Subaru announced its lineup for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, and it includes the 5-door hatchback version of the fourth-gen Impreza.

Sure it’s not the coolest or more desirable hatchback today, but it does have some redeeming features, chief among which is the superior quality and reliability. What’s more i benefits from Subaru’s acclaimed Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system with the Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine technologies.

It’s available in Europe with a 1.6-litre petrol engine.

Subaru will also be showing its BRZ sportscar at the Geneva show, introducing its Pure Handling Delight to the Europeans. This year Subaru is also celebrating the 40th anniversary of its core technology “Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD)”.

On this Occasion Subaru will create and showcase various items at the Subaru booth: they include a special logo embodying “Responsive handling of the driver’s intents”, which is a value of SAWD and graphics illustrating the history of Subaru’s SAWD. Also visitors will experience the benefit of SAWD uniqueness through the 3D virtual game.

The new 2012MY Subaru Impreza passes IIHS crash tests with flying colors winning the Top Safety Pick Award for all models.

Regarded as the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive vehicle in America, the 36mpg Impreza come as standard with Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC) – a system which combines stability and traction control functions – while all models are equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.

That’s in addition to the active safety brought by the car’s brilliant AWD system that never loses grip no matter what you are up to!

“Our customers take their safety very seriously and so we are very pleased that IIHS has recognized us again with a TOP SAFETY PICK winner for all our qualifying models,” said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. “To be able to include the redesigned 2012 Impreza to the list is an outstanding success and a tribute to the engineering that goes into our products. The IIHS reinforces to our customers that Subaru maintains the highest standards to produce vehicles that are fun-to- drive, durable, reliable as well as safe.”

“Subaru once again has a TOP SAFETY PICK winner for all models,” said IIHS president Adrian Lund. “It’s tough to win, and we commend auto manufacturers for making safety a top priority.”

Subaru of America revealed the official pricing for the 2012 Impreza in the American market. It starts at just $17,495 which is the same as last year.

For that you get the base 4-door Impreza 2.0i with a five-speed manual transmission. If you want it with the automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT), that’ll cost $18,495. The 5-door hatchback Impreza has a starting price of $17,995 when equipped with a five-speed transmission and $18,995 for the CVT-equipped model.

The 2.0 liter boxer engine generates 148 horsepower and has an EPA fuel economy of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. That makes it the most economical CVT all-wheel drive car in America.

The 2012 Impreza is also available in Premium trim level with more bells and whistles:

The 4-door 2.0i Premium starts at $18,795, while the 5-door Premium starts at $19,295. For the 2.0i Limited, prices start at $21,595 for the 4-door and $22,095 for the 5-door version. Finally, the Impreza 2.0i Sport Premium starts at $20,295 and is only offered in the 5-door body style. A new Sport Limited model is also available. These prices all reflect MSRP before the $750.00 destination charge.

After breaking the Isle of Man TT circuit record, Subaru now decided to teach some of the world’s finest supercars a lesson at the Pageant of Power.

The 2011 Cholmondeley Pageant of Power, to be held from 15 to 17 July in Cheshire, is the ultimate battle ground for the fastest supercars, to see who’s the quickest around the 1.2-mile technical track.

Even though the Subaru hatchback has to head to head with cars like Ariel Atom V8, Lamborghini LP570-4 Performante, McLaren MP4-12C and a Noble M600, they are confident because 1. They are bringing the limited-edition Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 with 400 PS, lightweight Pro-Race 18-inch alloy wheels, AP Racing six-pot brake callipers and Cosworth-branded interior, and 2. because the car will be driven by former British Rally Champion, Mark Higgins, same man who did the TT record.

So the Suba will either give the big boys a bloody nose, or will return home with its tail between its legs!

Marketing Director of Subaru UK, Kenyon Neads, commented: “The Cholmondeley Pageant of Power is a perfect platform for us to showcase this collaborative effort from two of the big names in automotive performance – Subaru and Cosworth.  The circuit record will be tough to match, but we’re confident that the CS400 will take the fight to the supercar elite.”

The new generation 2012 Subaru Impreza is finally unveiled in New York, featuring a new design inside and out plus new engines and transmissions.

The fourth-generation Impreza is inspired by the magnificent concept car of the last Detroit motorshow in terms of design. Subaru believes the new bolder design is a sign of their high confidence in the car. All its features such as new hexagonal grille, hawk-eye headlights and wide arches are designed to give the car a distinctive character. It looks good, even in the estate form which looks very much like the XV concept.

