Subaru of America recently introduced the all-new 2022 WRX, the fifth generation of the rally-inspired sedan.
The WRX is powered by a new 271 hp 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine that is paired with either a 6-speed manual transmission or new automatic transmission. The WRX is also newly available with a high-definition tablet-style 11.6-inch SUBARU STARLINK Multimedia system and latest generation EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.
Also new for 2022, the WRX adds a new top-of-the-line GT trim with a new automatic transmission, the Subaru Performance Transmission, as standard. The new WRX GT offers a first-ever for WRX, new electronically controlled dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver’s preferences with comfort, normal and sport settings. The Drive Mode Select also offers additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings and more, with up to 430 different customization options.
For the first time, the WRX is built on the Subaru Global Platform, which offers increased safety, improved dynamics and reductions in noise, vibration and harshness (NVH), the company said. The 2022 WRX will be available at Subaru retailers in early 2022.
For 2022, the WRX lineup features a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine, delivering 271 horsepower at 5,600 rpm, a broader torque curve with 258 lb-ft of torque from 2,000-5,200 rpm. The increased displacement, along with a turbocharger equipped with electronically controlled wastegate and air bypass valves, improves responsiveness and acceleration, Subaru said.
Every WRX is equipped with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring. Coupled with the Subaru BOXER engine is either the 6-speed manual transmission, which has been fitted with optimized gear ratios, or the new Subaru Performance Transmission (automatic) which offers up to 30 percent faster upshifts (2nd to 3rd) and 50 percent faster downshifts (3rd to 2nd), according to the automaker. The automatic transmission incorporates adaptive shift control that can respond to perform rev-matching downshifts under braking, maintain the ideal ratio through corners, and respond faster on corner exit. Total ratio coverage range has been enlarged, and lower ‘fixed’ gear ratios have been revised to improve acceleration and response.
Engine and automatic transmission operation can be tailored to driver preferences with three different settings for the SI-Drive Performance Management System. For additional driver involvement, an 8-speed manual mode can be accessed using steering wheel paddle shifters. An available external transmission fluid cooler improves durability and capability under demanding conditions.
The adoption of the Subaru Global Platform delivers a substantial upgrade in ride and handling performance thanks to increased chassis stiffness and lower center of gravity height. The enhanced platform, now with full inner frame construction and increased use of structural adhesives, delivers 28 percent increase in overall torsional rigidity and a 75 percent increase in suspension mounting point rigidity, compared to previous iterations of the WRX. A longer suspension stroke increases vehicle stability and lateral grip on uneven surfaces. The rear stabilizer bar, now mounted directly to the body (vs. the subframe), operates more efficiently and contributes to a roll rate reduction when cornering, Subaru said.
Optimized front suspension geometry reduces mass offset of the front suspension, and a new dual-pinion electric power steering system separates the driver’s input shaft from the motor assist shaft.
The 2022 WRX is equipped with summer performance tires on 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels and four-wheel ventilated disc brakes.
The 2022 WRX has a wide-body design offering an aggressive stance and bold new look, the company said. At the front, Subaru’s hexagonal grille is partnered with compact LED headlights and a broad front hood scoop. The front fenders are now made of aluminum which reduces the overall vehicle weight by 5.0 lb. The rear deck lid has an integrated low-profile rear spoiler in matching body color.
Several functional aerodynamic improvements enhance the WRX’s performance and stability, as well as the exterior design, the company said. An air outlet at the trailing edge of the front wheel opening allows air to exit from the wheel well more freely, contributing to reduced lift on the front tires and improved driving stability. Another air outlet added at each side of rear bumper reduces body sway due to air trapped behind the bumper. Molded wheel arches and lower trim feature an aerodynamic texture that reduces air resistance. Beneath the front of the vehicle, the engine undercover also features this same aerodynamic texture, and augments it with a geometry that channels airflow to increase downforce at the front of the vehicle.
The WRX features a black interior with contrast red stitching and carbon fiber pattern accents throughout, as well as a flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated switches for audio, voice recognition and EyeSight control. Power windows with auto up/down on both driver and passenger sides; 60/40-split fold-down rear seat; power door locks and side mirrors are standard.
SUBARU STARLINK In-Vehicle Technology offers an integrated cockpit experience by allowing the driver to control entertainment and vehicle settings through a large touchscreen display. All STARLINK multimedia systems for the 2022 WRX offer a high-resolution touchscreen; on-screen controls for audio; HVAC and vehicle features; combination meter integration; smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming connectivity; AM/FM stereo; Rear Vision Camera.
Front and center in the cabin, and highlighting the driver-focused interior, is an all-new tablet-style 11.6-inch full HD center information display. The 11.6-inch STARLINK Multimedia Plus offers direct touch controls for multimedia, HVAC and vehicle settings.
The all-new 2022 Subaru WRX offers an available 11-Speaker Harman Kardon (HK) sound system and a HK 504-watt equivalent amplifier.
For 2022, the WRX adds a new top-of-the-line GT trim, featuring electronically controlled dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver’s preferences with comfort, normal and sport settings. New Drive Mode Select offers additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings, and more, with up to 430 different customization options.
Exclusive to GT, new Recaro seats offer the driver and front passenger increased support for performance driving. The Y-shaped design at the center of the seat backrest embodies a design concept in which the sides and shoulder blades of the occupant are securely supported to maintain proper driving posture. The seats are wrapped in black Ultrasuede with contrasting red stitching and the “Recaro” logo embossed on the seatbacks. The driver’s seat includes 8-way power adjustments.
The GT also features exclusive 18-in aluminum alloy wheels in matte gray finish paired with 245/40 R18 summer performance tires. Standard on GT, EyeSight Driver Assist Technology includes Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control and new Automatic Emergency Steering.
