• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

Archives for September 29, 2020

Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops

September 29, 2020 by admin 1 Comment


Subaru’s WRX pulls out all the performance stops.



Compact sedans typically are Point A to Point B models that deliver an admirable blend of cost, standard amenities, and efficiency. Most models can be had beginning from under $20,000, with well-equipped models costing just a few thousand dollars more.

Subaru takes a different approach to the segment, by offering standard all-wheel drive and two model types based on the same chassis. The standard model is the Impreza. The performance variants are the WRX and WRX STI.

The WRX family is legendary with few true competitors outside of the Volkswagen GTI and R as well as the now-retired Ford Focus ST and RS. A scarcity of competitors doesn’t mean the market has dried up, but it does translate into Subaru operating largely unchallenged in a niche segment.


2020 Subaru WRX Review


Subaru offers the 2020 WRX in five trims: WRX ($27,495), WRX Premium ($29,795), WRX Limited ($32,095), WRX STI ($36,995), WRX STI Limited ($41,695). Add $900 for the destination charge.

Our test “Series White” model is one of only 500 made. This one features a special Option Package ($4,200) comprised of various performance, exterior, and interior upgrades. These include a Brembo Performance Braking System, a sport-tuned suspension system with Bilstein dampers, ultra-suede performance Recaro front bucket seats, LED steering response lights, and LED fog lights: Also: bronze-finish 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, keyless entry with push-button start, an 8-way power driver’s seat, and black trim accents inside and outside highlight this package. Add in special molding and a rear bumper applique, and the total price was $35,290.



Exterior

Is the WRX intimidating? Not to the degree of some models with gaping grilles, huge LED lights, and fat body skirting. There is only so much you can do to add styling elements to what is essentially an Impreza sedan.

But the WRX does make a strong effort thanks to its large front intakes, noticeable side sills, and hefty rear diffuser. The standard wheels look great, but the STI models bring in 19-inch wheels and a big rear wing. Or, you can replace the rear wing with a small lip spoiler – that’s an option Subaru supplies.

Most models come with either 17- or 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels set within summer performance tires. LED headlights appear with the Limited; a power slide-and-tilt moonroof slots in with the Premium trim.

Other features include standard power- and folding side mirrors, available heated mirrors, and halogen headlights (Premium) or LED fog lights (Limited).




Interior

We’ve had misgivings about Recaro seats, especially in the Ford Mustang GT where we found them uncomfortable. Too bolstered and hard for our tastes, those sets of Recaros increased whatever back pain we had. And that was a lot.

Happily, the Recaros in the WRX are not the same. Sure, they’re generously bolstered, but we found them sufficiently padded and not uncomfortable.

We can’t say the WRX’s interior dazzles. It does not. But that isn’t its mission – this is a driver-centric model with driver information split between the instrument panel and a second display located on top of the center stack. There’s enough plastic to remind you of its humble origins, but there is also soft-touch materials and metal trim to soothe.

Most models come with performance-designed front bucket seats with the Recaros appearing further up the trim chain or as an option. You’ll find either 8- or 10-way power driver’s seat on some trims. All models come with a 60/40 split-fold down bench seat that leads to a trunk measuring a modest 12 cubic feet.

The requisite flat-bottomed steering wheel is wrapped in leather and features red stitching. Cloth upholstery is standard; ultra-suede with leather or leather-trimmed upholstery is also available. All trims come with aluminum-alloy pedal covers.




Tech

Only the base WRX comes with a 6.5-inch touch-screen display, otherwise, a 7-inch display is standard. Some trims include navigation, but with standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone compatibility, you don’t need it.

Other features bring in satellite radio, HD Radio, and a CD player. You’ll also find Bluetooth, two USB ports, and an auxiliary jack. Nothing unusual here as Subaru covers what’s expected.

A 6-speaker audio package is standard, but a Harman Kardon system is optional on some trims. That one comes with 9 speakers and a 440-watt amplifier.



Safety

It’s almost as if Subaru wants customers to buy a WRX with a CVT as that’s where you’ll find its full suite of driver-assist technology. It’s called EyeSight Driver Assist Technology and it has adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure and sway warning. We’ve seen adaptive cruise control on models with a stick shift before – you just can’t include full stop and go as the driver must be fully engaged at that point.

Most of the other safety features are trim specific or are included with an options package. Specifically, blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic braking, and high-beam assist is a bundled option beginning with the WRX Limited. Overall, the WRX is behind what some competitors offer or what most Subaru models supply. Perhaps when the next-generation WRX rolls out in a year or two we’ll see improvements in what’s offered.



Performance

The Subaru WRX comes with two engine choices: hot and hotter yet. Both engines feature horizontally opposed cylinders for a flat design that allows engine output to flow directly into the transmission, which sits behind the engine and not to the side.

But the benefits don’t stop there, which makes us wonder why other manufacturers (besides Porsche) don’t use this “BOXER” design. Indeed, the BOXER sits lower in the engine bay, effectively lowering the center of gravity for improved drive and handling. Further, the design ensures reduced vibration and better fuel efficiency. We think the answer to our wonderment has something to do with the vehicle’s architecture. Thus, Subaru designs its vehicles for the engine, not the other way around.

