Subaru WRX STI

One of the most anticipated new vehicles of the Tokyo Motor Show is the all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI, a high-performance version of the redesigned Impreza 5-door hatchback that went on sale earlier this year.

The STI is inspired by the Subaru rally cars that compete in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and has developed a reputation with car enthusiasts as a vehicle that delivers a high level of performance at a relatively affordable price.

Previous versions of the WRX STI have been based on the Impreza sedan but the new STI is a 5-door hatch. Its bold styling include wide fenders to give the STI an aggressive stance, differentiating it from other versions of Impreza and the rear spoiler is now mounted at the end of the roofline above the rear hatch, replacing the large trunk-mounted wing on the previous STI.

At the front, the wing-shaped grille is finished with black mesh, a large hood scoop enhances the airflow into the intercooler and fog lights are integrated into the lower air intakes. Wheels are 5-spoke 18-inch alloys with BBS cast wheels available as an option and a Brembo-developed brake system is standard.

While U.S. specs have not been released, the Japanese version of the STI is powered by a new version of the 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder boxer engine with a twin-scroll turbocharger that produces just over 300 horsepower. It is combined with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel drive and a specially developed 6-speed manual transmission.

Multi-mode Driver's Control Center Differential (DCCD) and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) have both been added to the STI to control traction and stability more precisely.

Inside the STI is finished in black and silver and the front seats feature a combination of Alcantara and leather to hold the driver and front-seat passenger in place. Custom seats developed by RECARO are available as a factory option.

Exiga Concept and G4e Concept
Also unveiled are the 7-seat touring Exiga Concept and a next-generation electric car, the G4e Concept.

Subaru describes the Exiga Concept as a "7-Seater Panoramic Touring" because of the panoramic glass roof and theater seating that gives a good view for all seven occupants. With looks similar to a larger Legacy Wagon, the Exiga Concept is powered by Subaru's turbocharged 2.0-liter horizontally opposed boxer engine with Symmetrical AWD and a 5-speed automatic transmission.

The interior is finished with high quality leather and a blue panel that stretches across the instrument panel housing eight monitors that display views from the exterior cameras or entertainment for the passengers.

The G4e features a next-generation lithium-ion battery that increases the driving range to about 200 kilometers (124 miles), more than double the current R1e electric vehicle.

The floor is flat because the batteries are stored completely under the floor within the aluminum chassis, creating a lower center of gravity. The batteries can be fully charged in about eight hours from a home AC power source and an 80 percent quick charge is possible in 15 minutes which also helps to improve the driving range.