The WRX provides a significant performance bump over the Impreza. It's also decently comfortable for daily driving. But there's not much else that will really get you excited about a WRX purchase.
Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at Edmunds and was the first editor-in-chief of Edmunds.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.
Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Brent is a senior manager of written content at Edmunds and previously contributed to publications such as Super Street and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road. His personal car is a 2019 BMW M2 Competition, which he bought for its ideal combination of performance, style and practicality.
Pros
Standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and performance
Available 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen is easy to read
Brisk acceleration
Stable and engaging handling
Cons
Subpar fuel economy
Noticeable road and wind noise
Sedan-only body style
What's new
New WRX TR model debuts with upgraded suspension, brakes and more
Driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, now available with manual transmission
Part of the fifth WRX generation introduced for 2022
Overview
For decades, the WRX has been Subaru's performance-tuned version of its Impreza sedan and hatchback. The 2024 WRX is part of the car's fifth generation, which debuted for 2022. The WRX has traditionally appealed to sport-compact fans seeking turbocharged boxer engine power, all-wheel drive, and rally-inspired styling by way of fat fenders and towering spoilers. The latest car mostly delivers. All-wheel drive is indeed standard and helps to make the most of the car's 271 horsepower. But some people might take issue with the WRX's latest look, which relies heavily on black plastic body cladding. And unlike most of the competition, you can't get the WRX as a hatchback.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Subaru WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.45 per gallon for premium unleaded in Ohio.
For 2024, Subaru has expanded the WRX lineup with the new TR. It comes with a few changes meant to enhance the car's handling, braking and steering performance. Starting things off are new Brembo brakes with six-piston front and two-piston rear calipers with larger pads and rotors than what's on the regular WRX. The TR also gets exclusive 19-inch wheels fitted with grippy Bridgestone S007 summer performance tires. Subaru also retuned the suspension's springs and dampers for more precise handling and revised the steering for improved response and feel. Inside, the WRX TR comes standard with Recaro sport seats.
Competitors to consider
The TR model looks promising, though we're a bit disappointed it doesn't make any more power than the standard WRX. As part of your shopping search, you'll definitely want to check out the Toyota GR Corolla. It is more expensive but offers more of the classic rally car experience that the WRX lacks. Other enticing options include the Hyundai Elantra N, Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo (sedan or hatch) and Volkswagen Golf GTI. Check out our testing team's full Expert Rating of the WRX to learn more.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The WRX provides a significant performance bump over the Impreza. It's also decently comfortable for daily driving. But there's not much else that will really get you excited about a WRX purchase.
How does the WRX drive? The WRX isn't as quick as some of its rivals, but it's still fun to drive. We tested a manual-equipped WRX, and at Edmunds' test track it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. That's appropriately quick, though achieving that time requires an abusive launch technique. Our test driver noted: "I'll be honest and say I thought I broke this car trying to launch it. The driveline shock when you drop the clutch is so harsh and severe that I thought there might be a pile of metal on the ground. Even with the new engine, there's a significant amount of turbo lag below about 3,000 rpm. That means getting the best launch basically means dropping the clutch from about 5,000 rpm." We have yet to test the automatic-equipped WRX.
The WRX is at its best when leaping from turn to turn on a curvy road. Its strong midrange power, all-wheel-drive traction, composed suspension and responsive steering make for an excellent, enthusiastic driving experience.
Unfortunately, the brakes in the WRX don't deliver the response or stopping confidence we'd expect. Its pedal feels too soft for something this sporty. At our test track, however, the WRX was able to stop from 60 mph in just 110 feet — a respectable distance for the segment.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the WRX? The ride quality and the seating comfort in the WRX are both right at the top of their class. It's worth noting that several hours of driving in the WRX gave us no significant fatigue or pain. The seats hold you in place well during corners and provide proper support all the time.
The climate controls that are located inside the big center touchscreen are a bit difficult to learn and can be distracting at first, but most owners will get the hang of them relatively quickly. On the downside, the WRX is pretty noisy, with a little rumble from the engine at highway speeds and some pronounced wind noise over the doors and mirrors at speed.
