The Subaru WRX version comes with a few surprises. As always, change makes some people uncertain. We expected some people to be a bit uncomfortable with a couple of ideas. But as it turns out, people are appreciative of change as long as the change is positive, convincing and justified.
CVT: New Territory
It keeps the basic look of the Subaru Impreza, though the new Subaru WRX no longer shares that name. It’s available only as a sedan, which usually has naysayers shaking their heads. The big change, though, is the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). It was unexpected and, according to immediate feedback before test drives, unwelcome.
But proving naysayers wrong and winning them over is a grand Subaru tradition. The WRX is one of the most recognisable and best-loved cars from Subaru. Making a transition like that wasn’t a decision made lightly, and after a test drive or three, doubters admitted that Subaru had done it again.
The CVT of the Subaru WRX is specifically modified to fit in with what’s expected of the powerful, challenging, playful, spirited car. The SI-Drive system works in three modes: ‘Intelligent’ mode means that it works like a regular CVT. In ‘S’ or Sport mode when you throttle the WRX at more than 30%, it transitions through six steps, just like shifting gears. S# mode or Sport Sharp mode, which is the most aggressive, will take it through eight close ratios. For the tiny handful of tough critics not won over by this great new Sport Lineartronic technology, the six-speed manual is still available. But the CVT is an excellent option for those who want to keep the thrill that the WRX is known whilst adding a little ease when cruising along urban roads.
Combining the best of old and new:
While the Subaru WRX does come with something very new to it, it keeps the best of what made it so loved and admired. Safety is paramount: it has a five-star safety rating from ANCAP. Fuel economy is remarkable for its class, at 8.6-litre per 100km (ADR combined). The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine will give you 197kW/350Nm. At under $40,000 (excluding on-road costs), the base model of the Subaru WRX is extremely competitively priced. It’s just slightly bigger than it used to be, with more leg room in the rear and a bigger boot, but it’s not noticeably heavier. With the signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, it handles like a dream as it always has, and keeps its very distinct looks.
Subaru WRX STI:
The Subaru WRX STI takes it up another level. It’s for those who love pushing driving to the extreme and can handle the smoothly controlled aggression contained in the extremely powerful engine. The exterior looks different but makes a statement, with STI sports mesh grille, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. The signature rear spoiler makes it stand out even in the most impressive of company. But if you want a more subtle statement of power, the Subaru WRX STI is available without the rear spoiler, for the first time. Its 2.5-litre turbocharged horizontally-opposed Boxer engine is powerful, as evidenced by the maximum power output of 221kW at 6000rpm. The STI comes with a six-speed manual transmission system.
The Subaru WRX is no longer an Impreza, but it delivers everything you might expect from one, and more. If you want a challenging, powerful, aggressive machine in your stable, you need search no further. The Subaru WRX is for sale in Perth. Making a booking for a test drive is extremely easy and our advisors will make sure that your experience is as enriching and rewarding as possible. If, at the end of the day, you decide to leave as the proud owner of the Subaru superb, you’ll have gained a supreme thoroughbred. It will challenge you as much as you will push it to its limits.
Let us know what you think of the Subaru WRX. Have the changes won you over? Let us know on Facebook, Google Plus or YouTube.