The new Impreza’s wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches (compared to 103.2 in the outgoing model), while length and width measurements remain the same. The spacious interior is complemented with better quality, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and centre console armrest,  and better practicality. The 5-door hatchback will benefit from increased luggage space and now provides a completely flat load floor with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded. The new Impreza also has lot of useful cubbyholes inside the cabin.

Levels of standard equipment have been increased across the range. All models are set to feature electric windows and mirrors, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display, engine immobilizer, and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Higher spec models will add more kit including 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth^® controls, heated front seats and mirrors, climate control, upgraded instruments and auto lights. Impreza’s new optional navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display with voice control.

As for the powertrains, the car will launch (UK) with a 4-cylinder 1.6 litre Boxer petrol engine available with either a new five-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. Higher spec models also get steering wheel paddle shifters. New Impreza will benefit from improved ride and handling courtesy of strengthened suspension components in front and rear and new hydraulic engine mounts to damp out vibration.

Of course no matter which model you go for, you get the magnificent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It comes in two versions: In models equipped with the five-speed manual, the Continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling to distribute power 50/50 front to rear, while the CVT models feature the Active Torque Split AWD version that uses a continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

2012 Impreza will also come as standard with Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC) – a system which combines stability and traction control functions – while all models are equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.

Pricing for the new model will be announced closer to launch. As for the WRX STI, the current versions remain in business for now until Subaru is ready to announce a new model.

This is the first picture of the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza released by the company ahead of the car’s debut at the upcoming New York International Auto Show.

From this angle it’s really hard to tell is the car looks anything like the amazing concept car Subaru revealed last year in Los Angeles, but it certainly has inherited some of its design cues. We also kinda feel that it’s become more like the Legacy, but we will find out soon as more details on the car will be released soon.

Subaru also confirms that the new Impreza will deliver 36 MPG (estimated), the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car on sale in the U.S. They also promise a roomier interior and improved levels of comfort and refinement.

That’s it for now, we will be back with more info when Subaru released them!

Subaru announced their lineup for 2011 Geneva Motor Show, to be held from March 3 through 13 and confirmed European premiere of Subaru Impreza Concept. This awesome concept showcases Subaru’s new brand statement “Confidence in Motion” and will soon spawn a production model. Other premieres include the Subaru Trezia and the firm’s Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car Technology Concept.

The Subaru Trezia represents a proposal of new value to meet the increasing demand for smaller and environmentally friendly cars in Europe. The key phrase for this product is “New Compact Smart Wagon”. The model provides the benefits of the Subaru wagon-style in an overall body size of less than 4 meters in length. This touring compact car offers a string of other benefits, from the strong presence of the exterior to the highly efficient package of the roomy and quality interior and easy-to-use utility space. With CO2 emissions of 113 g/km*, the Trezia combines superior environmental friendliness and highly responsive driving. A 1.3-litre petrol engine and 1.4-litre turbo diesel engine are available in the European markets.
*For the 1.4-litre turbo diesel models
-Major specifications
- Length x Width x Height: 3,995 x 1,695 x 1,595 mm, Wheelbase: 2,550 mm<Subaru Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car Technology Concept>
A Subaru rear-wheel drive sports car is currently under joint development as part of the business alliance with Toyota Motor Corporation. Based on an all-new platform, the vehicle will offer Subaru’s distinctive trademark and core technology: the “Horizontally-Opposed Subaru Boxer engine”. The concept embodies Subaru’s established know-how in manufacturing boxer-powered passenger cars; it shows how Subaru proposes to integrate this expertise into a rear-wheel drive car to offer a new and highly enjoyable, Subaru-like driving experience. The technology concept will demonstrate how the all-new car platform makes full use of Subaru’s engineering and Boxer technology.

This is the car Subaru been teasing us with the past couple of weeks. Unveiled at the LA Show, this is the Subaru Impreza Design Concept, and make no mistake, this is more or less how the next Impreza will look like. And I can already feel the tension at Mitsubishi design center as they are thinking of a new Lancer!

This car is designed based on Subaru’s new “Confidence in Motion” design and brand strategy. It follows the trendy “four-door coupe” style, but at the same time it tires to maintain its Japanese roots with unique lines at front and rear.

As Subaru says: The designers blended two ideas – “dynamic flow and confident stance” – to showcase Subaru’s engineering core values of dynamic performance, safety, driving enjoyment and quality.

The unique features of this concept include a hexagonal grille with spread wings in the center and hawk eye-style headlights, and the hood, grille and headlights designed to project three-dimensional character. And those flared wheel arches, they are not just there to impress school boys, they are also emphasizing the vehicle’s All-Wheel Drive technology.

