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All-wheel drive in the sport compact/hot hatch marketplace seems to only be reserved for the upper echelon; the upcoming Ford Focus RS, Subaru WRX STI, Volkswagen Golf R, and the outgoing Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Step down one rung and most sport compacts send power to the front wheels. Ask why most automakers don’t add AWD and you might get an answer of it would ruin the balance of the vehicle or it would be too expensive. But one automaker does have AWD in their sport compact and that would be Subaru. Ok, Subaru has AWD in most of their vehicles, so adding AWD to their WRX sedan isn’t a problem. But it does give the WRX a big selling point in a growing class. The WRX is based on the Impreza, but you wouldn’t know that by looking at the exterior. Subaru has made a number of changes to the exterior to make the WRX seem like its own model. The front end gets a new rectangular grille and a large hood scoop. Around the side are seventeen-inch wheels finished in gray and WRX nameplates on the front fenders. A rear diffuser with quad exhaust tips and a lip spoiler complete the rear. Sadly, the WRX and WRX STI don’t come in a five-door like the last-generation. Move inside and you can tell this is an Impreza. Subaru has tried to dress up the WRX with a flat-bottom steering wheel, sport seats, improved interior materials, and faux carbon fiber trim. But for the $32,855 as-tested price, it looks and feels very spartan. Many fans of the WRX and STI will argue that you don’t buy these cars for the interior, you buy them for the performance. While I can see some validity in that argument, the fact that for the same amount of money as this WRX, you can get into a fully loaded Ford Focus ST or a nicely equipped Volkswagen GTI with much nicer interiors. There are some positive points to the WRX’s interior. The sport seats have the right amount of bolstering to hold you in place when your playing around and don’t make you feel uncomfortable on long-distance trips. The rear seat provides a decent amount of headroom, but legroom is tight for taller passengers. Subaru has also gotten rid their aftermarket-looking infotainment system for a system that looks more appropriate. The seven-inch touchscreen features Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system that boasts features such as Pandora integration and hands-free text messaging. The combination of quick performance and large touchpoints makes the system one of the easiest in the industry. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four with 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with Subaru’s well-renown all-wheel drive system and either a six-speed manual (what I had) or Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. Power comes on a very smooth and linear fashion throughout the rpm band. This is due to the turbo building boost at a quick rate and the wide spread of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. Also, I like that you can hear the woosh of the turbocharger working. The six-speed manual is somewhat clunky to use as the shift action feels somewhat limp and you have to make sure you have the lever fully in the position of the gear, otherwise you are not moving. At least, the transmission has a defined pattern so you know where you are in the gear pattern. In terms of fuel economy, the 2016 WRX with the manual is rated by the EPA at 20 City/27 Highway/23 Combined. My average for the week in the WRX landed around 21.6 MPG. Not great, but I’ll admit I was driving this a little bit hard just to hear the turbo working. Despite not participating in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), the WRX retains a lot of that pedigree. Point the WRX down your favorite road and it transforms into a rally car. Body lean has gone away and the all-wheel drive system provides tenacious grip. I pushed the WRX around some tight corners and the car never showed any signs of struggle. More impressive is how the all-wheel drive system keeps the WRX planted on gravel roads. Yes, you can turn the traction and stability control off if you want to live out your fantasy of being a rally driver. Steering is very responsive and provides good feedback of the road. As for the daily grind, the WRX’s suspension is on the firm side. But it is a small price to pay for the performance you get. Some will complain there is a fair amount of road and wind noise coming into the cabin. One other item that should be mentioned; Subaru’s EyeSight system which uses stereo cameras to scan the road and feed the data to the adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with automatic braking, and lane-departure warning system is only available on the top Limited trim equipped with the CVT. If you opt for the manual, you don’t have that option. I have reached out to Subaru to find out the reason for this and will update when I get a response. The 2016 Subaru WRX is an interesting option in the sport compact class. At the moment, it is the only model in the lower echelon of sport compacts that come with all-wheel drive. For some, this is what they want in a sport compact. But the high price tag and spartan interior may have you running towards the Ford Focus ST which offers the same performance level and a nicer interior. It really comes down to what you are looking for in a sport compact. Personally, I really