Subaru's Shocker!

But given the response to spy-photos and supposedly accurate renderings of the new model, we figured it would be better to just look at pictures of it, meanwhile.






[IMG]http://www.oneshift.com/showroom/uploadimages/resized-20070212173810256.jpg[/IMG]

As spotted by petrol-head paparazzi earlier, the new Impreza appeared in the form, barely of a 5-door hatchback. Said to be unleashed against the Volkswagen Golf, the car will be about 130mm shorter than its current saloon version, as well as 50mm wider. Its weight will remain at 1,400 kg.

[IMG]http://www.oneshift.com/showroom/uploadimages/resized-20070212173940712.jpg[/IMG]

As for its engine variants, fans can expect the new STI to be powered by a reworked version of the current 2.0 litre turbocharged boxer-four, pushing 300bhp and 431Nm of torque. Rumours also have it that a 2.5 litre power plant is on the way, and instead of further improving its burst of power, Subaru's engineers will work on getting more low and mid-end torque.. For those who prefer something tamer, the base model Impreza will have a 1.5 litre naturally aspirated boxer with 115bhp.

Drivers will be able to choose from a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic, while the STi will be built with a proper six-speed manual. Expected improvements will also revolve around better handling and stability, thanks to a new rear multi-link suspension a refined Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD).

With Subaru taking on a new rival, Mitsubishi bringing on its new Evo X and Nissan's jaw-dropping GTR, 2008 and 2009 looks like a good year for the Land of The Rising Sun.

Here are some photos from an unknown Japanese magazine:


[IMG]http://www.oneshift.com/showroom/uploadimages/resized-20070213190756337.jpg[/IMG]


[IMG]http://www.oneshift.com/showroom/uploadimages/resized-20070213190851876.jpg[/IMG]

Credits: Kr0n