If you want to nitpick, then you can criticism the  design of the rear-end, as it looks a bit weird and not so pretty. Here the hexagonal theme repeats with a garnish that radiates outward from the center. The rear lights also follow a sharp-edged theme, and are stretched into the body sides to join the character line along the car’s flanks.

The Sky Silver exterior color underscores the Impreza Design Concept’s stylish and dynamic silhouette, and suggests a silver tone to be used on the next generation of Subaru vehicles.  The high-luster silver aluminum wheels, with their five-twin-spoke design, convey vehicle lightness and agility. Carbon fins garnish the spokes, aiding brake cooling.

For the interior, the designers followed a theme of “Dynamic, Enticing, Secure.” It’s got some very cool conceptual features, but they are generally pointless because non of these toys will make it into the produciton model.

One feature that might have a future is the large display in the center dash which combines functions for navigation, vehicle information and audio. The touch panel technology provides ease of use, seamlessly melding information and entertainment features.

Also for the first time in this car Subaru has mated a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine with a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This new setup will help with the performance and also improves the efficiency. A 2.5-liter version of this engine powers the 2011 Forester.

This concept also features an innovative technology, which is Subaru’s own advanced driving-assist EyeSight system installed along the front edge of the roof. The images the camera takes can be viewed on a monitor in the center of the gauge cluster, positioned for easy visibility. EyeSight is also networked with the latest in collision-prevention technology.

There are quite a few cars out on the market that can give you as many qualities as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI does. Granted, it doesn’t look as glamorous as its European equivalents, but it’s four-door sedan with four-wheel drive, 300 bhp engine, fantastic handling, uncanny quality, and lots of equipments, all in a very well priced package, and it looks very cool and discrete. What else do you want from a car?! I would buy this over a 3-Series Bimmer or C-Class Merc in a heartbeat.

The new 2011 model which can now be ordered in UK from just £32,995, offers the same features but in a better way and higher level. In response to significant market demand the four-door saloon version of the Subaru WRX STI is once again available, after an absence of three years, going on sale alongside the regular hatchback variant.

The 2011 WRX STI comes with the same 2.5-litre Subaru boxer 16-valve turbo engine with Dual Active Valve Control produces 300ps at 6,000rpm and massive torque – with a peak of 407Nm at 4,000rpm – tweaked for faster acceleration (0 to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds) and covering Euro 5 standards.

The new model gets a Spec-C suspension which in brief means even more precise handling, thanks to lower ride height and wider tyres. The more rigid bodyshell has also made it possible to increase suspension travel, benefiting road-holding as well as ride refinement.  An all-new design of wheel saves approximately two kilograms of un-sprung weight per corner compared to the outgoing model, helping to further improve ride and handling, as well as enhancing the car’s appearance.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry, push-button start, front log lamps, hill start assist, climate control air-conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows front and rear, an all-new radio-CD unit with a 10-speaker audio system, AUX and USB input jacks, hands-free Bluetooth system and cruise control.

And here’s some technical and rather boring info on the car’s great AWD system:

Central to the agile handling of Subaru vehicles is the company’s legendary Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) system.  This consists of the horizontally-opposed boxer engine, with its intrinsic low centre of gravity, combined with advanced AWD technology incorporating sophisticated front, centre and rear differentials.  For the new WRX STI the system has been uprated, with revised settings for the differentials.

The car features a default setting of 41 / 59 per cent front / rear torque distribution for optimum balance, and the driver can adjust this while on the move using the four-mode (Driver’s Control Centre Differential) system.  The WRX STI also incorporates Multi-Mode VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control) – Subaru’s advanced electronic stability control (ESC), allowing the driver to modify the point of intervention of this electronic driver aid to suit their own tastes or driving conditions.

In order to develop a vehicle that provides exceptional levels of high performance and precision handling, together with user-friendly daily motoring driveability on demand, Subaru has further tuned its three-mode SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system, which can be used to adjust the engine’s characteristics to best suit a variety of driving conditions.

Subaru Rally Team USA is preparing for the X Games and they are coming heavy! They unveiled their new weapon in form of the 2011 Impreza WRX STI rally car, which is based on the same STI you can buy, but lightened and upgraded with racing specs. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled STI engine running VP Racing fuel and developing over 500 horsepower and 560 lb/ft of torque. Now that’s a proper Impreza!

The car has just passed its press demo with Travis Pastrana, Dave Mirra and new teammate, European Rallycross Champion Sverre Isachsen, at the Pala Raceway in Pala, California where journalists get to ride with by these pro drivers. The car will take on SuperRally X Game competitions, being held at the Los Angeles Coliseum on Saturday, July 31st.

