Police in Fairfield, NSW, have struck a sponsorship deal with Subaru Australia to use a turbocharged Impreza WRX STi sedan for use in promotional and youth liaison work.

The Impreza carries eye-catching Subaru and Police identification and is being used in the Fairfield Local Area Command, under a six-month sponsorship.

The Impreza WRX STi is one of the most recognized cars among young people, thanks largely to its legendary rallying success.

Its appeal is being used as an "ice-breaker" by Police involved in youth liaison work, driver training and traffic awareness programmes.

One objective is for Police to encourage young car enthusiasts to get their own vehicles off the street and to a proper drag strip at Western Sydney International Dragway at Eastern Creek, to race against the clock in a controlled, legal and safe environment.

Subaru Australia General Manager Nick Senior said: "There's a huge interest among young people in the Impreza WRX STi and by joining forces with the Police in an area close to our national headquarters at Wetherill Park, we see it as a positive opportunity to learn about driving fun, without the potential dangers of the open road or the annoyance to local residents.

"The feedback we've had from the Police is that a lot of young people who normally wouldn't bother to talk to them are finding a common interest in the car.

"They realize they have a shared interest with the Police and it makes them more likely to listen to their suggestions about driving generally, and consider joining in some of the informative and fun programs available in the area to enhance road safety."