liked my time in the WRX. But I would likely go for either the base WRX or a lightly optioned Premium to make me feel at ease with the purchasing decision. Cheers: All-Wheel Drive Traction Looks that standout Turbocharged engine Jeers: Interior still lags behind the competition Manual transmission needs to go to finishing school High price tag Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2016 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Premium Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged DI Boxer Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed Manual, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,600 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,500 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 20/27/23 Curb Weight: 3,386 lbs Location of Manufacture: Kanto, Japan Base Price: $28,895 As Tested Price: $32,855 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: Navigation + harman/kardon Audio System - $2,100 -
All-wheel drive in the sport compact/hot hatch marketplace seems to only be reserved for the upper echelon; the upcoming Ford Focus RS, Subaru WRX STI, Volkswagen Golf R, and the outgoing Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Step down one rung and most sport compacts send power to the front wheels. Ask why most automakers don’t add AWD and you might get an answer of it would ruin the balance of the vehicle or it would be too expensive. But one automaker does have AWD in their sport compact and that would be Subaru. Ok, Subaru has AWD in most of their vehicles, so adding AWD to their WRX sedan isn’t a problem. But it does give the WRX a big selling point in a growing class. The WRX is based on the Impreza, but you wouldn’t know that by looking at the exterior. Subaru has made a number of changes to the exterior to make the WRX seem like its own model. The front end gets a new rectangular grille and a large hood scoop. Around the side are seventeen-inch wheels finished in gray and WRX nameplates on the front fenders. A rear diffuser with quad exhaust tips and a lip spoiler complete the rear. Sadly, the WRX and WRX STI don’t come in a five-door like the last-generation. Move inside and you can tell this is an Impreza. Subaru has tried to dress up the WRX with a flat-bottom steering wheel, sport seats, improved interior materials, and faux carbon fiber trim. But for the $32,855 as-tested price, it looks and feels very spartan. Many fans of the WRX and STI will argue that you don’t buy these cars for the interior, you buy them for the performance. While I can see some validity in that argument, the fact that for the same amount of money as this WRX, you can get into a fully loaded Ford Focus ST or a nicely equipped Volkswagen GTI with much nicer interiors. There are some positive points to the WRX’s interior. The sport seats have the right amount of bolstering to hold you in place when your playing around and don’t make you feel uncomfortable on long-distance trips. The rear seat provides a decent amount of headroom, but legroom is tight for taller passengers. Subaru has also gotten rid their aftermarket-looking infotainment system for a system that looks more appropriate. The seven-inch touchscreen features Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system that boasts features such as Pandora integration and hands-free text messaging. The combination of quick performance and large touchpoints makes the system one of the easiest in the industry. Under the hood is a turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four with 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This is paired with Subaru’s well-renown all-wheel drive system and either a six-speed manual (what I had) or Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. Power comes on a very smooth and linear fashion throughout the rpm band. This is due to the turbo building boost at a quick rate and the wide spread of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. Also, I like that you can hear the woosh of the turbocharger working. The six-speed manual is somewhat clunky to use as the shift action feels somewhat limp and you have to make sure you have the lever fully in the position of the gear, otherwise you are not moving. At least, the transmission has a defined pattern so you know where you are in the gear pattern. In terms of fuel economy, the 2016 WRX with the manual is rated by the EPA at 20 City/27 Highway/23 Combined. My average for the week in the WRX landed around 21.6 MPG. Not great, but I’ll admit I was driving this a little bit hard just to hear the turbo working. Despite not participating in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), the WRX retains a lot of that pedigree. Point the WRX down your favorite road and it transforms into a rally car. Body lean has gone away and the all-wheel drive system provides tenacious grip. I pushed the WRX around some tight corners and the car never showed any signs of struggle. More impressive is how the all-wheel drive system keeps the WRX planted on gravel roads. Yes, you can turn the traction and stability control off if you want to live out your fantasy of being a rally driver. Steering is very responsive and provides good feedback of the road. As for the daily grind, the WRX’s suspension is on the firm side. But it is a small price to pay for the performance you get. Some will complain there is a fair amount of road and wind