Subaru has unveiled its first diesel engine for the UK market, the Boxer Turbo Diesel.

The engine, the world’s first horizontally-opposed diesel, will make its UK debut in the Legacy and Outback models in February 2008. The Forester and Impreza diesels will join the range later.

Subaru’s new diesel models will play a large role in the comeback the brand has planned for the next 18 months, following a 15% sales slump from 2005 to 2006.

Arthur Fairley, director of public relations at importer IM Group, says: “The most important part of the plan is to retain existing sales and the loyalty of customers who appreciate their models.” Subaru wants to grow its retail network from 84 to 100 this year.

Training on the new products will be provided to sales staff.