Subaru WRX RS Sedan – WRX is an iconic sports car that has built a reputation globally with rally fans. I recently drove the top spec manual transmission version and walked away with mixed feelings.
The RS model in MT comes with some additional comfort features like heated front and rear seats, steering responsive automatic self-levelling LED headlights, LED front foglights and dual zone climate A/C.
However the manual versions miss out on a host of Subaru safety features and for that reason alone I would opt for the CVT version.
TO LISTEN TO THE WRX RS SEDAN RADIO REVIEW CLICK BELOW
Powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder Boxer engine that delivers power 202 kW @ 5,600rpm and Torque of 350 Nm from 2,000 – 5,200rpm.. Obviously it comes with Subaru’s famous AWD system and a 6 speed MT.
A 0-100kmh time of around 6 seconds isn’t considered extremely fast anymore, it’s the daily driving where the WRX is surprisingly quick. Look down and you are going way faster than you thought and it grips like a limpet in corners. Its raw numbers pale in the day to day driving.
Around town the transmission is smooth and precise and you find yourself pottering around often in 5th or 6th gear because of the torque delivery.
On the freeway another gear or two would have been appreciated.
WRX RS Sedan is priced from $50,490 plus the usual costs.
This is a Motoring Minute
I’m Rob Fraser
Also look at
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What is not so good? |
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Some WRX Launch articles
- 1 – New WRX aims for a broader market
- 2 – Subaru WRX 2022 drive Motoring Minute Review
- 3 – Subaru WRX 2022 launch Video Review
- 4 – Subaru WRX and WRX Sportswagon 2022 Launch
- 5 – Subaru WRX Safety Features 2022
- 6 – Dynamic Transmission and Suspension for Subaru WRX
- 7 – All-New WRX Now Open for orders
Model |
Subaru WRX RS Sedan |
| Model Price | From $54,490 MLP* |
| Engine | 2.4L 4 Cyl Boxer Turbo Petrol |
| Drivetrain | AWD 6 speed MT |
| Power | 202kW at 5,600rpm |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 2,000 – 5,200rpm |
| Safety | TBA |
| CO2 Emissions | 192g/km |
| Economy ADR | 8.5 L/100km – 9.1L/100km over our test / 63L tank |
| 0-100kmh / top speed | 6.1 secs (est) / TBA |
| Servicing | 12Mth/15,000km Capped Price 5 years/75,000km |
| Warranty | 5yr/ Unlimited km with 5 Yr. conditional roadside assist |
*MLP Includes GST and LCT but excluding statutory charges, dealer costs and dealer delivery. See your dealer for RDAP. Does not include price of options. Some features mentioned in the article are options. RDAP means Recommended Drive Away Price (without options but including all other charges)
Overall Rating |
87/100 |
| Behind the Wheel | 9 |
| Comfort | 8 |
| Equipment | 8 |
| Performance | 9 |
| Ride and Handling | 9 |
| Practicality | 8 |
| Fit for Purpose | 9 |
| Style / appeal | 9 |
| Technology / connectivity | 9 |
| Value for Money | 9 |
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More Subaru WRX RS Sedan thoughts
For a full overview of the new WRX models go HERE
What is the WRX RS Sedan exterior like?
The sedan version looks fine, plenty of style and subtle nods to the past.
It has a bold and aggressive frontal grill area with strong bonnet lines and lower bonnet scoop.
WRX Sedan also incorporates a number of performance-inspired exterior design influences including air outlets located on the trailing edges of the front wheel openings and side garnishes.
Highlighted wheel arches house 18×8.5-inch alloy wheels running 245/40R18 Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres. It carries a temporary spare.
From the rear there is a subtle lip-style boot spoiler and the lower portion is dominated by quad exhaust pipes.
The headlights are excellent and the auto high beam calibration well adjusted
What is the WRX RS Sedan like inside?
Sit inside and the first thing you notice are particularly comfortable sports seats. For the larger sized amongst us the side bolsters are tight.
The driver relationship to the steering wheel and driver instrument binnacle is near perfect.
The thick rimmed steering wheel houses some simple controls, but becomes a part of the driver quickly, feeling spot on in the hands.
The central screen that resembles a smart phone is excellent in terms of user interface, functionality and clarity.
One bonus is the heated seats front and rear
Rear seats have as much room as you expect in this size vehicle but have the added bonus of folding for extra storage. Boot is reasonably roomy.
WRX RS Sedan Engine and drivetrain
Powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre, horizontally-opposed four-cylinder Boxer engine that delivers power 202 kW @ 5,600rpm and Torque of 350 Nm from 2,000 – 5,200rpm.
This drive all four wheels through the symmetrical AWD system and a six speed manual transmission.
Manual transmission versions have a fully mechanical AWD system devoid of electronic control or adjustment. This system features a centre differential with a viscous-coupled limited-slip differential (LSD) with torque split between the front and rear axles based solely on the amount of traction available.
The 6 speed is precise, smooth in transition and works well with the engine to allow easy cruising.
Around town you find yourself skipping gears and cruising often in higher gears due to the torque delivery.
On the freeway I found myself looking for another gear or two though.
Some important notes
- Manual WRX doesn’t get Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive), EyeSight®, Intelligent Driving Dynamics or Drive Mode Select
- Drive Mode Select is only available on the tS versions.
WRX Driver experience
While the latest WRX isn’t a rocket ship 0-100kmh, it’s still reasonably quick.
Where the real benefit of the boxer engine and AWD system sitting on the new global platform comes into its own is in point to point times.
The WRX is fast, very fast driving along your favourite winding road. Its balance and handling allows particularly good driver engagement.
It’s focused on driving pleasure.
The vehicle responds splendidly to driver inputs in steering, acceleration or braking.
Suspension can be a little stiff and there is no adjustable suspension settings on the Manual transmission vehicles.
But the WRX retains its fun aspect perfectly.
WRX Safety
Let’s start by saying the MT Sedan is safe. However it unfortunately misses out on a bunch of additional EyeSight safety features.
For a full explanation of WRX safety go HERE
Subaru WRX RS Sedan final thoughts
This is the vehicle for the purists and historical enthusiasts.
It’s the WRX that has always been available, only better.