The fifth-generation 2022 Subaru WRX is already out. And like the models preceding it, the new version retains a sporty, rally-inspired look and feel. Some are even saying that the changes are too subtle. Regardless, the brand promises that everything about this rally-inspired model is all-new. You can learn more about specs and reviews of the new Subaru WRX model here.
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So, just how different is the new WRX from the outgoing WRX model? Let’s point those differences out.
2022 Subaru WRX Old vs New: Exterior
To start off, the new WRX is much larger than the previous version. No exact measurements were revealed yet, but the gains in girth is pretty evident from the addition of black plastic claddings. The fenders are also beefier and their shapes look more aggressive overall.
Compare the old (left) vs the new (right) WRX using the slider
On the front end of the vehicle, the headlamps now look smaller and sharper. In turn, the lower grille is wider and is seemingly fused with the foglamp housing since they are both colored in black. The main grille however retains its hexagonal shape.
The old WRX's rear end
Of note, the front fenders are now made out of aluminum so it reduces the car’s overall weight by 2 kilograms. The rear end also looks more streamlined with the trunk door getting a narrower taper. The black-colored rear diffuser is now more prominent. Also, the quad-exhaust tips do make their return on the new model.
The all-new WRX from the rear
2022 Subaru WRX Old vs New: Interior
Inside, most of the changes in the new WRX are similar to that on the new Subaru Outback. The center stack is now vertically oriented, and there are more soft-touch surfaces everywhere. At the same time, it also retains its red contrast stitching and flat-bottom steering wheel that’s found on the previous WRX. The steering wheel itself is a new unit and is sleeker-looking than the one on the outgoing WRX.
Inside the old WRX
As mentioned, the vertically oriented center stack allows for a larger headunit. Specifically, the new infotainment system is an 11.6-inch tablet-style split screen display with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, offline navigation, and an 11-piece Harman Kardon sound system.
Comparatively, the old WRX uses a seven-inch touchscreen with a separate screen above the air-condition vents various vehicle-related information. The previous version, at least for the Philippines, also didn’t get Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Like the previous model, the new WRX also gets folding rear seats, It also has fewer speakers numbering at six.
The 2022 Subaru WRX's cockpit
Both the old and new WRX however do come with a push-to-start button, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, automatic headlights, among others.
But in being a newer model, the 2022 WRX does come with a newer Subaru EyeSight safety suite. Some improvements for this component include a wider range for the car’s many sensors, improved lane departure prevention, electronic brake booster, and automatic emergency steering for collision avoidance. It also gets adaptive cruise control with lane centering.
2022 Subaru WRX Old vs New: Engine
As many of you Subie fans know, the old WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four gasoline engine that’s capable of making up to 264 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. It was then paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The outgoing model's 2.0-liter engine
The new WRX meanwhile gets a slightly larger 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer-four that can produce up to 271 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. The new model comes standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, though in certain markets, the CVT will also make a return.
The difference in horsepower isn’t much, but the marque promises that the new engine is more responsive thanks to the 2.4-liter mill’s new electronic wastegate. Moreover, maximum torque can also come earlier due to the larger displacement.
As with most Subaru models, both the old and new WRX uses the marque’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. The new model’s chassis however is 28 percent stiffer than the older model’s. It also uses electronically controlled adaptive dampers for better ride-feel and ride quality.
The new WRX's 2.4-liter engine
And instead of having its rear stabilizer bar mounted into the subframe, the new model’s stabilizer bar is now attached directly into its body. This further enhances rigidity, and also lowers the car’s center of gravity.
Do you dig the new 2022 Subaru WRX or do you prefer the older model? For more old vs new articles as well as the latest car reviews, keep it here on Philkotse.com.