WRX means performance. WRX means a Subaru with rally blood coursing through its means. WRX means superior performance in a compact sedan.
The Subaru WRX aims to be a superior driver’s car that stays true to its rally heritage, while still providing practicality for everyday use. The turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder boxer engine generates 197 kW at 5600 RPM. For purists who like to manhandle a car, there’s the option of a 6-speed manual transmission for old-school driving control. The more cutting-edge option is a CVT automatic transmission that optimises fuel efficiency in Intelligent mode. But switch it to Sport mode and it mimics a 6-speed sequential transmission operated by the paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Dial it up all the way to SportSharp mode, and you have even more nuanced control with 8 virtual gears. Naturally, power is delivered to the wheels by Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
The styling of the WRX is upgraded from its Impreza baby brother with a sports body kit, a rear diffuser, 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels, and striking red brake callipers on its JURID brake pads. Interior trim includes a red-stitched leather steering wheel, gear lever, and parking brake covers, as well as leather seats. The driver is supplied with an 8-way power seat. Creature comforts include power windows and automatic dual-zone air conditioning. The centre console sports a 7” touch screen infotainment system. Also included is satnav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a powerful 7-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
Not only is the WRX fast, but it’s also safe. It sports no fewer than 7 airbags, whiplash-reducing front seats, and side-door reinforcement beams to mitigate injuries from collisions. It also has front and rear cameras and blind-spot monitoring with lane-change assist. Eyesight Driver Assist Technology is also available to help protect you against traffic hazards.