2008 WRX STi making first Australian appearance at BIMS

The new Subaru WRX has truly thrown the cat amongst the pigeons for lovers of the turbo boxer engined AWD legend. Some think it has gone soft, others think it has grown up, and most think that its looks have faded. However, the STi version of the WRX is altogether a different proposition, from its pumped guards to its quad-exhausts the STi has the killer looks to go with the killer ability.

If you want to be amongst the first Australians to see the new STi in the flesh then you will need to head along to the Brisbane International Motor Show which kicks off from February 1. The new STI, will be making one of its first appearances since its global debut at the recent Tokyo International Motor Show. The STi will be sharing the carpet space with non-other than its arch-nemesis, the Mitsubishi, EvoX, making this the first opportunity for Aussie petrolheads to see the two Banzai bullets together

Featuring Subaru's trademark 2.5 litre "boxer" engine, the STi also features a six-speed manual gearbox and a centre differential that allows driver adjustment of the front-rear power split in the all-wheel drive system. This is integrated with the Vehicle Dynamics Control (stability) system, while the ABS braking and Subaru Intelligent Drive SI-Drive) systems have been optimised for high-performance use.

Italian-made Brembo brakes are mounted inside 18 inch five-spoke alloy wheels. The STI carries over only the WRX's roof and front doors and has unique flared guards, wheels, front and rear bumpers, front grille, rear wing and a four-pipe exhaust.

The STi is due to go on sale later in February, with two variants being made available both priced between $60 - $70,000. Even the pricing suggests that one of our old favourite “bang for your bucks” models is all grown up.

For those that want to head along to the show in Brisbane you can check out the official website at www.brisbanemotorshow.com.au