noise coming into the cabin. One other item that should be mentioned; Subaru’s EyeSight system which uses stereo cameras to scan the road and feed the data to the adaptive cruise control, forward collision mitigation with automatic braking, and lane-departure warning system is only available on the top Limited trim equipped with the CVT. If you opt for the manual, you don’t have that option. I have reached out to Subaru to find out the reason for this and will update when I get a response. The 2016 Subaru WRX is an interesting option in the sport compact class. At the moment, it is the only model in the lower echelon of sport compacts that come with all-wheel drive. For some, this is what they want in a sport compact. But the high price tag and spartan interior may have you running towards the Ford Focus ST which offers the same performance level and a nicer interior. It really comes down to what you are looking for in a sport compact. Personally, I really liked my time in the WRX. But I would likely go for either the base WRX or a lightly optioned Premium to make me feel at ease with the purchasing decision. Cheers: All-Wheel Drive Traction Looks that standout Turbocharged engine Jeers: Interior still lags behind the competition Manual transmission needs to go to finishing school High price tag Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX, Insurance, and One Tank of Gas Year: 2016 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Premium Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged DI Boxer Four-Cylinder Driveline: Six-Speed Manual, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,600 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,500 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 20/27/23 Curb Weight: 3,386 lbs Location of Manufacture: Kanto, Japan Base Price: $28,895 As Tested Price: $32,855 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: Navigation + harman/kardon Audio System - $2,100 View full article
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The 2015 Subaru WRX got off to a bit of a rough start when the production model was shown at the L.A. Auto Show last year. First off, the exterior looked to be a fully-watered down version of the concept that was shown earlier in the year. Then came the news that the WRX would be available with a CVT transmission. The internet seemed to implode on the basis of this news, but is it all bad? Has Subaru messed up the WRX? In a word, no. Let's begin with the CVT since that is what I drove at the MAMA Spring Rally last month. The CVT in question is Subaru's Linetronic and the company made some wise decisions for its application in the WRX. For starters, Subaru's engineers made the CVT act like an eight-speed automatic. What I mean is that transmission will mimic the shift points of a regular automatic. This carries over when the you throw it into the manual mode, where it will simulate gears. If you were to tell me to drive around in the WRX and not reveal that it has a CVT, I would have said it has a really nice automatic transmission. The big downside with going the CVT is a slight decrease in performance. The standard six-speed manual hits 60 MPH in 5.4 seconds, while the CVT can do the same in 5.9 seconds. Unless you live and die by how fast you can make it to the next stoplight, the performance difference is negligible. Getting you up to speed is a new turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four making 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That torque number is pretty impressive when you take into consideration that its available from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. This engine has a lot of scoot and moves with authority when exiting a corner. Finishing off the powertrain is Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which keeps the WRX on course. Driving along the back roads in Elkhart Lake, I was impressed by how well the WRX corner. There was no noticeable body roll and the car seemed to hold on to road with superglue. Steering was very responsive and provided good feedback. Now to the exterior. Let's be honest for a moment, the WRX in all of its incarnation has never been a pretty vehicle. At least with the 2015, Subaru is trying a little bit harder to make it a little bit different than the standard Impreza. The WRX has its own set of unique body panels, a functional hood scoop, and a rear diffuser. Some might call this too much, but I think it's just right. You need a little crazy with a sport compact car. Subaru has improved the WRX's interior from looking and feeling like something from a 1980's compact car. High-quality materials are out in force, as are nicely bolstered front seats and a flat bottom steering wheel. One downside is the placement of the trip computer as it right in line of being washed out by sunlight. In my brief time with the WRX, I came away very impressed. The addition of CVT means more people can experience the fun of this all-wheel drive rocket. Subaru didn't ruin the WRX; they made it that much better. Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX for the 2014 MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Limited Automatic Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Boxer-Four Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,800 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,000 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/21 Curb Weight: 3,433 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $31,195 As Tested Price: $31,990 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. -
