Spied! 2009 Subaru WRX STI

The first spy photos of the 2009 Subaru WRX STI have hit the Web, offering a moderately camouflaged look at the future powerhouse.

Caught lapping at the Nürburgring test track in Germany, the STI prototype reveals some of the WRX's subtle changes. A mesh grille replaces the egg-crate design on the standard WRX, and the deeper front airdam has a larger center air intake.

A larger spoiler and quad tailpipes signal the STI's rear, and aggressive-looking wheel flares flank the car's sides.

Performance specifications have not yet been released, but the STI is expected to produce approximately 325 horsepower from its turbocharged flat four-cylinder engine when the much-anticipated Subaru goes on sale in 2008.