2022 Subaru WRX

Overview

Rally-inspired sport compact cars are on the verge of extinction, but the new 2022 Subaru WRX aims to reignite interest for this enthusiast-focused breed. With the adoption of a new architecture aimed at better driving dynamics as well as the addition of more powerful 271-hp turbocharged flat-four engine, the new WRX promises to be an improvement over the outgoing version. Its contemporary interior design and available 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system also now better align with newer rivals that include the Hyundai Elantra N and the VW Golf GTI and Jetta GLI. Of course, among this group, only the WRX features all-wheel drive. Without the muscle to take on the 315-hp VW Golf R, Subaru has said there won't be a gasoline-powered STI model this time around, but the vaunted WRX STI has a future as a performance-oriented EV. The company hasn't commented on when that electric STI could come to production though. Until then, the 2022 WRX and its bold bodywork give enthusiasts something fast and fresh to be excited about.

What's New for 2022?

The 2022 Subaru WRX is the latest generation of the well-known, all-wheel-drive sport compact. It rides on a new platform, boasts more distinctive bodywork, and is motivated by a larger and slightly more powerful turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

We would choose the WRX's Premium model with the standard six-speed manual transmission. It offers a good combination of equipment without getting too expensive like the loaded automatic-only GT model.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Under the WRX's hood is a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine. Its 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque routes through either a standard six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Per tradition, every WRX has all-wheel drive. Those who opt for the automatic, which can also be controlled via paddle shifters on the steering wheel, can also select from three different drive-mode settings. The auto-only GT trim also comes with adaptive dampers. 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. But most importantly, it's still very entertaining to drive. At our test track, the six-speed manual WRX powered through to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and completed the quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds at 101 mph. The GT model, with its standard CVT, managed a quicker 5.4-second zero-to-60-mph time but it was slower through the quarter-mile, eclipsing that marker in 14.1 seconds at the same 101 mph.

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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. For more information about the WRX's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Inside, the WRX looks a lot like other contemporary Subaru models, except that it’s dressed up with carbon-fiber-like accents and red contrast stitching. There's a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel as well as a set of analog gauges. The top-tier GT trim comes with heavily bolstered Recaro front seat covered in microsuede. The trunk can be accessed from inside the car via the 60/40 split-folding rear seat.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Every WRX comes with a touchscreen infotainment system, but 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. An 11-speaker Harman-Kardon sound system is also available. Otherwise, the WRX's list of standard multimedia features include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

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

• Available forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Subaru's limited and powertrain warranty aren't anything special. Plus, rivals from Hyundai and Volkswagen benefit from some level of complimentary maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance

More Features and Specs