Subaru has unveiled the newest incarnation of its iconic WRX.

Built on the Subaru Global Platform, which the company says has enhanced the rigidity of the body and chassis resulting in sharper handling and reduction of vibrations, the new WRX is powered by a 2.4-litre direct injection Boxer turbo engine generating 202kW and 350Nm.

Every WRX is equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring, and there is either a 6-speed manual transmission, or the new Subaru Performance Transmission (automatic). The automatic transmission incorporates adaptive shift control for a quicker shifting response.

Engine and automatic transmission operation can be tailored to driver preferences with three different settings for the Performance Management System. The available Drive Mode Select system offers additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings and more with just a push of a button.

There’s a dual-pinion electric power steering system, which has separate axis for the motor assist and the driver’s input, and which is designed to deliver a smooth and responsive, sporty steering feel.

For 2022, there’s a new top-of-the-line GT trim that gets Recaro seats wrapped in black Ultrasuede with contrasting red stitching and the “Recaro” logo embossed on the seatbacks. The driver’s seat includes 8-way power adjustments.

The GT also features exclusive 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels in matte grey finish paired with 245/40 R18 summer performance tyres.

Design-wise, the WRX retains an aggressive and performance look, and on the inside, there is a flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated switches for audio, voice recognition, and EyeSight control. The centrepiece is an 11.6-inch high-definition information display that integrates various functions.

The advanced driver assistance system includes an improved Lane Departure Prevention function and Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centring, and Automatic Emergency Steering that works in conjunction with the Pre-Collision Braking System to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision at speeds under 80km/h.

The exact features available for the models to be sold in Australia will be revealed closer to its launch date here, which is anticipated to be in the second quarter of 2022.

Source: Motor Trader e-Magazine (October 2021) 

21 October 2021