2007 Opel GTC Concept

The world premiere of the GTC Concept (Gran Turismo Coupe) at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show gives an insight into how dynamic and refreshing Opel’s new design language will look in the future. “This concept car demonstrates the new interpretation of the Opel brand,” explains Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing. “The GTC Concept embodies the confident, emotional direction we’re taking with Opel. Its exciting lines combined with its high driving dynamics and interior flexibility reflect what the Opel brand trademark characteristics will be in the future.” Even a new, more refined brand emblem, with the Opel name proudly embossed into the Blitz ring, is suggested.

Dynamic Design

Key elements of the silk grey-lacquered Coupe concept car begin with an aggressive front end performance face emphasized by large aluminum vertical intakes that intersect the headlamps. These vertical elements are mimicked in the rear exhaust elements, proposing an unmistakable down-the-road signature performance graphic, coming or going.

Another significant design cue of the two-door sport-coupe with its sleek silhouette is the sophisticated bodyside shapes and surfacing. The sheetmetal surfaces suggest athleticism coupled with elegance to provide tasteful distinction in a visually loud marketplace. The car features sculpted side lines that further progress the Opel profile shown on the Antara and Opel GT production vehicles.

In addition, large flares hug the aggressive wheel and tire package, visually suggesting road confidence to the customer. Thanks to the wide track, the Opel GTC Concept provides a commanding stance, planted by 20-inch rims with 245/40 R20 “red line” styled rubber. The wheels reference the motor sport aesthetic of black rims - however, elegantly finished with high- gloss black spokes contrasted with machine polished edges, alluding a signature performance wheel look.

Warmer and More Inviting Interior

The Opel GTC Concept significantly represents the next chapter of Opel’s interior brand identity. Echoing the exterior, the interior shapes and surfaces are sculpturally-crafted to visually articulate a dynamic driving experience. The dashboard’s top-pad wraps around from the instrument panel to the door, embracing the occupants. The sweeping decor dynamically stretches one’s eye from the surfaces of the door and instrument panel, creating a memorable environment. The horizontal theme is secured with a large integrated centerstack design floating above the decor surface, an appearance reminiscent of premium audio equipment.

Powerful Engine and Intelligent Four-wheel Drive System

The Opel GTC concept car is powered by a turbocharged, 300 bhp, 2.8-liter V6 gasoline engine with two variable camshafts, which is combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Maximum torque of 295 lb-ft is available from 1850 up to 4500 rpm, and accelerating from zero to 62 mph is calculated to take around six seconds. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.

The power from the high-tech turbo engine is channeled via an advanced, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system, which is fully integrated into the car’s adaptive IDSPlus chassis management system. An electronically-regulated torque transfer device seamlessly distributes power between the front and rear axles for optimum traction and driving performance. The high-speed control allows more power to be provided to the rear axle before any traction loss can occur, for example during quick acceleration. This creates a driving feel similar to a sporty rear-wheel drive car. An electronically-controlled limited slip differential at the rear axle provides additional stability and traction thanks to torque distribution between the rear wheels.

Major benefits of the Opel GTC Concept’s intelligent four-wheel drive system are: optimum traction and stability in all driving conditions as well as excellent agility and an active driving feel.

Audi B&B TT Edition R

The first thing on the German tuner's to-do-list was to be in the "Club 300" (300 km/h, or 186 mph, top speed) regarding the development of this extraordinary TT.

To reach the necessary power for a top speed of 300 km/h and more, B&B installed a newly developed turbocharger and intercooler in the 3.2-liter V6 engine of the Audi TT. The air intake system has been optimized in a significant way. The oil temperature is kept on a perfect level by the help of a special slim line oil cooling system. For perfect results, the engine receives a complete sports exhaust system with race catalysts as well as a especially adapted engine management and electronic.

The results are extraordinary. The engine develops 500 bhp and 480 lb-ft of torque. The TT from B&B accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 4.2 seconds, to 126 mph in 12.5 seconds and to 186 mph in 39.2 seconds. Top speed is 199 mph.

Security and driving conditions was the second thing on the to-do-list.