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How’s the interior? Up front, the WRX feels roomy for its class, and finding an excellent driving position should be easy. There's lots of range from the adjustable steering column and the driver's seat. The cabin controls are all within reach, and with the exception of the center screen, which looks daunting to use, everything is pretty easy to navigate. The back seat is a bit more cramped, especially with the transmission tunnel running through the center of the floor, so don't put your long-legged friends in the center of the back seat.
Getting in and out of the WRX is easy thanks to wide-opening doors, and once you're inside, there's a good view forward from large windows. The high trunk line makes rear visibility more of a challenge compared to others in the class, but that's no major penalty.
Technology
7.5/10
How’s the tech? The available 11.6-inch center screen is a highlight of the interior experience. It has crisp graphics and quick responses to inputs. Some users may dislike the portrait-style layout, but getting used to its functions is relatively easy. Seeing navigation destinations and directions is easy too thanks to the clear screen and high-contrast display. The available 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is excellent as well, with high-quality audio that's properly powered for high-volume listening.
Smartphone connections occur quickly, and voice controls are easy to use thanks to a number of on-screen prompts and the system understanding most natural language. Our test vehicle was missing some key optional driver aids including adaptive cruise control and forward collision mitigation, but the blind-spot warning system and the lane keeping assistance on the vehicle worked well without false alarms or overly sensitive alerts.
Storage
7.0/10
How’s the storage? As a higher-performing compact sedan, the WRX goes up against a lot of competitors that are available either as sedans and hatchbacks, or hatchbacks exclusively. The WRX only offers 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space, which is less than what the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Elantra N offer. Thankfully, the rear seats do fold down to accommodate longer items.
Small-item storage is adequate enough for smartphones and small water bottles. Installing child seats into the back should be relatively easy thanks to wide-opening doors, though you have less rear legroom to fit a larger seat.
Fuel Economy
5.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates a manual-equipped WRX will get 22 mpg in combined driving, which is one of the worst in the class. Driving the WRX on the Edmunds' test loop for 115 miles, the WRX averaged 24 miles per gallon. That's right where we'd expect it to be according to its fuel economy rating, but other cars such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Hyundai Elantra N are more frugal.
Value
6.5/10
Is the WRX a good value? Build quality is excellent. There are lots of soft-touch surfaces, and the WRX feels classy from the moment you step inside. Unfortunately, the WRX has much worse fuel economy than competitors and worse mpg than already bad previous-generation models. It's also one of the more expensive higher-performing compact sedans on the market.
For the class, the WRX's warranty is average: three years/36,000 miles of basic coverage, five years/60,000 miles of powertrain coverage, and corrosion coverage for five years/unlimited miles. Roadside assistance lasts the life of the basic warranty.
Wildcard
8.0/10
We're bummed Subaru doesn't offer a higher-performing WRX STI like it used to, or even a hatchback body style. The plastic panels that line the bodywork are a polarizing bit of styling too. But the WRX is fun to drive, which is ultimately the most important aspect.
Which WRX does Edmunds recommend?
While the new TR trim offers some welcome upgrades, we still recommend the WRX Premium trim. This version of the car adds features that make driving in colder climates easier and more comfortable and installs a large-screen infotainment system with extra tech. The Premium trim also unlocks access to appealing upgrades such as a premium sound system and a sunroof.
