What's New
Mechanically unchanged for 2021, the only notable revision to Subaru’s three-model WRX range is the inclusion of keyless entry and push-button start on WRX Premium models. Otherwise, it’s business as usual for this rally-bred sedan, with starting prices also carried over from the 2020 model year.
Choosing Your Subaru WRX
There are three Subaru WRX variants, starting with the standard WRX. It costs $28,420 (all prices include destination), while Premium and Limited cost $30,970 and $33,020 respectively. Adding a CVT automatic transmission to Premium and Limited increases the cost by $1,900, though every model in the range has continuous AWD as standard.
There are two WRX STI models available as part of a standalone range, with prices starting at $38,170.
Engine Choices
These rally-bred sedans have a two-liter turbocharged gas engine generating 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This is supplied to all four wheels through a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission, returning an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 combined in manual mode. For CVT models, those figures drop to 18/24/21 MPG.
Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined) |
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder | 268 hp | 258 lb-ft | 20/27/23 mpg (Manual), 18/24/21 mpg (Auto) |
Passenger and Cargo Capacity
Cargo capacity for the five-seater WRX stands at 12 cu ft with the rear seats in place.
Safety Features
Subaru forged their reputation on punishing rally stages, so it’s no surprise every WRX sticks to the road like glue. Alongside continuous AWD, all models have active torque vectoring and vehicle dynamics monitoring, controlling everything from lateral G to yaw. The front brakes are vented, for added stopping power.
Every WRX benefits from daytime running lights and seven airbags, with keyless entry boosting security. However, reverse automatic braking and Subaru's EyeSight adaptive cruise control are only available as options on WRX Limited models.
Connectivity
There are distinct differences in connectivity as you move up the WRX range, with standard models the only ones receiving a 6.5-inch multimedia system. However, this does include smartphone connectivity, HD radio and a CD player, plus dual USB ports and a 3.5mm AUX jack. Premium and above benefit from a larger seven-inch screen.
Even the most affordable WRX looks the part, with quad exhausts joining front and rear underspoilers and daytime running lights. The driver benefits from a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and shifter handle, plus aluminum-alloy pedal covers. There’s cruise and climate control, power windows and mirrors, plus USB and 12V sockets in the cabin.
The only option on WRX models is a good-value $2,100 multimedia package. It combines a larger seven-inch screen and navigation with a Harman Kardon speaker system, plus blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alerts.
Distinguished externally by larger 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels and fog lights, Premium models deliver a power tilt/slide glass moonroof, a windscreen wiper de-icer and heated front seats. Keyless access with push-button start and automatic lights are other niceties, but the real improvement centers on the larger seven-inch touchscreen system.
There are no packs available on Premium models.
Limited justifies its $2,050 price hike over Premium by adding leather seating with ten-way power adjustment for the driver. This is the first WRX to have LED fog lights or headlights that adapt to the steering wheel, while Subaru’s STARLINK safety system includes automatic collision notification with SOS emergency assistance and a variety of remote services functions.
The $2,100 multimedia package resurfaces on Limited models, as the only available option.
Compare WRX Trims Side-By-Side
Although each model has its own merits, WRX Premium represents a good balance of generous standard equipment and affordable pricing.