"We have all worked very hard to bring it here to Greece, and especially after today we are very confident that it will mark a new era for the team and Subaru, taking us back to our winning ways.

"It is important for our fans worldwide that the new five-door Impreza is now in the WRC and I would like to express my gratitude to Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority for recognising all our hard work to achieve what we have this weekend."

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority officials praised the new Subaru's instant impact in the WRC on what was a rollercoaster of a weekend in Greece.

"This rally is known as a car wrecker, so to launch the new Impreza at the Acropolis was potentially very risky," added Ahmed Hussein, Deputy Director General, ADTA. "Not only does the new car look fantastic, but it's proven it has the necessary attributes to compete at the top level.

"Sport is about competition and rally needs as many teams battling for podiums and victories as possible. Its great news for everyone in rally that the new Subaru car has had such a distinguished debut - my full congratulations go to the team for their hard work and commitment."