It doesn't really matter in which language you choose to say it, fast is fast. And that's exactly what you get with the Subaru WRX. It's impossible to go slowly in the WRX - from the minute you fire up the engine, this rally-bred sports sedan demands to be driven with enthusiasm, delivering incredible grip and addictive performance in true Subaru style.
Design and Exterior
The latest WRX represents a mature evolution of Subaru's rally heritage. Gone are the boy-racer antics of previous generations, replaced by a more sophisticated approach that retains the car's purposeful stance without resorting to cartoon-like aerodynamics.
The new 2.4-litre model sports rallycross-inspired flared wheel arches finished in black, combined with a large rear diffuser that hints at the car's performance potential. The overall effect is surprisingly restrained for a car with such serious performance credentials - making it something of a stealth weapon on South African roads.
Only hardcore petrolheads will recognize what you're driving, which has its benefits. The WRX has lost the gold wheels and massive rear wing of its STI sibling, replaced by black alloys and a more subtle boot spoiler. This understated appearance makes the WRX the perfect choice for those who want performance without the boy-racer image.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside, and you'll find an interior that feels more upmarket than previous WRX generations. The standard leather sport seats replace the hardcore Recaro buckets of the STI, providing a good balance between support and daily comfort. The cabin feels solidly built, though some might find the dashboard design a bit dated by current standards.
The new 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen dominates the dashboard with lightning-fast response and crystal-clear graphics. You can control contacts, messaging, navigation, driving modes, and dual-zone air conditioning with voice commands or finger touches. It's a significant upgrade from the basic systems of previous generations.
Essential features include hands-free Bluetooth with steering wheel controls, USB connectivity, cruise control, and hill start assistance. A full complement of airbags and xenon headlights come standard, along with a sunroof for those perfect Cape Town days. The handy turbo boost gauge at the top of the instrument cluster adds to the car's sporting character.
Engine and Performance
Under the bonnet sits Subaru's new 2.4-litre horizontally opposed "Boxer" engine, replacing the long-serving 2.0-litre unit. The larger displacement engine produces 202kW and 350Nm of torque, with maximum torque arriving earlier and lasting longer (2,000 to 5,200 rpm) for improved flexibility.
While peak outputs haven't changed dramatically, the motor is significantly more flexible, making performance more accessible across the rev range. The new engine delivers the goods when you need them - hit 100km/h in under 6 seconds and embarrass most hot hatches in the process.
The engine comes alive with a magnificent soundtrack. Under gentle acceleration, there's a pleasant burble, but as revs rise, you hear the turbocharger spinning furiously. Lift off around 3,500rpm and you'll experience the addictive blast of escaping turbo air, followed by deep exhaust pops as unburnt fuel detonates. It's automotive theater at its finest.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 6-speed manual transmission is a joy to use - smooth, precise, and bolt-action accurate. Getting a perfect launch requires practice and skill, but it's incredibly satisfying when you nail it. Set stability control to Sport, let revs climb to 4,500rpm, dump the clutch, and feel the WRX catapult forward with 1.25g of acceleration.
The available 8-speed Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT) is up to 50% faster than before, though purists will prefer the involvement of the manual. The choice between transmissions largely depends on whether you prioritize engagement or convenience.
Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures that the WRX grips and goes from standstill. While most cars experience performance-killing wheelspin when driven hard, the WRX simply sticks and accelerates. Even in heavy rain on South African roads, this car just grips the tarmac with confidence-inspiring tenacity.
Ride and Handling
The WRX excels when corners appear on your driving route. The levels of grip are extraordinary, providing a real confidence boost for drivers new to high-performance vehicles. You can carve up mountain passes without effort, and along South Africa's incredible coastal roads, the WRX feels completely at home.
The steering is sharp and communicative, while the suspension strikes a good balance between sportiness and daily usability. It's firm enough to deliver serious handling performance but civilized enough for commuting duties. Body control is excellent, with minimal roll through corners despite the car's relatively high center of gravity.
During our testing, the manual-equipped WRX felt energetic and engaging, though ultimate performance numbers (0-100km/h in 6.49 seconds) are respectable rather than earth-shattering by modern standards. However, the driving experience transcends mere numbers - this car involves and entertains in ways that many faster vehicles simply cannot match.
Practicality and Daily Use
Despite its performance credentials, the WRX works surprisingly well as a daily driver. The sedan body provides genuine four-door practicality, with adequate rear seat space for passengers and a useful boot for luggage. It's a car you can drive to work every day without compromising your spine or your sanity.
Overtaking is effortless - put your foot down, wait half a second for the turbo to spool up, and the WRX powers past slower traffic with ease. Without much effort, you can reach illegal speeds within seconds, so restraint is required on public roads.
The one drawback is the lack of a sixth gear ratio, which can be annoying on open highways where you want the car to settle down and use less fuel. However, the strong mid-range torque makes this less of an issue than it might be in other cars.
Technology and Safety
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology comes standard on higher trim levels, providing adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assistance. These systems work unobtrusively and add an extra layer of safety for South African driving conditions.
The new infotainment system is a major step forward, offering smartphone connectivity, navigation, and various vehicle settings in an intuitive interface. While not quite as advanced as some luxury rivals, it's perfectly adequate for most users' needs.
Passive safety includes a body structure using high-tensile strength steel in strategic locations to absorb maximum energy. Combined with the advanced driver aids, the WRX provides excellent protection for occupants.
Value and Running Costs
Starting around R800,000, the WRX represents solid value in the performance sedan segment. Few cars offer this combination of all-weather capability, performance, and daily usability at this price point. Running costs should be reasonable given Subaru's reputation for reliability.
For long-term ownership peace of mind, consider extended warranty protection to cover the complex turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. These systems are generally reliable but can be expensive to repair if problems occur outside the warranty period.
Warranty and Peace of Mind
The WRX comes with Subaru's standard warranty package, providing reasonable coverage for the initial ownership period. However, given the performance nature of this vehicle and its complex drivetrain, additional protection is worth considering.
Extended car warranty options can provide valuable coverage for the turbocharged Boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and advanced electronics. These components are crucial to the WRX's performance character and can be costly to replace.
Quality vehicle warranty coverage becomes particularly important for enthusiast drivers who may use their WRX's performance more frequently. Comprehensive warranty protection covering engine, transmission, and drivetrain provides peace of mind when enjoying the car's capabilities.
For the WRX's sophisticated all-wheel-drive system and turbo engine, motor vehicle warranty plans that cover these specific components are particularly valuable. This allows you to enjoy the car's rally-bred performance without worrying about expensive repair bills.
Final Verdict
The Subaru WRX might not be the fastest car in its segment, but it's one of the most engaging and rewarding to drive. This is a car that connects with its driver in ways that many modern performance vehicles have forgotten how to do.
It may be fractionally slower than its track-focused STI sibling, but the WRX offers a far more civilized experience. Think of it this way: the STI is for weekend track days, but the WRX is perfect for driving to work daily while still delivering thrills when the mood takes you.
In a world where many performance cars are becoming increasingly sanitized and electronic, the WRX retains a mechanical honesty that's becoming rare. The manual transmission, involving drivetrain, and characterful engine create an experience that transcends mere transportation.
For South African driving conditions, the WRX's all-weather capability is invaluable. Whether navigating wet Cape Town winters or exploring gravel roads in the Karoo, this car inspires confidence that few alternatives can match.
If you want a sports sedan that you can drive every day without compromise, while still having access to genuine performance when desired, the WRX deserves serious consideration. It's one of the last true driver's cars in an increasingly automated world.