2019 Subaru WRX Sport-tech RS Road Test Review
July 05 2019, Docksteader Subaru
Performing as well on its touchscreen as it does on the road
Subaru gave its iconic WRX a thorough update just last year, which might make a person think the new 2019 version would have simply carried over into this new model year unchanged, but not so. In fact, the brand's four-door sports car received one of the more important upgrades any new vehicle can this year, a new infotainment interface that's now better in every way.
Improvements include totally redesigned graphics featuring bright, colourful, smartphone/tablet-style digital buttons centered within floating 3D tiles on a dark blue starry night sky-like background. I really like the look and appreciate how quickly the new infotainment system responds to inputs even more, and while I no longer use an iPhone and therefore couldn't enjoy the attractive Apple CarPlay smartphone integration app, the less visually stimulating Android Auto app is also standard and hooked up to my phone easily. This said I liked Subaru's stock interface even more, and therefore relied on it solely throughout my test week.
It's important to note that my WRX test model was in Sport-tech RS trim, which together with the other Sport-tech models (and a new special edition) uses a half-inch larger 7.0-inch display. Each side of the touchscreen gets a handy row of touch-sensitive quick access buttons for selecting Home, Map and Apps on the left side, and Info just above two sets of track-seeking arrows to the right. Near-field communication (NFC) is also part of the package, allowing for faster smartphone connectivity with compatible devices, as is a Micro SD card slot, HD radio, navigation mapping and very accurate route guidance, a large easy viewing reverse camera with dynamic guidelines, plus more. All in all I found the new system easier to use and nicer to look at, the display's clarity and depth of colour phenomenal, and therefore matching the best competitive systems in the mainstream industry while surpassing the rest.
All of last year's upgrades carry through to the 2019 WRX
While the infotainment system is new this year, other 2018 model year changes made to styling, the suspension, refinement, and safety, are still new enough to warrant mention. As an overview, Subaru redesigned the front grille and bumper of the WRX last year, as well as the interior door trim, while a reworked electroluminescent primary gauge cluster received an impressive high-resolution colour TFT display at centre.
Those familiar with the WRX will already know about the class-exclusive 5.9-inch colour multi-information display on top of the centre dash, which also received cool new graphics. The placement and functions within this sport-focused MID remind me of the ancillary analogue turbo, temp and oil pressure gauges of past performance cars, and is completely unique to the WRX' segment too, combining a type of custom allure with real racing heritage that simply cannot be found in competitive sport models.
Lastly, rear passenger comfort was upgraded with a new folding centre armrest featuring integrated cupholders, while everyone inside should appreciate the lower noise, vibration and harshness levels that came from better insulation. The retuned suspension probably helps in this regard too, and at least as importantly provides a more comfortable ride without impeding handling prowess, although the beefier new battery only improves the electrical system.
I must say I really like the bulk of these improvements, particularly what Subaru has done to the grille, its blackened borders and black mesh insert that I find really attractive, although I'm even more partial to the racing-spec-style multi-component lower front fascia with its matte black centre vent, not to mention the larger, squarer, matte black fog lamp bezels at each side.
It's difficult not to gush over the Sport-tech RS' twinned five-spoke gunmetal grey-painted cast aluminum alloy wheels on 245/40 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT performance tires either, these made even more eye-catching thanks to vivid red brake calipers framed within. Take note, base and Sport trims receive a set of grey 15-spoke 17-inch alloys on the same tires, although smaller at 235/45.
All items I've already mentioned, combined with all other features improved for 2018, like the bigger front hood scoop, redesigned headlamps, and rally-inspired matte black rear diffuser that houses a quad of chromed tailpipes, plus everything pulled forward from the 2015-2017 version that preceded, such as the coke-bottle fenders with flow-through rear-facing aero vents garnished with tastefully cool chromed "WRX" appliques, the discreet rear trunk lip spoiler, and more, look fabulous.
Superb performance comes standard
Additionally, all regular WRX models continue to be powered by Subaru's superb 2.0-litre direct-injection twin-scroll turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine that makes a formidable 268-horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While not as exhilarating as the STI's considerable 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, the former now up 5 horsepower, the 500-cc smaller engine is still very strong in its category, especially when factoring in its reasonable $29,995 base price when compared to the STI's $41,995 starting point. Likewise, $38,995 for the as-tested Sport-tech RS is considerably more affordable than the comparable STI Sport-tech, which comes well equipped for $47,295.
