The loyal band of purists forming the core of Subaru's customer base has been watching the change with concern because the crown jewel of the brand's lineup, the potent WRX STI, is based on the Impreza. They've been worried that the tampering of the design might also result in a toned-down version of the brand's performance flagship.

Although Subaru's U.S. colleagues have demanded we refrain until next month to reveal how well the 2008 STI drives, rides and handles, I will tell you, after a day of both normal use and a serious thrashing session at the Laguna Seca racetrack, the new STI continues the performance legacy this car has established in world-class rally events around the globe. Current STI lovers will embrace this iteration, too.

Tire-tread width has been widened for even better cornering and the tire size has been increased to P245/40R18, designed specifically for the STI by Dunlop. That fat rubber is mounted on 18 x 8.5-inch BBS alloy wheels finished in either gold or silver, depending on your colour choice. Six exterior finishes are available, although the red paint offered to American customers won't be coming north of the border -- unless buyers stir up a demand. The only red car was hidden away in a garage because Subaru didn't want Canadian journalists to see it.