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Subaru Returns to Production World Rally Championship
Could a homologation for their STI Spec C mean WRC is next?
When Subaru left the WRC back in ’08, we were thinking to ourselves “are you kidding me” because Subaru was made on rallying. Colin McRae made them a household name and we were pissed that they left the one motorsport they truly belonged in. Argue all you want but Subarus are at home in the dirt, which is why when they announced homologation of their (Japan only) Spec C, we rejoiced because the fact that Subaru continues to push for cars to be homologated could mean Subaru plans a return to WRC in the near future.
The first official race will take place at the Rallye Deutschland in August with Toshihiro Arai taking the driver’s seat. All of you Subaru fanboys take notice because we have a feeling Subaru will be contending for the title in the seasons to come.
PRESS BLAST
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI spec C Gains 2010 FIA Group N Homologation
Tokyo, April 12, 2010 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd(FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today
announced that the Subaru Impreza WRX STI spec C* (Japanese specifications model) successfully
completed the vehicle homologation process and received the official Group N Homologation certificate
from FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) as of April 1, 2010.
To enter FIA-approved racing and rallying championships that take place around the world, cars must be
homologated according to the FIA regulations. Group N (production cars) is one of the rally and off-road
vehicle groups set forth by the FIA. Group N Homologation imposes strict limits on modifications to
production models and is known as the category that best reflects the performance inherent to the basic
production model.
Based on the Impreza WRX STI, the WRX STI spec C (launched in Japan in July last year) features
enhanced engine and chassis performance as well as a lighter body on the premise of driving in motor sports.
The WRX STI spec C will be driven on the Rallye Deutschland of Production World Rally Championship
by Toshihiro Arai** from August 22nd, 2010.
(Hat tip: AutoGuide via Twitter)
Fantastic news... Be afraid Ford and Citroen; be very afraid. :)
That is GREAT news, I knew they would be back.
I pull for Ford in all types of racing but even im stoked to hear this! WRC isnt legit with just two manufacturers. Now if Mitsu makes a comeback things will realy be interesting. R.I.P. Colin.
This is a "mis-read" by Crenshaw. Subaru have for many years continued to support and homologate cars in the FIA Production category. This is simply the "next" car in the series of an ongoing motorsport support program. It is NOT a return to full WRC as its not a WRC car! What this actually is in reality is a really shocking piece of journalism.
@GD: The way I stated the information was a mistake on my part but I have since restated my original post.