Japanese carmaker Subaru has pulled the covers off the new 2022 version of Subaru WRX model, after almost 30 years since when the model made its World Rally Championship debut in 1992. Premiering in North America, the latest iteration marks the first-ever use of the Subaru Global Platform, promising improved safety, handling, and NVH suppression.
The 2022 Subaru WRX is unleashed to the world
The sporty compact sedan’s lineup has undergone aerodynamic tweaks and substantial weight reduction while reinforcing safety. A new flagship GT variant is also introduced, equipped with the latest Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT) that boasts up to 50 percent faster shifts and an 8-speed manual mode, along with three different powertrain settings
Exterior
A wide-body design accompanies the new WRX, headlined by the signature hexagonal grille set against a more chiseled fascia and surrounded by compact LED headlamps. The hood-mounted scoop is larger and features a more angular cut, echoed by character lines found throughout the car.
More chiseled lines define the new model's fascia and profile
Aluminum front fenders reduce the WRX’s overall weight by more than 2 kilograms. Air outlets on the bumpers and leading edge of the front wheel claddings improve airflow, which improves driving stability by reducing lift. The rear combination lamps have undergone a nip and tuck, now more streamlined and said to resemble volcanic magma when lighting up the darkness. The Subaru WRX rides on a selection of 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels.
Interior
Subaru owners and fans might recognize the new WRX interior as reminiscent of the Outback crossover, featuring a black-and-gray palette with red contrast stitching on the upholstery, topped off with the WRX branding on the front headrests. The GT variant comes with new Recaro seats wrapped in Ultrasuede material and 8-way power adjustment for the driver.
A driver-centric interior welcomes you with more tech
Drivers will be treated to a flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel wrapped in leather, with large and legible analog dials just behind it. The rear bench split-folds 60/40 to provide access to the trunk area or accommodate longer items in transit. Both driver and front passenger get an auto up/down function on their power windows.
Tech & Safety
The new WRX uses a Starlink multimedia system across the range, accessible on an 11.6-inch high-resolution vertical monitor at the center of the dashboard. On-screen controls for vehicle settings, infotainment, and climate control are standard. It will also have support for both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with icons configurable by the user, as well as a split-screen display feature. This is accompanied by an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
The rear seats fold for access to the cargo hold
Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology also makes an appearance, with improved Lane Departure Prevention. An electric brake booster has been added for panic stops, along with Automatic Emergency Steering for collision avoidance at speeds of under 80 kilometers per hour. For the first time, the WRX also gets Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering.
Engine & drivetrain
A new 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine has been fitted into the engine bay, rated at 271 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. The turbocharger’s wastegate and bypass valves improve responsiveness and acceleration. Standard on the 2022 WRX is a 6-speed manual transmission with optimized gear ratios and refined shifting.
The 2022 WRX now comes with a bigger engine displacement and a new gearbox option
Meanwhile, the automatic SPT gearbox on the GT grade uses adaptive shift control for rev-matching downshifts under braking scenarios, with an 8-speed manual mode through the paddle shifters. Three drive settings for the SI-Drive Performance Management System are available, regulating engine and transmission parameters. All these work with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring System.
Pricing
Prices have yet to be revealed as of this writing, but the bigger news is that an insider has confirmed the 2022 Subaru WRX’s arrival in the Philippine market by the first half of 2022. This should have local fans excited at the upcoming latest addition to the Subaru Philippines range.
Catch more news on upcoming models at Philkotse.com.