24 Jul 08 15:54
Subaru is working on three limited-edition Imprezas - two on sale in September, the third still at concept stage.
The WRX-S (£22,495) is the entry-level model, though it's still pretty quick: it develops 255bhp and 236lb-ft of torque, thanks to tweaks by Prodrive, and is kitted out with 18" anthracite alloy wheels, an STI front grille, lip spoiler, rear wing and tailgate moulding, and Momo gearknob.
Colour choices are red, blue mica, black pearlescent or white pearlescent - and the all-important figures are 130mph and 0-60 in 6.1 seconds.
Next up is the WRX STI 330S, with Prodrive Performance Pack (modified ECU and exhaust), twin 90mm-diameter stainless steel exhaust pipes to 'bring back the burble', says Subaru, plus 330bhp and 347lb-ft. That's 155mph and 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds. Prices haven't yet been confirmed, but will be around £30,000, to include leather Recaro seats, sat nav and push-button ignition.
Still not fast enough? Try the STI 380S Concept, which makes its debut in London this week. It's to get 'a complete engine rebuild by Prodrive' and 'many uprated components', further-tuned suspension and exhaust system, and more extreme body kit. Gold or silver 18" BBS wheels will be offered, with 245/40 tyres. No word yet on pricing, but Subaru says that the final specification will be decided according to feedback from potential customers. It's unlikely to be cheap, however, as each car will be handbuilt to order. First deliveries 'could reach dealers within six months'.
Check out the rest of our British Motor Show coverage.
