Subaru are readying themselves for another power struggle with arch-rivals Mitsubishi by revealing that they will develop a lightweight version of their Impreza STi.

The latest twist in a decade long exchange between the Impreza STi and the Lancer Evolution, Subaru will respond to Mitsubishi’s mooted Evolution MR with the STi Spec-C.

Although expected to feature no power improvements over the current model’s 296bhp, Subaru will instead focus on reducing the weight of the Impreza.

As such, a revised aero kit, lighter metal construction and thinner windows will contribute to improving the Impreza in a straight-line, as well as making it more composed through the corners.

The STi Spec-C is expected to be sold in the UK where previous uprated versions of the Impreza have often sold well.

Subaru have pulled the wraps off their pretender to the hotly contested SUV crown with the second generation Forester.

Replacing a car that first went on sale in 1997, the Forester has set its sights on resisting the recent influx of new off-roaders, including the Ford Kuga, Volkswagen Tiguan and revised Nissan X-Trail.

Growing significantly in all directions, the Forester adopts a more conservative SUV profile, in contrast to the previous model’s quirky estate-like proportions. Featuring familiar stylistic traits from the outside, the Forester also gets the same interior as that in the new Impreza.

To be sold around the world, the UK will initially only get the option of a 2.5-litre petrol engine, although, crucially for sales, there are plans to introduce the recently launched – and well-received – 2.0-litre diesel in 2009.

Combining the two heritages that Subaru are best known for - utilitarian and performance models - the Forester became a surprise success in the UK, despite its unusual proportions that ensured it was better on the road than it was off it.

However, it remains to be seen whether the sober styling of the new model, as well as the recent attempts to bypass performance in the search of a higher calibre of buyer, will ensure the Forester attracts the same kind of loyalty.

The new evolution of Subaru’s World Rally Championship competing Impreza has been officially unveiled after months of delays.

Having originally been earmarked for a competition debut at the start of the 2008 season, a rigorous development cycle has seen the car’s maiden appearance put back to the seventh round of the championship in Greece.

A radical departure for the Prodrive-run team, the hatchback model will replace the long serving saloon that first made its debut back in 1994 and scored three titles with Colin McRae (1995), Richard Burns (2001) and Petter Solberg (2003)

Nonetheless, despite the radically different dimensions, the team are confident that drivers Solberg and Chris Atkinson can end the team’s two season victory drought quickly: "We are very excited to be able to launch the all-new Impreza WRC2008 ahead of schedule" said SWT principal David Richards.

"It is testament to the dedication and commitment of the team behind the scenes in the UK and at STi in Japan. Just as the latest Impreza road car represents a new era for Subaru so the WRC2008 represents a new era for all of us at the Subaru World Rally Team and I am confident that we will arrive in Greece able to fight competitively."

Subaru are celebrating after being recognised in the International Engine of the Year awards for their popular 2.5-litre Boxer unit.

Triumphing in the 2.0-litre to 2.5-litre category, the four-cylinder engine has been well received over time for its use in a variety of Subaru models, but it is the latest evolution that beat off stiff opposition from rivals including BMW, Mercedes and Audi.

Praised for its driveability, refinement and performance, the Japanese manufacturer was one of five different winners across eleven categories on the night and comes as Subaru launch the first ever Boxer configured diesel powerplant.

Its use in the new Impreza STi was singled out by the judges: “Subaru’s victory was no doubt helped by the engine’s boost in power when housed in the Impreza STi – from 277bhp to 320bhp – but judges were equally impressed with the performance of the 2.5-litre turbo in the Forester, where it pushes out a mere 230bhp.” The engine is currently available in the UK with the Impreza, Legacy and recently unveiled Forester SUV.

Subaru have caused stir amongst their loyal band of followers by confirming that they will launch a rear-wheel drive coupe in 2011.

The first time in a while that the manufacturer has strayed away from the four-wheel drive ethos that has been their recognised quirk for decades, the new model is to be built in conjunction with their partner, Toyota.

Although the Toyota version will only be sold in Japan, a Subaru-badged model will be introduced in other markets, including the UK.

Thought to be encouraged by Toyota as they bid to play on Subaru’s sporty reputation, the decision to develop a rear-wheel drive chassis has reportedly caused ructions from within the company, who are worried that it will harm their image.

Still, whatever the platform, the as-yet-unnamed machine will signal a return to the coupe market that Subaru deserted back in 1996 when they discontinued the futuristic looking SVX.

Subaru's meagre range gets a new addition later this year with the launch of the Exiga mini-MPV.

Barely changed from the concept car that was unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show last year, the Exiga is sportier than most people-carriers with its tapered roofline, sharp appearance and, in Turbo guise, side-skirts.

Combining the words Exciting and Active to create the name, it is not the first time Subaru have attempted to take on the likes of the Mazda 5 and the Toyota Corolla Verso, after they sold a re-badged Vauxhall Zafira in Japan for some time.

For those of you interested in blurring the boundaries between spacious and sporty, the Exiga does, however, comes with both good and bad news. First, the good news: the Exiga comes with Impreza underpinnings beneath its unassuming exterior, which is likely to ensure an involving driving experience to match that offered by the Ford S-MAX.

However, the bad news is a deal-killer: It doesn't look like the Exiga will be sold in Europe. Sadly, despite dealers urging them to make the most of the huge mini-MPV market on this side of the world, Subaru are reluctant to venture out of Japan, particularly as it hasn't been developed with an all-important diesel in mind.

Still, there is hope that Subaru will change their mind, but for the moment the Exiga will be just out of reach until the end of 2009 at the earliest.