Subaru Impreza R205 (2010)

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Subaru Tecnica International Inc. (STI) is pleased to announce the launch of the Subaru Impreza R205, a special performance version. The model will go on sale today through Subaru dealerships in Japan.

Based on the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, the R205 enhanced the sheer driving performance it shares with former special performance models, such as the "S203" and the "S204", developed by STI. The Subaru Impreza R205 is the top performance model of the WRX STI. It features new and exclusive equipment and makes full use of specially designed features and performance parts of the "WRX STI spec C" model, the sporty performance model launched 2009. The "R" of R205 stands for "Road Sport".

Most efforts focused on refining handling performance by adopting STI tuned dampers, coil springs, flexible type strut tower bar, flexible type lower arm stiffener of front suspension, and Bridgestone's specially designed RE070 tyres. Thus the Subaru Impreza R205 ideally balances agile driving and confident driveability by enhancing a linear steering response and excellent road-holding capability. This is exactly the distinctive ride quality that STI is pursuing as its vehicle development theme, "strength and nimbleness" driving. The Subaru Impreza R205 offers enhanced total driving control not only in city driving on the road or winding road but also in sporty driving at the circuit.

In addition, STI carried out verification tests of selected performance parts of the Subaru Impreza R205 through the participation of the 2009 Nurburgring 24-hour race with an Impreza WRX STI. Making full use of this precious race-track experience at Nurburgring - in which any road condition is condensed - STI successfully completed the model in order to offer sheer excitement and unique driving feeling as a distinctive "Road Sport Model".

The Subaru Impreza R205 delivers an increased 235kW (320PS) of maximum output, and 431N.m (44.0kg.m) by adopting the exclusively designed turbocharger with ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, specially tuned ECU (Engine Control Unit), and the sport muffler with lowered back pressure exhaust. SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive) is also available to neatly suit driving style in any driving situation at driver's command.

The front under spoiler, newly developed rear under spoiler, and the black rear spoiler improve aerodynamics. Exclusively designed 18-inch alloy wheels, specially colored front grille and side STI garnish accentuate its uniqueness.

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Mais um vídeo onde Ken Block mostra toda a sua experiência em domar o Subaru WRX STI.
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Subaru Impreza WRX STi (2008)

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The new Subaru Impreza WRX STi was developed with the eternal theme and essence of the driverʼs car, the "total driving control," that the preceding Subaru Impreza WRX STi models also pursued. This AWD sports model gives maximum driving pleasure through its combination of power, performance, handling and ride capabilities thanks to engineering exclusively designed for the Subaru Impreza WRX STi and its five-door package. It also balances excellent safety and environmental aspects at a high level.

Styling 
Using a new five-door body style developed from the Impreza model, the new Subaru Impreza WRX STi displays a powerful design language that speaks directly to its performance credentials, integrating function and beauty. Adopting shortened front and rear overhangs, a longer wheelbase and widened body flares, the Subaru Impreza WRX STi clearly embodies driving performance in dynamic exterior design that delivers as overwhelming presence and beauty.

Performance
The new Horizontally-Opposed 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine was developed exclusively for the new Subaru Impreza WRX STi. By further improving the basic performance of the engine, and mating it to SI-DRIVE (SUBARU Intelligent Drive), the Subaru Impreza WRX STi offers not only outright performance as might be expected, but also delivers excellent handling under extreme as well as normal driving conditions. Featuring Subaru's unique Symmetrical AWD and specially developed in-house 6-speed manual transmission as its base technologies, multi mode DCCD (Driver's Control Center Differential) and VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), which control traction and stability more precisely, have also been added to Subaru Impreza WRX STi. To complete its performance credentials, the evolved chassis by "Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept" has dramatically improved road-hugging capability and will provide exhilaration and confidence in every driving situation.

Technical specification
Body size (length×width×height): 4415×1795×1475mm
Wheel-base: 2625mm
Track(front/rear): 1530/1540mm
Engine Type: Dual AVCS 16-Valve DOHC Horizontally-Opposed 4-cylinder twin scroll Turbo
Capacity: 1994cc
Suspension (front / rear: Reverse type strut/Double wishbone
Tire Size: 245/40R18

Subaru lança o Impreza WRX STi Spec C

A Subaru lançou no Japão a nova série do Impreza o WRX STi Spec C. Esta série especial terá apenas 900 unidades fabricadas.

