Subaru introduced a high-tech new car in the early part of last season - and it announced itself with a bang.

A debut victory was followed by stunning form, and the team could easily have snatched the world title from under Peugeot's nose with a little better reliability and less mistakes from Richard Burns.

For 2001, Subaru has worked hard to put those problems right.

Last year's car was always intended to be a first stage of development, and the team says that the new car, which looks markedly different, is "the final 20%" of the programme.

Driver doubts

There are improved aerodynamics and better cooling, and a concerted attempt to keep the weight down.

But more changes mean that reliability may stil be a question mark, and while Burns will undoubtedly be a title contender, it remains to be seen how his team-mates will fit into the picture.

Subaru has been unable to agree a deal for veteran Juha Kankkunen to drive in a limited number of rallies, so the team will be relying on novices Petter Solberg and Markko Martin to provide back-up.

Both are undoubtedly quick, but their inexperience means they are likely to make mistakes. That could be costly in a year which looks like being nail-bitingly close.