18 Oct 07
The long wait is over. The hot Impreza finally met its public with the unveiling of the STi version at the Tokyo Motor Show.
The turbocharged hatchback has flared wheel arches, 18" alloys, gaping air vents and large spoilers to distinguish it from the basic Impreza.
The show car has a 2.0-litre horizontally opposed flat four engine, but the UK model will get a larger, curiously less powerful, 2.5-litre version producing 296bhp.
It has Subaru's all-wheel drive system, and performance is tipped to be at least on par with the current model, so expect a sub-five second 0-60mph dash and a top speed nearing 160mph.
Embarrassing run-ins with the hedgerows could be a thing of the past with the new STi, as Subaru has developed a new traction and stability control system. If you're feeling brave it can be switched off
Other new technology bound for the Impreza STi includes a Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD) that allows the driver to dial in the amount of torque that reaches the front and rear axle, dramatically altering the Subaru's cornering attitude.
The hottest Impreza also benefits from Subaru's Si-Drive system that was first used on the Legacy 3.0R. Si-Drive gives the driver a choice of three personalities for the engine, from standard to a super-sharp throttle response.
Inside, the STi gains unique leather and Alcantara sport seats made by Recaro, new dials, drilled pedals, more metal, less plastic and plenty of STi logos.
An on-sale date has yet to be finalised, but expect deliveries in the UK to start next spring.
The blue WRC version is also on the Subaru stand at the show.
Check out the rest of our Tokyo Motor Show coverage