O Impreza WRX STI spec C terá motor 2.0 a gasolina que desenvolve 308 cavalos de potência, ele ainda teve seu peso reduzido em cerca de 70 kg, suspensão dianteira reforçada e amortecedores e molas redimensionados.

O sistema de freios conta com pinças de travão Brembo em dourado e rodas de 18 polegadas com pneus Bridgestone – Potenza RE070 (245/40 R18) .

Será disponível em três cores Pure White (branco), Sunshine Yellow (amarelo) e azul.

Ken Block voando e fritando com Subaru

Ken Block esta novamente aprontando das suas. Este vídeo esta ainda mais incrível que o anterior incluindo alguns saltos.

Uma voltinha com Ken Block [Vídeo]

Neste post aqui, mostrei o vídeo da Gymkhana Two onde Ken Block da um show com seu Subaru. Agora leva os repórteres para dar uma voltinha na pista de testes.

Vídeo: Show de Drift com Subaru

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Subaru Impreza STI em ação (Ken Block Gymkhana Practice)

Se você gosta de drift, zerinhos, 360 e outras loucuras em quatro rodas não pode perder este vídeo.

Ken Block é O piloto com “O” maiúsculo veja o que ele faz com o Subaru Impreza STI. O vídeo tem 4,27 minutos prepare o colírio pois não vai piscar:

Veja o vídeo do Subaru Impreza WRX STI Full 2008

Subaru Impreza WRX (2009)

You can download full picture gallery with 10 hi-res wallpapers of Subaru Impreza WRX right here>>DOWNLOAD
Subaru is revving up performance and handling in its iconic All-Wheel Drive Subaru Impreza WRX sport compact for 2009, following the debut of the all-new model in 2008. Performance leaps to a higher level in the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX thanks to a 265 horsepower turbocharged intercooled Boxer engine, retuned suspension and wider, lower-profile summer performance tires. WRX enthusiasts will quickly identify the 2009 models by the ST-type grille and standard Aero Package. The 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX comes with a 5-speed manual transmission.

New Impreza GT Model
Subaru is also introducing a new Impreza 2.5GT model for 2009, powered by a 224-horsepower turbocharged intercooled engine teamed to a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT.

Both the more powerful Subaru Impreza WRX and the new 2.5GT are available as 4-Door and 5-Door models. As on all Subaru models, the Subaru Impreza WRX and 2.5GT models are equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

The goal of the 2009 WRX team was termed "Kyo-Ka" (translated from Japanese as "strengthening"). To achieve this goal Subaru engineers thoroughly revamped the performance character of the Subaru Impreza WRX for 2009. Gaining a larger turbocharger, along with a new larger-diameter exhaust and low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure, the Subaru Impreza WRX engine now produces 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm - significant increases from the 224 horsepower and 226 lb.-ft. in the 2008 version.


The Subaru Impreza WRX debuted an all-new platform for the 2008 model year, featuring a longer 103.1-inch wheelbase and an all-new double-wishbone rear suspension system. Revised suspension tuning for 2009 further bolsters WRX's street performance credentials. The standard 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels now wear 225/45R17 summer performance tires, compared to 205/50R17 all-season tires used on the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, which is standard on all Impreza models for 2009, helps to enhance the WRX model's road handling safety.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which forms the common core technology on all Subaru models, gives the Subaru Impreza WRX a significant handling performance advantage over front-wheel drive competitors. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system (varies by model and transmission). The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the car's center of gravity, which in turn contributes to its handling characteristics.

The 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX employs a viscous coupling locking center differential that distributes torque 50:50 front/rear. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. The 2009 Impreza 2.5GT, like other Subaru models equipped with automatic transmission, uses a different version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This active torque-split system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

Suspension Re-Tuned For Sharper Handling
Subaru significantly re-tuned the suspension on the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX, resulting in sharper turn-in and more responsive handling overall. Front upper strut mounts are adopted from the STI. The front spring rate is increased from 26.5 N/mm to 38 N/mm, and the rear spring rate is increased from 24 N/mm to 34 N/mm. Diameter of the stabilizer bars is also increased, from 20 mm to 21 mm in front and from 15 mm to 16 mm in the rear. Suspension damping has also been re-tuned. Notably, the new, stiffer suspension tuning did not require any further reinforcement of the inherently strong Impreza body structure.