The 2015 Subaru WRX got off to a bit of a rough start when the production model was shown at the L.A. Auto Show last year. First off, the exterior looked to be a fully-watered down version of the concept that was shown earlier in the year. Then came the news that the WRX would be available with a CVT transmission. The internet seemed to implode on the basis of this news, but is it all bad? Has Subaru messed up the WRX? In a word, no. Let's begin with the CVT since that is what I drove at the MAMA Spring Rally last month. The CVT in question is Subaru's Linetronic and the company made some wise decisions for its application in the WRX. For starters, Subaru's engineers made the CVT act like an eight-speed automatic. What I mean is that transmission will mimic the shift points of a regular automatic. This carries over when the you throw it into the manual mode, where it will simulate gears. If you were to tell me to drive around in the WRX and not reveal that it has a CVT, I would have said it has a really nice automatic transmission. The big downside with going the CVT is a slight decrease in performance. The standard six-speed manual hits 60 MPH in 5.4 seconds, while the CVT can do the same in 5.9 seconds. Unless you live and die by how fast you can make it to the next stoplight, the performance difference is negligible. Getting you up to speed is a new turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four making 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That torque number is pretty impressive when you take into consideration that its available from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm. This engine has a lot of scoot and moves with authority when exiting a corner. Finishing off the powertrain is Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system which keeps the WRX on course. Driving along the back roads in Elkhart Lake, I was impressed by how well the WRX corner. There was no noticeable body roll and the car seemed to hold on to road with superglue. Steering was very responsive and provided good feedback. Now to the exterior. Let's be honest for a moment, the WRX in all of its incarnation has never been a pretty vehicle. At least with the 2015, Subaru is trying a little bit harder to make it a little bit different than the standard Impreza. The WRX has its own set of unique body panels, a functional hood scoop, and a rear diffuser. Some might call this too much, but I think it's just right. You need a little crazy with a sport compact car. Subaru has improved the WRX's interior from looking and feeling like something from a 1980's compact car. High-quality materials are out in force, as are nicely bolstered front seats and a flat bottom steering wheel. One downside is the placement of the trip computer as it right in line of being washed out by sunlight. In my brief time with the WRX, I came away very impressed. The addition of CVT means more people can experience the fun of this all-wheel drive rocket. Subaru didn't ruin the WRX; they made it that much better. Disclaimer: Subaru Provided the WRX for the 2014 MAMA Spring Rally Year: 2015 Make: Subaru Model: WRX Trim: Limited Automatic Engine: 2.0L Twin-Scroll Turbocharged Boxer-Four Driveline: CVT, All-Wheel Drive Horsepower @ RPM: 268 @ 5,800 Torque @ RPM: 258 @ 2,000 - 5,200 Fuel Economy: City/Highway/Combined - 19/25/21 Curb Weight: 3,433 lbs Location of Manufacture: N/A Base Price: $31,195 As Tested Price: $31,990 (Includes $795.00 Destination Charge) Options: N/A William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 20, 2013 A few months after Subaru showed off the WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show, the company revealed the 2015 WRX today at the LA Auto Show. The WRX does have a somewhat family resemblance to the current Impreza, but Subaru designers have done a few things to make the WRX stand on its own. There are new front and rear fenders, new rear doors, hood scoop, bumpers, and headlights that are either halogen or LED (dependent on the trim level). A set of blacked-out seventeen-inch alloy wheels, finish off the WRX's exterior. Inside, the WRX features more space, better materials, and wide set of convenience and tech features. There is a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a set sport seats wrapped in cloth. Options for the new WRX include leather, heated front seats, power driver's seat, keyless access with push-button start, power sunroof, Harman Kardon premium audio system, and navigation system with Aha internet radio. Powering the WRX is a turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four engine with 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the outgoing turbocharged 2.5L boxer-four, the new 2.0L produces four more horsepower and fourteen more pound-feet. Available transmissions for the WRX include a six-speed manual or CVT. Each transmission comes with its own all-wheel drive system. The six-speed utilizes a viscous-coupling locking center differential and a 50:50 front-to-rear torque split which can be adjusted when slippage is detected. The CVT uses an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch and planetary-gear center differential to vary the 45:55 front-to-rear torque distribution. Other