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.