2023 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while wider than its predecessor, maintained a subtle front end with its signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille. The side profile was less busy, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to improve aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. The interior saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents.

In contrast, the 2023 Subaru WRX moved further away from its Impreza roots, featuring distinct front and rear styling and a wide-body look. The signature hood scoop remained functional, feeding air to the intercooler. The GT models came with Recaro Performance Design front seats and Ultrasuede upholstery. The interior was basic but durable, with good outward visibility and a few ergonomic flaws, such as limited space for modern smartphones.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT, branded as Subaru Performance Transmission. The manual transmission provided a satisfying driving experience, while the CVT offered faster shift times. The new WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, improved ride quality and reduced body roll.

The 2023 Subaru WRX retained the same 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with identical power figures. The GT models came with electronically controlled dampers and a drive mode select system. The CVT, standard on the GT trim, mimicked a conventional automatic transmission but lacked the excitement of a manual gearbox. The WRX's well-mannered character made it a competent daily driver, but it lacked the exuberance of its competitors.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added practicality. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, making it a viable commuter vehicle. Standard AWD added to its appeal as a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 range.

The 2023 Subaru WRX provided similar cargo space but fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Civic Si and Volkswagen Jetta GLI. The interior offered good outward visibility, but the lack of space for modern smartphones was a notable flaw. Roof-rack mounts were standard, adding to its practicality.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured the Starlink infotainment system with an 11.6-inch touchscreen on premium trims and higher. The system had physical controls for essential functions but fell short in its integration of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The base trim had a less elegant dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available on higher trims.

The 2023 Subaru WRX also used the Starlink system, with base models getting dual 7-inch touchscreens and higher trims featuring an 11.6-inch display. The larger screen was easy to read but lacked physical controls. The interface for SiriusXM satellite radio required multiple steps, and the system took a long time to load on startup.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered the EyeSight safety system only on CVT-equipped models, including features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car came with seven airbags.

The 2023 Subaru WRX continued with the EyeSight system for CVT models, adding features like lane-keep assist and forward collision warning. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking. The 2023 WRX received top scores in IIHS crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.