The 2016 model of the Subaru WRX doesn’t come with any major changes to the overall design, and it actually resembles the previous model quite closely in some regards. It’s clear that the company has found the “sweet spot” for their designs and are now refining the various small points of the car’s style until they’ve reached perfection. And with that in mind, what can someone expect from the new 2016 Subaru WRX?
The new model comes with Subaru’s EyeSight crash prevention system, and it’s been reported to work quite well. The system itself comes with an upgrade over its previous version, introducing Steering-Responsive Fog Lights, and it now has Adaptive Cruise Control, Automatic Braking, Blind-Spot Detection and many other core safety and security features that make this quite the capable model when it comes to keeping its occupants safe and sound.
The car will be offered in four different versions, namely the WRX, Premium, Limited, STI and STI Limited. The base model comes with 17×8 inch rims, while the WRX STI Limited has 18×8.5 inch aluminum alloy wheels, and there are some differences in the external size of the car between different models as well.
Of course, it should go without saying that this is a very capable model and not your average ride, and under the hood, drivers are going to find a 2.0 liter DOHC turbocharged engine, running along with a six-speed manual transmission. There is also the option for a Sport Lineartronic transmission configuration with paddle shifters, available in the Premium and Limited editions.
In total, the car runs at 268 horsepower and outputs 258 lb-ft of torque, making it a more than capable model. On the other hand, the STI and STI Limited editions come with a 2.5 liter DOHC turbocharger, increasing the power output to 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. STI models also have Subaru’s Intelligent Drive installed.
In terms of performance, owners of the Subaru WRX and WRX Premium/Limited can expect 20 mpg in city conditions and 27 on the highway, using manual transmission. Premium and Limited editions will get 18 mpg in the city, and 24 mpg on the highway when using the Sport Lineartronic gearbox. Last but not least, we have the STI models running at 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.
The interior of the 2016 WRX has been reported to be quite nice as well, with plenty of room for everyone, especially the driver. The only complaint some reviewers have had in this regard is that there is only one color option for the interior – black leather – but at least it’s stylish enough that most people should be fine with it.
There’s also the option of post-market customization for those who really insist on driving around in a different looking WRX, but we can safely say that even the base configuration should be sufficient for most people’s tastes.
It’s also worth noting that all models have some differences in their interior layout and configuration, such as the heated seats offered in the WRX Premium, or the keyless entry feature on the WRX Limited and STI. On the other hand, all models have extensive multimedia features such as a multi-function display, HD radio, a six-speaker audio system and support for Bluetooth streaming. Those who like to make use of gadgets actively in their lives should find plenty of good options in the WRX as a whole, and Subaru have put some effort into making the car attractive to those buyers.