Of course, you get what you pay for in STI performance, but this can be said for the regular WRX when compared to the majority of similarly priced competitors that don't pack the same levels of performance, plus none of these rivals provide all-wheel drive, let alone Subaru's highly regarded Symmetrical-AWD that comes standard across the WRX line.
Along with the potent turbocharged engine and AWD, the WRX comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, but unlike the STI it can also be had with an optional automatic. While this is hardly unusual in its class, Subaru's choice of a performance-tuned CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) was unexpected by enthusiasts when it debuted, but the special Sport Lineartronic CVT they designed is extremely good thanks to an engaging set of steering wheel paddle shifters that can modulate a choice of six- or eight-speed manual modes, plus the Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) system is sensational. I experienced this drivetrain first hand two years ago and was surprised in all the right ways, and while I'd personally choose the manual, I certainly wouldn't deride someone from opting for this impressive automatic.
Mechanical upgrades make a big difference to performance and refinement
That as-tested six-speed manual in mind, Subaru gave it an upgrade last year that included a new gear lever with better shifting feel and more refined clutch feel, with the changes resulting in even smoother and more accurate gear changes, plus a clutch that's wonderfully weighted with ideal take-up, while it comes across as more responsive without any grabbiness.
When compared to the identically powered 2018 car there's no change to straight-line acceleration at all, with the manual version once again capable of 5.4 seconds from standstill to 100km/h, and the CVT still respectable at 5.9 seconds. This would be reason enough to have thoroughly enjoyed my weeklong test, thrilled with its off-the-line performance and just as happy with its relentless speed up to highway limits (and a little beyond), but there's so much more that makes the WRX one of my favourite performance cars.
As part of last year's WRX upgrade, Subaru improved steering feel while providing a more comfortable, compliant ride that still maintains the car's ultimate handling edge. The result is a sports sedan that's as enjoyable to zig in and out of city traffic, as it is to zag around open fast-paced two-lane curves, my weeklong test allowing for numerous jaunts on favourite backroads to prove the latter point. I'd even go so far to argue the new car is more capable over bumpy, broken pavement than its predecessor, this because its fully independent suspension feels as if it to offers a bit more wheel travel for better adhesion to uneven road surfaces, thus providing better real-world everyday performance, as a rally-bred car should. That it's also more comfortable is just a bonus you can enjoy every day.
Practical, secure yet well made and luxurious
On that pragmatic note the WRX continues to be the sports car for those who require seating for five in comfort, plus a much larger 340-litre trunk than most sports cars provide. Convenient 60/40-split rear seatbacks fold down to increase cargo capacity when needed, although while upright the WRX trunk allocates a higher level of security to your belongings than any hatchback challenger can offer.
Competitors in mind, WRX cabin quality continues to be very impressive. Most of instrument panel, even down to the halfway point of the centre stack, is covered in a premium soft-touch composite that looks good, feels nice and does a good job of absorbing sound, further reducing noise, vibration and harshness. What's more, this high-grade finishing provides elbow comfort on both front and rear door uppers, the latter coverage very rare in this compact class. Additionally, Subaru dresses the door inserts in stylish quilted leatherette with red stitching, and pads the armrests similarly.
My WRX Sport-tech RS receives yet more red thread on its leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter boot, and each seats' side bolsters, that latter of which also receive thick stripes of crimson leather across their top edges. This complements the rest of the seats' black leather and Ultrasuede upholstery ideally, and also matches tastefully applied red piping around each front headrest, plus a horseshoe-shaped ring of red piping that wraps around the mid-portion of the seats, and by so doing frames a set of white-embroidered "RECARO" logos. Last but hardly least, Subaru trims the instrument panel in an attractive carbon fibre-like inlay, all combining for a great looking, well made interior.
