The 2025 WRX provides a significant performance bump over the Impreza. It's also decently comfortable for daily driving. But there's not much else that will really get you excited about a WRX purchase.Read full review
Mark Takahashi has worked in the automotive industry since 2001. He has written thousands of car-related articles and tested and reviewed hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Mark has also contributed to Motor Trend, Auto Aficionado, Chevy High Performance and several motorcycle magazines in various roles. Mark is also a juror on the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards and can be seen regularly on the Edmunds YouTube channel and sometimes representing the company in media interviews.
Brent Romans has worked in the automotive industry since 1996. He has written or edited thousands of expert car reviews and road-tested hundreds of vehicles over the course of his career. Brent is a senior manager of written content at Edmunds and previously contributed to publications such as Super Street and Petersen's 4-Wheel & Off-Road. His personal car is a 2019 BMW M2 Competition, which he bought for its ideal combination of performance, style and practicality.
Pros
Standard all-wheel drive enhances traction and performance
Available 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen is easy to read
Brisk acceleration
Stable and engaging handling
Cons
Subpar fuel economy
Noticeable road and wind noise
Sedan-only body style
What's new
New STI-tuned tS trim level
Part of the fifth WRX generation introduced for 2022
Overview
Subaru's 2025 WRX follows the successful original recipe of a sport compact sedan fitted with a punchy turbocharged flat-four engine that powers all four wheels. The distinctive configuration of the WRX comes from its rally racing origins, a motorsport that involves driving as quickly as possible down largely unknown country roads. All-wheel drive is a necessity for varying surfaces, from dirt and gravel to asphalt, and a small yet powerful turbocharged engine ensures quick acceleration away from corners. There's even more to like about the 2025 Subaru WRX with the debut of the new tS trim.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2025 Subaru WRX Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of N/A undefined in Virginia.
Edmunds spotlight: What to know about the new WRX tS
The new tS is similar to the TR, which Subaru introduced last year. It has tweaks from its racing division Sport Tecnica International (STI) that include bigger Brembo brakes, STI-tuned steering, suspension and throttle inputs, and unique styling touches. It also gets adaptive suspension dampers, which were previously reserved for the top GT trim only. The combination is fun and sporty, and it's easily the best version of the current-generation WRX. Unfortunately, the price tag of around $45,000 puts it in the territory of stiff competitors that will handily outrun it. Check out our 2025 WRX tS First Drive to read more about it.
Competitors to consider
The 2025 WRX is one of the original sport compacts, but so are Honda Civic Si and Volkswagen GTI. The Civic is down on power compared to the WRX but is less expensive, while the GTI provides the extra practicality of a hatchback body style. You might also consider Subaru's BRZ coupe or its related twin, the Toyota GR86. Among this group, however, only the WRX comes with all-wheel drive. Read our test team's Expert Rating below to learn more about the WRX.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Average
7.5
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The 2025 WRX provides a significant performance bump over the Impreza. It's also decently comfortable for daily driving. But there's not much else that will really get you excited about a WRX purchase.
How does the WRX drive? The WRX isn't as quick as some of its rivals, but it's still fun to drive. We tested a manual-equipped WRX, and at Edmunds' test track it accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds. That's appropriately quick, though achieving that time requires an abusive launch technique. Our test driver noted: "I'll be honest and say I thought I broke this car trying to launch it. The driveline shock when you drop the clutch is so harsh and severe that I thought there might be a pile of metal on the ground. Even with the new engine, there's a significant amount of turbo lag below about 3,000 rpm. That means getting the best launch basically means dropping the clutch from about 5,000 rpm." We have yet to test the automatic-equipped WRX.
The WRX is at its best when leaping from turn to turn on a curvy road. Its strong midrange power, all-wheel-drive traction, composed suspension and responsive steering make for an excellent, enthusiastic driving experience.
Unfortunately, the brakes in the WRX don't deliver the response or stopping confidence we'd expect. Its pedal feels too soft for something this sporty. At our test track, however, the WRX was able to stop from 60 mph in just 110 feet — a respectable distance for the segment.
Comfort
7.5/10
How comfortable is the WRX? The ride quality and the seating comfort in the WRX are both right at the top of their class. It's worth noting that several hours of driving in the WRX gave us no significant fatigue or pain. The seats hold you in place well during corners and provide proper support all the time.
The climate controls that are located inside the big center touchscreen are a bit difficult to learn and can be distracting at first, but most owners will get the hang of them relatively quickly. On the downside, the WRX is pretty noisy, with a little rumble from the engine at highway speeds and some pronounced wind noise over the doors and mirrors at speed.
Interior
8/10
How’s the interior? Up front, the WRX feels roomy for its class, and finding an excellent driving position should be easy. There's lots of range from the adjustable steering column and the driver's seat. The cabin controls are all within reach, and with the exception of the center screen, which looks daunting to use, everything is pretty easy to navigate. The back seat is a bit more cramped, especially with the transmission tunnel running through the center of the floor, so don't put your long-legged friends in the center of the back seat.