To meet the requirements of such a high-performance engine a special 8-piston high performance brake system was installed as well as an adjustable suspension kit which give the driver of the TT Edition R a reassuring feeling of security and sovereign driving experience at any time.

A synergy from optical impression and performance was the third thing on B&B’s list.

The Audi's top performer, the new R8, gave the aerodynamic line of the B&B Audi TT Edition R a guiding hand. Single parts are available in carbon look too.

Very exclusive complete wheel sets are available in 19” and 20” and give a perfect finish to the cars exterior package.

2007 BMW M3 Concept

BMW M GmbH has revealed an impression of the next generation M3 Coupe at the 77th Geneva Motor Show in the guise of a stunning concept.

The BMW M3 Concept car features a high-revving V8 engine that is anticipated for the series car once it goes into production. The M3 Concept Car gives an indication of what to expect when the production version of the E92 generation M3 Coupe is released. Bred on the race track for the road, the M3 Coupe has been an icon for more than 20 years.

The new BMW M3 Concept car is based on the just introduced BMW 3 Series Coupe (which has been critically acclaimed around the world, notably in Twin Turbo 335i guise).

For the M3 Concept car, most body panels have been recreated to suit the high-performance prescription that has invigorated driving enthusiasts for more than 20 years. The secret to any M3 is its successful combination of every day driving machine with race track weapon.

The much anticipated Geneva show car is finished in BMW M’s traditional concept paint finish “Chrome Shadow”. While the new BMW M3 shares the overall silhouette of the 3 Series Coupe, only the doors, boot lid and head and tail lamps are carried over without alteration in the M3 Concept Car’s body. All other components were specially engineered for the BMW M3 Concept Car. It features unique exterior aesthetics that accentuate its superior power.

The most notable change to the body is the bulging bonnet now made of weight-saving aluminum, complete with an enhanced and unmistakable powerdome, flanked by large air vents.

The V8 engine featured in the M3 Concept Car devours air at a faster rate than the previous straight six-cylinder engine, so the front apron is dominated by three extra-large air intakes. Along the flanks, the front guards host the now traditional M gills complete with indicator repeaters and M3 badge, while side skirts re-emphasize the M3 Coupe’s powerful stance and high-performance purpose.

The muscular front wheel arches of the BMW M3 Concept Car symbolize the high level of agility and driving stability achieved by this vehicle. Together with the forged 19-inch light alloy rims in the classic Y-spoke design, they emphasize the vehicle’s wide track, while a glance through the spokes of the rims reveals the compound high performance brakes developed exclusively for M vehicles.

Specially designed exterior mirrors feature a black double foot reminiscent of an aircraft wing. The mirrors contribute positively to enhanced stability at high speed, thanks to detailed wind-tunnel optimization.

From any angle, the rear of the car draws the eye to the large rear wheel and muscular haunches, underlining the fact that power is delivered to the road via the rear wheels. A typically discreet boot lip spoiler is designed to reduce lift at speed, keeping the rear wheels firmly on the ground. The contours of the diffuser, whose design is subdivided by modeled struts, mirror the shape of the air intakes at the front. The diffuser and the now-trademark M GmbH double exhaust tailpipes leave observers in no doubt as to the monstrous performance within.

The M3 Concept Car is fitted as standard with an advanced technology carbon-fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) roof panel, as introduced on the limited edition E46 generation M3 CSL, and also used on the production M6 Coupe. In addition to helping to lower the centre of gravity and thus improve agility and handling control, the Formula 1-developed CFRP saves overall weight and is left unpainted, with the finely structured surface coated only with a layer of clear finish. When viewed side-on, the roof edges appear flatter, so lowering the perceived body height. The CFRP roof is a perfect example of how interlinking technical innovation with an individual design strategy was central to the development of the BMW M3 Concept Car.

The BMW M3 Concept Car is a vision that shows where striving for the ultimate driving experience will take us in the future.

Porsche TechArt 911 Turbo GTstreet

With its 2001 TechArt GTstreet, based on the Porsche 911 Turbo of the 996 model series, TechArt created one of the fastest and most powerful street-legal sports cars of its time. The next evolutionary stage of this fascinating concept celebrates its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show 2007. The new TechArt GTstreet, based on the 911 Turbo of the latest 997 series, starts at $320,000.