The two WRX engines add turbochargers and displace 2.0- and 2.5-liters, respectively. The first three WRX trims come with the 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four that generates 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Both STI trims get a 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER with 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. While the first engine works with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or a continuously variable transmission, the STI models utilize a 6-speed manual exclusively.

Our Series White model had the standard engine with the 6-speed manual. From the get-go, we knew that this powertrain combination was a strong one. We found out just how capable it is by driving on some of our favorite backroads in central North Carolina – places where the scenery is beautiful, the traffic is little, and law enforcement is not on the prowl.

Kudos to Subaru for engineering a transmission with silky-smooth shifts and flawless clutch uptake. If you’re new to driving a manual, this one won’t intimidate you. Yes, you still must become accustomed to three-pedal foot action, but the experience should result in a reasonably pleasing driving time. Moreover, the manual is far superior to the CVT and its simulated eight forward gears. To us, it is pointless to consider this vehicle with anything but the manual, even with the available safety features on tap.

Subaru imbues the WRX with all the driving characteristics expected in a performance model from direct and weighted steering, to poised handling, and with solid braking. What Subaru does that amplifies the experience is standard all-wheel drive. Indeed, with such a system in place, power transfers to the rear wheels when you need it most, as in on slippery roads and when cornering. It’s an unfair advantage for rally car racing that Subaru exploits and one that benefits the driver.

Being unfair is absolutely okay, especially when you’re behind the wheel of the WRX. The car just feels so right on so many levels. The level we like is fast, although even keeping at highway speed and weaving in and out of traffic (using your turn signals, of course), underscores how well this sedan moves.

From a dead stop and quickly moving up to 60 mph, the WRX reaches that speed in second or third gear, pushing the redline while pressing forward. A restrained engine roar and low exhaust moan are the accompaniment – other vehicles may have a more pronounced cacophony, but we weren’t about to complain. Slamming on the brakes brought this sedan to a quick and short stop thanks to the Brembo braking system. In a car with this potency, the brakes should at least match the prowess of the powertrain.

In all, the WRX performs the way we want. But for a small group of individuals, only the STI will satisfy as it is the ideal model for the track. For everyone else, the standard WRX strikes a wonderful balance between commuter and rally cars. Shop carefully and you should drive away from your Subaru dealer with a nicely equipped model for about $30,000.



Competitive Set

We mentioned models from Volkswagen and Ford as WRX competitors. Throw in the Honda Civic Si and Type R for good measure. It’s too bad Mitsubishi no longer makes the Lancer and its Evo variant, especially the latter which effectively ruled the roost for many years.

The WRX is by no means a luxury model, but there are a few upper-end models that offer similar performance thrills, including the Audi S3 and Mercedes-Benz CLA. However, you’ll pay much more for either choice, and that’s what makes the Subaru so appealing to a strong cohort of believers.


Our Recommendation


If money isn’t a big issue, we’d explore the STI trims from the onset. All that additional power at the ready simply amplifies this vehicle’s performance credentials. And it won’t leave you wondering about “what could have been” if only you opted for the best.

That said, you cannot go wrong by accepting any WRX model, especially one with the manual gearbox. Again, we’d avoid the CVT as it is essentially counter-intuitive to this model’s performance-laden mission.



2020 Subaru WRX Specifications

  • Sticker price from $27,495 to $41,695
  • Seats 5
  • Engine No. 1: 2.0-liter turbocharged flathead gas
  • 268 horsepower @ 5,600 RPM
  • 258 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,000 to 5,200 RPM
  • 6-speed manual or continuously variable transmission
  • Engine No. 2: 2.5-liter turbocharged flathead gas
  • 310 horsepower @ 6,000 RPM
  • 290 foot-pounds of torque @ 4,000 to 5,250 RPM
  • 6-speed manual transmission
  • Wheelbase: 104.3 inches
  • Length: 180.9 inches
  • Width: 70.7 inches
  • Height: 58.1 inches
  • Passenger volume: 96.6 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 12 cubic feet
  • NR
  • EPA: 21/27/23 (2.0L stick); 18/24/21 (CVT); 16/22/19 (2.5L) mpg city/highway/combined
  • Premium gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 15.9 gallons (gas)
  • Curb weight: From 3,294 to 3,514 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Top Safety Pick
  • Vehicle assembly: Lafayette, Indiana

See Also — 10 Things We Like About the Subaru Legacy

Subaru WRX photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine. All rights reserved.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 6-SPEED MANUAL, all-wheel drive, compact sedan, CVT, Subaru, SUBARU IMPREZA, SUBARU WRX, Subaru WRX STI

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All

Recent Comments

  • Drive Dissection: 2017 Nissan Maxima SR — Auto Trends Magazine on From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • The Premium Nissan Maxima Sedan — Auto Trends Magazine on From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan — Auto Trends Magazine on Second Look: 2020 Nissan Sentra
  • Buying Guide: 2020 Kia Sedona — Auto Trends Magazine on Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • Highlights of the 2020 Kia Sedona — Auto Trends Magazine on Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Car Reviews
  • New Models
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications
  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • From Datsun to Nissan: 40th Anniversary of the Maxima Sedan
  • The Mazda CX-5 Brings a Premium Touch to the Compact Crossover Utility Vehicle Segment
  • 4 Car Upholstery Cleaning Tips
  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
September 2020
S M T W T F S
 12345
6789101112
13141516171819
20212223242526
27282930  
« Aug   Oct »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in