Subaru WRX models
The 2024 Subaru WRX sedan comes in five trim levels: base, Premium, Limited, TR and GT. Each has a turbocharged 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine (271 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque). All-wheel drive is standard, as is a six-speed manual on all but the GT trim. A continuously variable automatic transmission is optional on the Premium and Limited and standard on the GT. (Subaru calls the CVT a Subaru Performance Transmission.) Highlights from each trim level are as follows:
Base
In standard specification, the WRX includes:
17-inch wheels
Summer performance tires
LED headlights
Remote keyless entry
Single-zone automatic climate control
Cloth sport-bolstered seats
Height-adjustable driver's seat
60/40-split folding rear seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Dual 7-inch center touchscreens
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Six-speaker sound system
Every WRX also comes with:
Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Evasive steering assistance (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the WRX and the car in front)
Premium
The WRX Premium adds several desirable features, including:
18-inch wheels
LED foglights
Heated side mirrors
Windshield wiper de-icer system
Keyless entry and ignition
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats
11.6-inch center touchscreen (replaces the dual 7-inch displays)
Starlink connected services
Dual rear USB ports
Options for the Premium include:
Harman Kardon premium sound system
Sunroof
Limited
This version of the WRX adds comfort and tech in the form of:
Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Body-color exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals
Sunroof
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Synthetic leather seating with microsuede inserts
Navigation system
Harman Kardon premium sound system
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Add the CVT to the Limited, and the car also has:
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
TR
The TR trim sits just above the WRX Limited in the lineup. It makes do without the Limited's sunroof but adds a few performance parts in its place. That includes:
19-inch wheels with high-performance tires
Brembo brakes
Revised suspension tuning for more precise handling
Recaro front sport seats
GT
With the GT trim, the CVT and all driver assist features listed above are standard equipment, plus:
Adaptive suspension dampers (adjust to enhance both ride comfort and handling)
2022 Subaru WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
This is my fifth Subaru since 2010, and my second WRX. My first was a 2014 hatchback (wagon), so much of my review on the 2022 model is in comparison to my past experiences with my 2014, and lessor to the common attributes of Subaru manufacture in general.
First off, you'll see a large discrepancy between "shop" reviews and user reviews. Shop reviews tend to follow each other in … lockstep, with an emphasis on creating "views" more than focusing on an objective honest review from a purchaser standpoint.
My first advice to you if you are interested in the WRX, is to quit reading/watching shop reviews online and go test drive one immediately. It's highly likely (I won't speak for you) that the experience you have in person will be much different than any review you read online. In fact, I would say it's likely much more positive than the cookie cutter/lock step shop reviews out there.
Secondly, come back here and write your own review and mention the differences of your experiences vs. the shop reviews. Consumers want consumer reviews, be detailed and take your time- we all benefit.
Here is my review:
Refined. That was the word that summed up my first test drive. Every detail of the WRX seemed better than my 2014 WRX, and there were even refinements over my 2018 Crosstrek, and 2021 Ascent that I appreciated (mainly, but not limited to, the refinement of the firmware in the interface and electronics). I was impressed.
My second test drive was extended, over a half hour long, and I could dig deeper into the way the drive train, handling, and engine performed. Overall I left more impressed than my first test drive and that experience caused me to custom order my own.
My 2022 WRX was delivered almost a month early than the expected delivery date. I've had it for 3 days and I've driven it in every condition that I will experience. Freeway, mountains, wet weather (monsoon storm in the desert), and in town. I am still in the break in period so I'm paying attention not to go over the 4K rpm mark, and I have not used cruise control (both recommendations from the dealer). Since I took ownership, my impression has only improved further. You get a lot for your money here, even with the base model- but I do recommend getting the short throw shifter, its pretty much an affordable must.
There's too much to list in terms of positive experiences, but all I can keep thinking is how refined it is in every way. From the aluminum hood with gas struts, to the awesome instrument cluster, the excellent vision out of the windows, the thrill of the handling (which is amazingly good), to the spirited acceleration, it's all fantastic. Unless you want obnoxiously loud exhaust, you'll find the sound of this WRX is near perfection. Just enough growl and beautiful harmony to keep a smile on your face, without waking up the neighbors and getting shoes thrown at your car.
I was able to easily get over 30mpg on the highway (as high as 35mpg, and as low as 28mpg) and even with all the back roads driving and in town start and stops, I had no issues getting 25mpg or more. Those numbers will likely change after break in when I can use the full rev range and/or I'm able to use cruise control (I expect a wider range of high and low MPG).
