Subaru Impreza WRX STi

Subaru has at last revealed details of its hardcore new Impreza WRX STI which is substantially different to the non-turbo five-door models now being delivered to first customers.

Developed by a dedicated team of performance-loving engineers, the stunning new WRX STI debuts at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October, with first UK deliveries due next spring.

And with a heavily-revised new 300 PS turbocharged 2.5 litre ‘boxer’ engine, totally new platform and suspension plus even more advanced symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the World Rally Championship look-alike is sure to satisfy Subaru traditionalists.

Its proportions are radically altered compared to both the previous Impreza and mainstream new 1.5 and 2.0 litre models.

For example, the wheelbase is 95 mm longer than the old car despite overall length being 50 mm shorter. This reduces front and rear overhangs and enhances stability.

And at 1,795 mm wide, the new STI is even 55 mm wider than the new model thanks to heavily blistered wheelarches, while front and rear tracks are 45 and 40 mm greater for a ground-hugging stance.

Apart from the extended front and rear wings, key visual differences include a mesh front grille and a new, deep bumper design with sporty vertical air vents at either side to help cool the intercooler.

Immediately behind each front wheel is a vertical air outlet for the intercooler, topped by an ‘STI’ moulding plate.

Specially-designed side skirts neatly blend into the extended wheelarches, while an oversized roof spoiler with high-mounted stop lamp further distances the WRX STI from the mainstream Impreza. In addition, an integrated rear bumper diffuser reduces high-speed lift.

At the rear, four exhaust pipes twinned in pairs at either side of the body not only give a distinctive look but reduce exhaust air-flow resistance by 38 per cent, increasing power and reducing noise.

Colour choices will include Subaru’s signature ‘WR Blue’ and while gold-coloured alloy wheels are available, other designs include high-lustre silver alloys measuring 18x8.5ins with 245/40R tyres.