This year’s Production World Rally Championship (P-WRC) kicks off on February 12th - 15th in the northern European climes of Norway.

Focusing on Europe, the most powerful veterans from around the world get together in this championship. This year’s series features some 19 teams on the entry list. At present, the sole Japanese entry is that of SUBARU Team Arai’s Toshi Arai.

Mr. Arai, what are your plans for the coming season?

Arai "If you look only at the entry list, there are some obscure names, but two guys from northern Europe will be participating in Imprezas in Norway, and there are also some other young drivers making an appearance. In addition, S2000 rally cars from Skoda and Fiat, and, it seems, some capable drivers to keep an eye on throughout the season. However, the most important thing is to get the power down properly. Already, there’s none of the trouble we had last year, and the essential thing is to take points securely.”

Has Arai’s Impreza WRX STI evolved?

Arai "With Group N cars, the parts that can be modified from the road car are limited. Therefore, there are no major improvements. Thus, we’ve looked into where we’ve had trouble and have researched how we can improve in those areas. Competition dampers are a topic we intend to answer with results. In terms of the car, there is not much to worry about.”

Please give us your thoughts as you prepare to head to Norway.

Arai "Though we’ve been to Sweden many times, this is the first visit for the P-WRC to Norway so I haven’t yet been there. The speed of the cars will be slow on the narrow tracks, and I’ve heard that there is a lot of snow. The locals will probably be quick, but I’ve also got my own strategy. It’s important to get a top position without making any mistakes. This year, our main objective is to become world champions with the new Impreza, so we’ve got to get points in this first event. Everybody, we ask for your continued support as we persevere.”