Subaru announced on Tuesday (May 20th 2008) that its rally team will use two of its latest evolution models of the Subaru Impreza WRC 2008 in the Acropolis rally, Greece at the end of May.
The new model, which is based on the Fuji Heavy Industries (FHI) manufactured Subaru Impreza first released in 2007, has completed its final development tests and is set to run in the competition between May 29th and June 1st around Athens.
The WRC 2008 has a longer wheel base and shorter front/rear overhangs than its predecessor with the rear wing now affixed to the tailgate as opposed to the boot as with the previous version.
A new graphic design will see the car retain its blue base although it will now have the Subaru logo emblazoned on the centre of the body, wrapped in white and silver lines, ditching the iconic comet-based design.
The entire rally team will also be kitted out with the new design with everything from drivers’ overalls to work tents featuring the new artwork.
The UK based Subaru World Rally Team, headed up by David Richards, will be represented by drivers Chris Atkinson (Australia) and Petter Soldberg (Norway), both of whom will be using the new car.
The much-anticipated new Impreza from Subaru has been partially revealed by the firm through a new teaser picture.
A turbocharged range-topper can be made out on the WRX STI, although most of the car is covered in shadow.
In addition, big blistered wheelarches also feature, offering what the company has called "a ground-hugging stance".
"While the image itself is darkly-lit for a sense of drama, enough is revealed to show the car to be substantially different from the standard model," Subaru commented.
Eager motorists will be able to see the model in full when it debuts at the Tokyo Motor Show on October 24th and, after first deliveries at the end of that month, the vehicle will go on sale from £12,495.
The motor world was saddened to hear about the death of Colin McRae earlier this month, aged 39.
McRae was famous for driving the Subaru Impreza rally car.
The final edition versions of the Subaru Impreza WRX saloon and Sports Wagon, named GB270, will guarantee customers exceptional value with a range of additional equipment, the manufacturer has claimed.
In the Impreza range customers will find around £7,600 worth of extra features, while in the Sports Wagon the new specifications have a value of £7,000.
Both models will be fitted with a Prodrive performance pack, which will reduce 0-60mph time from 5.9 to 5.3 seconds and effect an improvement in mid-range response.
Among the other features common to both the saloon and Sport Wagon ranges is a ‘quickshift’ gear change system, 18-inch alloy wheels and GB270 exterior badging.
A rally-style rear spoiler, stainless steel mesh front grille and silver-finished alloy wheels will be unique to the saloon, while the Sports Wagon will be distinguished by front and rear splash guards and gloss black alloy wheels.
An additional parts pack including a Clarion sat-nav system, iPod adaptor and Bluetooth compatibility kit is also available to order.
This autumn will see the launch of an all-new five-door Impreza, while the turbocharged STI will return next spring.
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