After much drip-teasing, Subaru finally launched the all-new 2022 WRX, and all we can say is “what the hell did they do to my rally icon?”
The WRX is a name that has a cult following among car and rally enthusiasts for its unmatched driving performance. Its rally-bred tagline was made famous after the legendary Colin McRae won the rally championship with Subaru thrice in 94’, 95’, and 96’. Almost any Subie comes with certain elements that set it apart from other cars: a brilliant chassis, an all-wheel-drive system, and a rad-sounding boxer-twin engine, all wrapped up in a sporty and practical shell. This DNA was replicated every year without changing too much of the design and character until now.
For MY 2022, Subaru redesigned the WRX from the ground up on the new Subaru Global Platform, offering a 28% increased torsional rigidity and nearly 75% increase in suspension mounting point stiffness.
However, before delving into the chassis and other technical details, we need to address the elephant in the room—the new design looks like a cross between the Legacy Outback Sport SUV and the Pontiac Aztec in a ‘crossover sedan’ style fashion. All this was made possible thanks to new ‘Bozo’ LED headlights, black plastic-clad wheel arches, and an unholy mix of a rear spoiler lip, “Magma” taillights, and a bulging rear diffuser. No need to say that fans are still trying to process the abomination.
Nonetheless, there are some noteworthy additions to the new package, despite the disappointing new look. For instance, the 2022 WRX gets an all-new 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer twin setup instead of the traditional 2.0-liter engine. The new unit pumps out 271 hp @ 5,600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque in a broader torque curve from 2,000 to 5,200 pm. Surprisingly, that’s only a slight improvement in power (3 hp) over its predecessor, despite the 400cc increase in displacement.
The engine can be paired with the well-revered 6-speed manual box or the Subaru Sport Transmission, a clever name (or not) to hide what is nothing else than a CVT. Still, Subaru says that the Sport transmission offers 30% faster upshifts and 50% quicker downshifts for a more engaging feel (of course, these are not real gear shifts but just preprogrammed settings). The automatic tranny is standard in the newly announced GT Trim, packing all the bells and whistles, while the four-wheel-drive system is standard across the range. Other improvements in driving dynamics include a track-tuned suspension, dual-pinion steering, and stiffer dampers—not bad but definitely not good enough to make up for the new look.
The cabin also received a major update with an 11.8-inch STARLINK infotainment system. The vertical screen gives access to standard phone connectivity features, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, along with a complimentary SiriusXM subscription for music and podcasts and 3-year support for Tom Tom maps and routes.
As a bonus, the 2022 WRX gets an 11-speaker Harman Kardon setup along with a 504 W amplifier. The standard trim features black seats with contrast red stitching, while the GT trim comes with sporty Ultrasuede Recaro seats.
Beyond the design, there are some good improvements to the overall package. Unfortunately, most of the additions are present only on the premium trim, which can only be equipped with the CVT—unfortunate, indeed.
At this point, all we can do is hope for the best with the STI.
Gallery: 2022 Subaru WRX
More information in Subaru’s press release