Getting in and out of the WRX is easy thanks to wide-opening doors, and once you're inside, there's a good view forward from large windows. The high trunk line makes rear visibility more of a challenge compared to others in the class, but that's no major penalty.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $3,885 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $3,885 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the tS trim.
How’s the tech? The available 11.6-inch center screen is a highlight of the interior experience. It has crisp graphics and quick responses to inputs. Some users may dislike the portrait-style layout, but getting used to its functions is relatively easy. Seeing navigation destinations and directions is easy too thanks to the clear screen and high-contrast display. The available 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is excellent as well, with high-quality audio that's properly powered for high-volume listening.
Smartphone connections occur quickly, and voice controls are easy to use thanks to a number of on-screen prompts and the system understanding most natural language. Our test vehicle was missing some key optional driver aids including adaptive cruise control and forward collision mitigation, but the blind-spot warning system and lane keeping assistance on the vehicle worked well without false alarms or overly sensitive alerts.
Storage
7/10
How’s the storage? As a higher-performing compact sedan, the WRX goes up against a lot of competitors that are available either as sedans and hatchbacks, or hatchbacks exclusively. The WRX only offers 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space, which is less than what the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Elantra N offer. Thankfully, the rear seats do fold down to accommodate longer items.
Small-item storage is adequate enough for smartphones and small water bottles. Installing child seats into the back should be relatively easy thanks to wide-opening doors, though you have less rear legroom to fit a larger seat.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
5.5/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates a manual-equipped WRX will get 22 mpg in combined driving, which is one of the worst in the class. Driving the WRX on the Edmunds' test loop for 115 miles, the WRX averaged 24 miles per gallon. That's right where we'd expect it to be according to its fuel economy rating, but other cars such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Hyundai Elantra N are more frugal.
Value
6.5/10
Is the WRX a good value? Build quality is excellent. There are lots of soft-touch surfaces, and the WRX feels classy from the moment you step inside. Unfortunately, the WRX has much worse fuel economy than competitors and worse mpg than already bad previous-generation models. It's also one of the more expensive higher-performing compact sedans on the market.
For the class, the WRX's warranty is average: three years/36,000 miles of basic coverage, five years/60,000 miles of powertrain coverage, and corrosion coverage for five years/unlimited miles. Roadside assistance lasts the life of the basic warranty.
Wildcard
8/10
We're bummed Subaru doesn't offer a higher-performing WRX STI like it used to, or even a hatchback body style. The plastic panels that line the bodywork are a polarizing bit of styling too. But the WRX is fun to drive, which is ultimately the most important aspect.
Which WRX does Edmunds recommend?
As much as we like the combination of features on the new tS trim, we still think the midtier Premium trim is the best value. It comes with heated seats, mirrors and wipers for cold climates, and the bigger infotainment touchscreen is a welcome upgrade.
Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
Subaru WRX models
[Editor's note: The following unofficial information is based on last year's WRX. We expect the 2025 model will have a similar lineup and we'll update this section once we have complete information.] The Subaru WRX sedan comes in five trim levels: base, Premium, Limited, TR, GT and the new tS. Each has a turbocharged 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine (271 horsepower, 258 lb-ft of torque). All-wheel drive is standard, as is a six-speed manual on all but the GT trim. A continuously variable automatic transmission is optional on the Premium and Limited and standard on the GT. (Subaru calls the CVT a Subaru Performance Transmission.) Highlights from each trim level are as follows:
Base In standard specification, the WRX includes:
17-inch wheels
Summer performance tires
LED headlights
Remote keyless entry
Single-zone automatic climate control
Cloth sport-bolstered seats
Height-adjustable driver's seat
60/40-split folding rear seats
Leather-wrapped steering wheel
Dual 7-inch center touchscreens
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration
Six-speaker sound system
Every WRX also comes with:
Forward collision warning with automatic braking (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
Lane departure mitigation (warns you of a lane departure when a turn signal isn't used and can automatically steer to maintain lane position)
Lane keeping system (makes minor steering corrections to help keep the vehicle centered in its lane)
Evasive steering assistance (enhances the forward collision mitigation system with steering-based collision avoidance)
Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the WRX and the car in front)
Premium The WRX Premium adds several desirable features, including:
18-inch wheels
LED foglights
Heated side mirrors
Windshield wiper de-icer system
Keyless entry and ignition
Dual-zone automatic climate control
Heated front seats
11.6-inch center touchscreen (replaces the dual 7-inch displays)
Starlink connected services
Dual rear USB ports
Options for the Premium include:
Harman Kardon premium sound system
Sunroof
Limited This version of the WRX adds comfort and tech in the form of:
Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
Body-color exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals
Sunroof
Power-adjustable driver's seat
Synthetic leather seating with microsuede inserts
Navigation system
Harman Kardon premium sound system
Blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic warning (alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot during a lane change or while in reverse)
Add the CVT to the Limited, and the car also has:
Rear automatic braking (brakes if sensors detect an imminent collision with an object behind the vehicle)
TR The TR trim sits just above the WRX Limited in the lineup. It makes do without the Limited's sunroof but adds a few performance parts in its place. That includes:
19-inch wheels with high-performance tires
Red Brembo brakes
Revised suspension tuning for more precise handling
Recaro front sport seats
GT With the GT trim, the CVT and all driver assist features listed above are standard equipment, plus:
Adaptive suspension dampers (adjust to enhance both ride comfort and handling)
Additional drive mode settings
Recaro front sport seats
Upgraded interior trim
tS The new STI-tuned tS trim builds off the TR and GT and is also fully loaded with nearly all available options. Specific upgrades for the tS include:
STI-tuned adaptive suspension dampers
STI-tuned steering and drive modes
Gold-colored Brembo brakes
19-inch wheels and tires
Black exterior trim on the spoiler, mirrors and shark fin antenna
2022 Subaru WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
This is my fifth Subaru since 2010, and my second WRX. My first was a 2014 hatchback (wagon), so much of my review on the 2022 model is in comparison to my past experiences with my 2014, and lessor to the common attributes of Subaru manufacture in general.