“The team has worked very hard to get these vehicles ready for the X Games,” said Pastrana. “The competition is going to be tough but I am confident that our STIs will be the cars to beat.”

The team’s technical partner, Vermont SportsCar, first began with a stock 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI right off the showroom floor. The car’s interior was then stripped bare and the shell lightened then fully seam welded for added strength. A multipoint roll cage, manufactured from T45 steel, was then welded into place.

Major differences from the stock STI include the addition of a competition fuel cell — which keeps race fuel contained within a flexible Kevlar bag tank — and lightweight carbon/Kevlar RECARO SPA ProRacer competition seats (w/HANS- Head and Neck Restraint System). Other interior additions include a custom STI dashboard, carbon fiber door panels, a Coralba C-Giant Rally Odometer, and an onboard Fire Suppression System.

The stock dampers are swapped out for heavy-duty rally dampers made by EXE-TC competition suspension. The rally dampers are fully adjustable and are built to take the abuse that off-road gravel rallying entails. Under the hood sits a 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled STI engine running VP Racing fuel and producing in excess of 500 horsepower and 560 lb/ft of torque (running with 45mm restrictor for X Games).  The clutch is a high performance-racing clutch provided by EXedy.  Launch control, a turbo anti-lag system and a hydraulic handbrake are just a few of the features at the driver’s disposal.

A 5-speed, close-ratio dog-engagement gearbox is used, which allows Subaru Rally Team USA drivers to shift without depressing the clutch. The DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) is similar to the system in a stock STI street car, but with a competition ECU for the differential, which allows for greater control of the torque delivery between all four wheels.

The exterior of the car remains close to stock, with the simple addition of mud flaps and a 1/4-inch aluminum skid plate. A roof-mounted carbon fiber air scoop aids in cooling the cockpit and the stock rear wing is replaced with a larger vertically slotted wing, which greatly improves down force to the rear of the car, even as it slides sideways. Lastly, auxiliary HID driving lights, made by Vision-X and housed in carbon fiber light pod, are fitted for night rallying.

“Learning a new car can be a challenge,” Isachsen said, “but having seen the result of the Subaru team’s preparations and practiced in my STI, I am very much looking forward to driving in the X Games SuperRally.  Though the ERC (European Rally Championship) is somewhat different from SuperRally, I think my experience will place me in a competitive position for this event.”

The SRT USA will again compete in the Rally Car competition, which they have won 9 out of the 13 possible medals in the past 4 years. The event features two rally cars at a time running on a stadium based parallel course.  New for this year X Games will debut SuperRally, which is based on the European Rallycross.  SuperRally features direct head-to-head competition with four cars at a time on a tight dirt course within the massive LA Coliseum, in downtown Los Angeles. The new format should prove especially exciting for America fans as the rally cars will bump, jump and slide together in a furious sprint of just a few short laps.

Subaru.com/Rally will post daily updates on the progress of Subaru Rally Team USA throughout X Games weekend.

The new 2011 edition of Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI won’t reach the dealerships across America until September, but the company has already confirmed their MSRP. Both models undercut the 2010 Impreza’s pricing by a full 1000 USD. The 2011 WRX starts at $25,495 for both the 4-door and 5-door models, and the STI from $33,995. These prices are for the non-special edition models.

Pricing and Specs of all 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX variants:

Beginning at $25,495 – a modest $500 increase for the 4-door and the same starting price for the 5-door – the aggressive body style changes for WRX include new front & rear bumpers, wide front fenders and quarter panels, and a WRX logo side fender badge. The sedan adds a rear chrome satin finish and quad tailpipe outlets. The WRX receives new gunmetal gray alloy wheels paired with wider summer-performance tires. Additionally, all WRX models now have six upgraded speakers and come with steering wheel control switches for audio and Bluetooth functions.

The Subaru Impreza WRX Premium starts at $27,995 (both 4- and 5-door) and adds the All-Weather Package, power moonroof, and fog lights. The sedan also includes a standard rear trunk spoiler. The Subaru Impreza WRX Limited is available from $28,995 (both 4- and 5-door) and features HID headlights and leather-trimmed upholstery. A GPS touch-screen Navigation system is available on Premium and Limited trim levels and includes a 7″ touch-screen and standard Sirius satellite radio.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI

The Subaru performance leader, the WRX STI, returns as a 4-door sedan – along with the 5-door for the 2011MY. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI 4-door starts at $1,000 less than the 2010 WRX STI 5-Door (non-Special Edition) at $33,995. In addition to its wide-body style, the WRX STI sedan also brings back its signature impressive rear trunk spoiler. All WRX STI models include the All Weather Package.

The WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter, turbocharged and intercooled Subaru Boxer® engine pumping out 305 horsepower. To further improve its performance, the 2011MY WRX STI has a retuned suspension that includes improved suspension bushings, larger front/rear stabilizer bars, and stiffer front/rear coil springs that provide tighter handling, less body roll and improved steering feel. All WRX STI models are available with optional GPS Touch-Screen Navigation with a 7″ LCD touch-screen for $1,800. Additionally, all WRX and WRX STI models also receive a new mesh-type grill along with an upgraded audio system that includes standard Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, iPod control capability, an auxiliary input jack, USB port, and XM/Sirius capability with a roof mounted antenna.

A new trim level, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited 4-door, is added with a starting price of $37,345 and includes leather-trimmed upholstery, 18-inch BBS alloy wheels, power moonroof and fog lights.

The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited 5-door starts at $35,995, and includes 18-inch BBS alloy wheels.

The Destination and Delivery charge for these and all 2011 Subaru models is $725 (Alaska D&D is $875). Complete WRX and WRX STI model information and prices can be found at www.media.subaru.com.

Subaru Impreza is best known with its rally-bred WRX models, but there’s also normal models of this fine car for those who want a cheap and reliable Japanese car. Here’s the official pricing of 2011MY sedan including 2.5i, 2.5i Premium and Impreza Outback Sport, and they have the same price as 2010. The basic entry-level model is priced at $17,495 which competes with 2011 VW Jetta.

That’s the Impreza 2.5i with the normally-aspirated 2.5 liter SOHC boxer engine with 170 hp.Then there is the Impreza 2.5i Premium with a starting price of $18,495 for the sedan and s$18,995 for the 5-door version which comes with a few extras including alloy wheels, a leather wrapped shifter and steering wheel and audio control switches on the steering wheel.

All Impreza models feature the active safety of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Vehicle Dynamics Control and Brake Assist as standard equipment.

The Impreza Outback Sport starts from $19,995 (again same as 2010) and comes with new features such as 17-inch alloy wheels, raised suspension, fog lights, All-Weather Package and a cargo tray. The audio system for the 2.5i Premium and Outback Sport models is upgraded for the ’11MY and now includes standard Bluetooth Audio Streaming, Bluetooth Hands-Free Connectivity, standard USB port with iPod control capability, a single-disc CD Player with MP3/WWA capability and six upgraded speakers.

New exterior colors include Marine Blue Pearl and Sky Blue Metallic for the sedan and Camellia Red Pearl and Sage Green Metallic plus Obsidian Black two-tone, Marine Blue two-tone and Steel Silver two-tone for the Outback. Also, the Special Edition model is no called the Power Moonroof Value Package! and includes All-Weather Package, fog lights and power moonroof for just $500, a retail value of $1,850 resulting in a generous $1,350 discount.

Yesterday Cosworth and Subaru revealed their limited edition Impreza STi CS400 and since it received such a warm welcome, they’ve released further technical details and specs of the car. This 4WD 400 hp car is a the fastest accelerating hatchback in the world and in this special matte grey color, it’s also one of the best looking. All 75 units of this special edition Impreza will go on sale in the UK.

Hit the jump for full technical details on this magnificent car…

Engine delivers a 33 per cent power hike

At the heart of the new Cosworth Impreza is a heavily revised version of the marque’s famous horizontally-opposed, all-aluminium Boxer engine.  The ‘flat-four’ power unit is removed from the car, hand finished, and several internal and ancillary components are replaced with up-rated items, specified by Cosworth.

As with all Impreza ‘Boxer’ engines, the STI Cosworth unit features twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank (DOHC) plus an Active Valve Control System (AVCS) to deliver variable valve timing and enhance low-speed pulling power.

The focus of the Cosworth engine upgrade was to keep the enhancements simple, efficient and as close as possible to the original equipment design to guarantee reliability and easy maintenance at regular Subaru dealerships.

Internal upgrades include high-performance pistons, which are manufactured using the same methods as those employed to create Cosworth’s Formula 1 pistons.  Special features reduce carbon build-up, minimise friction and reduce weight.

Forged connecting rods are made from high-strength 4340 (EN24) steel and the special Cosworth engine bearings boast a unique combination of design, metallurgy and engineering.  Heavy duty cylinder head studs, high-performance multi layered head gaskets and a higher-pressure oil pump are also fitted.

