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2021 Subaru WRX

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Make
Subaru
Model
WRX
Year
2021
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Subaru WRX OEM Exterior Photo
OEM Interior Primary
OEM Exterior
OEM Exterior
OEM Interior
Photos Colors
Expert Rating
3.2 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

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Select a Trim
2021 Base 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sedan
most popular
Price:   -  From $27,495
2021 Premium 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $30,045
2021 Limited 4dr All-Wheel Drive Sedan Price:   -  From $32,095

Overview

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 TypeHorsepowerTorqueFuel Economy (City/Highway/Combined)
2.0L Turbo 4-Cylinder268 hp258 lb-ft20/27/23 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.

Subaru WRX

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.

Subaru WRX

Base – From $28,420

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.

Premium – From $30,970

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 – From $33,020

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

CarsDirect Tip

Although each model has its own merits, WRX Premium represents a good balance of generous standard equipment and affordable pricing.

author image
Automotive Editor
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Expert Review

Pros
  • Big-time power and performance
  • Grip, grip, and more grip
  • Practical family sedan
  • Great steering feel
Cons
  • Styling is nothing exciting
  • Old-looking interior
  • Uninspiring CVT
Expert Rating
3.2 (Good)

Our expert ratings are based on seven comprehensive criteria: quality, safety, comfort, performance, fuel economy, reliability history and value.

You can interpret our ratings in the following way:

: Outstanding vehicle. Only the most exceptional vehicles achieve this rating.

: Very Good vehicle. Very good and close to being the best vehicle in its class.

: Good vehicle. Decent, but not quite the best. Often affordable, but lacking key features found in vehicles of the same class.

: Below average vehicle. Not recommended, and lacking attributes a car buyer would come to expect for the price.

: Poor vehicle. Simply does not deserve to be on the road.

author image
Automotive Editor

The ultimate sleeper. The Subaru WRX has long been a favorite of import tuner because it’s not only fast, but it doesn’t look like much either. This earned it the sleeper badge and, other than its STI variant with its massive spoiler and more aggressive styling, the WRX has retained these looks to this day.

In a segment that includes over-the-top performance compacts like the Honda Civic Type R and Hyundai Veloster N, are these understated looks still a good thing? Find out below.

Borders on boring. Sleepers are great if that’s what you’re after: An unassuming car that comes to life at the call of your right foot. But for many performance compact car buyers, the 2021 Subaru WRX looks too much like an ordinary family car – save for the hood scoop.

But it’s not just the fact that it looks ordinary, as plenty of cars do. It’s that the 2021 WRX borders on bland – even for a regular family sedan. There is almost nothing to be excited by in its design, and its last redesign was way back in 2012.

Its style is an acquired taste. Buyers seeking a performance compact with a little more style may find what they need in the Honda Civic Type R or Hyundai Veloster N.

Subaru WRX

All that aside, it’s quick… real quick. Looks aside, there’s no denying the WRX has enjoyed dominance in the compact performance space. While It now has company at the top, the WRX is still impressive. With its 2.0-liter boxer-four that pumps out 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, all-wheel drive, and standard six-speed manual transmission, the WRX blows by 60 mph in about five seconds.

An available CVT features a trick all-wheel-drive setup that uses an electro-hydraulic center differential clutch to distribute power, but it doesn’t feel as sporty as the six-speed.

Buyers seeking an automatic transmission in a performance compact that doesn’t trade off performance feel will like the 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI’s seven-speed dual-clutch unit. There is about a 40-hp tradeoff, though, which leads to the GTI being about a second slower to 60 mph.

Opt for the STI variant, and the power jumps to 310 hp and 290 lb-ft for a roughly 4.5-second sprint to 60 mph. The STI is a manual-only rig, and it gets a special customizable center diff the drive can tune in themselves.

While the WRX STI is rally-ready right out of the box, it can be a brutal daily driver.

Roomy seating, but the cabin is dated. The 2021 Subaru WRX has well-bolstered Recaro seats that wrap around you nicely without feeling too tight. There’s also ample room in the rear seats for two adults – or three for a short distance.

Where the WRX struggles is its 12-cubic-foot trunk, which is barely enough for a week’s worth of groceries. Sure, the rear seats fold for more space, but that’s not going to add much to it.

This is where the long-discontinued WRX hatchback one shined. All the WRX’s key rivals are hatchbacks, and they offer far more cargo space with their seats upright. The Civic Type R rings in at 25.7 cubes; the Veloster N boasts 19.9 cubes; and even the tiny Golf GTI has 17.4 cubes. Drop these hatchback’s rear seats, and their capacities increase to 46.2 cubes, 44.5 cubes, and 53.7 cubes, respectively.

On top of its limited cargo room, the WRX’s cabin is nothing to get excited about. The beefy steering wheel and metal pedals are nice touches, but the rest looks like a down-market family sedan. And things get worse once you move into the $40,000 STI and realize it’s the same basic cabin.

Final thoughts. The WRX is a niche vehicle. Whoever buys a WRX likely knew they wanted a WRX and purposefully drove straight to a Subaru dealer to buy it. They passed every Honda, Hyundai, and VW on the way, not giving the Civic Type R, Veloster N, or GTI a thought. These shoppers have made up their minds.

