Overview & Reviews

For years, the Subaru WRX has been the high-performance version of the otherwise practical-minded Subaru Impreza. This latest WRX has lost the "Impreza" name on its badge to indicate its dedication to performance. The WRX name signifies the presence of a higher-horsepower turbocharged engine and a sport-tuned suspension. The WRX STI model, (from Subaru's in-house tuning division, Subaru Tecnica International) offers even more power, along with a more advanced all-wheel-drive system that enhances cornering grip.

Current Subaru Impreza WRX
Debuting for 2015, the Subaru WRX is a four-door sedan powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed ("boxer") four-cylinder engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission and an all-wheel-drive system are standard. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is optional. The STI uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine rated at 305 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission offered.

Standard WRX features include alloy wheels with summer tires, automatic climate control, sport front seats, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a rearview camera and a six-speaker sound system. Upper trim levels add extras like foglights, a sunroof, a trunk lid spoiler, heated front seats, a touchscreen navigation system and leather upholstery. The WRX STI gets the more powerful engine, bigger wheels, Brembo brakes, front and rear limited-slip differentials, driver-selectable modes for the center differential and a more aggressively tuned suspension. Options include an eight-way power driver seat, lighter-weight 18-inch BBS wheels, a performance exhaust and a premium nine-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The WRX is extremely fun to drive thanks to its strong available engines and responsive handling. The ride quality does suffer a bit, but it's not any worse than you would expect from such a high-performance car. Less forgivable, however, is the large amount of wind and road noise coming into the cabin at freeway speeds. As for the WRX STI, is definitely turns up the performance dial, but it's harsher to drive on a daily basis.

Inside, the WRX is pretty spacious, with simple and straightforward controls. The driver positioning is particularly excellent, as is outward visibility thanks to thin roof pillars and large side mirrors. Previous versions of the Impreza and WRX had lots of hard plastics and unfriendly surfaces. This model is a bit more refined, but most competitors will still feel comparatively upscale. Subaru's touchscreen controls and audio systems aren't very impressive either, and they stand out as a weak point in the cabin.

Used Subaru Impreza WRX Models
The WRX and WRX STI were previously referred to as the Subaru Impreza WRX. Before that, WRX and STI models were simply trim level options on the standard Impreza. Buyers interested in a used model can get additional information on these used Impreza WRXs and WRX STIs in separate reviews.

User Reviews:

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  Its true, all of it. - 2016 Subaru WRX
  By tone - November 26 - 7:21 pm

  Its true, all of it. Its fast, its fun, and its practical. I always wanted a WRX ever since I test drove the 2.5 RS in the late 90s. Now Im 41 years young with 2 kids and Im having a blast driving this car where ever I go. There is a distinct aura just driving a Subaru. A lot of Subaru owners flash there lights or wave and say Hi to other Subaru owners while driving on the streets. Its really cool and friendly. I have the base 2016 WRX 6-Speed with a short throw shifter. At 2500 RPM and above my car has enough turbo spool built up it can challenge anything. I really mean anything. I just press firmly on the throttle and the car just moves like Im riding on a puff of air gaining so much speed. Mind you I only accelerate like this on spirited drives during on-ramps to get on the highway and never with my kids. The handling is great not excellent but just great for everyday driving. If you need more feel for the handling prowess obviously get the STI. I test drove both and I know I will never get close to the limitations of the STI. You can feel the hardware in the STI. But as far as acceleration I would put the WRX and STI neck and neck in terms of acceleration with the STI just ahead by a little bit. The only minor negative issue with the WRX I feel is the shifter. Im at roughly 1,500 miles right now and Im finally feeling comfortable shifting quick. There is a minor notchy feeling going from first to second. But youll figure it out in a couple days by maybe holding the shift knob in a certain way and shifting in a certain way that can alleviate that notchy feeling. Otherwise I read Perrin has a shifter stop that can help. Id definitely recommend using the Costco auto buy program. I paid $200 dollars below invoice for my WRX. It was no hassle. The Subaru dealer in my local area showed me the Costco price and it matches my researched internet invoice price. Also they subtracted the $200 dollars. Super Easy. Heres my down payment and I was out the door having fun. If youre looking for something cheap, practical, fast, and fun I totally recommend the WRX. Also the WRX is a Lego. It has so much potential for upgrades and customization because theres an abundant amount of tuner parts available.

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  NO CONS! - 2018 Subaru WRX
  By Kevin - September 20 - 2:53 am

  I came from a 2017 VW GTI, which was totaled recently. While i loved that car.. the 2018 WRX is in a whole different league. The handling is magnificent on turns and curves. The acceleration is fun and solid. Yes, the road noise is *slightly* louder than other vehicles, but I doubt anyone interested in buying an AWD, 270HP car that isnt a luxury brand is extremely interested in a purely silent cabin. Im sensitive to noise and its fine for me. Love this car and finally do not have any buyers remorse or looking longingly at other cars. Go take it for a test drive and push it!