The overall result is a huge increase in torque higher up the rev range, and significantly improved in-gear acceleration.  This not only makes the Impreza more tractable for day-to-day road use, but also a far sharper tool on the race track.

New turbocharger and ‘breathe easy’ exhaust systems

An all-new Cosworth turbocharging system features a new compressor design and wastegate actuator to supply up-rated boost pressure and deliver increased power.

A unique exhaust system was developed to allow the engine to ‘breathe’ more easily and unleash its full potential.  Larger capacity tubular manifolds and increased diameter downpipes speed up the evacuation of hot gases.  The first catalyst is a non-restrictive design and larger tail pipes give the exhaust note a unique tone.

After the in-depth Cosworth performance upgrade which includes an ECU re-map, the boxer engine in the CS400 generates 33 per cent more power (400 ps at 5,750 rpm, compared with 300 ps at 6,000 rpm for the standard Impreza WRX STI), and 542 Nm of torque, while remaining within the torque capacity design limits of the original Impreza drivetrain.

Manual transmission and All-Wheel Drive system

To handle the increased power of the Cosworth-tuned engine, the Impreza STI’s six-speed manual transmission has carbon synchromesh applied to the top three ratios and a short throw linkage for quicker shifting.

There is also an upgraded single-plate clutch with a revised pressure plate, bearing and disc.  The gearbox and final drive ratios are unchanged.

The Cosworth Impreza’s full-time All-Wheel-Drive transmission with front and rear limited-slip differentials, features a 50/50 front to rear torque split as the default, however, the torque split is varied electronically according to changing conditions.  The multi-mode Driver Control centre differential with viscous coupling senses which axle has the better grip and varies the split ratio in milliseconds to distribute torque accordingly, thus maximising traction and minimising the possibility of wheelspin.

Fine-tuned suspension

Improving the Cosworth Impreza’s handling, steering feel and driver feedback – without compromising ride comfort – was a primary target for the development team.

Retaining Subaru’s original suspension layout and major components, Cosworth and a team of chassis engineers collaborated with Bilstein and Eibach technicians to tailor a ride/handling/steering package that was ideally matched to the new model’s increased performance.

Special Eibach coil springs and new Bilstein inserts, featuring unique damping characteristics, were manufactured to Cosworth’s specifications.  The ride height was lowered by 10 mm at the front.

The benefits of this fettling are twofold. Firstly, there is a big improvement in ride quality generally, making the Impreza easier to live with on a day-to-day basis.  Secondly, its on-the-limit behaviour is more focused and composed.  The damping upgrades mean that there is less pitch and roll when turning into corners, meaning that keen drivers can get back on the power earlier and make the most of the car’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system.

Upgraded ‘racing’ brakes enhance stopping power

To match the new Impreza Cosworth’s supercar pace, Cosworth commissioned AP Racing to develop more powerful front brakes.  Larger diameter (355 mm) ventilated front discs were adopted, with motorsport-style six-pot callipers featuring bespoke pistons operating on larger brake pads.

The difference in performance is immediately noticeable.  The harder pads help to minimise fade, meaning that drivers can count on the AP stoppers for effective retardation time and time again.

The standard Impreza WRX STI’s rear brake discs, overall brake balance and original ABS system have been retained.

‘Stand-out’ looks, plus new style wheels

The outstanding performance of the Cosworth Impreza is reflected in its ‘stand-out’ appearance and standard Xenon headlamps.  The lowered ride height and wider track give the car a whole new stance which is reinforced by a new shape front bumper, new fog lights, upper and lower mesh grilles and a new rear spoiler.

Discreet Cosworth badging is carried on the lower grille, front seats, brake callipers and floor mats.  Individually numbered plaques are fitted on the engine and door sills.  Each Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 is supplied with a numbered certificate of authenticity.

Although the new model’s alloy wheels are a similar overall size to those of the regular Impreza WRX STI model – 18 x 8.5 inch – they are lighter and stronger.  Called ‘Pro Race’ and finished in anthracite the latest wheels from the Team Dynamics range were selected as compatible with the Subaru’s five-stud design.  These wheels have a 43 mm offset (the standard STI wheel’s offset is 55 mm) and extend the track by 12 mm – improving handling and filling the car’s wheel arches more effectively for a more aggressive stance.

The new wheels are fitted with high performance, low profile Michelin SP3 tyres chosen for their dry- and wet-road grip, durability, and low noise levels.  Tyre size is 245/40 R18 and the tread pattern is directional.