Because the wider tires used on the 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX give more kickback than those on the 2008 model, a new damper valve was added to the steering gearbox to ensure a smooth and high quality steering feeling.

The Subaru Impreza WRX chassis is designed for improved rigidity and ride comfort and employs high-tension steel at key structural points. In addition to providing a basis for more responsive handling, the double-wishbone rear suspension that debuted in the new-generation Impreza models enables a smooth ride quality as well as decreased road noise for a quieter cabin.

The new-generation design results in a lower overall weight for the body while the longer wheelbase allows for improved ride dynamics, more interior room and reduced levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). In addition, the new chassis improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for crisper handling.

Placing the engine slightly lower in the chassis than in the previous-generation Impreza models helped lower the center of gravity in the new Impreza platform, enhancing steering response. With the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (DC3), Subaru optimized all elements of the Impreza's chassis to deliver a better balance of handling response, ride quality, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles.

New WRX Aero Body Styling
On both 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan and 5-Door models, a new STI-type grille carries the WRX badge. Both models get a sharpened new look from the standard Aero Package, which was formerly part of the optional WRX Premium Package. Both body styles also feature front and rear under-bumper spoilers and aerodynamic side ground effects. The sedan has a low-profile rear trunk spoiler, while the 5-Door adopts the Subaru Impreza WRX STI rear spoiler and a rear diffuser. The rear garnish panel between the light clusters is body color on the 5-Door and chrome on the sedan.

Other distinctions between the two models continue as before, including clear rear tail lamp lenses for the 5-Door and red lenses on the sedan. The 4-Door features dual tailpipe outlets, while the 5-Door uses a single, larger outlet (stainless steel on Premium Package.)

Rally-Inspired Interior
The Subaru Impreza WRX interior introduced new comfort and spaciousness for 2008, and for 2009 it gains new WRX-exclusive carbon black checkered upholstery accented by red stitching. The standard tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel is accented by red stitching and standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers now include the driver's footrest.

Performance-design front seats integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure. The sporty instrument panel features electroluminescent gauges, similar to the Subaru Impreza WRX STI. As in the WRX STI, the indicator needles sweep the gauge faces upon engine startup for a sporty effect. The WRX Premium Package gains a power moonroof; other contents carry over, including the 10-speaker audio upgrade with auxiliary input jack, projector-beam fog lights, dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

The compact layout of the double-wishbone configuration helps to minimize intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wider and deeper luggage compartment. On the 5-Door WRX, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags with the rear seat backs in the upright position. In the Subaru Impreza WRX sedan, which is 4.5-inches longer than the previous-generation Impreza sedan and 6.5-inches longer than the new 5-Door models, the extra space provides for a larger, deeper trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. In all Subaru Impreza WRX models, a 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience.

Advanced Yet Easy-To-Use Technology
The available navigation and information center in Subaru Impreza WRX is the focal point of the center console. The navigation screen is located at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and ease of use. With the navigation system, the center console provides an input for MP3 players as well as RCA-type video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices. These can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked.

Impreza models come pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. Both the standard and optional Impreza audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) that can display a variety of information, including a song's title and artist. The standard WRX audio system features an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and four speakers.

The WRX Premium Package adds an AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer featuring MP3/WMA file capability. Occupants enjoy powerful sound from 10 upgraded speakers (six in the front doors, four in the rear doors) and SRS® Circle Surround Sound. Also with this package, the steering wheel adds audio system switches. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod or MP3 player.

The optional Satellite Radio and Navigation package for the Subaru Impreza WRX integrates the Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement. Used in high-end home theater systems, Audyssey MultEQ creates the optimal sound experience for passengers in each seat position by tuning equalization that corrects for time and frequency response. The navigation system itself presents major functions through an intuitive, easy-to-use touch screen interface. This option also includes Bluetooth® hands-free wireless capability (requires accessory kit.)

