Spec-C and MR on their way?

According to Auto Express,

Mitsubishi

and Subaru's harder, faster versions of their ‘rally refugee’ Evo X and Impreza STi will be on their way soon – although the two manufacturers are going about it in rather a different manner.

Mitsubishi’s ‘MR’ version of the Evo X will feature a stiffened bodyshell, but the key to its extra performance will come mainly from a tweaked engine. The 2.0 litre, all-alloy turbocharged unit has been fettled for higher top end power (up to 305bhp) whilst maintaining a punchy mid- and low-range. It’s actually going to be less powerful than the UK-only FQ-330 and FQ-360, but it will feature an uprated version of the new six-speed SST paddleshift system found on the standard car. The FQ versions are only available with a five-speed manual.

Subaru is taking the ‘GT3 RS’ tack with its Spec C and is expected to leave the engine more-or-less as is – it already packs a healthy 296bhp after all. The Impreza STi goes on a strict diet to earn its Spec C badge and will feature a lightweight roof, aluminium bootlid, compact 12V battery, geek-tastic thinner glass and a smaller fuel tank. The revisions shed a massive 70kg from the weight of the standard car – more than the difference between a GT3 and a GT3 RS. Of course, Subaru actually charge you less – rather than more – for less equipment: the Spec C is rumoured to be as much as £3k cheaper than the STi!

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The Scoob is undoubtedly the more promising machine.

Both will appear in Japanese showrooms later this year, but official imports have not been confirmed as yet.

Best get on the phone to Iain Litchfield then!