2023 Subaru WRX

Those certainly are nifty gadgets, but the GT’s starting price of $44,615 pushes it into Civic Type R or Golf R territory; two cars that will run circles around the Subaru (in dry weather at least). Curiously, the WRX’s most performance-oriented trim is only available with a continuously variable automatic as well.

Agile handling. The WRX feels poised and offers responsive turning feedback. The horizontally opposed engine layout contributes to a low center of gravity, and the optional Brembo brakes provide excellent stopping power. Subaru has been making all-wheel drive performance cars for a long time, and it shows in the driving dynamics.

Subaru safety. Although we’re still awaiting ratings from the NHTSA, the IIHS has given the 2023 WRX the distinction of Top Safety Pick+. Although the manual models still benefit from excellent crash protection all around, you’ll need the CVT to take advantage of Subaru’s EyeSight safety and driver assistance suite, which includes automatic forward emergency braking, active lane control, and adaptive cruise control. An optional emergency steering system can automatically swerve to avoid crashes below 50 mph.

Functional interior. Although the WRX stopped sharing a name with the Impreza a decade ago, there’s still evidence of its influence in the cabin. Durable hard plastics are plentiful, as well as design cues from the rest of the Subaru fleet. However, the WRX adds nifty performance touches like metal pedals, extra seat bolstering, and a comfortable race-inspired flat-bottom steering wheel. Interior storage options are numerous too, which helps compensate for the unimpressive 12.5 cubic feet of space in the trunk.

Solid value (excluding GT trim). Subaru isn’t exactly known for packing standard features into their base models, but they don’t totally leave you out to dry with the WRX. The entry-level model comes standard with a 7.7” touchscreen, manual sport bucket seats, cloth upholstery, and automatic hi-beams, with a starting price of $31,625. We reckon the next step-up Premium is the way to go, which adds Subaru’s lovely 11.6” touchscreen, smartphone compatibility, Bluetooth, StarLink, LED fog lights, a rear spoiler, and 18” wheels for $34,125.

Strong power delivery. The WRX does a good job getting its 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque to the ground when fitted with either transmission option. There is enough turbo lag to be perceivable, but not enough to have a discernable impact on responsiveness. The manual box has a nice notch to it and encourages adventuring high into the torque curve.

Unimpressive fuel economy. The WRX is in an interesting spot when it comes to fuel economy. On the one hand, it has a small displacement engine, but it’s also turbocharged, all-wheel drive, and is geared for performance. It’s at its thriftiest when paired with the manual, which is rated at 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The CVT is only slightly less efficient, with a 19/25/21 rating.

Semi-polarizing styling. Most of the WRX is styled rather conservatively. It appears to be a relatively normal sporty sedan from the rear wheels up, but its rear end is far less agreeable. It’s like the Subaru engineers put all of the old WRX’s pent-up aggression into the silly rear diffuser. It’s as tasteful as it is functional.

Final thoughts. The 2023 Subaru WRX fulfills a relatively small automotive niche. If you want a budget-friendly (assuming you shy away from the GT trim) sport sedan with the grip and capability of all-wheel drive, then there’s no better choice. Granted, there are no other choices, but the WRX is a compelling entry.

However, if you don’t need all those boxes to be checked, there are better options. Don’t need all-wheel drive? Consider the Hyundai Elantra N. Feel compelled to spend $45k on a WRK for some reason? The Honda Civic Type R is a far more dynamic car.

That being said, the WRX does a lot of things right and can be a safe and sensible daily driver while putting a smile on your face.

Check prices for the 2023 Subaru WRX »