Few cars have generated so much enthusiasm in so little time as the Subaru WRX. It may have come from the mainstream bones of the Subaru Impreza, but with its turbocharged four-cylinder Boxer engine and all-wheel-drive powertrain, it didn’t take long for the sport compact car to earn its reputation as a high-performance, rally-bred machine.
Since its start for the 2002 model year, the WRX lineup has, at one time or another, been offered as a four-door sedan, five-door hatchback and five-door station wagon, and it was available in both standard WRX and more potent Subaru WRX STI forms and with various trim levels ranging from bare-bones to near-luxury. No matter what, the Subaru WRX has consistently delivered a driving experience that caters to enthusiasts who yearn for a practical sports car.
The latest version of the Subaru WRX debuted for the 2022 model year. The 2026 edition is offered in WRX Premium, WRX Limited, WRX GT, and WRX tS trim levels. Pricing starts at $38,920 (all prices include a mandatory $1,170 delivery charge) with a six-speed manual transmission or $40,270 with the optional automatic Subaru Performance Transmission with paddle shifters. All WRX models include Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard.
Subaru WRX Buying Guide: Cost, Reliability, and the Best Years to Buy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Subaru WRX Pros and Cons
- Subaru WRX Generations
- Subaru WRX Fifth Generation (2022-Present)
- Subaru WRX Fourth Generation (2015-2021)
- Subaru WRX Third Generation (2008-2014)
- Subaru WRX Second Generation (2002-2007)
- Subaru WRX First Generation (1992-2002)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Subaru WRX years are the best?
Early Subaru WRX models—the bugeye, blobeye, and hawkeye editions from 2002 through 2007—have fewer complaints on tracking sites like CarComplaints.com than more recent models, but because the WRX was originally an upgrade package that kept the Impreza name, it can be difficult to tell exactly which model an owner had problems with. That said, the number of well-cared-for Impreza WRX models from the second and third generation in the United States is dwindling.
You may face a limited number of choices if you’re shopping for a specific body style. Subaru offered a WRX wagon in the second generation (the first WRX offered in America) along with the standard sedan. For the third generation, the WRX was available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. Fourth- and fifth-generation WRX models were only offered in sedan form.
What are the worst Subaru WRX years?
Subaru WRX models from 2008, 2012 and 2015 have the highest number of complaints from owners. Besides those model years, there are some common trouble areas buyers should be aware of. Because of the WRX’s AWD drivetrain, hard launches can have highly detrimental results on the transmission and axles. That means any used WRX you’re considering, and especially older models, should be checked by a mechanic if you have any questions about how the car was treated.
Is a used Subaru WRX a good deal?
The car most directly comparable to early Subaru WRX and WRX STI models is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (sold in the United States from 2003 through 2015). The WRX is a better deal and easier to find on the used market than the Evolution, which is bordering on collectible. More recently, high-performance versions of the Honda Civic (most notably the Civic Type R), Toyota GR Corolla and Volkswagen Golf R are legitimate compact car competitors. And again, the WRX is a comparatively good deal versus those cars on the used market.
The Hyundai Elantra N that went on sale for the 2022 model year is a strong WRX competitor, similarly priced, and worth considering if you don’t need the Subaru’s all-wheel drive.
Subaru WRX Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fun to drive
- Great handling
- Standard all-wheel drive
Cons:
- Outdated technology
- Cramped back seat in older models
- Poor fuel economy
Subaru WRX Generations
Subaru WRX Fifth Generation (2022-Present)
The latest and greatest Subaru WRX debuted for the 2022 model year, available as a sedan only and based on the same Subaru Global Platform as the Impreza. As has always been the case, the new WRX came standard with a turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, but for 2022 that four-cylinder engine was a 2.4-liter unit producing 271 horsepower (at 5,600 rpm) and 258 lb-ft of torque (from 2,000-5,200 rpm, a broader torque curve than the outgoing engine). Active torque vectoring was also standard equipment for 2022, and transmission options included a standard six-speed manual or a new Subaru Performance Transmission with adaptive shift control for rev-matching downshifts under braking. There was no longer a Subaru WRX STI available.
While driving enthusiasts appreciate that Subaru still offers a six-speed manual transmission in the WRX, buyers who opt for the stick miss out on some nice features. Subaru’s SI-Drive Performance Management System, with three settings (Intelligent, Sport, and Sport #), is unique to the CVT transmission, which also features paddle shifters on the steering wheel and can shift through eight pre-selected ratios, while the WRX GT model that isn’t offered with the six-speed manual transmission features adaptive dampers with comfort, normal, and sport settings. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system that includes a lane departure prevention function, advanced adaptive cruise control with lane centering, automatic emergency steering and reverse automatic braking is also solely offered with the CVT.
Subaru WRX models with the six-speed manual transmission received EPA estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 miles per gallon in the city, 25 mpg on the highway and 21 mpg combined. WRX models with the CVT automatic did a little better at 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
The 2022 Subaru WRX in Base trim came standard with 17-inch wheels and LED headlights. Inside, the Base trim level featured a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control, and a pair of seven-inch touchscreens to handle infotainment duties. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, as was six-speaker audio system. The WRX Premium gained 18-inch wheels, heated side mirrors, and LED fog lights. The interior received heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, aluminum alloy pedals, keyless entry and keyless ignition, and an 11.6-inch touchscreen in place of the two small screens of the Base model, running Subaru’s STARLINK multimedia system. A Harman Kardon audio system was optional, as was a navigation system. The Subaru WRX Limited came standard with adaptive headlights, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, faux leather seats with microsuede inserts, a sunroof, and a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.
