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The new Impreza WRX hatch-back was the subject of great consternation amongst its die-hard fans who had come to associate the model with the more conventional sedan shape. Of course, these are the very same fanatical rabble-rousers who are content to stay in their comfort zones and quick to dismiss anything "different".

While most folks are content to follow the herd, the new Impreza should appeal to those who aren't afraid to revel in their "individuality". With the flared, squared-off stance of the STI, there are few hot-hatches on the road that exude the same kind of muscular presence. Moreover, not only does the STI compete head-to-head against the other fire-breathing homologation rally specials, it also enters a new segment - hot-hatches.

Visuals

There's one facet to the STI that separates it from the Renault Megane R26, Ford Focus ST, Volkswagen Golf GTI and Honda Civic Type-R - All-Wheel Drive. The STI hits harder and grips more tenaciously than any of these front-drivers.

The STI is similar, yet draws sharp distinction from its lesser brethren. While the general profile of the car remains the same, little touches sets it apart from the rest. Besides the discreet STI badges at the rear, front grille and fenders, this STI really distinguishes itself by its pushed-out fender flares to accommodate the car's wider track.

A bonnet scoop, minimalist roof-spoiler and quad-pipes take care of the rest. Nevertheless, such is the level of road presence and instant street credibility engendered by the STI, that the attention garnered on the roads is positively electric.

Rather than bold, brash and overt visual that are intended to create an impression of motorsports, the STI has clearly matured and grown with times, with only the most subtle clues.

Interior

Improvements to the cabin are instantly noticeable. Previous model followed utilitarian function and a straightforward appeal to both cabin architecture and quality of materials. Now, both front and rear seats are clad in pleasant leather - Alcantara mix that not only looks good but also feels better.

Moreover, the cabin architecture of the new car features attractive curvature and contours that boasts a full-featured cabin that includes integrated factory head-unit, climate control, multi-function steering wheel that adjusts for reach-and-rake and most importantly, the controls for DCCD (Driver's Control Centre Differential) and SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive).

Under the instrument binnacle sits a clutch of scarlet-orange meters with the rev-counter taking pride of place, as befits the STI's performance car status.

Performance wise

At the heart of the "export model" STI rumbles a turbocharged 2457cc horizontally-opposed four-cylinder that generates 300bhp and 407Nm. More than just electric gimmicks, the DCCD and SI-Drive really do transform the car's power delivery and chassis response.

With the SI-Drive set in "S#" (Sports Sharp), throttle response is electric and instant, and the engine is happy to hover around the red-line all day. Unfortunately, unlike the screaming 2.0-litre powerplant that we sampled in the JDM Impreza WRX STI S204, the red-line on this STI isn't particularly high and excels mainly in the mid-range. There's a bit of turbo lag from standstill, but the ratios of the first to second gears are closely stacked enough to catapult the car into the turbo zone with only the briefest hesitation.

Don't be too hasty to dismiss the long-stemmed gear-lever because it's capable of serving up surprisingly short-throws and precise shifts. Brake pedal offer ample feel for modulation, especially under hard braking. Toggle the DCCD to "Automatic [-]" to sharpen turn-in responses. Despite its sporty handling characteristics, there's just a small amount of body roll but the ride comfort is never compromised.

In a nutshell

Today's STI makes brilliant sense to the enlightened enthusiast who appreciates divergence and dare to stray on the wild side. The STI boasts the looks and performance to hold its own against its hatchback rivals. However, the missing boy-racer spoilers doesn't mean the STI has turned into a push-over, as a full-bore blast in the car is enough to convince even the most hard-nosed detractors.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Engine: 2,457cc, 4-cylinders, turbocharged
Power: 300bhp @ 6,000rpm
Torque: 407Nm @ 4,000rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual
0-100 km/h: 5.2 seconds

Length / Width / Height: 4,415 / 1,795 / 1,475 mm
Wheelbase: 2,625 mm

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