Wraps off Impreza STi

At last, it’s here! After months of waiting, Subaru has finally unveiled its flagship Impreza WRX STi, ahead of its world debut at the Tokyo Motor Show.

While technical details about the car are still scarce, its beefier bodywork and flared wheelarches are clear to see. To improve the aerodynamics, there is also a larger front spoiler, roof-mounted rear wing and an underbody diffuser. Wider axles front and rear, as well as redesigned suspension, help to enhance the handling. Powered by a 280bhp 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, the newcomer will offer at least 422Nm of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox spreads power through the manufacturer’s rally-honed four-wheel-drive system, which includes an adjustable centre differential.

For the first time, the new model also gets the SI-Drive set-up from the Legacy – an engine management control system that adjusts the car’s state of tune. It has three modes, ranging from Sport to Super Sharp, which progressively increase the engine’s rev limit and boost power.

While Subaru bosses are remaining tight-lipped about the model’s brakes, our source tells us that the four-piston calipers are the work of Brembo, even though they wear STI badges.

But although the new Impreza is certain to be the star of Subaru’s show stand, it won’t have the stage all to itself. Alongside the STi, the maker will debut a new people carrier called the Exiga, plus its latest electric vehicle, the G4e. The MPV has seven seats, and is fitted with four-wheel drive, while power is from a 2.0-litre turbo engine, mated to a five-speed auto box.

Meanwhile, the G4e – the name stands for Green for the earth – is the first car to be fitted with vanadium batteries developed in-house at Subaru. The new powerpacks are reckoned to be more stable and wear longer than those containing lithium-ion, and allow for a greater range of travel on one charge.