mechanical changes for the WRX includes a stiffer chassis, upgraded stabilizer bars, an electric power steering system, and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT tires. The 2015 Subaru WRX arrives at dealers early next year. Source: Subaru William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2015 SUBARU WRX® MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW New platform offers a stiffer, more agile chassis for Subaru global performance icon New torque-vectoring system reduces understeer New 268-hp 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOXER engine New standard 6-speed manual transmission New Sport Lineartronic® CVT with manual modes LOS ANGELES, Nov. 20, 2013 – Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the 2015 WRX, a more powerful and better handling version of the brand's iconic high-performance model, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Powered by a new 268-horsepower 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOXER engine, the 2015 WRX debuts the model's first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic CVT with two manual modes. With its bold new wide-body sedan design and expanded performance envelope, the 2015 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car that has become a global automotive legend. For 2015, the Subaru WRX employs a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Torque vectoring allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new and stiffer chassis, larger brakes, performance-tuned suspension and a driver-focused interior remain integral to the WRX performance character. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies give the new WRX a more refined feel. A harman/kardon® premium audio system is offered for the first time in a WRX. The 2015 WRX design deftly blends an aggressive stance with a sophisticated sport sedan theme. The new WRX features a much bolder front design with a deep front spoiler and unique grille. The wide-body stance seen on the previous model is enhanced with new, standard 17-inch wheels. The hood, front fenders, rear doors and quarters, bumpers, headlights and taillight clusters are all unique to the 2015 WRX. Specially designed for the 2015 WRX, the rear doors and fenders continue the model's wide-body stance in a rakish new profile. The Subaru hexagonal grille is flanked by narrower headlights designed to evoke a raptor's stare. The functional hood scoop, which supplies the intercooler with fresh air, is now set more deeply into the hood to provide better forward visibility. Other new performance-oriented details include foglight surrounds with a carbon fiber-like pattern and vertical front fender vents that feature a bright garnish and a mesh screen. Higher-grade models use new LED low-beam headlights; halogen lights are used on other models. The side sill spoilers that help to visually lower the car also help protect the doors from rock chips. New standard 17-inch wheels feature a more aerodynamic design. At the rear, LED taillights, a diffuser, LED center high-mount stoplight (CHMS) and an available lip spoiler leave a distinctive signature. The new WRX body structure makes greater use of high-tensile strength steel than the previous model and features special stiffening elements at key locations. Combined with the new Electronic Power Steering system, specially tuned suspension and 235/45 R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT tires, the stiffer chassis yields steering response that was benchmarked against top-handling sports cars. The new WRX 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder BOXER engine uses a combination of direct fuel injection, high compression (10.6:1), Subaru Dual Active Valve Control System (D-AVCS), a twin-scroll turbocharger and an intercooler to achieve outstanding performance and high efficiency. The engine produces 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, accompanied by a broad torque curve that peaks at 258 lb.-ft. over a 2,000-5,200 rpm engine speed range. Based on the engine used in the new 2014 Forester 2.0 XT, the WRX version uses different cams and higher-rate valve springs, among other enhancements, to extend the performance envelope. The new 6-speed manual transmission provides a wider ratio spread than the previous 5-speed and incorporates several performance and durability improvements for this high-performance application, including carbon synchronizers on first and second gears. New Sport Lineartronic CVT The 2015 WRX introduces the option of a new automatic transmission engineered to enrich the performance-driving experience. The new Sport Lineartronic CVT combines the benefits of a continuously variable transmission (high fuel efficiency, ultra-smooth driving character) with the choice of stepped automatic shifting eight pre-selected ratios (when in Sport Sharp mode) and also 6-speed and 8-speed manual shifting modes using steering wheel paddle switches. Models with the Sport Lineartronic CVT also feature Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE), a powertrain performance management system that allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes – "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp" – using a switch on the flat-bottom steering wheel. Two Versions of Symmetrical AWD When equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the 2015 Subaru WRX uses the brand's Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A viscous coupling locking center differential nominally distributes torque 50:50 front to rear, and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) provides stability and traction control. