Here are the stunning first pictures of the all-new Subaru Impreza WRC2008 rally car.

The latest Impreza road car caused a stir when it was revealed it would be a hatchback, and now the covers have come off the rally version, the Subaru Impreza WRC2008.

View more pictures of the Subaru Impreza WRC2008

The Subaru Impreza WRC2008 still has the championship winning 2-litre turbocharged ‘boxer’ engine – producing around 300bhp in keeping with WRC regulations.

Of all the cars in the WRC the Impreza has the most similarity with its road-going cousin – especially its four-wheel-drive system which produces astounding grip in any weather and on any surface – even ice. 

The latest Impreza’s controversial hatchback shape should make it more nimble than its predecessor too, thanks to its wheel-at-each-corner stance.

For the first time since 1993 the traditional gold and blue livery made iconic by Subaru rally cars has been dropped. But, the Subaru Impreza WRC2008 still features a metallic blue base colour and gold wheels.

The team is sitting third in the Manufacturers’ championship standings; almost half way through the racing calendar and its drivers Chris Atkinson and Petter Solberg will be hoping the Subaru Impreza WRC2008 can give them the winning pace lacking in the current car.

The Impreza WRC2008 goes into battle for the first time on May 29 at the Acropolis Rally of Greece – renowned as one of the toughest rallies of the year.

Subaru has been rallying since 1984 and has had massive success promoting their road cars through rally success.