Subaru Impreza

Take a first look at Subaru’s new Impreza STi. The firm’s most famous car has always had a strong link between the rally stage and the road – and these pictures prove it.

Debuting at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, this concept reveals the look of the imminent Impreza World Rally Car. But as the WRC entry shares much with the road car, it also gives clues to how the hot STi – which we first told you about in Issue 969 – is shaping up. And with blue paint, gold alloys, a deep bonnet scoop, low spoilers, flared arches and a massive rear wing, the new STi will keep up the tradition set by its predecessors.

The pictures will come as a relief to loyal Impreza fans concerned how the conservatively styled new hatch would look in flagship specification. But with no WRX version planned, the STi will carry the maker’s performance reputation solely on its shoulders. Getting a unique suspension set-up, it should be the best-handling Subaru ever. Engineers have also revised the 4WD to maximise grip and stability.

Under the bonnet is a tuned version of the previous STi’s 2.5-litre four-cylinder turbo, providing amazing pace. Delivering more than 300bhp and around 400Nm of torque, the STi will cover 0-60mph in less than five seconds and hit a 160mph top speed. A price of just under £30,000 is likely when the car arrives late next year.