Subaru WRX 2022: Performance and Perception

As a longtime fan of the WRX lineup, I've had the opportunity to drive and experience different WRX models over the past two decades. The 2022 Subaru WRX is a fantastic car, bringing with it a mix of praise and criticism. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at both the positives and negatives of this latest iteration of the WRX.

Review of the 2022 Subaru WRX

When the WRX was first released in 2002, it set a benchmark for performance in its segment. However, as time has passed, other manufacturers have started to offer more powerful and advanced models. This 2022 model, while still a potent vehicle, has some issues that need addressing. Let's dive into the details.

What I Think of the WRX 2022

Overall, I think the 2022 WRX is a solid choice, especially if you're looking for a reliable daily driver with a certain level of performance. While it has made some advancements, it also faces some challenges, particularly in terms of the transmission and interior design.

Pros and Cons of the 2022 Subaru WRX

Things I Don't Like:

The steering is too soft and lacks the crispness of the previous STI model. This might be a matter of personal preference, but it's something to consider. The seat height is quite high, making it difficult to get comfortable, especially with the premium trim. I prefer the manual adjustment, but it's not necessary for everyone. The turn signal stem design is reminiscent of BMW and is not favored by many. The suspension is okay but slightly on the soft side, which may not suit all driving styles. The exterior plastic usage is noticeable, but the metallic Grey MGM color helps hide it.

Things I Like:

The style of the car is not terrible, despite the rear design resembling a 10th generation Civic. The overall design is still appealing to many. Both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available, making it easy to use modern phone functionality while driving. The low-RPM power delivery is excellent, surpassing previous generations of WRX and STI models.

Future of the WRX and Subaru

As a car enthusiast, I have to express my concern regarding Subaru's strategy for the WRX. The company seems to be trying to move the car towards a more tepid driving experience, which is not what WRX enthusiasts want. By offering a CVT option and tying it to the desirable interior and suspension upgrades, Subaru is alienating its core customer base.

Subaru is in the process of making the automatic transmission, specifically the CVT, the default offering for the WRX. This decision falls in line with their broader strategy; most of their models are sold with a CVT to make them more accessible and fuel-efficient. However, this strategy is detrimental to the WRX, which is a performance car by nature.

The release of the 2022 WRX with its trim-level offering, featuring Recaro seats and improved suspension, was met with mixed reactions. While these features are desirable, the fact that they cannot be combined with the preferred traditional manual transmission is a major drawback. This is a significant step in the wrong direction for a car that is meant to provide a thrilling driving experience.

Consumers who are loyal to the WRX and want to enjoy high-performance driving may find themselves looking elsewhere in the near future. This is not just about the transmission, but the overall brand perception and customer satisfaction. Subaru should focus on maintaining the essence of what makes the WRX special, rather than trying to homogenize it with other models in the lineup.

Conclusion

The 2022 Subaru WRX is an evolution of a classic, and while it has some flaws, it remains a compelling option for those seeking a balance between performance and practicality. However, the recent strategy changes, particularly the emphasis on CVTs, may lead to a shift in the WRX's customer base. For now, it's a solid choice, but for the future, Subaru needs to listen to its core fans and preserve the driving experience they love.