Subaru has finally pulled the wraps off the next-generation WRX and, even though the brand severed ties with the world Rally championship some time ago, this new model has retained a familiar range of components which made the previous automobile so engaging to drive.
However, UK residents will need to go to some extreme lengths to get their hands on one as, despite its popularity here, Subaru won’t be bringing the fifth-generation WRX to Britain. For now, the car’s only confirmed market is the United States.
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The company axed the previous-generation WRX from its UK line-up, with the limited-run WRX STi final edition marking the end of the model line. And, given Subaru’s focus on SUVs in the UK, it’s unlikely that we’ll see the automobile imported officially.
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The new WRX is powered by Subaru’s familiar turbocharged flat-four petrol engine, although displacement has enhanced from 2.0 litres to 2.4 litres. This, along with a new turbocharging system produces 267bhp and 350Nm of torque.
The engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, although an eight-speed automatic can be specified as an optional extra. Every version of the new WRX also comes with four-wheel drive as standard.
Subaru’s new WRX is based on the Subaru global Platform, which is shared with the Outback, Levorg and Forester – and which the company says brings some distinct improvements over the previous car’s chassis.
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The enhanced use of structural adhesives implies that the new car’s overall torsional rigidity is 28 per cent greater than the old model’s, while its suspension struts are 75 per cent stiffer too. The suspension itself also now has a longer stroke than before, which Subaru says allows the automobile to better cope with uneven surfaces.
