THE super Scooby is blasting back - less than a year after bidding its farewell to Britain.

Japanese brand Subaru has confirmed that its high performance saloon, the WRX STI, will make its return this spring.

The change of heart is simply down to more favourable exchange rates, as a result of which the new model will be priced at £28,995 when it hits showrooms in May, and that's £4,000 cheaper than its predecessor.

Subaru says it has further honed the driveability of the STI, testing it at various locations around the world including at Germany's Nurburgring race circuit.

The model is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged Boxer engine producing 305bhp and mated to a reinforced six-speed gearbox with shorter throw and sportier shift feel.

Its all-wheel drive has the latest vehicle dynamics control plus Active Torque Vectoring for maximum control and driver engagement, while the spring and damper rates have also been re-tuned.

And a 25mm increase in wheelbase gives the new STI better rear legroom as well as more shoulder and elbow room all round. Visibility is also improved and there's more boot space too.

Other highlights are a new, smaller, D-shaped steering wheel, soft touch materials, 18-inch alloys and carbon effect and metal trim.

LED lighting is employed for the headlights, tail and brake lights while STI badges can be found on the front grille and wings.