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. The new Sport Lineartronic CVT is teamed exclusively with the Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A planetary gear-type center differential and an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch control torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Under most conditions, VTD splits the torque 45:55, with the rearward torque bias contributing to handling agility. The VTD system continually optimizes torque distribution in response to driving conditions and input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors. Premium Cabin A one-inch longer wheelbase than the previous WRX is a factor in providing a markedly roomier cabin in the new model. The windshield is more raked than before, with the A-pillar pulled forward nearly eight inches at the base for better forward visibility, aided by a lower dashboard and narrower A-pillars. Higher seating hip points, lower side sills and wider-opening doors make ingress/egress easier. Rear seat passengers gain nearly two inches of legroom, and trunk capacity is increased. A standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat extends the WRX sedan's versatility. The high-performance feel starts as soon as the driver enters the 2015 WRX and grips the new flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel, which offers tilt and telescoping adjustments. The wheel integrates switches for audio and Bluetooth® control. Rich-looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold all manner of personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players. The available power sunroof opens one inch farther than on the previous WRX. The dual gauge instrument layout features a 3.5-in. LCD central screen to display various functions, including oil level, remaining washer fluid and selected gear ratio. A new multi-information central display with 4.3-in. LCD screen provides a multitude of vehicle system functions, including a rear camera display, a boost gauge display, audio, Bluetooth and climate control settings, and a VDC screen showing traction control operation. The display can provide a vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder. Whiplash-reducing front sport seats, covered in a new high-grip fabric, feature separate tilt- and height-adjustable head restraints, a change from the seats with integrated head restraints used before. Leather is available, as is an 8-way power driver's seat. Amenities that reflect the 2015 WRX's refined sport sedan positioning include standard automatic climate control and available Keyless Access with Push-button Start, heated front seats, power driver's seat, and a 440-watt, 9-speaker harman/kardon premium audio system and navigation with Aha® smartphone integration. Subaru Safety Subaru's renowned safety package uses the brand's proven Ring Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure, which has been shown to excel in the new small overlap test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In the cabin, a driver's knee airbag is added to the roster of safety features that includes front side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage. -
William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 20, 2013 A few months after Subaru showed off the WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show, the company revealed the 2015 WRX today at the LA Auto Show. The WRX does have a somewhat family resemblance to the current Impreza, but Subaru designers have done a few things to make the WRX stand on its own. There are new front and rear fenders, new rear doors, hood scoop, bumpers, and headlights that are either halogen or LED (dependent on the trim level). A set of blacked-out seventeen-inch alloy wheels, finish off the WRX's exterior. Inside, the WRX features more space, better materials, and wide set of convenience and tech features. There is a flat-bottomed steering wheel and a set sport seats wrapped in cloth. Options for the new WRX include leather, heated front seats, power driver's seat, keyless access with push-button start, power sunroof, Harman Kardon premium audio system, and navigation system with Aha internet radio. Powering the WRX is a turbocharged 2.0L boxer-four engine with 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Compared to the outgoing turbocharged 2.5L boxer-four, the new 2.0L produces four more horsepower and fourteen more pound-feet. Available transmissions for the WRX include a six-speed manual or CVT. Each transmission comes with its own all-wheel drive system. The six-speed utilizes a viscous-coupling locking center differential and a 50:50 front-to-rear torque split which can be adjusted when slippage is detected. The CVT uses an electronically controlled hydraulic clutch and planetary-gear center differential to vary the 45:55 front-to-rear torque distribution. Other mechanical changes for the WRX includes a stiffer chassis, upgraded stabilizer bars, an electric power steering system, and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT tires. The 2015 Subaru WRX arrives at dealers early next year. Source: Subaru William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 