Last year, we tested the new Subaru WRX here on the channel and liked it but posed the question as to whether or not it grew up and matured too much. We cited the smaller, more affordable, and arguably more fun BRZ in that video: wondering if that were the most bang-for-your-buck fun in the Subaru lineup.
Sure, the BRZ is the rear drive exception to the brand’s symmetrical AWD craze, and as a two-door car it has a different overall mission than the four-door WRX… but as The Grand Tour presenters recently pointed out: THE WRX USED TO BE MORE CRAZY (but this one is not a bad car).
As a 36-year-old father of a four-year-old myself, I have seen the WRX grow up from its rally roots to this more civilized vehicle I am driving today. This car has grown along with me and has followed its potential buyers into maturity. I have really enjoyed my short time in this WRX and could see myself buying this as my daily because it is comfortable, loaded with tech, and has room for my kid.
This version is in the Limited trim, which is absolutely the trim to get as it is the highest trim that offers a proper 6-speed manual gearbox over the Continuously Variable Transmission which is the only other option. This allows me to channel my inner kid, while still transporting my kid in a vehicle with Subaru’s modern reputation for safety.
2022 Subaru WRX Limited Specs:
2.4-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder
271 Horsepower
258 lb.-ft. of Torque
6-speed Manual Transmission
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Maximum boost pressure: 12.0 psi
Active Torque Vectoring
Ultrasuede®-trimmed Seats
10-way Power Driver's Seat
SUBARU STARLINK 11.6-inch Multimedia Navigation
Harman Kardon® Premium Audio System
LED Steering Responsive Headlights
Power Moonroof
Blind-Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
12.5 Cubic Feet of Trunk Space
EPA Fuel Economy 19/26/22 (city/hwy/cmb)
Starting Price: $29,605 (base trim)
Price as-tested: $37,490
If you are in the East Texas area and in the market for a new or pre-owned Subaru, check out our friends at Peltier Subaru: