Frankfurt Motor Show 2005 - Subaru

What's the star of the stand?
A face-lifted Impreza. The main changes are underneath the bonnet, with three more powerful petrol engines on offer: a 158bhp 2-0-litre and two versions of a turbocharged 2.5-litre, which develop 227bhp in the WR and 277bhp in the range-topping STi.

Cosmetically, the Impreza has had a nose job, with new wedge-shaped lights and a grille whose shape is 'inspired by an aeroplane fuselage'.

The new Impreza goes on sale next month, with prices tipped to start at £16,000 for the 2.0R, rising to nearly £27,000 for the STi.

They say
'The iconic Impreza gains a dynamic face-lift showcasing a new corporate 'spread-wings' grille and 'hawk-eye' headlamps.'

We say
A very mild face-lift and more powerful engines – but you'll need deep pockets to pay for those running costs.

Anything Else?
Subaru's B9 Tribeca 4x4. It is taller and longer than the Forester and seats seven over three rows, with the third row folding into the floor when not in use. On the outside, the B9 Tribeca shares the aeroplane fuselage-inspired grille also found on the new Impreza.