Safety Technology
The new-generation Impreza models are built upon the proven Subaru Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones. All Impreza models for 2009 feature a 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. (The WRX and 2.5GT models have larger front brakes than other Impreza models.) All seats provide 3-point seatbelts (height-adjustable for outboard positions), and the front seatbelts have electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters.

Side-curtain airbags are standard on all 2009 Impreza models. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features front seat side impact airbags and a driver's side front airbag that deploys according to the driver's proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight - first determining if it is occupied, and if so by a child or adult - to control airbag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an "Airbag" indicator light.

Subaru Impreza WRX fica mais potente

Poucos meses depois de lançar os novos modelos da família Impreza, totalmente reformulados, a Subaru divulga que a versão mais esportiva da linha, o Impreza WRX, estará ainda mais potente em 2009 e será oferecida exclusivamente com o câmbio manual de cinco marchas. Quem quiser o câmbio automático, disponível no modelo 2008 do WRX , terá de optar pelo Impreza GT – versão um pouco menos apimentada.

O motor continua o mesmo 2,5 litros de quatro cilindros opostos (boxer) turbo, mas os engenheiros japoneses aumentaram a capacidade do turbo e a vazão do sistema de escapamento, além de instalar um catalisador de menor densidade na versão WRX. Com isso, a potência subiu de 224 para 265 cavalos. A suspensão também foi recalibrada e ganhou barras estabilizadoras mais largas.

Para segurar a maior potência, os pneus de 17 polegadas ficaram mais largos, passaram de 205/50R17 para 225/45R17. Por causa da mudança, que deixaria o volante mais pesado, a válvula da direção hidráulica foi trocada para não interferir na sensibilidade da pilotagem. Ah, o teto solar agora ficou maior, mas isso não importa tanto...

Impreza surge em Londres 250 cv, 330 cv e 380 cv

Se não bastasse os Impreza WRX e WRX STi, a Subaru leva ao Salão de Londres três séries especiais de seu endiabrado hatchback: WRX-S; STi 330S e 380PS, este ainda um conceito que vai depender da aceitação do público para entrar em produção.

O mais tranqüilo do trio é o WRX-S. Sua base é o WRX, porém a potência do motor 2.5 com quatro cilindros contrapostos subiu de 230 cv para 255 cv (cavalos). Esse incremento fez o tempo de aceleração de 0 a 96 km/h cair de 6,0 para 5,5 segundos. Se não quiser escutar o motor, há sistema de áudio com disqueteira para seis CDs e 10 alto-falantes, além de faróis de xenônio.

Já o próprio nome do STi 330S entrega seu caráter. Derivado do WRX STi, que é apenas o mais forte dos Impreza, desenvolve 330 cv de potência, em vez dos 310 cv originais. Assim consegue acelerar de 0 a 96 km/h em meros 4,4 segundos, número digno de um Porsche 911 Carrera S. O 330S ainda tem sistema de escapamento com 90 milímetros de diâmetro, bancos Recaro tipo concha, navegação por satélite, cartão eletrônico para entrada e botão de partida.

Não está satisfeito? Então faça coro no estande da montadora japonesa pedindo a produção do Impreza 380PS. A sigla identifica quanto sai do seu motor e estes 50 cv a mais dão condições de o Impreza andar junto com superesportivos do quilate de Lamborghini Murciélago, Mercedes SLR, Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.


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Subaru WRC Concept

Subaru has chosen September’s 62nd Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) for the biggest new model blitz in its history. Key attractions include the European debut for the completely new Impreza, a striking World Rally Car Concept, facelifted Tribeca luxury SUV, totally new Justy supermini and the world’s first horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ turbo-diesel engine – due to be progressively installed in various models from spring 2008.

Subaru WRC driver, Petter Solberg, will speak at the Subaru press conference (Tuesday, September 11, Hall 8 at 2 pm) when the new Impreza-based WRC Concept will be unveiled.

Described as an indication of future styling trends for a world rally car, the WRC Concept is sure to draw the crowds – and conjure up speculation among enthusiasts and the press alike.