Plenty of well equipped trims to choose from
The cabin just described is specific to my test model's Sport-tech RS trim, but take note that a number of additional WRX trim lines are also well worth your investigation. Along with the previously mentioned $29,998 base model, you can opt for Sport trim at $33,195, this Sport-tech model without the $2,300 RS upgrade for just $36,495, and a more luxuriously equipped Sport-tech with Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistive technologies for $39,095.
Additionally, new for 2019 is the $40,995 雷雨 Raiu Edition, which gets painted in self proclaimed Cool Grey Khaki, a colour I happen to adore. It features a host of STI-style exterior styling improvements such as a sportier front lip spoiler, extended side skirts, and the big rear wing spoiler found on the more potent WRX model, while Subaru also upsizes the wheels to 19-inch alloys while adding a set of STI-sourced Brembo six-pot front and two-pot rear brake calipers painted yellow no less, these biting down on a more capable set of ventilated and cross-drilled rotors. Also on the 雷雨 Raiu Edition's standard menu is the Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD), which includes blindspot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert and lane change assist, plus this special model gets a powered moonroof too, as well as a 10-way power driver's seat with lumbar, and a set of eye-catching red seatbelts.
The WRX Sport-tech RS I spent a week with boasted stronger brakes too, thanks to Jurid pads that clamp down on the standard 316 mm front and 286 mm rear discs via those racy red calipers noted earlier, while along with the luxurious black and red partial-leather and Ultrasuede upholstery, the inherently supportive Recaro front seats are eight-way powered. This allowed me to find the perfect driving position for complete comfort and total control, while the big side bolsters were wonderfully supportive when pushing the WRX through high-speed corners.
I should also mention the Sport-tech RS gets everything in the regular Sport-tech too, such as proximity keyless access with pushbutton ignition, the larger 7.0-inch centre touchscreen with all the upgrades noted earlier, plus Subaru's StarLink app, yet more apps like Yelp, Best Parking, Glympse, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link with weather, sports and stock market info, a superb sounding 320-watt nine-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system, and two USB ports.
EyeSight advanced driver assistance makes WRX one of the segment's safest
Other features pulled up to the Sport-tech RS from lesser trims include auto on-off LED headlights with new steering-responsive cornering, LED fog lamps, LED side mirror turn signals, welcome lighting, a high-performance quad-tipped exhaust system, a windshield wiper de-icer, a seriously sporty leather-clad multifunction flat-bottom steering wheel, automatic climate control, heatable front seats, StarLink smartphone integration (including Aha radio), a rearview camera with dynamic guidelines, satellite radio, Bluetooth, voice activation, the SRVD blindspot safety system, and more.
Alternatively, if you upgrade to Sport-tech EyeSight trim the Lineartronic Sport automatic transmission comes standard, as does the suite of aforementioned driver assistive systems that include adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert, pre-collision braking, pre-collision brake assist, pre-collision throttle management, reverse automatic braking, lane departure warning, lane sway warning, and lane keeping assist, while High Beam Assist makes sure you'll always get the best use of your LED headlamps.
The WRX becomes one of the safest in its segment when equipped with everything above, earning a best-possible IIHS Top Safety Pick + rating. A quick glance at the list of top IIHS achievers shows the "+" portion of this award doesn't come easily in the WRX' small car category, as it's only shared with three competitive mainstream brands, none of which are direct competitors. Even more impressive, a total of four compact Subaru models have earned this IIHS Top Safety Pick + rating, which is better than any other brand. Additionally, Subaru has more vehicles taking home this highest-possible rating than any rival, topping the mid-size class, and represented in all other segments it competes in (other than with the BRZ), resulting in a best-possible safety rating for eight total models. Added to this impressive claim is the all-weather safety of Subaru's standard Symmetrical all-wheel drive.
The WRX has all bases covered
Subaru certainly has all its bases covered with its latest WRX, from styling to performance, interior quality to roominess, plus an impressive load of features that now includes one of the best infotainment systems in the business, all for excellent value. I highly recommend the new 2019 WRX, as it's somehow managed to make an already legendary car better, which is no easy feat.
To experience the 2019 WRX in person, give us a call at (877) 881-6714, or drop by our Docksteader Subaru showroom at 8530 Cambie St, Vancouver, just south of Marine Drive behind the Marine Drive Skytrain Station and Marine Gateway shopping complex.
