Choice between 6 M/T and 5 A/T. Price from RM257k onwards.... [+ click to enlarge] 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Available in sedan bodystyle only. Aggressive front of the STI. The trademark big rear wing.

Motor Image Malaysia Sdn Bhd has officially launched an updated version of the Subaru Impreza WRX STI for the Malaysian market yesterday in conjunction with the Super GT 2012 weekend at the Sepang International Circuit. Priced from RM257,116.30 (OTR with insurance), the new WRX STI is available only in 4-door sedan bodystyle.

Powering it is a 2.5-litre turbocharged twin-cam engine arranged in Subaru's traditional boxer configuration. Customers have a choice between a 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions sending power to the company's trademarked Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

To suit a variety of driving conditions, Subaru engineer's have programmed the WRX STI with a Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control System (VDC) allowing the driver to choose between three traction control settings - Normal, Traction or Off, the last one recommended strictly for track use.

Also available for the driver's fiddling is the Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) which varies engine response between three modes - 'Intelligent' for smoothness and efficiency, 'Sport' for a bit more poke, and 'Sport Sharp' for all-out-attack mode.

Drivers can also adjust the central differential setting using the Multi-mode DCCD (Driver's Control Centre Differential) to vary the amount of locking force applied by the diff. Manual mode allows a six-step adjustment, and there are three automatic modes to choose from Auto (default), Auto+ (more locking for better stability), and Auto- (less locking for more agility).

The new Impreza WRX STI is available for viewing at Motor Image Malaysia's outlets in Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. Looking forward, Motor Image plans to introduce two new outlets in the Klang Valley and northern region to bolster its network. In addition, a new locally assembled Subaru model is also slated for debut later this year.

• New Subaru WRX STI launched in Malaysia