Getting into the Prodrive P25 for the first time brought on waves of nostalgia—for what I simultaneously knew well and had never truly experienced. Like many car enthusiasts in my generation, I became aware in the 1990s that there was more to motorsports than just the popular races like NASCAR, Formula 1, CART, and the Funny Car and monster truck races happening Sunday after Sunday. The one that caught my attention and was far more interesting to watch was rally racing.
In the mid-to-late ‘90s, Subaru dominated the rally scene with drivers like Richard Burns and Colin McRae. One of the most iconic cars to come out of Subaru’s rally success was the Impreza 22B STi. Made in 1997 to celebrate Subaru’s 40th anniversary, it offered a direct connection from the rally stage to production. However, it was never sold in Subaru’s largest market, the U.S.
From a distance, the Prodrive P25 looks almost identical to the iconic Impreza 22B STi, of which only 424 were made globally, with most sold in Japan. But the P25 is even more exclusive, with only around 25 being made. This rarity comes at a price, with the P25 starting at a cost of around $600,000, not including additional fees and customization options. It’s worth noting that the most desirable original 22Bs now have market prices higher than the starting price of the P25.
The Prodrive P25 is not a replica of the Impreza 22B. It is based on the original 1990s-era STi bodyshell but is its own creation—a restomod that weighs less than the original, performs better, and incorporates decades of motorsports engineering prowess. Prodrive, although not part of Subaru, is well-versed in weight-saving composites and showcases its expertise in the construction of the P25.
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Underneath its ‘90s exterior, the P25 is a Subaru supercar through and through. The engine is a Prodrive-built 2.5-liter turbo-4, based on the Subaru EJ25 engine from recent model years. Prodrive upgraded the displacement to 2.5 liters to improve torque and also made bespoke connecting rods, pistons, valves, springs, and camshafts. With launch control, the P25 can now achieve a 0-60 mph time of less than three seconds.
The P25 is designed to always feel on top of its boost, thanks to a unique approach taken by Prodrive. By keeping a boost reserve pre-throttle and having the turbocharger spin faster than normal, the P25 delivers instant torque when you add throttle. Although this may not be the most fuel-efficient approach, it ensures an exhilarating driving experience.
Powering the P25 is a Prodrive motorsport ECU management system, the same one found in its Dakar off-road rally racer. The P25 comes with various driving modes, including Sport Plus and Road mode. In Sport Plus mode, the center differential behavior is altered, and launch control is added. The P25 also features a WRC-style handbrake that bypasses the center differential, a direct transfer from rally racing.
The P25 is equipped with a 6-speed sequential gearbox, limited-slip front and rear differentials, and an electronically controlled active center differential. Driving the P25 requires mastery of the sequential-shift gearbox, which is a significant evolution from the 5-speed manual found in the Impreza 22B. Launching and stopping are the only times when the clutch pedal is needed. Shifting is done using paddles mounted to the steering column, and timing your shifts is crucial for maximizing performance on the track.
During my time with the P25, I found that it felt more at home when driven hard in Sport mode. With 440 hp and a power plateau from 5,500 rpm to 7,000 rpm, the P25 delivers strong acceleration and always feels ready to unleash its power. The P25’s handling capabilities are well-matched by the six-piston front and four-piston rear AP Racing brakes, which provide impressive stopping power.
To truly experience the P25’s capabilities, I had the opportunity to ride along with pro rally driver Mark Higgins. As he pushed the car to its limits, I could feel the lateral G-forces and witness the P25’s agility and stability on the track. Higgins effortlessly maneuvered through corners, showcasing the car’s performance and handling capabilities.
Overall, the Prodrive P25 is a rare and exceptional vehicle that pays homage to Subaru’s rally heritage while incorporating modern engineering advancements. Its exclusivity, outstanding performance, and immersive driving experience make it a dream car for enthusiasts. While it carries a hefty price tag, the P25 offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of automotive history and experience the thrill of rally racing on the road.
