Subaru MPV muscles in

Could the Vauxhall Zafira VXR finally have a rival? Subaru used the Tokyo Motor Show to unveil a tuned version of its new seven-seat Exiga MPV.

Tuning arm STI has uprated the people carrier, boosting the power from its turbocharged 2.0-litre engine to 223bhp – so the newcomer promises strong performance.

Technicians have also beefed up the suspension and brakes, and modified the steering.

There’s added visual muscle on the Forester-based MPV, too, in the shape of side skirts, a front spoiler and bigger alloy wheels.

Inside, the limited-edition model is decked out with carbon fibre-effect trim and aluminium pedals, plus STI badges and sportier instrument dials.

The hot Exiga will have to wait to meet the Zafira VXR, though – Subaru has yet to decide whether to bring the car to the European market.