Pros: Invigorating acceleration, especially with STI model; tenacious handling with confidence-inspiring, all-weather capability of all-wheel drive; improved all-around refinement compared to previous-generation models
Cons: Stiff ride, especially with STI; cramped rear seat; hatchback body style is no longer offered; available touchscreen system trails most competitors; some drivers feel that the CVT transmission isn’t sufficiently sporty
CG Says: Subaru’s rally-bred WRX and WRX STI performance machines are redesigned for 2015. Both migrate to the platform that the mainstream Subaru Impreza received for 2012 (the 2012-2014 WRX and WRX STI made do with a 2008-vintage basic design). The 2015 WRX gets a 268-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder and offers the option of a continuously variable transmission in addition to a 6-speed manual transmission (2009-2014 WRXs were manual only). The WRX STI boasts a 305-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four and comes solely with a 6-speed manual. The base 2015 Subaru WRX is an intriguing performance-car value that has few direct competitors, and the updates and improvements for 2015 make it more compelling. The WRX STI’s higher price, seriously stiff ride, and raucous nature make it best suited for serious performance enthusiasts who are willing to forgo some comfort and practicality for extra speed and agility.
Class | Sporty/Performance Car |
Body Style(s) | 4-door sedan |
Passenger Count | 5 |
Drive Wheels | All-wheel drive |
Manufacturer | Subaru |
Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
Base Prices | Base: $26,295 Premium: $28,495 Limited: $29,995 STI Base: $34,495 STI Launch Edition: $37,395 STI Limited: $38,495 |
Base Engine turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cyl |
Horsepower 268 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
Avail. Transmission CVT |
EPA City Range (mpg) 19-21 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 25-28 |
Optional Engine turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cyl |
Horsepower 305 |
Std. Transmission 6-speed manual |
Avail. Transmission NA |
EPA City Range (mpg) 17 |
EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 23 |