The small percentage of performance compact buyers who don’t know what they want will have a tough decision. The WRX remains dominant in performance, but its styling may push them to the more aggressive Civic Type R or Veloster N.

Check prices for the 2021 Subaru WRX »

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Specs & Features

Highlights
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L H-4 / 268 HP / 258 ft.lbs.
Transmission
6-spd man w/OD
Drive Type
Full-time Symmetrical All-wheel Drive All Wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Highway/Combined
20 / 27 / 23 Mpg
Passenger Capacity
5
Bumper to Bumper Warranty
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Mechanical Specs
Engine - Cylinders/Horsepower/Torque
2.0L H-4 / 268 HP / 258 ft.lbs.
Drive Type
Full-time Symmetrical All-wheel Drive All Wheel
Fuel Economy - City/Hwy/Combined
20 / 27 / 23 Mpg
Brakes
4-wheel Disc
Front Suspension
Strut
Rear Suspension
Independent Double Wishbone
Spare Tire And Wheel
Compact Steel
Fuel Tank
15.9 Gal.
Recommended Fuel Type
Premium Unleaded
Average Cost To Fill Tank
$61
Dimensions & Capabilities
Maximum Cargo Volume
12.0 Cu.ft.
Passenger Volume
97 Cu.ft.
Exterior Length
180.9 "
Exterior Width
70.7 "
Exterior Height
58.1 "
Front Headroom
39.8 "
Rear Headroom
37.1 "
Front Legroom
43.3 "
Rear Legroom
35.4 "
Front Shoulder Room
55.6 "
Rear Shoulder Room
54.2 "
Front Hip Room
Rear Hip Room
Curb Weight
3,294 Lbs.
Wheel Base
104 "
Turning Radius
17.7 '
Exterior Features
Door Count
4 Doors
Wheels
17.0 " Gray Aluminum / 17.0 " Black Aluminum / 17.0 " Black Sti Aluminum
Paint
Clearcoat Monotone
Exterior Mirrors
Dual Power Remote Heated
Bumpers
Front Body-colored With Black Insert
Grille Moldings
Black
Rear Spoiler
Lip
Exhaust
Stainless Steel With Polished Tailpipe Finish
Interior Features
Seating
Passenger Capacity
5
Seat Trim
Cloth
Front Seat Type
Sport Bucket
Heated Front Seats
Front Driver Seat Direction Controls
6-way
Front Passenger Seat Direction Controls
4-way
Front Armrests
6-way
Rear Armrests
Center
Rear Seats
60-40 Bench
Radio & Infotainment
Radio
Siriusxm Am/fm/hd/satellite, Seek-scan
Speakers
6 / 6 Kicker / 7 Kicker
Radio Steering Wheel Controls
Apple Car Play
Android Auto
Bluetooth w/ Hands-Free Connectivity
Convenience Features
Steering Wheel Type
Telescopic Tilt Style
Climate Control
Automatic Air Conditioning
Cruise Control
With Steering Wheel Controls
Sun Roof
Rearview Mirror
Day-night / Auto-dimming Day-night
One Touch Open Window
Driver
Tinted Windows
Light
Vanity Mirrors
Dual Illuminated
Remote Keyless Entry
Keyfob (all Doors)
Power Outlets
2
Safety Features
Overall Crash Safety Rating
Overall Front Crash Safety Rating
Overall Side Crash Safety Rating
Rollover Crash Safety Rating
Front Impact Airbags
Driver And Passenger
Driver Side Impact Airbags
Seat Mounted
Knee Airbag
Driver
Passenger Side Impact Airbag
Seat Mounted
Rear Side Airbag
Seatbelt Pretensioners
Front
Anti-Lock Brakes
4-wheel Anti-lock Brakes (abs)
Forward Collision Warning
Blind Spot Sensor
Lane Departure Warning
Autonomous Cruise Control
Pedestrian Detection
Driver Attention Alert
Daytime Running Lights
Auto High Beams
Adaptive Headlights
Parking Sensors
Security Systems
Security System
Panic Alarm
Ignition Disable
Immobilizer
Warranty
Bumper To Bumper Months Miles
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Major Components Months
60 Months / 60,000 Miles
Included Maintenance Months
Roadside Assistance Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles
Corrosion Perforation
60 Months / Unlimited Miles
Accessories Months
36 Months / 36,000 Miles

Used 2021 Subaru WRX for Sale

4 vehicles found within 50 miles of your area
Subaru
Base
Color: Blue
Price

$25,998

Mileage

29,738 mi

Map location icon

Auto Republic Fullerton (26 mi)

Phone: (714) 215-9142
Subaru
Color: Wr Blue Pearl
Price

$27,999

Mileage

32,321 mi

Map location icon

Car Castle (28 mi)

Phone: (714) 992-4000
Subaru
STI
Color: Crystal Black Silica
Price

$35,300

Mileage

21,416 mi

Map location icon

LAX Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (4 mi)

Phone: (424) 261-0578
Subaru
STI
Color: Crystal White Pearl
Price

$36,899

Mileage

14,218 mi

Map location icon

California Motors Direct - Santa Ana (35 mi)

Phone: (714) 515-6100
See All Used Car Listings

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