The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Subaru of America has taken the wraps off the 2022 WRX, and said this fifth-generation packs "the most advanced features, design, and performance in its nearly 20-year history."
This 2022 model aims to be the tech-rich among the WRX generations with Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology, Starlink infotainment, and a GT trim with electronically controlled dampers, and more luxurious exterior and interior accents.
What's ever-present in the generations of WRX is a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive. In this new sedan, a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine delivers 271hp and 349Nm of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm.
The increased displacement, along with a turbocharger equipped with electronically controlled wastegate and air bypass valves, improves responsiveness and acceleration, Subaru said.
A six-speed manual transmission with "optimized gear ratios and refined for improved shift quality," or the new Subaru Performance automatic transmission that offers quicker up- and downshifts, can be paired to the WRX's boxer mill.
Engine and automatic transmission operation can be tailored with three different settings for the SI-Drive Performance Management System. For additional driver involvement, an eight-speed manual mode can be accessed using steering wheel paddle shifters. An available external transmission fluid cooler improves durability and capability under demanding conditions.
The WRX is underpinned by the Subaru Global Platform that promises a better ride quality and handling performance, thanks to increased chassis stiffness and lower center of gravity height.
Meanwhile, the striking (and divisive) exterior carries "aerodynamic improvements to enhance the WRX’s performance and stability." An air outlet at the edge of the front wheel opening allows air to exit from the wheel well, so as to reduced lift on the front tire. Another air outlet at each side of the rear bumper reduces body sway due to air trapped behind the bumper.
It also has molded wheel arches and lower trim finished in a texture that reduces air resistance. Beneath the front of the vehicle, the engine undercover also features this same aerodynamic texture, with channels for airflow to increase downforce.
Inside the WRX, the Starlink infotainment combines multimedia and climate controls. It's also linked to an 11-speaker Harman Kardon (HK) sound system and an HK 504-watt equivalent amplifier. Even better, the 11.6-inch multimedia systems retain physical buttons and knobs for volume and temperature controls.
As for the WRX in GT spec, it adds eight-way power adjustments in its Recaro sports seats.
Photos from Subaru of America
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