For driving enthusiasts, the 2015 WRX Impreza represents a pivotal moment in Subaru’s history, blending accessible all-weather capability with engaging performance. This specific model year arrived during a significant transition, marking the end of an era for the naturally aspirated boxer engine in favor of a new era of turbocharged efficiency. It is a car that splits opinion, often generating strong feelings regarding its controversial grille and its place in the legacy of the iconic rally-bred lineage. Understanding this model requires looking beyond the aesthetics and into the mechanical heart that defines the driving dynamics.
The Legacy of the Boxer and the Shift to Turbocharging
The heart of the 2015 model year is the transition from the beloved EJ257 to the new FA20DIT engine. For years, the naturally aspirated boxer provided a low center of gravity and balanced weight distribution that defined the driving experience. The move to a turbocharged 2.0-liter unit was not a betrayal, but an evolution designed to meet stricter emissions standards while offering increased power in everyday driving scenarios. This change fundamentally altered the character of the car, trading some of the high-revving purity for low-end torque that makes the car feel quicker off the line.
Design Language and Exterior Presence
Visually, the 2015 WRX commands attention with a more aggressive stance than its predecessors. The large, hexagonal grille, often a point of contention among fans, was designed to channel more air to the intercooler for the new turbocharged engine. The sharp creases of the hood and the redesigned bumper integrate LED lighting, giving the car a more modern and predatory appearance. While the silhouette remains true to the Impreza line, the details signal a shift towards a more performance-oriented and contemporary aesthetic.
Redesigned hexagonal front grille for improved cooling.
LED headlights and taillights for enhanced visibility and style.
Updated bumper with integrated fog lights.
Retained the signature symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.
Performance, Handling, and the Driving Experience
Power output increased to 265 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, a significant jump over the previous generation. This power is delivered through a revised Lineartronic CVT, which has been the subject of much debate among enthusiasts. While some decry the lack of a traditional manual transmission, the CVT provides seamless power delivery and maximizes efficiency. The handling benefits from a lowered suspension and stiffer springs, resulting in a car that feels planted and responsive in corners, despite its increased weight and complexity.
Interior Quality and Technological Updates
Inside, the 2015 WRX presents a mix of improvements and lingering issues. The cabin materials are a step up from the previous year, with more premium plastics and supportive sport seats that wrap the driver firmly. The infotainment system is a highlight, featuring a larger screen and more intuitive controls, though the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was not available until later model years. The dashboard layout is driver-focused, placing essential information and controls within easy reach, maintaining the practical yet engaging cockpit feel.