2015 SUBARU WRX® MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT LOS ANGELES AUTO SHOW New platform offers a stiffer, more agile chassis for Subaru global performance icon New torque-vectoring system reduces understeer New 268-hp 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOXER engine New standard 6-speed manual transmission New Sport Lineartronic® CVT with manual modes LOS ANGELES, Nov. 20, 2013 – Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the 2015 WRX, a more powerful and better handling version of the brand's iconic high-performance model, at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Powered by a new 268-horsepower 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo BOXER engine, the 2015 WRX debuts the model's first six-speed manual transmission and a new, optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic CVT with two manual modes. With its bold new wide-body sedan design and expanded performance envelope, the 2015 WRX marks a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car that has become a global automotive legend. For 2015, the Subaru WRX employs a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Torque vectoring allows for improved cornering speeds and handling. The new and stiffer chassis, larger brakes, performance-tuned suspension and a driver-focused interior remain integral to the WRX performance character. The new powertrain also yields higher fuel efficiency than the previous model. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comfort and materials and a wide array of new user technologies give the new WRX a more refined feel. A harman/kardon® premium audio system is offered for the first time in a WRX. The 2015 WRX design deftly blends an aggressive stance with a sophisticated sport sedan theme. The new WRX features a much bolder front design with a deep front spoiler and unique grille. The wide-body stance seen on the previous model is enhanced with new, standard 17-inch wheels. The hood, front fenders, rear doors and quarters, bumpers, headlights and taillight clusters are all unique to the 2015 WRX. Specially designed for the 2015 WRX, the rear doors and fenders continue the model's wide-body stance in a rakish new profile. The Subaru hexagonal grille is flanked by narrower headlights designed to evoke a raptor's stare. The functional hood scoop, which supplies the intercooler with fresh air, is now set more deeply into the hood to provide better forward visibility. Other new performance-oriented details include foglight surrounds with a carbon fiber-like pattern and vertical front fender vents that feature a bright garnish and a mesh screen. Higher-grade models use new LED low-beam headlights; halogen lights are used on other models. The side sill spoilers that help to visually lower the car also help protect the doors from rock chips. New standard 17-inch wheels feature a more aerodynamic design. At the rear, LED taillights, a diffuser, LED center high-mount stoplight (CHMS) and an available lip spoiler leave a distinctive signature. The new WRX body structure makes greater use of high-tensile strength steel than the previous model and features special stiffening elements at key locations. Combined with the new Electronic Power Steering system, specially tuned suspension and 235/45 R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT tires, the stiffer chassis yields steering response that was benchmarked against top-handling sports cars. The new WRX 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder BOXER engine uses a combination of direct fuel injection, high compression (10.6:1), Subaru Dual Active Valve Control System (D-AVCS), a twin-scroll turbocharger and an intercooler to achieve outstanding performance and high efficiency. The engine produces 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, accompanied by a broad torque curve that peaks at 258 lb.-ft. over a 2,000-5,200 rpm engine speed range. Based on the engine used in the new 2014 Forester 2.0 XT, the WRX version uses different cams and higher-rate valve springs, among other enhancements, to extend the performance envelope. The new 6-speed manual transmission provides a wider ratio spread than the previous 5-speed and incorporates several performance and durability improvements for this high-performance application, including carbon synchronizers on first and second gears. New Sport Lineartronic CVT The 2015 WRX introduces the option of a new automatic transmission engineered to enrich the performance-driving experience. The new Sport Lineartronic CVT combines the benefits of a continuously variable transmission (high fuel efficiency, ultra-smooth driving character) with the choice of stepped automatic shifting eight pre-selected ratios (when in Sport Sharp mode) and also 6-speed and 8-speed manual shifting modes using steering wheel paddle switches. Models with the Sport Lineartronic CVT also feature Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE), a powertrain performance management system that allows the driver to tailor the vehicle's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes – "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp" – using a switch on the flat-bottom steering wheel. Two Versions of Symmetrical AWD When equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission, the 2015 Subaru WRX uses the brand's Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A viscous coupling locking center differential nominally distributes torque 50:50 front to rear, and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) provides stability and traction control. