Flash Drive

2015 Subaru WRX

2015_SubaruWRX_036Model Tested: 2015 Subaru WRX Premium 

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged flat four-cylinder Boxer design 

Transmission: Sport Lineartronic automatic, all-wheel-drive 

EPA Ratings: 19/City—25/Highway—21/Combined 

Base Price: $29,695 

As Tested: $30,490 

Performance:

268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque

Ample power and torque for sporty performance

Great all-wheel-drive easily handles available power

Very responsive CVT automatic with paddle shifters

Suspension is firm but not overly harsh

Nimble; a blast to drive 

Comfort:

Tall adults fit fine in back seat

Firm, supportive front seats with deep side bolsters

Great sport steering wheel: thick, contoured, flat bottom

Excellent auxiliary controls on steering wheel

Generous front legroom

Large, metal dead pedal

Nice sound system

Solid door shut

Utility:

Wide trunk opening

Flat floor

Split rear seat folds flat, but higher than trunk floor

Big pass-through

Large locking glovebox 

WOW Factors:

Impressive handling and performance

Great fun on twisty roads

Safe and secure in snow and heavy rain

Sharp moderately aggressive styling, but not too much

Strong value proposition 

Whines:

Small sunroof

Could use more interior small item storage

Cheap, hollow sounding headliner

No rear seat center armrest

Boost gauge could be larger 

Bottom Line:

The all-new fourth-generation Subaru WRX sedan continues to dominate its unique market niche as a sensible family car with sporty undertones and impressive all-weather traction capabilities. The WRX’s fun-to-drive rating more than compensates for its slight fuel economy deficit. Fun meets sensible at $30,000.