Performance Enhancements:
Subaru introduces a more robust WRX TR grade for 2024, featuring bespoke wheels, high-grip tires, a performance-oriented suspension, and Brembo brakes. This variant emphasizes a hardcore driving experience, elevating the WRX’s performance credentials.
Unified Powertrain and Drivetrain:
All trim levels share a powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine paired with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drivetrain. The WRX offers enthusiasts the choice between a standard six-speed manual transmission or a CVT gearbox, ensuring a personalized driving experience.
Infotainment and Safety Upgrades:
The 2024 Subaru WRX brings notable updates, including a refreshed infotainment system. The EyeSight driver assistance package becomes a standard inclusion across all trim variants, enhancing safety features. The lineup caters to tech-savvy drivers with a new 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen supporting wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM radio, Travel Link, and Bluetooth.
Performance Dynamics and Transmission Options
Powerful Turbocharged Engine:
The heart of the 2024 WRX is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder Boxer engine, delivering 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This powerplant ensures a thrilling driving experience across all WRX variants.
Transmission Choices:
The WRX Base, Premium, Limited, and TR trims offer a standard six-speed manual transmission, emphasizing a hands-on driving experience. The top-tier WRX GT features Subaru’s Performance Transmission (SPT), an optimized continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) with advanced features such as adaptive shift control and rev-matching downshifts.
Fuel Efficiency:
Despite its performance-oriented nature, the WRX maintains reasonable fuel efficiency. The six-speed manual transmission achieves an EPA-rated 19 city / 26 highway / 22 combined mpg. The SPT automatic transmission, available in select trims, offers an EPA rating of 18 city / 25 highway / 21 combined mpg.
Interior Space and Cargo Capacity
Comfortable Cabin:
The WRX’s five-seat interior provides comfort with 39.8 inches of front headroom, 36.7 inches of rear headroom, and 36.5 inches of rear legroom. However, the focus on performance does impact trunk space, offering 12.5 cubic feet, which may be modest compared to some competitors.
Trim Levels and Starting MSRPs
WRX Base:
Starting at $33,855, the WRX Base offers essential features such as an 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, automatic LED headlights, and 17-inch alloy wheels with summer tires. It is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.
WRX Premium:
Priced at $35,755, the WRX Premium builds on the Base with upgrades like 18-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, LED fog lamps, and push-button start. An optional package adds a power moonroof and a premium Harman Kardon stereo.
WRX Limited:
Beginning at $40,135, the WRX Limited introduces premium features, including a Harman Kardon stereo, TomTom navigation, steering-responsive LED headlamps, Ultrasuede and leather upholstery, and a 10-way power driver’s seat.
WRX TR:
New for 2024, the WRX TR starts at $42,775, emphasizing performance with bespoke 19-inch wheels, Recaro front seats, Brembo brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension.
WRX GT:
The top-tier WRX GT, priced from $45,335, exclusively features the SPT automatic transmission. It includes Recaro front seats, 18-inch matte gray wheels, and a bespoke suspension with Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings.
Safety Ratings and Warranty
Strong Safety Credentials:
The WRX boasts a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and earns Good scores in crashworthiness from the IIHS. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance package, encompassing advanced safety features, is standard across all trim levels.
Warranty Coverage:
The WRX comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Subaru offers options to extend the factory warranty, providing peace of mind for WRX owners.
Conclusion
While the 2024 Subaru WRX may not exude the same hardcore aura as its predecessors, it encapsulates the essence of a thrilling driving experience. With its powerful engine, versatile transmission options, and safety-focused features, the WRX remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and practicality.