Interior modifications and generous premium equipment

Inside, the sporty new Recaro front seats, the rear seats and steering wheel are all re-trimmed in Cosworth-branded black leather.  Also distinguishing the CS400 are Piano Black centre stack and trim accents, and the fitment of privacy glass.

Standard features carried-over from the WRX STI model include: LED (light-emitting diode) tail lamps, front and rear electric windows, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player, satellite navigation, Smart-entry and push-button start, plus front, side and curtain airbags.

Full ownership benefits

The new Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 comes with the reassurance of a three-year or 36,000-mile warranty, plus 12-year anti-corrosion cover and three-year paintwork warranty.

This is in addition to three years’ membership of Subaru Assistance – a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout the UK and Europe administered by Mondial Assistance.

Body and Chassis

Five-door, five-seat hatchback, with all-steel unitary construction body shell.  Longitudinally-mounted petrol boxer engines driving the front and rear wheels (AWD) via a six-speed manual transmission.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Drivetrains

Full-time all-wheel drive with centre differential and viscous coupling, plus Vehicle Dynamics Control, Rear limited-slip differential, Front limited-slip differential and Si-Drive adjustable centre differential

British auto engineering firm Cosworth and Subaru finally took the wrap off their CS400 Subaru Impreza and released the first official pictures and details. By any means, the CS400 is the ultimate Impreza, but unfortunately it’s limited to only 75 units, starting from £49,995, which is a lot. All of the CS400s will be sold in the UK, obviously!

Going on sale in June, this car is powered by a Cosworth-made twin-charged four-cylinder boxer engine developing 400PS (395bhp) at 5,750rpm and 398 pound-feet of torque (540Nm). That means it can do 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and reach a limited Vmax of 155. That is supercar performance with supermarket convenience!

The engine has been given new compressors and wastegate actuator, new pistons, connecting rods, new head gasket, bespoke exhausts system and last but not least, a modified ECU.

But the best thing about the Impreza is the sweet handling. To make sure that the CS400 is capable of delivering the extra power and put it into good use, Cosworth has retained Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system and tweaked the chassis and suspension using components from EIbach and Bilestein, the best names in business. The ride height has also been lowered by 10mm than WRX models.

Subaru Impreza CS400 by Cosworth also features a bespoke brake package From AP-Racing, with six-pot callipers and 355mm discs at the front. The new discs are located inside the new 18-inch lightweight alloys.

This super special Impreza comes with improved styling which gives a clue about the beast that leaves under its skin. You get modified bumpers with bigger air intakes at front and quad tailpipes at the back along with a new roof spoiler. You can have the car painted in silver, red or this magnificent matt dark grey. Inside you get piano black console and Recaro leather seats plus some Cosworth badging.

Subaru and Cosworth finally broke the embargo and released further details on the highly anticipated CS400 special editions Impreza. The car has 400 hp and it’s said to be supercar-hot! The Cosworth Impreza STI CS400 is limited to only 75 units and will go on sale in Britain starting from June 2010.

This hot Impreza hatchback comes with a highly modified engine which delivers 400PS (395bhp) at 5,750rpm and that gives it unbelievable performance! Zero to 60 mph takes only 3.7 seconds in this car which is fantastic. In fact it’ll be the fastest accelerating all-wheel-drive car in the market.

Cosworth also features a high performance braking package from AP Racing with six-pot callipers and 355mm discs at the front to remain in check at all time. It’ll also get tweaked suspension and exhaust system and will come with a number of exterior and interior changes to be distinguished from normal Imprezas.

Full details of pricing and technical specification will be announced closer to the on-sale date.

At 2010 Geneva Motor Show Subaru unveiled the latest variant of their everlasting Impreza, which is a crossover and comes with the XV badge. As you know all versions of the Impreza, thanks to their rally-bred AWD system, have great offroad capabilities, so to make the XV they just jacked it up a bit and made it larger. And all is good!

Subaru Impreza XV comes with two engines, a petrol and a diesel, both boxer. The petrol unit has 150 hp and 196 Nm of torque while the diesel model is equally powerful but has more torque at 350 Nm. They can be had with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic, the diesel can also be had with a 6-speed manual.

Like other Imprezas, the XV gets the latest version of Subaru’s proven Symmetrical All Wheel Drive System, but has but it rides 150mm higher than them. They say it’s a crossover, but it seems to as capable as a full blooded SUV!

Subaru of America dropped pricing details of all 2010 Impreza models all at once so you can think it over wheter you want a basic or a loaded limited edition! They start from $17,495 and goes up to $29,690 for the loaded limited model, which is still pretty good value considering the fact that you get a 265hp turbo engine and lots of features such as High-Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights, SIRIUS Satellite Radio and leather-trimmed seats.

