There are two versions of the STi, but both have a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine that gives storming performance. In the standard car, it has ‘just’ 296bhp, and hits 60mph from standstill in just over five seconds; in the 330S, on the other hand, the engine is uprated to 325bhp, cutting almost half a second off the benchmark sprint. The engines are a bit gutless at low revs, so you need to rev them hard, but these models are quick in anyone’s book.

Thanks to its four-wheel drive system, the STi has superb traction, as well as loads of grip. It’s certainly a fun drive, but although you’ll feel more involved in the action than in a Mitsubishi Evo, the Evo is the sharper-handling car. But, by the same token, that also means that the Impreza is the more forgiving. While the Subaru’s ride is firm – as you would only expect – it’s not as uncompromising as in the Mitsubishi.

The engine is raucous when you want it to be – and it produces a delicious, burbling noise that’s full of character – but quiet when you don’t. Like the standard hatchback, it’s not the quietest of cars; then again, you probably don’t buy a car like this for its refinement.

The STi costs less than a comparable Evo X to buy, but won’t hold on to its value quite as well. And, almost inevitably, it will be expensive to run. The STi is in group 19 for insurance, and the 330S a group higher, while you can also expect fairly hefty fuel consumption – especially if you make full use of the car’s performance. Both incur the top rate of company car tax, too, and will be costly to service.

The cabin’s styling is bland and there are a lot of hard, shiny plastics on show, which is not good in cars that are so expensive. Everything feels solidly built, though, and Subaru’s reliability record is good.

There’s no skimping on safety equipment in the STi models, with stability control, four-wheel drive plus front, side and curtain airbags are all standard. The ABS is backed up with Emergency Brake Assist, and the car is secured with a Thatcham Category 1 Alarm and immobiliser.

The sports seat and steering wheel both have extensive two-way adjustment, so it’s easy to get comfortable at the wheel. Headroom is a little tight up front, though, and the steeply angled windscreen makes you feel a bit hemmed-in. However, the dashboard layout is simple and clearly marked, so it’s easy to use.

There’s good space for four six-foot adults (although an Evo has more rear legroom), but it’s a squeeze for a fifth passenger. The boot is shallow, too, but at least the STi has the practicality of a hatchback body and split-fold rear seats.

These models are the flagships of the Impreza range, but it’s not all about performance; there’s plenty of standard equipment, too. Included in the price are climate control, four electric windows six airbags, stability control and xenon headlamps. The 330S also has leather/Alcantara trim and larger alloy wheels.