A new model of this all-time performance hero is headed our way, and there is a welcome surprise for patient and devoted fans.
Subaru is going back to its roots with its new performance hero.
The Japanese brand’s local arm has confirmed it will offer a wagon version of the new WRX alongside the sedan variant. Subaru says the WRX wagon is due in the second quarter of next year.
Subaru has a strong history with fast wagons including early examples of the WRX, along with the Forester GT and XT, plus hot Liberty versions such as the Liberty RS, GT, 3.0R-B and Blitzen.
Recent examples of the WRX have been either a sedan or a hatchback.
Subaru Australia boss, Blair Read, says the new WRX wagon builds on the performance model’s rich heritage.
“The WRX Sportswagon offers Australians an additional version of this performance machine with enhanced practicality for everyday use,” says Mr read.
“The WRX Sportswagon will be a model in its own right, with both the sedan and Sportswagon featuring unique specification tailored to their respective audiences.”
Subaru has ditched the 2.0-litre engine from the previous version in favour of a bigger 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo unit making 202kW/350Nm.
Despite the increase in size the outputs grow by just 5kW, which puts it behind front-wheel drive rivals such as the Hyundai i30 N, Ford Focus ST and Toyota’s all-wheel drive pint-sized Yaris GR.
Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission that drives all four wheels.
The new WRX gets reworked suspension with multiple driving modes and improved body control that the brand says makes it sweeter to steer through corners.
Subaru has given the cabin a big upgrade, packing in new tech and creature comforts, including a big tablet-style 11.6-inch central touchscreen with smartphone mirroring and front sports bucket seats.
Automatic versions score the brand’s outstanding driver assist technology that includes items such as auto emergency braking, lane-keep assist, radar cruise control and more. Manual versions make do with less.
Subaru will reveal local prices and specifications closer to the vehicle’s launch date.
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