Developed by a dedicated team of performance-loving engineers, the stunning new WRX STI is substantially different to the non-turbo five-door models now being delivered to first customers.

And with a heavily-revised new 300 PS turbocharged 2.5 litre 'boxer' engine, totally new platform and suspension plus even more advanced symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the World Rally Championship look-alike is sure to satisfy Subaru traditionalists.

Its proportions are radically altered compared to both the previous Impreza and mainstream new 1.5- and 2.0-litre models. For example, the wheelbase is 95 mm longer than the old car despite overall length being 50 mm shorter.

This reduces front and rear overhangs and enhances stability. And at 1,795 mm wide, the new STI is even 55 mm wider than the new model thanks to heavily blistered wheelarches, while front and rear tracks are 45 and 40 mm greater for a ground-hugging stance.

Specially-designed side skirts neatly blend into the extended wheelarches, while an oversized roof spoiler with high mounted stop lamp further distances the WRX STI from the mainstream Impreza. In addition, an integrated rear bumper diffuser reduces high-speed lift. At the rear, four exhaust pipes twinned in pairs at either side of the body not only give a distinctive look but reduce exhaust air-flow resistance by 38 per cent, increasing power and reducing noise.

Colour choices will include Subaru's signature 'WR Blue' and while gold-coloured alloy wheels are available, other designs include high-lustre silver alloys measuring 18 x 8.5 ins with 245/40R tyres. The new Impreza WRX STI's standard equipment includes multi-mode driver control centre differential, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control system, ABS with EBD, Brembo brakes, cruise control, front, side and curtain airbags, 17 x 8 ins alloy wheels with 235/45 tyres, HID headlamps, Alcantara and leather front bucket seats, climate-control air-conditioning, six-disc in-dash CD autochanger and MPS input.

Power is now 300 PS at 6,000 rpm with torque of 300 lb ft at 4,000 rpm - increases of 19 PS and 11 lb ft respectively. Top speed is 155.3 mph with a 0-60 mph time of only 4.8 seconds. Fuel consumption is improved compared to the old model at 20.5/34.4 and 27.4 on the urban/extra urban and combined cycles.

All Imprezas come with a three-year warranty plus a 12-year anti-corrosion cover and three-year paintwork warranty. For more information and a test drive visit the Subaru showroom in Mosta Road, Lija, call 2141 8111 or log on to www.subaru.com.mt. Prices start from €56,000 (Lm24,040).