New Subaru WRX combines cleaner shape with modern interior

Subaru has unveiled its new 2022 WRX. Now in its fifth generation, the model is due to hit the market in early 2022. It retains a familiar look and feel, but a host of design changes provide a much-needed breath of fresh air.

At the front, the signature Subaru hexagonal grille sits above a wide lower air intake that spans the width and includes embedded fog lamps. The C-shaped LED lights remain, sitting at the far edges so that they link the front end with the wheel arches and bonnet, which includes the trademark scoop air intake.

Body panels on the sides have been reshaped in order to enhance aerodynamics and make for a more fluid appearance. The curve over the wheel arches is more subtle, with small air outlets at the top edge of the front wheel covers. There are also new air outlets on the sides of the large rear bumper, which is now finished in the same black material as the wheel housings, side skirts and front bumper.

But the biggest change at the back is the lights. The C-shape, similar to the front lamps, is clearer and links to a glossy strip that runs the width of the boot lid. There is also some chunky body work with angular ridges that emphasise the shape of the lights.

The interior has had a complete overhaul, with a new IP layout and a host of different materials that aim to enhance quality. The dash is now split into three main sections, with the top shelf far shorter than it was in the previous model. Newly designed air vents are smaller and more modern, while the 11.6-inch touchscreen connects the dash to the centre console. Climate control touch buttons are also included in the screen housing – a significant change compared to the large rotary dials in the previous WRX.

As for materials, most of the cabin is clad in black plastic and leather, with red stitching accenting ridges on the dash, centre console, doors and seats. There are also carbon fibre inserts and fabric lining parts of the doors and IP. A newly designed gear stick sits inside a rectangular surround, which is either finished in glossy metallic or leather depending on the trim level.

Speaking of trims, there is a new top-of-the-line GT trim that comes with a few extras, such as Recaro bucket seats cladded in black Ultrasuede material. There is also exclusive 18-inch aluminium alloys in matte grey.

Other new additions to the WRX include a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine and a new automatic transmission. It is also worth pointing out that this is the first WRX to be built on the Subaru Global Platform (SGP), which will be the basis for all models from the brand moving forward, including EVs.

This new WRX is far cleaner and more modern than the previous generation. With the revised exterior details and greatly enhanced interior, Subaru has taken a step in the right direction, away from the rather dated and drab feel that has plagued some of its previous releases.