TWENTY THOUSAND LUCKY DRIVERS TO SAMPLE SUBARU ICON

An estimated 20,000-plus drivers are due to sample Subaru's new performance car icon - the Impreza WRX STi - thanks to a sponsorship deal involving the UK's newest and fastest racing circuit.

Northamptonshire's Rockingham Motor Circuit - home of the Johnny Herbert Rockingham Experience - has just taken delivery of four Prodrive Style 'Type-UK' versions which boast a 148 mph top speed and 5.2 second 0-60 mph time.

The 265 PS Subaru Imprezas are part of a two year contract which will see them used for corporate ride and drive days expected to attract up to 9,000 drivers this year alone and 11,500 in 2003.

The corporate days will include use of a 200 mph, 1.5 mile banked oval and a variety of challenging infield tracks, plus the chance to drive a wide range of vehicles including single-seaters and four Isuzu Trooper SWB Diesel Turbo Duty models on a specially developed off-road course.

Commenting on the deal, Harvey France, National Fleet and Used Car Sales Manager for Subaru and Isuzu, said: "This is ideal exposure for us as Rockingham's £55m investment shows they mean business and we are determined to make the most of our involvement."