Also presenting at the press conference is Mr Matsatsugu Nagato, Fuji Heavy Industries’ Executive Vice President in charge of European markets.

He will unveil the completely new Impreza five-door hatchback in its 1.5 and 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated formats – aimed at appealing to a wider audience while still retaining Subaru’s distinctive ‘boxer’ engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. Both technologies offer outstanding handling and roadholding with ‘real world’ active safety.

Other exhibits include a facelifted Tribeca with new front and rear styling plus a larger – but more efficient – 3.6 litre ‘boxer’ engine mated to a more responsive five-speed automatic gearbox. Other improvements include easier access to the optional third row of seats in the seven-seat versions.

A surprise appearance at the show is a completely new Justy 1.0 litre five-door supermini offering superb fuel economy coupled with low exhaust emissions. The front-wheel drive Justy will be supplied to Subaru for sale in Europe by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

Also guaranteed to generate intense interest is a display Subaru Boxer Turbo Diesel engine which will be fitted progressively to various models from spring 2008.

The world’s first horizontally-opposed diesel engine promises outstanding refinement, smoothness and low weight for excellent handling. In addition, fuel economy, performance and emissions will all be class-challenging.

Also underlying Subaru’s commitment to developing environmentally-friendly technologies is an example of its R1e electric city car – already in use in Japan.

Subaru Impreza WRX 2008

Subaru announced the unveiling of its all new Subaru Impreza at the New York International Auto Show, which will be held from April 6th through 15th, 2007. The third-generation Impreza will hit the market around the world starting this summer.

Developed around the product concept of new, more refined designs for comfort, the latest Impreza incorporates sophisticated styling and rich interior design, roominess and space, and outstanding comfort and utility, while offering a pleasant and safe ride enhanced by Subaru Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) with the Horizontally-Opposed engine.

Advanced Core Mechanism

The new Impreza showcases a redesigned chassis, body construction and drivetrain, as well as substantially improved overall performance, under the theme “Only Subaru can deliver such attractive performance and values.” It also provides a pleasant ride with ease of handling and integrates performance with advanced safety and environmental considerations.

The newly designed double-wishbone rear suspension effectively absorbs shocks from road surfaces, ensuring high levels of ride comfort and agile handling. The lower center of gravity, enabled by the Boxer engine, has been enhanced by mounting the engine slightly lower in the chassis, thereby further improving stability. Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), available on a wider grade range of the Impreza lineup, increases active safety.

Engines and Transmissions

The 2.5-liter Boxer engine features ideal power output characteristics under a practical range of driving speeds through improved mid- to low-end torque. The engine has also been modified to improve emissions and fuel efficiency. The 2.5-liter SOHC normally aspirated engine adopts a new intake port and other design changes that make improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency possible. Improved emissions were realized by a new catalyst system that optimizes catalyst efficiency.

Incorporating a newly designed intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger, the 2.5-liter DOHC turbocharged engine delivers improved mid to low-end torque and fuel efficiency. Transmissions, both manual and automatic, were modified for faster, more responsive shifting and better maneuverability.

Exterior Design

Refined styling is highlighted by a perfectly proportioned body, well calculated panel curves that reflect light and shadow in harmony, and quality details. Sweeping character lines on both sides express a sense of speed and individuality. A sporty image is underscored by projecting front fenders and rear quarters. Projector lamps, used in the headlights, give a dynamic three-dimensional appearance.

The 2008 Impreza is available in 4-door and 5-door versions.

Interior Design

Spacious and open interior provides comfort and improves visibility. Aluminum-look insets in the center panels and door trim add a sporty feel and airiness. The navigation screen, as well as the vehicle information and audio displays are placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality. High-grade, double-stitched seat fabrics provide a feeling of quality.

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Subaru Impreza WRC 2007

Engine
Type: Turbocharged Flat-4
Displacement cu in (cc): 121 (1994)
Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 300(224) / 5500
Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 347(470) / 4000
Redline at RPM: n.a.

Brakes & Tires
Brakes F/R: Gravel: AP Racing 305 mm ventilated discs and 4-pot calipers front and rear
Asphalt, front brakes: 366 mm ventilated discs with 6-pot water-cooled calipers
Tires: BFGoodrich
Driveline: All Wheel Drive

Performance
Acceleration 0-62 mph s: depends on setup
Top Speed mph (km/h): depends on setup
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km): n.a.

