New 2015 WRX honors its heritage by being better than ever...
This spring, Subaru released the new 2015 WRX and WRX Sti Sedan. Anticipation leading up to the release was frantic, with never a concept photo or spy shot leaked. This was especially true in the closely knit rally and tuner communities. When the vehicles finally arrived they did not disappoint in any way. The looks have grown up, so has the power and the driving experience. With the new 2.0L Turbocharged engine putting out a more linear and larger toque curve than ever and the standard six speed manual (yes you read that right finally a six speed) transmission this WRX is every bit as quick as its predecessor and then some.
For the first time in a long time the WRX also has an available automatic (or CVT to be specific) transmission. This is considered a crime to most WRX owners, however we assure you it does not slow the car or dull the driving experience one bit, all it does is open the world of WRX ownership to a group of people who otherwise would not know the driving joy that is the 2015 WRX. Another new feature is the Active Torque Vectoring, which is a system that allows you to get all
that snappy, slick shifting quickness through corners without worry or hesitation, and prevents a small mistake on entry speed turning into a large insurance bill at exit, by using the ABS and VDC system to prevent understeer. Having had a chance to autocross the 2015 WRX I can tell you first hand it works exceptionally well.
Subaru also returned to the 4-door sedan body styling which the WRX was once known for, paying homage to its rally heritage all the while staying true to Subaru's safety first mentality. The styling truly must be seen to be truly appreciated and the interior is a very pleasant place to spend the better portion of the day. Subaru also put a lot of attention into the comfort and infotainment portion of the ownership experience, finally offering a good sound system and get this, a power seat!
With all the changes and adjustments made to the new WRX it is still what it has always been, a driver's car. Fun, practical and safe, equally comfortable on the weekend autocross days and taking the kids to school on Monday morning, the WRX can make the drive enjoyable, and now it does it for everyone. It is easier to drive fast than it has ever been, but also more responsible than it has ever been before with better fuel economy and better safety features than ever. All told, in my humble opinion this is the best iteration of the WRX to date and honors its heritage by being better than its predecessor in almost every way...