Subaru WRX 2022 launches new engine and platform, familiar package

The fifth-generation all-wheel-drive Subaru WRX has finally arrived. It debuts today with a new look inside and out, paired with a new platform and engine. The car looks quite familiar at first glance, but Subaru has made several changes to improve its performance beyond just adding power. The automaker is also presenting a new top-of-the-range GT version for 2022.

Subaru upgrades the 2022 WRX’s turbocharged flat-four engine from 2.0 to 2.4 liters. The new engine produces 271 horsepower (202 kilowatts) and 258 pound-feet (349 Newton-meters) of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. The torque is unchanged from the fourth generation model, but the new WRX develops three additional horsepower. The new engine is mated to a six-speed manual or the Subaru performance transmission – a CVT – which pumps power through Subaru’s AWD system. The CVT has an eight-speed manual mode accessible via the steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. An external transmission fluid cooler is also available.

The new engine may be a bit of a letdown for some, but the WRX 2022 rolls on the Subaru overall platform, making several improvements. The new chassis is stiffer than before – a 28% increase in overall torsional stiffness and a 75% increase in suspension attachment point stiffness – and it helps lower the car’s center of gravity. . Subaru now also mounts the rear stabilizer bar to the body instead of the subframe.

The styling of the 2022 WRX could be called evolutionary, but it’s all new. New LED headlights tighten up against Subaru’s signature hexagonal grille, which is larger than on the fourth-generation model. A large and wide hood emphasizes the model’s wide position. It’s the same at the rear, where new taillights – designed to glow like volcanic magma – highlight the updated styling cues. Subaru made less obvious changes, like the use of aluminum for the front fenders, which can reduce by five pounds.

New for 2022 is the GT finish (it’s the white car above). It is only available with the automatic, but it has electronically controlled dampers. It has three settings – Comfort, Normal and Sport – and it’s paired with a new drive mode selection that gives drivers 430 different customization options. Recaro seats are exclusive to the model, which feature an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat wrapped in Ultrasuede black with contrasting red stitching. It also comes with exclusive 18 inch matt gray wheels with 245/40 R18 summer performance tires. Non-GT models receive 17- or 18-inch alloy options.

Inside, the WRX 2022 will greet passengers with a whole new layout. There is an 11.6-inch infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity and more are standard. Options include an 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The WRX will also feature Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology.

Subaru hasn’t provided any pricing information, but the 2021 model starts at just over $ 27,000. The price might go up a bit, but we don’t expect a massive increase. With the new WRX finally here, we can turn our attention to the expectation of the hotter variant of the WRX STI. Rumors indicate he will make his debut next summer.