2022 Subaru WRX Review, Pricing, and Specs

We’d go for the premium WRX with the standard six-speed manual transmission. It offers a good combination of hardware without becomes too expensive as a loaded automatic-only GT model.

Engine, transmission and performance

Under the hood of the WRX is a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine. Its 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque are sent through a standard six-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). By tradition, every WRX has four-wheel drive. Those who opt for the automatic, which can also be controlled via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, can also choose between three different drive settings. The automatic-only GT also comes with adaptive dampers. A set of 17- or 18-inch wheels with summer rubber is also available. We drove the new WRX and appreciated its smoother ride and improved refinement. But the most important thing is that it is very interesting to drive. On our test track, six-speed manual WRX sprinted to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and ran the quarter mile in 13.9 seconds at 101 mph. The GT model with the standard CVT was driven by a a faster 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds but it was slower in the quarter mile, eclipsing that marker in 14.1 seconds at the same 101 mph.

Fuel economy and real mpg

The WRX is EPA-estimated at 22 mpg with the manual transmission and 21 mpg with the optional CVT automatic. incl our real fuel economy route on the highway at 75 mph, our six-speed manual WRX Limited and our automatic WRX GT test cars returned 28 mpg. For more information on the F-type’s fuel economy, visit EPA website.

Interior, comfort and cargo

Inside, the WRX is very similar to other current Subaru models, except it’s decked out in carbon fiber-like accents and red contrast stitching. There’s a thick-spoke, flat-bottomed steering wheel, along with a set of analog gauges. The top-level GT trim comes with heavily bolstered Recaro front seats covered in microsuede. The trunk can be accessed from inside the car via the 60/40 split rear seat.

Infotainment system and communication

Every WRX comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, but the base model has a 7.0-inch display, while all other trims have a vertically oriented 11.6-inch one. The system relies mostly on touch input, although it does have some physical controls for the climate system and stereo. An 11-speaker Harman-Kardon sound system is also available. Otherwise, the WRX’s list of standard multimedia features includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety features and driver assistance

The WRX is available with a variety of popular driver assistance technology, but such equipment is offered only on models with an automatic transmission. For more information on the WRX’s crash test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Road Safety (IIHS) websites. Key security features include:

• Forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are available
• Lane departure warning and lane keeping assist are available
• Adaptive cruise control is available

Warranty and maintenance

Subaru’s limited warranty and transmission warranty are nothing special. In addition, rivals Hyundai and Volkswagen enjoy some level of free service.

• The limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• The transmission is warranted for five years or 60,000 miles
• No free scheduled maintenance

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