Prodrive’s philosophy behind the car’s design was practical performance. Weighing only 1,100 kg and with a power-to-weight ratio of over 350 bhp/tonne, the 0-100km/h was expected to be less than four seconds and have a top speed of 280 km/h. Despite the focus on weight reduction, the P2 included all the comforts of any modern car of the time, with a six-speaker stereo system, power steering, and electric windows.

Use was made of a 345bhp, 2-litre, flat-four boxer engine from the Impreza STi. It was fitted with Prodrive’s Anti-Lag System (ALS). Derived from the Impreza World Rally Car, but modified for road use, ALS can keep the turbo on boost at low engine speeds, giving the car immediate throttle response and improved performance.

To enhance the cars handling and help direct the power created by the drivetrain, Prodrive’s Active Torque Dynamics system (ATD™) was been fitted. Using active centre and rear differentials, ATD™ modulated the torque to the individual wheels to help optimise the car’s handling characteristics.

The chassis was based on a modified Subaru R1 steel monocoque, with styling led by Peter Stevens, who had worked on previous Prodrive cars, like the Impreza WRC and Impreza P1. Responsible for the styling of road cars such as the McLaren F1, Peter created new exterior surfaces such as the door panels, bonnet, and the roof. The interior design was completely new. Peter’s team produced a full-scale clay model of the car to develop the design, and then from this model, the P2’s composite panels were made.