Subaru releases test footage of advanced Subaru WRX STI research and
development from Nurburgring, Germany

TORONTO, June 9 /CNW/ - Subaru has released footage covering advanced research and development carried out at the Nurburgring racetrack in Germany, using a 2011MY Subaru WRX STI 4-door (sedan) test vehicle. Subaru has been using the famous Nordschleife course since 1992 for advanced R&D as well as tests of the WRX and WRX STI models. The video uploaded on the Subaru Global Site www.subaru-global.com features this year's development work. It is presented as a highlight of Subaru's persistent effort to stretch vehicle performance to unprecedented levels.

(Photo: http://bit.ly/b6L90k )

(Photo: http://bit.ly/awCwB1 )

The concept of the 2011MY WRX STI is "The Fastest WRX STI Ever." At Subaru, the word "fastest" refers to more than just top speed or maximum engine output. It implies driving with confidence. The WRX STI can be taken to its "fastest ever" performance by providing the driver with total driving control with confidence. Major upgrades to the 2011MY WRX STI focused on the chassis and suspension set-up, and tests at Nurburgring demonstrated the supreme overall dynamics and linear behavior of the new STI.

"The car was controllable with precise and faithful handling even on tricky corners," said Tommi Makinen, legendary four-time World Rally Champion, who piloted the vehicle for the tests. "I could easily predict the car's behavior. That is exactly what Subaru is offering, confidence. As a result, the 2011MY WRX STI test vehicle recorded 7'55''00, Subaru's fastest lap time ever, which is four seconds faster than the previous fastest time recorded in 2004."

The 2011MY WRX STI 4-door will go on sale world-wide this summer. Upgrades to the 4-door version will be carried over to the 5-door model.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.

Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada.

For further information: Elaine Griffin or Jen Giller, [phone]