Tokyo '09: Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line with Carbon Roof and... 5-Speed Auto

For most enthusiasts, all-interest in the new Impreza WRX STI A-Line Carbon that will premiere at the Tokyo Show is probably lost upon reading the words "5-speed auto" but apparently Subaru figures that there's a crowd out there that's interested in a high-performance sport hatch with an automatic transmission. Bizarrely, the Legacy-sourced auto box in this model is combined with a carbon fiber roof that Subaru says helps reduce weight and lower the center of gravity for improved handling and performance. The two together don't make much sense, but whatev.

In addition, the special edition model's interior has been dressed in a suede fabric that covers most parts of the cabin including the dashboard top and the Recaro bucket seats.

The new Subaru Impreza WRX STI A-Line Carbon is scheduled to go on sale in the Japanese market sometime after the show.