Cosmetic and mechanical changes in store for the last batch.
Following the release and positive reception of the new Subaru Impreza, the Japanese carmaker has revealed details on the latest batch of WRX and WRX STI cars for the 2018 model year. The updates promise to “add more white-hot thrills” for the pair of performance saloons. There’s even a spec.R range-topper now too, to help broaden its appeal.
Prices are now:
- WRX (M) – $39,240
- WRX (CVT Auto) – $42,240
- WRX Premium (M) – $45,640
- WRX Premium (CVT Auto) – $48,840
- WRX STI (M) – $50,890
- WRX STI (M) with rear spoiler – $51,190
- WRX STI Premium (M) – $55,640
- WRX STI Premium (M) with rear spoiler – $55,940
- WRX STI spec.R (M) – $57,690
There are no mechanical changes with the update, with the WRX soldiering on with the same 197kW/350Nm turbo four-pot boxer engine, while the STI retains its characterful 2.5-litre turbo-four boxer powerplant. Transmission options are identical too, with a six-speed manual and a ‘Lineartronic’ continuously-variable (CVT) automatic on offer for the WRX, and manual-only for the STI.
Subaru claims that these cars have been “heavily revised” aesthetically since they were first introduced in 2014, though we fail to see where the heavy revisions are. Minor tweaks include a sharper grille and reprofiled front bumper, along with new 18- and 19-inch alloy wheels. There are LED headlights with integrated indicators and LED daytime running lights too, along with LED foglights beneath.
Inside, the driver information display has been upgraded to a 5.9-inch unit (up from 4.3-inches previously), while the rest of the cabin has been upgraded to feel more upmarket and “cohesive.” There are gloss-black trim pieces thrown about the cabin in both the WRX and the STI, which helps make the whole thing feel more focused. All cars have had their suspension revised, which should work harmoniously with that more premium interior, while leaving the driving experience uncompromised.
Stopping power has been upgraded too, with Jurid performance brake pads (hiding behind red or yellow brake callipers on the WRX and STI respectively) promising 20% improved braking abilities. On the WRX, 18-inch alloys, electric lumbar support, and EyeSight advanced driver assistance feature too (with the latter exclusive to automatic-equipped vehicles). Entry-level WRX cars now get the same automatic wipers and headlights from the WRX Premium, while the Premium gains eight-way power-adjustable drivers seats with dual memory.
The WRX STI naturally packs on more kit, with the aforementioned yellow brake callipers hiding behind the wheels. Cross-drilled rotors also feature in the more potent model, along with red seatbelts inside. 19-inch alloys help put power to the ground, while the suspension has also been revised here to provide “optimised roll rigidity, suspension coils and shock absorbers, for both excellent control and stability as well as flat ride comfort.” Sure.
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