The four door sedan, available with a 6-speed manual or 8-speed Lineartronic transmission, bested a fleet of new go-fast models from Germany, England, France and Australia to win.
Autocar liked the overall package of the WRX. “The new and improved model proves even greater value, being cheaper and yet offering extras previously unavailable on the WRX, making it more of an all-rounder.
“It extracts more go from a smaller engine, and travels further on each litre of gas. And it has enhanced dynamics and, as always, feels custom tuned to our roads. It’s family friendly, safe, ultimately affordable and… has truly come of age.”
In its road test, Autocar praised the suspension’s suitability to our undulating coarse-chipped sealed roads, combined with the sharper steering and flatter cornering.
The WRX produces 197kW and 350Nm torque from its turbocharged ‘boxer’, direct injection 4-cylinder motor. The Lineartronic transmission has three modes, with the option of eight-step paddle shifters on the steering column.
Other features include torque vectoring to limit understeer and electronic driving aids. There are seven airbags and a high five-star crash test rating.
The WRX sits on 17 inch wheels, has a reverse camera and extensive trip computer. For an extra $5000 the Premium model comes with full leather upholstery, Harman Kardon sound system, satellite navigation, sunroof, auto sensing wipers, power driver’s seat, dusk sensing headlights, keyless entry and push button start.
Price: from $48,990.
