DETAILS
This is how the new Subaru Impreza STi will look when it is unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. CAR Online’s exclusive artist's impression is based on the styling of the standard new hatchback Impreza, with input from Subaru insiders who have shaped the new STi. And yes, it’s a hatchback. In an attempt to capture more Golf buyers, Subaru will only offer the Impreza as a five-door in Europe. The US saloon version won’t be offered here, and the estate dies. As our images show, the STi version loses its hallmark rear wing but will keep the huge bonnet air scoop and blistered wheelarches that made the old car so distinctive. Dinner-plate foglamps, gold wheels and world-rally blue paintwork will all be options and should help appease die-hard Impreza nuts disappointed with the new car’s styling. And of course, add a few stickers and you’ve got Subaru’s next WRC car.
So how have they spruced up the dull new Impreza?
At the rear is a venturi and a small lip spoiler over the rear screen, ice-effect lenses on the rear lights and vents for the uprated brakes. Under the bonnet will be a development of the current car’s 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four making close to 300bhp and launching the STi to 60mph in 4.5 seconds. Unlike the Mitsubishi Evo due to be launched at the same time, Subaru is sticking with a six-speed manual transmission; its rival will offer the option of a paddle-operated twin-clutch automated manual, similar to Volkswagen’s DSG system. But the changes to the Impreza’s bodyshell are more significant and bode well; the firm claims that the hatchback is lighter, stiffer and has a lower centre of gravity than the outgoing car as the engine sits lower in the chassis. The new rear double-wishbone suspension will improve handling and boot space. And the stronger structure is claimed to give improved crash performance.
So how have they spruced up the dull new Impreza?
At the rear is a venturi and a small lip spoiler over the rear screen, ice-effect lenses on the rear lights and vents for the uprated brakes. Under the bonnet will be a development of the current car’s 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four making close to 300bhp and launching the STi to 60mph in 4.5 seconds. Unlike the Mitsubishi Evo due to be launched at the same time, Subaru is sticking with a six-speed manual transmission; its rival will offer the option of a paddle-operated twin-clutch automated manual, similar to Volkswagen’s DSG system. But the changes to the Impreza’s bodyshell are more significant and bode well; the firm claims that the hatchback is lighter, stiffer and has a lower centre of gravity than the outgoing car as the engine sits lower in the chassis. The new rear double-wishbone suspension will improve handling and boot space. And the stronger structure is claimed to give improved crash performance.
No comments:
Post a Comment