The Subaru WRX has been around for almost 20 years, but make no mistake, the latest iteration is all new.
This car is known for its performance, its seamless use of technology and its safety. With the most advanced features, design and performance to date, this fifth-generation rally icon is sure to be embraced by car lovers in Guelph, who already know the WRX for its engaging driving experience.
The 2022 Subaru WRX responds quicker to driver inputs, offers improved accuracy and has a more natural steering feel. Whether you’re driving the Hanlon or cruising up Highway 6, if you’re a true driving enthusiast, this is the vehicle for you.
The details
Powered by a new 271 hp 2.4-litre Subaru BOXER® engine, the WRX is nothing short of turbocharged. Pair this with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a new automatic transmission.
It also offers the high-definition, tablet-style, 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system. This includes a host of useful features, including the latest generation EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology.
GT trim
Also new for 2022, the WRX adds a new top-of-the-line GT trim package with a new automatic transmission—the Subaru Performance Transmission—as standard. The new WRX GT offers a first-ever for the line: new electronically controlled dampers. With these, you can tailor the car’s dynamic performance to your preferences, choosing from Comfort, Normal and Sport settings.
The Drive Mode Select also offers even more options, allowing you to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings, and more. It offers up to 430 different customization options, an incredible level of personalization.
The Subaru Global Platform
For the first time ever, the WRX has been built on the Subaru Global Platform. This offers the driver increased safety and improved dynamics, as well as reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness. It’s a substantial upgrade in ride and handling performance, thanks to increased chassis stiffness and the lower centre of gravity height.
The enhanced platform, now with full inner frame construction and increased use of structural adhesives, delivers a 28 per cent increase in overall torsional rigidity, as well as a 75 per cent increase in suspension mounting point rigidity. A longer suspension stroke increases vehicle stability and lateral grip on uneven surfaces.
The rear stabilizer bar—now mounted directly to the body, instead of the subframe—operates much more efficiently. It also contributes to a roll rate reduction when cornering.
Advanced Safety Technology
As mentioned above, the WRX has strengthened suspension mounting points and has a lowered centre of gravity. This improved body rigidity translates to more responsive steering and handling, a smoother and quieter ride, and heightened hazard avoidance in the event of emergency situations.
The new body absorbs more energy in front and side crashes than the previous model, offering an increased level of crash protection. In those cases when a crash is unavoidable, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you are protected, with seven standard airbags, including a driver knee airbag.
Of course, standard on all trim packages with automatic transmission is Subaru’s famed EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. Even this has been enhanced, with an expanded angle of view and multiple software performance improvements that result in a wider range of operation.
An electric brake booster has been added, which improves braking responsiveness and your performance in panic stops. The Lane Departure Prevention function was also improved and now provides a smoother, more natural kind of assistance.
For the first time ever in a WRX, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering is now included among the EyeSight® system’s suite of features. The newly available Automatic Emergency Steering works together with the Pre-Collision Braking System, assisting with steering control that can help avoid a collision at speeds under 80 kph.
What you can expect in terms of performance
The WRX is known for its dynamic performance, which is only strengthened by its new 2.4-litre turbocharged Subaru BOXER® engine. It delivers 271 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, has a broader torque curve with 258 lb-ft of torque from 2,000-5,200 rpm; this increased displacement improves responsiveness and acceleration.
Every WRX is equipped with the legendary Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring. The Subaru BOXER® engine is accompanied by either the 6-speed manual transmission, which has been fitted with optimized gear ratios and refined for improved shift quality, or the new Subaru Performance Transmission (automatic) which offers up to 30 per cent faster upshifts (second to third) and 50 per cent faster downshifts (third to second).
This new automatic transmission incorporates adaptive shift control; it can respond quickly, performing rev-matching downshifts under braking, maintain the ideal ratio through corners, and respond faster on corner exit.
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Drivers can also take advantage of the 8-speed manual mode, which can be accessed using steering wheel paddle shifters. An external transmission fluid cooler improves durability and capability in demanding conditions.
This is a car that feels good to drive—a genuine sports sedan that offers everyday drivability, comfort, safety and value.
The 2022 WRX will be available at Subaru retailers in early 2022. For more information, visit Pfaff Subaru.