Overview
The 2022 Subaru WRX is trying to bring back rally-inspired sport compact cars with a new design and powerful engine. The 271-hp turbocharged flat-four engine is more powerful than the outgoing model, and the contemporary interior design including an available 11.6'' touchscreen infotainment system aligns better with newer rivals like the Hyundai Elantra N, VW Golf GTI, or Jetta GLI .
Although all the WRX's competitors feature all-wheel drive, only the Subaru offers it as standard equipment. Lacking the power to take on the 315-hp VW Golf R, Subaru has said there will be no gasoline STI model this time around. However, an electric STI is in development and should come to production eventually. The company hasn't given a timetable for that yet. In the meantime, enthusiasts can get excited about the 2022 WRX and its bold new bodywork.
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The WRX comes with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine under the hood that produces 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The transmission options are either a standard six-speed manual or continuously variable automatic (CVT), but every WRX has all-wheel drive. If you choose the automatic, there are three different drive mode settings controlled by paddle shifters on the steering wheel.
The GT trim comes with adaptive dampers and is only available with an automatic transmission. A set of 17- or 18-inch wheels shod with summer performance tires are also available. We've driven the new WRX and appreciated its smoother ride and improved refinement. Most importantly, it's still enjoyable to drive-- especially when powered by a six-speed manual transmission. At our test track, we found that the WRX went from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds ÂÂÂand completed the quarter mile in 13.9 seconds at 101 mph when manually operated..
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The WRX is rated by the EPA to deliver 22 mpg combined with the manual transmission and 21 mpg with the optional CVT automatic. On our real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy route, both our six-speed manual WRX Limited and our automatic WRX GT test vehicles managed 28 mpg--4 miles per gallon more than what was promised. If you want to learn more about the F-type's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Subaru WRX comes with many of the same features as other contemporary models, but what sets it apart are the carbon-fiber-like accents and red contrast stitching. You'll also find a thick-rimmed, flat bottomed steering wheel in addition to standard analog gauges. The top tier GT trim level offers heavily bolstered Recaro front seats upholstered in luxurious microsuede. For your convenience, you can access the trunk via the 60/40 split folding rear seat from inside the car.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Every WRX comes with a touchscreen infotainment system. The base model features a 7.0-inch display while all other trims get a vertically oriented 11.6-inch one. The system relies primarily on touch inputs, although it does have some physical controls for the climate system and stereo such as volume and power buttons . An 11-speaker Harman-Kardon sound system is also available in addition to the standard multimedia features which include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility .
Is WRX reliable 2022?
We expect the 2022 WRX to be less reliable than other new cars. This prediction is based on Subaru's brand history, and the redesign is now on the global platform with the turbo engine.
Is the 2022 Subaru WRX fast?
At 6.1 seconds to 60 mph, the new WRX is the second-slowest Subaru World Rally eXperimental we've tested since its North American debut for the 2002 model year. (The only example that took longer to reach 60 mph was a 2018 WRX Premium.)
Does the 2022 WRX need premium fuel?
Performance Subaru models – the WRX, WRX STI and BRZ – have a premium fuel requirement, but even with those vehicles, check your manual for information on which fuels are appropriate. Fuel stations in the United States typically offer three or more choices of fuel grades that vary by state.