Subaru is calling its new limited edition Impreza Turbo - ‘Catalunya’ - after the event which secured it the Manufacturer’s Title in the 1996 World Rally Championship.

It is the second year that Subaru has held the title and also the second celebration Turbo model, the first being the extremely popular ‘Series McRae’.

The new ‘Catalunya’ is based on the Impreza Turbo 2000 AWD saloon and features Black Mica paintwork, air-conditioning, colour-coded door mirrors and handles, red seat ‘accents’, special gold-coloured five-spoke alloy wheels, carbon instrument surround, special edition floor mats and decals and a new short-throw sports gearchange.

In addition, as the ‘Catalunya’ will be limited to 200 units, each car will have its own number on a special interior-mounted plaque. Priced at £21,610 on-the-road, the ‘Catalunya’ benefits from the extensive improvements made to all ‘97 Impreza Turbos.

Most significant is a massive boost in mid-range engine response thanks to a higher compression ratio, new low-friction pistons and improved turbo, intercooler and exhaust system.

As a result, maximum torque leaps from 201 lb.ft to 214 lb.ft at 800 lower rpm, while maximum power remains at 211 PS but, again, lower down the rev range. Top speed is now 143.5 mph with a 0-62 mph time of only 6.4 seconds.

The Impreza Turbo also features a new front-end appearance which includes a neater bonnet air-scoop, new headlamps and mesh covers for the twin bonnet louvres.

In addition, all Turbos now have high-backed winged sports front seats, revised switchgear, improved sound deadening and a slicker-acting gearchange with synchromesh on reverse gear.

Partly as a result of Subaru’s continuing rally success, Impreza Turbo sales increased by 38.6 per cent last year and supplies will be strictly limited during ‘97, further ensuring the model’s strong residual value continues.

Although the ‘Catalunya’ is a only available as a saloon, the standard Impreza Turbo 2000 AWD offers the choice of saloon or five door body styles at £19,110 and £19,610 on-the-road respectively.

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