At the top of the WRX lineup was the WRX GT. In addition to adaptive dampers and the 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, the WRX GT boasted Recaro front seats in black Ultrasuede with contrasting red stitching and Drive Mode Select, which could be used to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings (the GT gained comfort, normal, sport, sport+, and individual settings), and more. Subaru said there were up to 430 different customization options with the GT trim level.
A new WRX TR trim level was added for the 2024 model year, bringing with it a Brembo braking system, 19-inch alloy wheels, Recaro sport seats, and retuned suspension settings for increased performance. The TR was replaced by the WRX tS in 2025, with STI-tuned suspension and steering upgrades. As with the WRX GT, the WRX tS had adaptive dampers, but it didn’t have a moonroof.
A new WRX Series.Yellow was announced for 2026, based on the WRX tS. Only 350 Series.Yellow models will be made, each painted Sunrise Yellow outside and featuring matching contrast stitching inside.
Subaru WRX Fourth Generation (2015-2021)
The Subaru WRX was redesigned for the 2015 model year, again based on the Impreza (the latest version of which had debuted a few years prior). The new platform brought more interior space, better fuel efficiency and a stiffer chassis. Unlike previous versions, the new model wasn’t called an Impreza WRX, carrying only the WRX designation. The third-generation WRX came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine. With specs that included 268 hp at 5,600 rpm, and 258 lb-ft from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm, performance was improved over previous WRX models. A six-speed manual transmission replaced the previous five-speed manual, and a CVT was available for those who wanted an automatic. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive remained standard and now featured AWD torque vectoring to improve handling.
The Subaru WRX STI returned for this generation, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that made 305 horsepower. The STI-tuned model got a Brembo braking system, stiffer suspension, sharper steering and an adjustable center differential.
The 2015 Subaru WRX was offered in Base, WRX Premium, and WRX Limited trim levels. The WRX STI offered a Launch Edition and an STI Limited trim level. The Base and Premium trim levels got cloth upholstery, while the Limited gained a leather interior and STI models got grippy leather and suede seats. All WRX models received cruise control, but advanced tech such as adaptive cruise control wasn’t available.
For the 2016 model year, all WRX models received an upgraded touchscreen that could integrate with a smartphone. A Series.HyperBlue—based on the WRX STI Limited and painted a retina-searing shade of blue with an Alcantara interior and blue stitching—was also introduced for 2016. Reverse automatic braking was added to Subaru’s EyeSight package in 2017. For the 2018 model year, the Subaru WRX got a slight exterior refresh, updated suspension tuning and optional Recaro front seats as part of a Performance Package. The 2018 WRX Limited gained Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and PIN Code Access. A Series.Gray edition was added for 2019, while push-button start became standard with the WRX STI, which also got a bump from 305 hp to 310 hp. A WRX STI Series.White was added for 2020, and push-button start became standard on the WRX Premium trim level.
Subaru WRX Third Generation (2008-2014)
The Subaru Impreza WRX was completely redesigned for the 2008 model year, gaining more room inside, a new dual-wishbone rear suspension setup, and a completely new exterior design. The Subaru WRX STI was initially solely offered in hatchback form, though the regular-grade WRX remained available as a sedan. The Subaru WRX offered 224 hp and 226 lb-ft of torque from its Boxer engine, while the WRX STI managed to coax 305 hp and 290 lb-ft out of its upgraded engine. A five-speed manual transmission or a four-speed automatic transmission were offered with the WRX, but the STI got a six-speed manual. As always, AWD was standard.
For 2009, the Subaru WRX gained a 41-hp boost courtesy of a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine for a total output of 265 hp and 244 lb-ft. The WRX STI kept its ratings 305 hp and 290 lb-ft. A new version of the Subaru Impreza, called the GT, got what was sort of the old WRX’s performance treatment and came with a four-speed automatic transmission. The WRX was fitted with a five-speed manual and the WRX STI got a six-speed manual. The 2010 model year introduced the Subaru WRX Limited trim level with a sunroof and leather upholstery. A sedan version of the WRX STI was brought back for 2011, and although the regular Impreza got a major redesign for 2012, the WRX and WRX STI stuck with the old chassis. Nothing much changed for the 2013 or 2014 model years.
Subaru WRX Second Generation (2002-2007)
An all-new Subaru Impreza showed up in 2002, and with it, the WRX arrived in America. With a 2.0-liter Boxer engine producing 227 hp and standard AWD, the 2002 Subaru WRX introduced a new rally-inspired class of sport compact cars to the United States. With its large round headlights, the first WRX in America was nicknamed the Bugeye. Both five-speed manual and four-speed automatic transmission options were available.
The 2004 Subaru WRX received fresh front-end styling that replaced the old Bugeye headlights. The Subaru WRX STI also launched in the United States for the 2004 model year with an upgraded 2.5-liter Boxer engine producing 300 horsepower to help the WRX lineup compete on equal footing with the rally-inspired 271-hp Mitsubishi Evolution. A six-speed manual transmission was the only offering in the WRX STI.
The Subaru WRX received more power in 2006, courtesy of a displacement bump from 2.0 liters to 2.5 liters. Horsepower was now an even 230 in the WRX, while the WRX STI stayed the same as before. A new Subaru WRX TR (Tuner Ready) edition was added for buyers who immediately planned to modify their cars. A WRX STI Limited trim level was added for 2007.
Subaru WRX First Generation (1992-2002)
When the Subaru Impreza was launched for the 1992 model year, the Japanese automaker included a rally-inspired WRX trim level that stood for “World Rally eXperimental”. The first WRX’s turbocharged engine spun out 237 horsepower and featured standard AWD. Subaru Tecnica International, the automaker’s racing division, was used to create a WRX STI edition with even greater performance. The first-generation Subaru WRX was built from 1992 through 2002 and was never officially imported to or sold in the United States.