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  Vrroom Vrrroooom! - 2016 Subaru WRX
  By Kimberly Minton - March 21 - 12:55 am

  How to be a responsible driver! This car has got it all. Great ride, sleek, stylish and just plain FAST! Ive found I can get better gas mileage driving in sport mode when traversing Ca. Foothills and traffic. Im what youd call a very defensive driver. Way too many bad drivers out there. The similar design of the Impreza, this hot little car stays in incognito. Love, love, love this car!!!

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  2016 WRX base model w/ Short Shifter & Mirror pkg - 2016 Subaru WRX
  By Mark Leestma - December 4 - 3:10 am

  Actual Gas Mileage ranges from 27 -33 mpg. Best value for the money. Great styling. Torque can beat with a Lexus GS300 F-Sport @ 306 HP off the line. Handling feels better than a BMW especially on turns.

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  2017 Subaru WRX Premium - 2017 Subaru WRX
  By Mark - October 1 - 10:23 pm

  Just leased a 2017 WRX Premium (M6) in white. I love this car! Has excellent performance and overall value. Ride isnt the smoothest nor quiet. But if youre wanting ride comfort and a quite car, then look elsewhere! Overall interior looks good and a major improvement from last generation, but Subaru could do better. Subarus arent known for quality audio, but you can always upgrade through Subarus accessories or aftermarket. Again, Im happy with my new WRX and looking to purchase in the near future!

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  what a blast to drive & own - 6,500 mile review - 2015 Subaru WRX
  By subaru_colorad - July 21 - 9:36 pm

  Purchased the WRX after test-drive & reading reviews of WRX and WRX STI - I liked the STIs acceleration, handling, and in particular the brakes, but did not care for the appearance of fin or stiffness. As a 40+ yr old, I was looking for a car that was fun, but non-descript in a corporate parking lot and comfortable as a commuter/pick up the kids vehicle. Ive driven the WRX 6K+ miles, and live in the Colorado foothills, windy road. It is a blast! Took awhile to get used to timing (turbo lag) and too many RPMs while shifting does release a horrible smell, but this only occurs when not careful. The car is very light; braking and acceleration = very responsive. Im 62 200 lbs.

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  Two weeks in... - 2018 Subaru WRX
  By Tommy Tunes - July 14 - 1:16 pm

  After reading reviews, I was hesitant about buying the WRX. I read things about "tinny" feeling when closing doors, painfully harsh ride, etc. But I test drove and bought the car anyway. Two weeks in and Im not a bit sorry. Its a stiff "sports car" ride...and thats great. Acceleration is good, even though Im still in the break-in period and not exceeding 4K rpm. I bought excellent quality snows (Michelin Alpin PA4) and the car rides great, feels solid on the road, and handles great, too. I previously owned a Honda Civic SI with the V-TEC engine. Loved that car but it was FWD only. The WRX is every bit as good, with 4WD.

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  Lot of bang for your buck - 2016 Subaru WRX
  By John Morin - June 9 - 12:01 am

  This is my second all wheel drive Subaru and my fourth 4 wheel drive vehicle all together , and its a joy to drive , I love my new one just it was a long wait to get the color I wanted, i had to wait and extra 4 months to get it right , other than that alls good. I"m able to keep it out of the snow now, and use my Outback for the snow .

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  WRX squared - 2017 Subaru WRX
  By Chad Garcia - January 20 - 3:57 am

  Loved the wifes STI so much we went and bought a WRX to match...

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  A Few Observations - 2017 WRX w/CVT - 2017 Subaru WRX
  By Bob in Tampa - April 5 - 8:54 am

  CVT: In normal driving, this CVT out performs a MT for most of us because it always upshifts and downshifts when it should (while the best drivers with MTs will usually but not always shift precisely at the right time). For a good time, a MT always wins. And while I really like this CVT, I feel like I have more control with a MT. Brutal Suspension: Ive seen at least one review saying the WRX has a brutal suspension. There must be something wrong with mine. Yes it is firm, but even my 96 year old mother likes the way the car rides. Nanny Controls: Excluding Eyesight, Ive found basic nanny controls are introverts, shy and rarely making themselves known. Eyesight is an extrovert, looking over your shoulder, beeping to get your attention, flashing warnings, even sharing steering, brakes and accelerator if you let it. Eyesight is a glimpse of more good things to come and cars that will do things we havent yet dreamed of.