What it is:This turbocharged,roadgoing rally car returns with a controbersial new look and a better interior.
Why it's important:The STI established itself as a performance icon,and Subaru plans to distance it even further from its mode sedate WRX brother.
Platform:Same as that recently introduced WRX.
Powertrain:In a move that seems motivatede by cost considerations,the STI employs a revamped version of the curent 2,5 liter boxer turbo that is expected to develop upwards of 300 horsepower and about 295 pound-feet of torque.A carry-over six-speed manual transmission in the cards
Competition:Audi S4,BMW 335i,Mitsubishi lancer evolution X,Volkswagen R32.
What might go wrong:The Impreza's new look,no matter how much STI cosmetic makeup gets tacked on,might turn off buyers.
Estimated arrival and cost:Expect to see the STI in showrooms early in 2008 for about $34,000 after a debut at this fall's Tokyoshow.
