2015 Subaru WRX

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.

The Facts
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

2015_Subaru_WRXSTI_002
2015 Subaru WRX STI
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