Like the predecessor the new GTstreet edition centers on a powerful engine. The 3.6-liter twin-turbo flat engine is modified by the TechArt engine specialists and now develops 630 bhp at 6,800 rpm, up from standard 480 bhp. Peak torque increases to 605 lb-ft at 4,500 rpm.

The TechArt TA 097/T3 engine conversion comprises two special VTG turbochargers, a new air box with sport air filter, high-performance manifolds, intercoolers and a stainless-steel sport exhaust system with high-performance catalysts. The precise optimal interaction of all modifications is ensured by a newly programmed engine management system.

Power is transferred to all four wheels via a modified transmission with TechArt gear-throw shortening.

Thus equipped the TechArt GTstreet delivers performance that firmly places it among the world’s fastest sports cars: 0 – 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds, 126 mph after just 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 214 mph speak volumes.

The body kit for the TechArt GTstreet was created in the wind tunnel, and offers an optimal symbiosis of aerodynamic downforce, minimized drag and striking design.

The front fascia of the GTstreet with retractable carbon-fiber splitter produces downforce on the front axle and provides radiator, oil coolers and brakes with more cooling air, thanks to its large, striking air inlets. The auxiliary headlamp units with daytime running lights and fog lamps improve active safety. They also give the car even more passing clout.

The TechArt GTstreet fender flares on the front axle add 10 mm to the two-door’s width and give it an even more dynamic appearance. But that’s not all: The air outlets behind the front wheel houses optimize brake venting. The larger air ducts in the rear sidewalls provide engine and intercoolers with a larger supply of cooling air. For an optimal transition between front and rear fenders the TechArt designers have developed rocker panels that complement the new contours. TechArt mirror and headlamp moldings provide the finishing touches.

The TechArt roof spoiler extends the roofline and optimizes airflow to the adjustable rear airfoil of the GTstreet.

The TechArt GTstreet rear fascia with integrated carbon-fiber diffuser contributes to the strong downforce generated on the rear axle. It also provides the perfect backdrop for the quad exhaust of the TechArt high-performance exhaust system.

TechArt Automobildesign offers a number of versions of its popular Formula wheel in sizes 8.5Jx20 in front and 12Jx20 on the rear axle. GTstreet buyers can choose from several color combinations and between the one-piece Formula and the multi-piece Formula II designs. The Formula II wheel features an exchangeable wheel lip. For optimal tires TechArt chose ContiSportContact 3 high-performance tires in sizes 245/30 ZR20 and 325/25 ZR20.

The large 20-inch wheels also provide the necessary space for the especially powerful and durable TechArt high-performance brake system. It features six-piston aluminum fixed calipers and 390-millimeter discs on the front axle. The rear axle is fitted with 365-millimeter discs and four-piston fixed calipers.

The TechArt GTstreet comes with a TechArt VarioPlus coil-over suspension that is based on the electronically adjustable PASM damping system of the 911 Turbo. This chassis allows individual ride-height lowering by up to 25 millimeters and push-button selection of two different damper settings, “Normal” or “Sport.” However, the dampers are not limited to these presets. Sporty driving automatically results in firmer damper settings in both modes, thus combining excellent ride comfort during normal driving with agile and responsive handling during fast cornering.

The cockpit of the TechArt GTstreet also differs distinctly from the stock 911 Turbo. Among the differences is an exclusive leather interior with color-contrasted stitching and sporty CarboBlack highlights. The coupe is further equipped with an ergonomically shaped TechArt sport steering wheel, aluminum foot pedals, foot rest and shifter, as well as with illuminated door sills sporting the TechArt logo.

Ferrari 599 GTB

Fiorano after the circuit Ferrari uses to hone the performance of its track and road cars; GTB as in Gran Turismo Berlinetta after the most famous Ferrari berlinettas ever built; and 599 to reflect the displacement of its V12 engine divided by 10.

