The teasing is over – here are the first official pictures of the Impreza STI which show it in broad daylight.

Subaru’s radical new hatchback design came as a shock to fans of the previous STI, but the return of trademark massive wheelarches and large bonnet scoop should make them feel more comfortable.

The engine is more reminiscent of past STI’s too. The exact power of the 2.5-litre boxer powerplant has not been released, but expect close to 300bhp and a 0-60mph sprint of around 5 seconds.

Four-wheel drive is rare in the hatchback class, but Subaru fits it to all of its range, including the Impreza WRX STI. Sensors fitted to each wheel can judge grip and send power to the tyres which need it the most.

To aid the rallycar looks and performance, vents are present to cool the brakes, which sit behind large 18-inch multi-spoke wheels. And for the first time there is not one, not two, but four exhaust pipes.

Those wheels also sit further apart than on previous Imprezas. The wheelbase is longer and the car is wider. Subaru hope this will give the latest ‘Scooby’ improved handling and ride quality.

While speed is very much on the agenda, Subaru hasn’t forgotten Imprezas are renowned for their practicality. The STI is only available as a 5-door and the hatchback luggage compartment is more easily accessed than the boot of previous models.

Many rally fans adored the old Impreza. The new model aims to bring Subaru’s most important car into the mainstream, while the STI still wows those who dream of forest rally stages.

Click here for more pictures of the Impreza STI

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