Many positive details will reveal themselves the more time you spend driving a 2022 WRX. For instance, the dual screen set up- I prefer this to the 11" screen. It's a more organized way to divide up the functions for both the car (bottom) and infotainment (top). There are also a few more analog controls which I prefer to most touch screen interfaces. I find more reliance on touch screens tend to demand more attention away from the road. Fancy, but overkill for my needs. The dual screen set up is a good overall compromise between modern tech and analog.
Now as far as the drive train, whoa. I can tell you the sound and smoothness of the engine are far superior to my 2014 WRX. The power comes in just over 2K, so much sooner than the older (and more quirky/less reliable 2.5), and wow is it just a treat feeling it push you back in your seat.
The gear box really shines on mountain roads to whit I feel it is best suited. Going up hill you'll practically live in 3rd gear which gives you plenty of punch as low as 25mph, and yet can be revved up comfortably to well over 65mph. Its nearly perfect for the twists and turns and that mixed with the incredible grip on hard turns, gives you complete command of the road. It's an awesome experience that I can't properly describe with text.
The gear box feels a bit low for around the town driving, 1st gear especially, but that gear is awesome in bumper to bumper traffic, to whit I believe is its main purpose. At first I wasn't sure I'd like the gear ratios but after driving it in so many different circumstances, I see the brilliance of the engineering and decisions to design it as such.
Again, driving it will enlighten you. Reviews do not do this car justice.
It's roomier, more refined and well thought out, faster, handles better, and has better gas mileage than my old 2014. On top of that, is that its engine can stand for some serious upgrading without fear of it blowing up (like the old 2.5's did). When the aftermarket gets rolling on WRX mods, I think this car will be the most popular WRX yet, proving all the naysayers wrong.
If I have the option to update this review in the future I will, for now, I've pretty much covered the basics. There are many little details that I wanted to include in this review, but I'd rather leave some room for surprise and to your own experience to find.
If you live in So Cal give Irvine Subaru a try, I can't recommend them enough. Family owned and awesome down to earth staff, they will take care of you like a friend, no hassle, top rate service.
Update: Just reread my review, I agree with everything that I've said previously still. It's because my weekend driver. I hope I have it the rest of my life. Cobb tuning now has a tuning kit available you can purchase if you want more horsepower out of your WRX. Check it out online you can bring the torque up to 400 foot pounds and the horsepower over 300 (barely). I may look into that in the future.
Still 100% satisfied with my purchase I have no real complaints about my new WRX I just wish Subaru would make a hatchback version. Subaru do not get rid of the gas powered WRX. Subaru do not get rid of the manual transmission. If you do both you will kill the spirit of driving.
"A jack of all trades is a master of non, but often times better than a master of one" This is true for the 2022 WRX. The engine produces pretty good horsepower, excellent handling, comfortable seats, actual usable back seats for adults and good space in the trunk, enough technology, good price and with good resale value. I dig the looks and functionality of the plastic cladding around … the car (not exaggerating). My premium manual trim cost $33k which I feel is a very good deal for what the car comes with. My brother had a 2017 WRX Premium and upgraded to a 2021 STI and both I've test drove, but the tuning of the 2022 and in all areas (interior, engine -power delivery, handling, tech) is just better. Are there any other car brand/model that'll offer what the WRX can (270hp, AWD) starting at $30k? Probably not. No, it's not as fast as the Elantra N, does not have the gas efficiency of a Civic SI, or excellent interior like the Mazda 3, but if you are looking for sporty, practical, and fun sedan, the 2022 WRX is a wonderful bang for the buck car!
UPDATE - I'm not wild about the touchscreen infotainment system. During daylight hours it catches glare and is difficult to see even with sunglasses. It's not intuitive, and there's no knobs or switches to control common heat/ac functions. I have to take my eyes off the road to make changes - not cool.
