Subaru today unveils its all-new, fifth-generation WRX 2022, first built on Subaru’s global platform. It will hit the market early next year.
As is usual with the manufacturer, the evolution is rather conservative. The body and the air intake on the hood are wider to give the WRX a slightly more aggressive look. The design of the headlights and taillights is more modern, the latter being designed to glow like magma from a volcano, Subaru tells us.
The front fenders are now aluminum, while a slim rear spoiler integrated into the trunk and color-matched to the body is still in order. The designers worked on aerodynamics, including adding openings just behind the front wheels and on either side of the rear bumper. The new 17- and 18-inch rims are fitted with performance tires.
Barely more powerful, but more solid
As anticipated, the 2022 Subaru WRX gains the 2.4-liter turbocharged engine found in the Outback, Legacy and Ascent. Power climbs to 271 horsepower (formerly 268 with the 2.0-liter engine) and torque remains the same – 258 pound-feet accessible from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. A new electronically controlled wastegate and air bypass valves improve responsiveness and acceleration, says Subaru.
Symmetrical all-wheel drive with active torque distribution is teamed up with a six-speed manual transmission optimized for smoother shifts. As an option, the new (continuously variable) performance automatic transmission enables up to 30% and 50% faster upshifts and downshifts, respectively. It has an eight-speed manual mode simulated via the steering wheel selectors.
Photo: Subaru
With the new platform, Subaru talks about increased rigidity (28% in torsion, 75% at the level of the suspension brackets) and a lowered center of gravity. Suspension travel is lengthened for better stability, while the rear stabilizer bar is now docked directly to the body (instead of the subframe) for less body roll in corners. A new power steering offering more precision and a more natural feel is also included.
A top-of-the-range GT version (automatic only) is added to the menu for 2022 and innovates with electronically controlled shocks. These can be set according to Comfort, Normal and Sport modes. There are also exclusive 18-inch wheels in a matte gray finish and Recaro sports seats in ultra-suede.
Photo: Subaru
State-of-the-art interior
The 2022 Subaru WRX 2022’s black interior with red stitching and carbon fiber accents features a new flat-bottom steering wheel and a large 11.6-inch HD touchscreen displayed vertically. The latter’s display can be divided according to the information you want, and if you’re not keen on the SUBARU STARLINK entertainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both integrated.
Photo: Subaru
TomTom navigation is optional, as is the Harman Kardon 11-speaker sound system and the 504-watt HK amplifier. Finally, it should be noted that several driving aids in the EyeSight safety system (WRX with automatic transmission) have been improved. Others are now available for the first time, such as advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering assistance and the automatic emergency steering system.
Pricing for the 2022 Subaru WRX will be announced closer to going on sale. As for the new WRX STI, its unveiling will not be long.
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