| New High-Performance Model | Tokyo Motor Show | Subaru Impreza WRX STI |
After the moody sneak preview shots initially released, Subaru has been forced to reveal the new Impreza WRX STI in all its glory ahead of its debut at the
Tokyo Motor Show this month and first impressions are very promising indeed.
Sitting on 18-inch alloys, the STI looks impressively WRC-like, with aggressive angles across extensively blistered wheel arches and a new square-jawed front bumper. The bonnet scoop is smaller and less offensive than on the outgoing Impreza, but that hasn't stopped the Japanese manufacturer bolting on a meaty rear spoiler and dual exhaust pipes.
In UK spec, the new STI will use the same 2.5-litre flat-four as the outgoing model, albeit updated and with a new twin-scroll turbocharger that should give more than 300bhp and around 325lb.ft of torque. The Japanese domestic market will use a smaller 2.0-litre powerplant. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard on the STI, but sources suggest Subaru is working on its own semi-automatic transmission to rival Mitsubishi's SST Twin Clutch system.
Working alongside the new engine and transmission will be an improved chassis set-up for even better handling, which sees the use of a double-wishbone rear suspension and McPherson struts up front, whilst Subaru's DCCD (Driver Controlled Centre Differential) has also been tweaked.
Inside the new car, despite being a hatch, the Impreza boasts more space thanks to wider front and rear tracks and an increased 1,795mm wide body. The Impreza is 1,475mm tall too, so the taller among us should find it less of a struggle to get comfy.
From pictures, it appears that comfort and cabin quality have been prioritised and subsequently dictated the use of better materials for the cabin - a sore point on the old Impreza. The range-topping Impreza gains the usual pink STI decals on the steering wheel and new metallic centre console, whilst unique drilled pedals are also fitted. A special instrument pack comes as standard on the STI, but body-hugging Recaro seats will be an optional extra.
We'll see the WRX STI in the flesh in Tokyo at the end of the month and UK cars will start arriving before the end of the year.
Kyle Molyneux - 11 Oct 2007