Subaru finally yanked the covers off the all-new 2015 WRX today at the Los Angeles Auto Show, with the high-performance version of the Impreza being more powerful and promising better handling than before.
The new model is powered by a new 2.0-liter direct-injection turbocharged boxer engine delivering 268hp (only 3hp more than the outgoing model). Replacing the 2014 Impreza WRX’s 2.5-liter unit, the engine is paired to a standard six-speed manual transmission or to an optional Sport Lineartronic CVT automatic gearbox with two manual modes.
The powerplant delivers 258 lb-ft (350Nm) of torque between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm, pushing the WRX from 0 to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.4 seconds with the new six-speed manual. CVT models will take an extra second to cover the same sprint and will also burn more fuel: 19 mpg city/25 mpg highway compared to 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway (12.4 l/100 km city and 9.4 l/100 km highway compared to 11.2 l/100 km city and 8.4 l/100 km highway).
While not as near as spectacular-looking as the WRX Concept, the 2015 WRX’s wide-body kit and the huge air intake on the bonnet may remind you of study with a little (or a lot) bit of imagination. The car features new standard 17-inch wheels and unique elements like the hood, front fenders, rear doors and quarters, bumpers, headlights and taillight clusters.
The new Subaru WRX promises better handling and performance thanks partly to a new torque-vectoring system that supplements the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Improved cornering speeds and handling are also due to the new, stiffer chassis, performance-tuned suspension and larger brakes.
Subaru says the driver-focused interior is roomier than before thanks to the 1-inch (25-mm) longer wheelbase and offers more comfort, better materials and new technologies – a Harman/Kardon premium audio system is offered for the first time in a WRX.
Among the highlights of the interior are the sports seats, flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated switches, the dual gauge instrument layout featuring a 3.5-in LCD central screen and a new multi-information central display with 4.3-in LCD screen.
Pricing is to be announced.
By Dan Mihalascu
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