Subaru's New World Rally Championship Contender
The Subaru World Rally Team has unveiled the latest evolution of its rally challenger, the Impreza WRC2007, which will make its competitive debut on Rally Mexico (March 9-11) in the hands of Petter Solberg/Phil Mills and Chris Atkinson/Glenn Macneall.

As with previous incarnations of the iconic rally car, the Impreza WRC2007 is the result of a close collaboration between the teams of engineers and designers within Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd and Subaru Tecnica International (STI) in Japan and the Subaru World Rally Team in England.

The creation of the WRC2007 is a sign of Subaru’s ongoing commitment to the World Rally Championship as a way of proving the superior performance, reliability and safety of the Impreza model. Although the latest World Rally Car is outwardly similar to its predecessor, a number of key engineering improvements have justified the production of a new car for the remainder of this season.

Steve Farrell, director of engineering for the Subaru World Rally Team, explains: “The targets were to produce a car that has a more responsive front end with better traction and more balanced tire wear, particularly on longer stages. To achieve that, we have applied a different philosophy into areas such as weight distribution, suspension geometry and differential set-ups. We also have new dampers to improve road-holding and traction.

“The car also has a different radiator and intercooler pack. We made an evolution in the middle of last season and, with the benefit of the new homologation, we’ve been able to make a further step on that. We have simplified the layout, which has improved the air flow, made the front end of the car easier to service and lost some weight.

“Externally, the differences are relatively subtle. The front bumper has been restyled to suit the new radiator pack and the bonnet vents are different – we have twin side exits on the bonnet this time rather than one central one.”

Richard Taylor, Subaru World Rally Team managing director adds: “Since the latter part of last year we’ve worked very closely with Subaru in Japan to look at certain specific areas of the 2006 car and bring the new version to fruition as quickly as possible. This season we have started to work with BFGoodrich and Mexico will be our first gravel event with its tires, so we still have a considerable amount of learning to do in that respect.”

As the basis of a rally winning machine, few cars can match the competitive pedigree of the Impreza. First launched in 1992, the road car has developed in tandem with its rallying counterpart and over the last 13 seasons, the Impreza has scored 46 WRC victories and lessons learned on the rally stages have been fed back into the production model.

Like the road-going Impreza, at the heart of the rally car are two key parts of the Subaru philosophy, namely the Horizontally-opposed engine and the trademark Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive). Through the work of STI and the Subaru World Rally Team, Subaru has established a two-way feedback process which complements both the road and rally car program.

Shigeo Sugaya, manufacturer principal, engineering, for the Subaru World Rally Team, says: “The collaboration between Subaru in Japan and England has worked extremely well to deliver the WRC2007 in a very short timeframe. Last autumn, engineers in Japan and England shared the idea before actual work started on both sides. Then development work was initiated as a joint project between the two teams.

“Our engineers in Japan are responsible for two main areas: the first is designing the bodyshell, including aerodynamics, and the other is improving the power unit. The engine itself contributes to further improving drivability in the middle to low speed range, which worked effectively in the Impreza WRC2006. As with previous designs, the engine is an all-aluminum construction, but the further use of light-weight materials means it is even lighter than before.

“On top of that, we work very closely with the Subaru World Rally Team engineers on specific projects and offer general support as and when it is needed. We also set up smaller groups including engineers from both Japan and England to develop areas such as the suspension or aerodynamics. The groups communicate directly, while my role is to oversee the success of each project. The WRC2007 does not represent a radical change for the team, instead we have made small evolutions in several areas.”

The team has used the WRC2006 for the first three rallies of the 2007 season and has scored points on each outing. In parallel, the new car has been undergoing testing on gravel roads in Italy and Spain. The two Subaru World Rally Team crews will drive the Impreza WRC2007 for Mexico and the subsequent 12 rounds of the WRC.

Today two Subaru Impreza WRC2007s were due to set off from the Subaru World Rally Team’s headquarters in Banbury, England to embark on the 5000-mile trip to Mexico in preparation for their debut in the World Rally Championship.