I traded in my 2015 silver WRX premium cvt (88,000 miles) for a 2022 black WRX … premium 6 spd, and I'm ecstatic! I didn't plan on getting black, but it looked way better to me in person than the silver or blue - the black cladding on the fenders is more noticeable on the non-black cars. My neighbors love it, and they're not even sure what it is. The new platform is an improvement in every respect, and the ride is more refined, while still firm and sporty. The 6 spd is a joy to shift, and a huge improvement over my last stick (2005 STI). This car is marginally bigger than my 2015, but seems larger inside because the space is better utilized. The front seats are more comfortable too. From 1900 rpm to redline, you get maximum linear torque. I had to pay sticker, but until recently that was just a dream. I'm not sure why people are bashing this car in online reviews. There are MANY good reasons why the 2022 WRX only stays on a dealer's lot for an average of 8 days, an industry low.
I bought the premium model with the sunroof and updated radio package. Added the short shifter too. This car is AMAZING. Powerful, shifts smoothly, comfortable interior. Bought it in the mag grey. Hides the wheel cladding. You will have zero regrets buying this car.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2024 Subaru WRX, so we've included reviews for other years of the WRX since its last redesign.
The Hyundai Elantra N is a remarkably capable sport compact sedan. It packs similar power as the WRX, and its handling is a bit sharper. Inside you'll find more sophisticated technology than the WRX offers, but the Elantra N lacks a key ingredient that makes the Subaru more of a year-round machine: all-wheel drive.
If you want to pair speed with stealthiness, the Mazda 3 2.5 Turbo sedan is perfect. It looks, feels and drives more like an entry-level luxury car, but it's no less capable when the road ahead turns twisty. It even comes with all-wheel drive, just like the WRX. Edmunds conducted a long-term road test of the less powerful version of the Mazda 3 sedan, and some of those observations are pertinent to the 2.5 Turbo.
Subaru fans have wanted the five-door hatch version of their favorite street-legal rally car to return for more than a decade, but the WRX remains sedan-only. Spotting a clear opportunity, Toyota now builds the car that Subaru won't: the GR Corolla hatchback. With a 300-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine, a six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive and full performance-tuned massage, the GR Corolla is aimed directly at disaffected Subie fans.
The name "WRX" will bring a smile to driving enthusiasts in the know, both for its ties to Subaru's motorsports history and its unique approach to on-road performance. This latest fifth-generation Subaru WRX, introduced in 2022, builds upon that legacy with an enthusiastic spirit and excellent all-wheel-drive system designed for additional traction in slippery conditions. Some fans have been left feeling a little flat due to its polarizing style and only incremental horsepower gains over previous models, though. Subaru also tied many of the car's most desirable features to the automatic transmission, while traditionally the WRX is best experienced with a manual shifter.
So what to do? After all, the WRX faces stiff competition from the Volkswagen GTI and Hyundai Elantra N. Those cars are excellent to drive, too, and feature snazzy interiors compared with the WRX's more basic look and feel. For many buyers, the GTI or Elantra N may be the better sport sedan. We still think the WRX appeals to a certain type of enthusiast, though — those who seek the rewards offered by an all-wheel-drive system, high-revving engine and optional adaptive suspension. The 2024 WRX should carry over mostly unchanged given its recent redesign, but stay tuned to see whether Subaru has any surprises in store.
Edmunds says
The Subaru WRX is fun to drive but also faces off against an exciting batch of competitors that are more comfortable and refined.
FAQ
Is the Subaru WRX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 WRX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2024 WRX gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 27 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the WRX has 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Subaru WRX. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Subaru WRX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Subaru WRX:
New WRX TR model debuts with upgraded suspension, brakes and more
Driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, now available with manual transmission
Part of the fifth WRX generation introduced for 2022
To determine whether the Subaru WRX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the WRX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the WRX's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Subaru WRX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Subaru WRX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 WRX and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2024 WRX gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 27 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 WRX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Subaru WRX?
The least-expensive 2024 Subaru WRX is the 2024 Subaru WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $32,735.
Other versions include:
4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $32,735
Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $34,635
Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $35,985
Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $39,015
Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $40,565
TR 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $41,655
GT 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $44,215
If you're interested in the Subaru WRX, the next question is, which WRX model is right for you? WRX variants include 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M), Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M), Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), and Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M). For a full list of WRX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more