether it's the four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. (The wagon, available in 2007, has been dropped.)

Inside, the good news continues, as the decorators have accented the cabin with pleasing color combinations and nicely grained plastics assembled with care.

This little buggy's newfound wardrobe only adds to its legendary talents as the foundation for two of the world's great rally cars, the Impreza WRX and STI. Those models are superheroes, with engines endowed with power and abilities far beyond those of mortal gas-sippers. They're faster than a speeding bullet. I was driving Clark Kent, but underneath that suit lurked a heart of steel.

Well, actually, there's a 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission. (A horizontally opposed engine has two sets of cylinders that lie 180 degrees opposite each other.) A four-speed automatic is optional.

Power reaches the ground via Subaru's all-wheel-drive system, which can be a boon in slippery conditions. But all-wheel drive exacts a toll on mileage. And while the Impreza's mileage isn't bad _ its EPA ratings are 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway _ it lags behind competing small cars.

But when you're in trouble, this car comes to the rescue. What the Impreza gives up in fuel economy it returns in power. OK, it's no WRX, but there's enough oomph to make things interesting. All Imprezas get the steering used by the WRX, which makes for quick maneuvers.

Subaru has upgraded the car's suspension, and one can feel the difference. Handling is fairly nimble, and body lean is fairly well-controlled. There's a secure planted feeling to the Impreza that similar economy cars lack.

All models get front disc brakes, but base models make do with inferior drum brakes. Opt for rear discs for better stopping power. Our test car had decent stopping power, but the pedal felt slightly spongy.

Overall, Subaru's compact is a pleasant place to pass the miles.

With a 4.5-inch-longer wheelbase, the Impreza boasts a significantly roomier cabin. Despite the low seating position, the car proves comfortable. It would help if the bottom cushions in the front seats could be tilted to compensate, but that isn't offered. Leg room throughout the car is vastly improved this year.

While the cabin boasts more space, the trunk of the four-door sedan is about average-sized for the class.

Overall, the Impreza impresses with its upscale demeanor and secure handling, not to mention its fashion makeover.

No, it can't leap tall buildings in a single bound, but you might be tempted to try.

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2008 SUBARU IMPREZA 2.5i

What we say: Sophisticated Subaru

Pro: Good handling, roomy cabin

Con: Low seats, small trunk

Stats

Engine: 2.5-liter flat four

Wheelbase: 103.1 inches

Length: 180.3 inches

Weight: 3.064 pounds

Cargo space: 11.3 cubic feet

EPA rating (city/highway): 20/27 mpg

Fuel economy: 24 mpg

Fuel type: Regular unleaded

Base price: $18,495

As tested: $20,332

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© 2008, The Virginian-Pilot (Norfolk, Va.).