What would happen if you took a Subaru Impreza WRX, added key STI components, Australian planning, design and engineering?

The result is Subaru’s new Limited Edition Impreza WRX WRP10 – a model exclusive to the Australian market.

The WRP10 will be available from late January 2005 and is limited to 200 units, featuring individually numbered badges.

Nick Senior, General Manager, Subaru Australia, says the WRP10 derived its name from elements that are all integral to the Subaru brand.

“The “WR” represents Impreza WRX’s success in World Rally competition, “P” the enormous rallying contribution from Pirelli tyres and “10” the years since launch of the original Impreza WRX”.

Available exclusively as a Crystal Grey Metallic manual sedan, the WRP10 includes a STI engine performance upgrade kit increasing peak power from standard WRX’s 168 kW @ 6,000 rpm to175kW @ 6,000 rpm.

The kit includes a replacement Electronic Control Unit, upgraded exhaust components and a unique large single tip muffler.

Combined, these additions give WRP10 more responsive, linear engine performance when accelerating into the higher rpm range.

A carbon fibre strut brace and WRX suspension lowering kit, with stiffer springs drop the car’s ride height by 15mm.

Together, the STI sports parts increase rigidity for improved ride and handling and give WRP10 a more aggressive stance.

WRP10 is finished off with high performance, lightweight five-spoke forged alloy RAYS wheels and Pirelli P Zero Nero tyres (215 45Z R 17 91Y).

Mr Senior said the WRP10 shows Subaru’s commitment to technical development in Australia and the impressive talents of STI Australia, based in Melbourne.

“The limited edition model is the first developed by STI Australia, in conjunction with STI Japan and provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase the performance credentials of Subaru and STI engineers.

“The WRP10 is sure to have strong appeal for Impreza WRX enthusiasts and will provide us with a chance to assess the potential for further limited editions and how Australia can contribute to the product planning and engineering process in the future”.

Whilst pricing is yet to be finalised, the WRP10 is expected to retail around $50,000.