Performance Delivered: 2016 Subaru WRX sedan
Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced the new-generation 2016 WRX, featuring a new wide-body sedan design and a significantly stiffer chassis that expanded performance envelope. Available in standard, Premium and Limited trim lines, the WRX base trim model comes standard with a new low-profile trunk spoiler, and all trims feature new gloss black cabin trim.
With its 2.0L direct injection turbocharged FA-Series four-cylinder BOXER engine, standard Symmetrical All Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring, the rally-bred WRX comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and offers an optional performance automatic transmission, the Sport Lineartronic™ CVT with manual mode. The aluminum BOXER engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the WRX’s center of gravity, a trait that contributes to its sporty handling characteristics. The quad exhaust tailpipe tips emit a deep, powerful sound.
When equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, the Subaru WRX uses the brand’s Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A viscous coupling locking center differential nominally distributes torque 50:50 front to rear, and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) provides stability and traction control. Should slippage occur, the system transfers more torque to the wheels with the best traction.
The Sport Lineartronic™ CVT is teamed exclusively with the Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A planetary gear-type center differential and an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch manage torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. Under most conditions, VTD splits the torque 45:55, with the rearward torque bias contributing to handling agility. The VTD system continually optimizes torque distribution in response to driving conditions and input from steering wheel angle, yaw and lateral g-force sensors.
Active Torque Vectoring is a yaw-control system employing the front brakes. When cornering, the system applies slight pressure to the inside front wheel to reduce understeer and enhance response. The multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system offers three modes, Normal, Off and Traction. The latter disables stability and traction control but retains Active Torque Vectoring.
The new-generation Subaru WRX marked a major evolutionary step for the rally-bred performance car that has become a global automotive icon. The stiffer chassis, larger front brakes, performance-tuned suspension gives the sedan a more refined feel.
The WRX body structure makes extensive use of high-tensile steel and features special stiffening elements at key locations. The springs, dampers, cross members, subframe bushings, and front control-arm bushings and attachments are all stiffer than in the previous-generation WRX. The front suspension struts feature thicker outer tubes, and the aluminum alloy lower control arms use pillow ball-type joint bushings and pillow ball-type joint mounts. Likewise, the rear suspension lateral links also use this type of bushing.
Torsional rigidity is increased 41 percent compared to the previous WRX. The front stabilizer bar thickness is increased by 3 mm. Front spring rates were increased by 39 percent, and rear spring rates increased by 62 percent. Larger front brake discs than the previous-generation WRX, now 12.4 inches in diameter (up from 11.6 inches), provide greater surface area and fade resistance.
Inside the passenger cabin, a driver-focused interior remains integral to the WRX performance character. At the same time, a roomier interior, upgraded cabin comforts include soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. The sporty flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel provides tilt and telescoping adjustments and integrates switches for audio and Bluetooth®. Whiplash-reducing front performance design seats feature separate tilt- and height-adjustable head restraints. The high-grip black fabric is trimmed with red stitching, which is also used on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console can hold phones, USB drives and MP3 players.
In all models, a multi-information central display with 4.3-in. LCD screen provides a multitude of vehicle system functions, including a boost gauge display, oil and washer fluid levels, selected gear ratio and a VDC screen showing traction control operation. The display can also provide a vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder. Standard features for the WRX include automatic climate control and the STARLINK 6.2” Multimedia system. A standard 60/40-split fold-down rear seat extends versatility.
Dimensions & specifications
Wheelbase: 104.3; overall length: 180.9; width: 70.7; height: 58.1
All vehicle measurements are in inches.
Engine: 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged BOXER – 268 hp at 5,600 rpm and 258 lbs-ft of torque at 2,000 – 5,200 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed manual, CVT automatic.
EPA Fuel Economy: 20 city/27 highway (manual); 18 city/24 highway (CVT automatic).
Cargo capacity: 12.0 cubic feet
Safety features
Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain side-impact airbags, driver’s side knee airbag, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, brake override, safety pedal system, active torque vectoring, incline start assist, daytime running lights, security system with engine immobilizer, remote keyless entry system, rear vision camera, and tire pressure monitoring system. Premium adds fog lights. Limited adds LED low-beam headlights with automatic height adjustment and automatic headlamps.
Optional safety features include navigation system, keyless access with push button start, and EyeSight Driver Assist Technology which includes: adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, vehicle lane departure warning and lane keep assist, steering responsive fog lights, blind spot detection, rear cross traffic alert system, and lane change assist.
Warranty
Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile
Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile
Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited
Roadside Assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile 24-hour
Pricing
The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Subaru WRX sedan ranges from $26,595 for the WRX standard upto $31,595 for the WRX Limited CVT. Destination charges add $795.
