Subaru launch the WRX STi at Geneva, the UK first batch already sold

• Strong early demand for iconic sports saloon
• Price confirmed at £4,000 lower than previous-generation WRX STI
• Race-ready version of WRX STI also shown

The eagerly awaited Subaru WRX STI sports saloon has made its European debut at the 84^th Geneva International Motor Show, bringing it one step closer to reaching UK showrooms in spring.

Official on sale date in the UK for the new model is May 1.   

Early demand for the new WRX STI has been strong with the first allocation of cars already reserved. Subaru UK is advising interested customers to register early if they wish to secure a car for September.

The latest-generation of Subaru’s All-Wheel Drive performance flagship will return to the UK one year after its predecessor was withdrawn from the market. Thanks to changes in currency exchange rates, the new WRX STI is priced at just £28,995.

A significant range of modifications and enhancements has been made to the body, chassis, interior and packaging of the new STI. Sporting an all new exterior, the body and chassis have been significantly stiffened to improve torsional rigidity, while the latest iteration of Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with Active Torque Vectoring allows for maximum control and driver engagement.

The suspension is performance-tuned for a flat but comfortable ride and a great deal of attention of has been given the new hydraulic steering system, which uses a quicker ratio and stiffer steering rack.  

Inside, the new WRX STI is a quantum leap over its predecessor. Soft touch materials are used in key areas, new STI dials and carbon-effect and metal trim are employed for a sporty feel and higher quality ambience and there’s a new, smaller-diameter D-shaped steering wheel for better feel.

The new model is more spacious all round too. Rear seat passengers have more leg room due a 25mm increase in wheelbase and there’s also more shoulder and elbow room inside the cabin. Cargo volume in the boot is increased by 40 litres.

Helping drivers to get the best from the STI’s engine, the six-speed manual gearbox has been revised to provide an even shorter, quicker shift between gears. The new WRX STI is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged version of Subaru’s iconic, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder Boxer engine which produces 300PS at 6,000rpm and 407Nm toque at 4,000rpm, delivering keen throttle response and vigorous acceleration.

The race-bred version of the WRX STI, being developed to contest the annual Nürburging 24-Hour Race in June, also appeared on Subaru’s stand at Geneva. This modified version of the showroom car will be seeking its third successive class win at the notoriously demanding race circuit in Germany’s Eifel Mountains.