The third-generation WRX landed in 2015, bringing in an evolutionary design update and a handful of other key changes. In 2020, the WRX STI received a mild refresh with a new front bumper, but the entire WRX lineup has otherwise remained mostly unchanged since 2015. The 2021 Subaru WRX will be a carryover model with only one small update to its standard features.
On the outside, the 2021 Subaru WRX will continue with the same basic looks it’s had since 2015, save for the revamped front bumper the STI variant received in 2020. This design is sporty yet straightforward with a relatively boxy four-door body, a hood scoop, a mild body kit, and other light touches to show it’s not your average sedan. The STI telegraphs its performance credentials with larger wheels, a sportier bumper, and a large rear wing. This design will remain the same in the 2021 WRX.
Inside, the 2021 Subaru WRX will remain the same. Like just like any other Scooby, this cabin will carry a simple design that’ll include square HVAC vents, an in-dash touchscreen, round HVAC control, limited contours on the dash, and other basic sedan looks. A few touches give will away its sporty nature, including its contrast stitching and flat-bottom steering wheel in standard models. The STI does a poor job hiding its intentions with Recaro seats, red accents, and “STI”-trimmed steering wheel. Inside is also where you’ll find the 2021 WRX’s single, and that’s standard keyless ignition on the Premium trim – this was once standard only on the WRX Limited.
Standard tech will remain the same as in the current model. The WRX will come standard with a 5.9-inch multifunction LCD, dual USB ports, Subaru Starlink Multimedia system with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, SiriusXM, and more. Jumping up to the Premium trim will add a 7-inch touchscreen and more.
The 2021 Subaru WRX will continue with the same 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer-four engine that’ll deliver 268 horsepower to all four wheels via a standard six-speed manual transmission or the optional Sport Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. The WRX STI will also remain the same under its hood with a standard 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer-four engine that’ll push 310 hp through a six-speed manual transmission. The WRX SIT’s power will also head to all four wheels, but it’ll use an upgraded all-wheel-drive system with a driver-controlled center differential and other tweaks.
All CVT-equipped 2021 WRX models will continue with standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. This will include standard automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, sway alerts, leading vehicle start alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. When equipped with the CVT and the optional LED headlights, the current WRX is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. We expect the 2021 WRX to retain this rating, barring any changes to the minimum requirements.
