OVERHAULED SUBARU WRX IS AN ATTRACTIVE PROPOSITION

By NITISH S. RELE – motoringtampabay@gmail.com

Its kind are few and far between. It only has to be noticed by potential buyers and they would line up to buy one, i.e. the Subaru WRX. The totally redesigned high-performance sports sedan for 2022 is a fun and enjoyable ride, especially for your daily roundabout. Standard all-wheel-drive system should be an impetus on top of it all.

Out goes the previous 2.0-liter to be replaced by a more potent 2.4-liter horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder engine (intercooled and turbocharged) that blasts off a healthy 271 horsepower (up by 3 from previous) @ 5600 rpm and 258 pounds-feet of torque @ 5200 rpm. Power routed through a flawless 6-speed manual auto gear box contributes to a sporty and exciting performance. The WRX’s exceptional stopping power comes from robust 12.4-inch ventilated front and 11.4-inch solid rear discs.

Ensconced on the unitized body structure is a traditional hexagonal grille with centered Subaru star cluster insignia, which is flanked by C-shaped LED headlights. You cannot help but notice the bulging but functional and broad scoop atop the aluminum hood. A twin cockpit with electroluminescent gauge displays for speedometer, tachometer, fuel and coolant temperature give the cabin a rich feel. The power-tilt moon roof is a nice touch too. As are the ultrasuede seats with red stitches. Further enhancing the appearance is a matte dark gray metallic finish on the center dash panel. Tossed out is the small 7-inch touch screen for infotainment controls to be replaced with a 11.6-inch tablet-style vertical display. And what driver wouldn’t appreciate a 10-way power seat? And if you like physical buttons for audio volume, tune, temp control, this is yours to keep! Other standard niceties include dual auto a/c, 60/40 fold rear seat, flat-bottomed leather steering column, aluminum alloy pedals, 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and rear seat armrest with dual cup holders.

Standard are dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, driver knee airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist, vehicle dynamic control, active front seat head restraints, blind spot detection, lane departure and change alert, rear-cross traffic alert, rearview camera, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights are standard.

Thanks to the total overhaul, the WRX is an even more appealing ride than ever before. It’s the perfect choice for any sport sedan buyer who likes a certain thrill on the road. Who doesn’t want a robust engine, luxurious cabin, affordable price and standard all-wheel drive? It is just perfect for the everyday chore.

WRX LIMITED

Tires: 245/40R18

Wheelbase: 105.2 inches

Length: 183.8 inches

Suspension: MacPherson strut front, double wishbone rear

Steering: rack-and-pinion power assist

Weight: 3,390 pounds

Fuel capacity: 16.6 gallons

City: 19 mpg

Highway: 26 mpg

Base price: $35,995

Web site:  www.subaru.com