SUBARU is to launch one of the most powerful 4x4s on the market with an S-Turbo all-wheel drive version of the Forester based on the famed Impreza Turbo engine and suspension set to enter showrooms. Costing £21,750 on the road in manual form and £22,750 as an automatic, the latter goes on sale next month with manual versions going on sale in January next year.

Subaru says the new model 'puts the sport into sports utility' and combines hot hatch performance - a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for the manual - with all-terrain ability and estate-car space. The four-cam turbocharged and intercooled engine produces 170 PS, has a top speed of 123 mph and offers 177lb-ft torque at 3,200rpm.

Fuel consumption is 34.4mpg (manual) and 33.2mpg (automatic) on the combined cycle. Standard equipment includes air conditioning, side airbags, electric sunroof and ABS brakes.