Hit the jump to see the MSRP of all variants of 2010 Subaru Impreza…

2.5i 5MT $17,495 $18,190
2.5i Auto $18,495 $19,190
2.5i Premium 5MT $18,495 $19,190
2.5i Premium Auto $19,495 $20,190
2.5GT Auto $26,995 $27,690
WRX 5MT $24,995 $25,690
WRX Premium 5MT $27,495 $28,190
WRX Limited 5MT $28,495 $29,190
Impreza 5-Door Models
2.5i 5MT $17,995 $18,690
2.5i Auto $18,995 $19,690
2.5i Premium 5MT $18,995 $19,690
2.5i Premium Auto $19,995 $20,690
Outback Sport 5MT $19,995 $20,690
Outback Sport Auto $20,995 $21,690
2.5GT Auto $27,495 $28,190
WRX 5MT $25,495 $26,190
WRX Premium 5MT $27,995 $28,690
WRX Limited 5MT $28,995 $29,690

Subaru announced today that they are developing a new version of their everlasting Impreza model for 2010 Geneva Motor Show, which unlike the other Imprezas we’ve seen so far is not a rally-bred sporty beast. Dubbed the Impreza XV, it’ll be a crossover vehicle based on the 5-door model and comes with a new front grille, wheel arch, specially equipped roof rails and a roof spoiler, more more crossoveriness!

Impreza XV will be powered by the firm’s 2.0-liter Horizontally-opposed petrol engine and the turbo BOXER DIESEL engine, both now covering Euro5 standards. Obviously it also gets Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. (The picture above is a WRX Impreza, the compnay has not released any pictures of the XV yet!)

Subaru will also bring the Hybrid tourer Concept and the JDM-only Subaru Plug-in STELLA to the 80th Geneva Autoshow.

Prodrive company announced their new Subaru Impreza Rally Car prepared for Group N and Super 2000 World Rally Championship. Named the N2010, this car is fitted with the new 33 mm air restrictor to comply with the FIA rules in those classes. It also feature a number of racing modifications inside and out.

Prodrive N2010 boxer engine has high flow fuel injectors and a remapped ECU for a little bit more power (20 hp), but in terms of drive and handling Prodrive engineers have come up with a nice package to make it more competitive. The car’s suspension system is upgraded using Ohlins dampers with extra travel front and rear as well as strengthened bushes. The stripped-out interior of the N2010 is also modified accordingly with racing seats, sport steering wheel and a roll cage as well as timing equipments.

Subaru Impreza N2010 is priced at 120,000 GBP. Prodrive also offers a two year lease plan including insurance and system rebuilds, by the end of which you have the option to buy the car.

Graham Prew, Prodrive sales manager, said “The engine and suspension changes make the N2010 far more competitive,”. “On gravel the Impreza is certainly a match for any Super 2000, but it is on tarmac, that the additional engine performance will really come into its own and make the N2010 a competitive alternative to a Super 2000, but at about half the price and with significantly lower running costs.”

Subaru is now offering its rally-bred Impreza Hatchback with their highly anticipated 2.0 liter boxer diesel engine in two RC and RX variants. This engine is literally gutless! with 150 Hp and 350Nm torque it does 0 to 60 in 9.0 seconds and goes to a top speed of only 127 mph. But it is very economical at 47.9 mpg Combined and is also very clean at 155 g/km CO_2.

The Boxer engine layout – very much a Subaru speciality – comes with all the benefits typical of its kind. Its compact size means that it sits low-down in the chassis to give every Impreza an ultra-low centre of gravity for outstanding handling, great grip, reduced body roll and agile steering. The horizontally opposed cylinder layout ensures class-leading noise, vibration and harshness and a smooth response that should maintain Subaru’s established reputation as a manufacturer of engines that last for years.

Teaming the front strut/rear multi-link chassis with the sure-footedness of Subaru’s permanent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive makes for a winning combination. Backed up by Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control stability system, it means owners can drive safely in the knowledge that their Impreza will instantly divert power from the wheels that slip to the wheels that grip – it providing the security and reassurance of active safety at all times, whatever the road conditions.

The Impreza 2.0D comes in a choice of two grades, RC and RX. The former comes with all the equipment described above yet is still priced at a competitive £20,000 on the road. Step up to the RX at £22,255 and gain keyless smart entry, an electric sunroof, rear privacy glass, full leather trim and electric adjustment of the driver’s seat.