09 Apr 09
STI
Subaru's performance brand might share its name with an unfortunate health complaint but it has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with.
Formed in 1988, STI (Subaru Technica International ) was created to satisfy the brand's thirst for motorsport. It set about breaking records too, setting the world speed record for continuous driving over 100,000kms.
Then Subaru threw its whole weight behind the WRC and its high point came in 1995 when Scotland's Colin McRae took the title at the wheel of an Impreza.
Best car: Subaru Impreza STi 330S
The most usable STI ever is also one of the firm's best, with crucial power upgrades that reinvigorated the now-hatchbacked, and much-criticised Impreza.
What were they thinking: Subaru Impreza STI (2008-)
Cursed by an all-or-nothing power delivery, the STI without the power upgrade feels uninvolving with poor steering and a cheap nasty-feeling interior. The Focus RS does it all better.
