SUBARA's restyled Impreza made its world debut at the Paris Motor Show recently.

On sale in the UK in February 2003, the new-look Impreza boasts a different front-end combining an aggressive presence with pedestrian-friendly safety features and aerodynamic efficiency.

Key design changes include a new front bumper, spoiler, bonnet, wings and three-dimensional headlamps. In addition, circular lamps are inlaid in the main headlamp units themselves which have a striking curved dip to their inner edges.

The front wings now have a muscle-bound appearance and this menacing presence is complemented by larger air-intakes above and below the number plate.

At the rear, all models have new bumpers and light units with a curved dip to their inner edges - similar to the headlamps - to enhance design integration.

The WRX STi gains a larger high-rise rear spoiler, front corner spoilers and new side sill spoilers which all contribute to improved high-speed stability. Meanwhile, a larger bonnet air intake enhances intercooler cooling.

Big news for WRX fans is an increase in power from 218 to 225 PS for the turbocharged 2.0 litre boxer engine. Equally important is improved throttle response thanks to revisions to the exhaust manifold aimed at smoothing the flow of exhaust gases.

Meanwhile, the cooling performance of the 265 PS STi engine has benefited from a change in the shape of the intercooler water spray nozzle and the air baffle plate inside the air scoop. The STi also has improved front suspension. As a result, handling and steering response are even better thanks to a reduction in geometry change during hard cornering.