This new all-aluminium two-seater model was designed with several specific objectives in mind: to surpass the driving pleasure of such renowned models as the F40, to guarantee stunning performance courtesy of its highly innovative content and technology transfers from the F1, and to deliver superior standards of roominess, comfort, ergonomics and safety.

The result is the absolute pinnacle of achievement in terms of thoroughbred Ferrari sportiness and technology.

The new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in an astonishing 3.7 seconds and boasts a top speed in excess of 330 km/h. However, it is still the new model's uniquely innovative content that guarantees superior driving pleasure, handling and sportiness.

V12 Engine

The technical specification of the engine speaks for itself: 5999 cm3 displacement, a specific power output of 103 hp/litre (a first for a naturally aspirated production engine of this displacement).

Twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank boast continuously variable timing on both inlet and exhaust cams to optimise torque delivery and drivability at both low and high revs. A twin-plate, low inertia clutch in unit with the engine also helps lower the centre of gravity. Chain driven distribution reduces noise and is maintenance-free.

The Fiorano's engine delivers a maximum torque of 608 Nm at 5,600 rpm. The new model's sportiness is due in part to record maximum revs for an engine of this displacement (apart from the Enzo).

Its maximum power output is 620 hp at 7,600 rpm with a maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm. Particular attention was also paid to fuel consumption which is the same as in the previous model, under similar use, despite a significant leap in performance. Development work for the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also focused specifically on the sound the engine makes, reducing mechanical resonance in favour of a pure V12 soundtrack from both the intake manifold and the exhaust system. This not only enhances driving pleasure but makes for a quieter ride inside the cabin itself.

F1 Gearbox

The new generation F1 gearbox that debuts on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a further development of the F1 gearbox used on all of the models in the Ferrari range.

The F1-SuperFast system enhances the car's high-performance capabilities by using the elastic energy within the transmission components, together with the integrated electronic engine and gearbox management programmes, to speed up gear change times. The various stages involved in changing the gears are implemented in parallel (non-sequentially) and this results in exceptionally fast gear shifting. In fact, it cuts overall gear-shift times to just 100 ms. The system is integrated with the manettino and the driver is still free to choose between either the Automatic mode or the Launch Control setting which offers smoother starts from standstill.

F1-TRAC

The experience built up over thousands of kilometres of Formula 1 testing and racing by Ferrari's drivers is now being made available to ensure clients have access to cutting-edge road-holding, safety and stability. The system continually monitors the speed of both front and rear wheels and features predictive software that estimates the maximum available grip in advance, compares this information with the vehicle dynamics model stored in the control system, and adjusts its reactions to suit, optimising traction by modulating power delivery.

The result is easier, smoother high-performance driving, thanks to maximum grip out of bends (a 20% increase in acceleration compared to a traditional traction and stability control system) and predictable handling even in extreme situations. The F1-Trac is integrated with the manettino which adapts the car's behaviour to the driving conditions: the Sport setting provides the best balance between stability and performance on the road while Race ensures clients maximum performance combined with consistently brilliant handling. The F1-Trac system is another world first for Ferrari.

SCM Suspensions

This is the very first time the SCM (Magnetorheological Suspension Control) suspension has been used on a high performance sports car.

Unlike traditional oleodynamic systems, magnetorheological (MR) fluid suspension systems react instantly to road conditions and driver inputs, thanks to the fact that the dampers use a fluid the viscosity of which is modified by applying an electronically controlled magnetic field.

What this means in practice is greatly improved body control which in turn directly improves handling and road-holding thanks to optimal tyre grip in all road conditions. The result is a much safer and more enjoyable driving experience courtesy of reduced roll and greater control when accelerating, braking and cornering.

"Manettino"

The steering wheel-mounted manettino vehicle dynamics control switch, originally developed for the 1996 Formula 1 season, has been taken a step further for the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.

The manettino integrates the stability and F1-Trac traction control systems, the F1-SuperFast gearbox and the SCM (Magnetorheological Suspension Control) fluid suspension. This means that the driver can select the correct setting for the grip conditions at any given time. The manettino's readouts are displayed on the new on-board Multi Display unit so that the information important to each specific setting is instantly available to the driver (e.g. lap times, tyre temperature and pressure or trip computer readouts.)

