| New High-Performance Model Preview | Tokyo Motor Show | Subaru Impreza WRX STI |

Subaru has revealed a tantalisingly obscured image of its new Impreza WRX STI, set to make its full public debut at the Tokyo Motor Show in October. Shrouded in shadow and matt-finish paint, the image is our best clue yet as to how the final version will look, especially if you take into account that the Japanese firm also showed off its WRC concept in Frankfurt earlier this month, with some speculating the profile of the concept mirrored that of the forthcoming road-going version.

This could ring true as the image clearly shows hugely blistered wheelarches and a robustly square front bumper, whilst Subaru has kept to its word and fitted a smaller, more integrated bonnet-scoop ironically contrasted at the rear, where if you look closely, a large spoiler protrudes menacingly at roof-level.

There are no specific details yet on the STI, but it is expected to produce around 300bhp from its 2.5-litre turbo flat-four and be coupled to a six-speed manual transmission, however, Subaru is said to be working on a dual-clutch variant to rival that of Mitsubishi who will be fitting a twin-clutch SST gearbox to the Evo X, itself making its debut in Tokyo.

Prices for the STI are expected to be around £30,000 with the car going on sale in spring 2008. The Car Enthusiast will be in Tokyo at the end of the month to provide full details of the next chapter in the Impreza vs. Evo saga.

Kyle Molyneux - 25 Sep 2007