The 2022 Subaru WRX Turbo represents the pinnacle of the iconic compact performance sedan's evolution, blending raw turbocharged power with the brand's signature symmetrical all-wheel drive. This model year did not introduce a generational overhaul, but rather a significant refinement of an already brilliant formula, focusing on enhancing the driving dynamics and interior quality that enthusiasts had been calling for. Under the hood, the familiar and beloved boxer engine received crucial updates that transformed its performance character, making it more responsive and engaging than ever before.
The Heart of the 2022 WRX: Engine and Performance Upgrades
The centerpiece of the 2022 WRX is its horizontally-opposed 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru BOXER engine. While the displacement increased from the previous 2.0-liter, the most notable change lies in the new turbocharger and the revised engine management system. This combination results in a more linear power delivery, drastically reducing the lag that was sometimes associated with the previous generation. The engine now produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, providing a substantial boost over its predecessor while maintaining the high-revving nature that makes the boxer engine so unique.
Refined Dynamics and Enhanced Capability
Power alone doesn't define a WRX, and the 2022 model excelled in translating that power to the ground with precision. The standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system was recalibrated for quicker and more confident power distribution, improving traction in various driving conditions. The chassis received subtle but significant updates, including a stiffer front sway bar and retuned dampers, which translated to sharper turn-in and more composed cornering. For those seeking the ultimate track weapon, the WRX STI model returned, offering even more aggressive performance tuning, enhanced cooling, and track-focused components that solidified its position as a halo car for the series.
Design and Interior: A Step Up in Quality
Visually, the 2022 WRX embraced a more aggressive and athletic stance, setting it apart from its Impreza sibling. The design language features a larger, more pronounced grille, sharper LED headlights, and a redesigned bumper with integrated fog lights. The most significant transformation, however, occurred inside the cabin. Long criticized for its cheap plastics, Subaru made a concerted effort to elevate the interior. The 2022 model year introduced premium materials, including soft-touch surfaces and genuine metal accents, creating a cockpit environment that feels sophisticated and well-built, befitting its performance credentials.
Technology and Comfort Features
The updated infotainment system was a major highlight, featuring a larger, vertically-oriented touchscreen with Subaru's latest STARLINK multimedia system. The interface is more intuitive and responsive, integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly. The driver-focused cockpit includes a digital gauge cluster that provides all necessary information at a glance, while the upgraded sound system delivers an immersive audio experience. Comfort features were also bolstered, with improved seat bolstering and additional padding, ensuring that the WRX is as comfortable for daily commutes as it is exciting on a backroad drive.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the Subaru philosophy, and the 2022 WRX comes well-equipped as standard. The EyeSight driver assistance technology suite is included across the lineup, providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking. This comprehensive safety net, combined with the car's agile handling, makes the WRX not only thrilling but also remarkably secure and confidence-inspiring for both novice and experienced drivers.