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. The new Sport Lineartronic CVT is teamed exclusively with the Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A planetary gear-type center differential and an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch control torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Under most conditions, VTD splits the torque 45:55, with the rearward torque bias contributing to handling agility. The VTD system continually optimizes torque distribution in response to driving conditions and input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors. Premium Cabin A one-inch longer wheelbase than the previous WRX is a factor in providing a markedly roomier cabin in the new model. The windshield is more raked than before, with the A-pillar pulled forward nearly eight inches at the base for better forward visibility, aided by a lower dashboard and narrower A-pillars. Higher seating hip points, lower side sills and wider-opening doors make ingress/egress easier. Rear seat passengers gain nearly two inches of legroom, and trunk capacity is increased. A standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat extends the WRX sedan's versatility. The high-performance feel starts as soon as the driver enters the 2015 WRX and grips the new flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel, which offers tilt and telescoping adjustments. The wheel integrates switches for audio and Bluetooth® control. Rich-looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold all manner of personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players. The available power sunroof opens one inch farther than on the previous WRX. The dual gauge instrument layout features a 3.5-in. LCD central screen to display various functions, including oil level, remaining washer fluid and selected gear ratio. A new multi-information central display with 4.3-in. LCD screen provides a multitude of vehicle system functions, including a rear camera display, a boost gauge display, audio, Bluetooth and climate control settings, and a VDC screen showing traction control operation. The display can provide a vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder. Whiplash-reducing front sport seats, covered in a new high-grip fabric, feature separate tilt- and height-adjustable head restraints, a change from the seats with integrated head restraints used before. Leather is available, as is an 8-way power driver's seat. Amenities that reflect the 2015 WRX's refined sport sedan positioning include standard automatic climate control and available Keyless Access with Push-button Start, heated front seats, power driver's seat, and a 440-watt, 9-speaker harman/kardon premium audio system and navigation with Aha® smartphone integration. Subaru Safety Subaru's renowned safety package uses the brand's proven Ring Shaped Frame Reinforcement body structure, which has been shown to excel in the new small overlap test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In the cabin, a driver's knee airbag is added to the roster of safety features that includes front side pelvis/torso airbags and side curtain airbags that offer front and rear outboard seat coverage. View full article
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 11, 2013 When Subaru showed off the WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show in April, it was very much well received not only by the press, but by everyone. It could be a good omen for Subaru as they have announced the production version of WRX will debut at the LA Auto Show next week. The company released a teaser shot which gives some idea of what the production model will look like. From what we can tell, the overall shape of the production model has been toned down a bit. But there are key items from the concept that remain such as a large grille opening and the hood scoop. We're expecting the WRX recipe to stay the same for this new model. That means a turbocharged four-cylinder, manual transmission, and all-wheel drive. We'll have more information on the WRX when it debuts next week. Source: Subaru William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article
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William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com November 11, 2013 When Subaru showed off the WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show in April, it was very much well received not only by the press, but by everyone. It could be a good omen for Subaru as they have announced the production version of WRX will debut at the LA Auto Show next week. The company released a teaser shot which gives some idea of what the production model will look like. From what we can tell, the overall shape of the production model has been toned down a bit. But there are key items from the concept that remain such as a large grille opening and the hood scoop. We're expecting the WRX recipe to stay the same for this new model. That means a turbocharged four-cylinder, manual transmission, and all-wheel drive. We'll have more information on the WRX when it debuts next week. Source: Subaru William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster.