Aerodynamics

Lengthy testing in the wind tunnel at Ferrari plus various simulations have yielded exceptional results in terms of both downforce and drag. The optimisation of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano's underbody, the rear diffuser and flying buttresses have resulted in an aerodynamic load of just 160 kg at 300 km/h. Similarly, the Cd - drag coefficient - is just 0.336.

Design and accessories

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a strikingly sculptural car. The design is so supple, in fact, that each new angle brings something new to light. Its forms say it all about its extreme sportiness yet still retain a unique sophistication.

A balance has been struck in the interior between the car's sporty vocation and the feeling of intimacy and safety that only skilled hand-crafting and detailed personalisation can achieve. The passenger areas of the car are trimmed in sumptuous leather while the driver area and controls boast more high-tech detailing in carbon-fibre and aluminium.

In addition to the steering wheel and manettino, the central rev counter with a choice of red or yellow background and solid aluminium passenger controls, the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also boasts attractive new styling cues including a central grip to provide extra support for the passenger and new adaptive racing seats featuring carbon-fibre side rests. Other standard accessories include front bi-xenon headlamps and rear LED lights, dusk and rain sensors, dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable steering-wheel column, hideaway radio/CD player and key with integrated volumetric anti-theft device with motion sensors.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also benefits from an already vast choice of personalisation options available for every Ferrari model. Four areas are covered by this programme: Racing and Track, Exteriors and Colours, Interior and Materials, Equipment and Travel.

The Racing and Track options include CCM (Carbon Ceramic Material) brakes, 20" Challenge one-piece rims with run-flat tyres, four-point harnesses and a cockpit roll-bar. The Scuderia wheel arch shields and coloured brake calipers complete the look for sportier clients.

Interior and Materials options include a new Enzo Ferrari-inspired carbon-fibre steering wheel with LED rev display which can be specified along with a special carbon-fibre trim kit for the door panels, instrument panel, gear stick surround and sill kick panels. Various types of leather trim are also available for the seats and interior too. Travel and Equipment accessories include front and rear parking sensors, iPod-friendly set-up, satellite anti-theft system and a luggage set specially tailored to fit this model.

Gumpert Unveils the Uncompromising Apollo Sport

The Gumpert Apollo is a synthesis of dynamic and design with pure driving pleasure and unique performance. On the road it speeds like not many other cars and on the race track it cries out to be challenged by an opponent that can match its breathtaking acceleration and handling. Now, it is due to get a worthy competitor out of its own stable. At the 77th Geneva Motor Show, the Gumpert Sportwagenmanufaktur will present the Apollo Sport to the wide public.

The Gumpert Apollo Sport is the rebel amongst the super sports cars. Its bodywork combines sexy curves with potent edges and angles and aims for uncompromising aerodynamics. A clear demonstration of the principle form follows function. Its challenging sporting design derives from the requirement to built a street legal racing car, whose number one priority is to provide extraordinary performance on the circuit, but at the same time embodying a vehicle suitable for daily use.

The highest importance was attached to safety: the tubular space frame in chrome-molybdenum steel with integrated safety monocoque fabricated in carbon-fiber passes all crash-tests regulations, while a cashbox offers additional protection. The gaping air intake stub over the roof and on the rear signals power, dynamics and superiority. The eight cylinder, bi-turbo mid-engine with up to 800 horsepower is capable of catapulting this 2645 lbs missile from 0-62 mph in only 3 seconds.

The Apollo Sport is equipped with an extended aerodynamic package and, in contrast to the three part spoiler of the Apollo, possesses a racing wing which gives even more down force. The more powerful engine still manages to accelerate this beast to a top speed of 224 mph.

As you can guess, it is not for nothing that this cars is named after the fierce Greek God.

The two-seater also convinces from the inside, with its sporty and elegant alcantara interior, and offers air-condition, CD-player, navigation system and reverse view camera as standard equipment. A two-layer metallic finish available in any conceivable color, gives this racer a particular luster. As a special accessory the Apollo is equipped with an airjack, a pneumatic jacking pad.

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.