First off, you'll see a large discrepancy between "shop" reviews and user reviews. Shop reviews tend to follow each other in … lockstep, with an emphasis on creating "views" more than focusing on an objective honest review from a purchaser standpoint.
My first advice to you if you are interested in the WRX, is to quit reading/watching shop reviews online and go test drive one immediately. It's highly likely (I won't speak for you) that the experience you have in person will be much different than any review you read online. In fact, I would say it's likely much more positive than the cookie cutter/lock step shop reviews out there.
Secondly, come back here and write your own review and mention the differences of your experiences vs. the shop reviews. Consumers want consumer reviews, be detailed and take your time- we all benefit.
Here is my review:
Refined. That was the word that summed up my first test drive. Every detail of the WRX seemed better than my 2014 WRX, and there were even refinements over my 2018 Crosstrek, and 2021 Ascent that I appreciated (mainly, but not limited to, the refinement of the firmware in the interface and electronics). I was impressed.
My second test drive was extended, over a half hour long, and I could dig deeper into the way the drive train, handling, and engine performed. Overall I left more impressed than my first test drive and that experience caused me to custom order my own.
My 2022 WRX was delivered almost a month early than the expected delivery date. I've had it for 3 days and I've driven it in every condition that I will experience. Freeway, mountains, wet weather (monsoon storm in the desert), and in town. I am still in the break in period so I'm paying attention not to go over the 4K rpm mark, and I have not used cruise control (both recommendations from the dealer). Since I took ownership, my impression has only improved further. You get a lot for your money here, even with the base model- but I do recommend getting the short throw shifter, its pretty much an affordable must.
There's too much to list in terms of positive experiences, but all I can keep thinking is how refined it is in every way. From the aluminum hood with gas struts, to the awesome instrument cluster, the excellent vision out of the windows, the thrill of the handling (which is amazingly good), to the spirited acceleration, it's all fantastic. Unless you want obnoxiously loud exhaust, you'll find the sound of this WRX is near perfection. Just enough growl and beautiful harmony to keep a smile on your face, without waking up the neighbors and getting shoes thrown at your car.
I was able to easily get over 30mpg on the highway (as high as 35mpg, and as low as 28mpg) and even with all the back roads driving and in town start and stops, I had no issues getting 25mpg or more. Those numbers will likely change after break in when I can use the full rev range and/or I'm able to use cruise control (I expect a wider range of high and low MPG).
Many positive details will reveal themselves the more time you spend driving a 2022 WRX. For instance, the dual screen set up- I prefer this to the 11" screen. It's a more organized way to divide up the functions for both the car (bottom) and infotainment (top). There are also a few more analog controls which I prefer to most touch screen interfaces. I find more reliance on touch screens tend to demand more attention away from the road. Fancy, but overkill for my needs. The dual screen set up is a good overall compromise between modern tech and analog.
Now as far as the drive train, whoa. I can tell you the sound and smoothness of the engine are far superior to my 2014 WRX. The power comes in just over 2K, so much sooner than the older (and more quirky/less reliable 2.5), and wow is it just a treat feeling it push you back in your seat.
The gear box really shines on mountain roads to whit I feel it is best suited. Going up hill you'll practically live in 3rd gear which gives you plenty of punch as low as 25mph, and yet can be revved up comfortably to well over 65mph. Its nearly perfect for the twists and turns and that mixed with the incredible grip on hard turns, gives you complete command of the road. It's an awesome experience that I can't properly describe with text.
The gear box feels a bit low for around the town driving, 1st gear especially, but that gear is awesome in bumper to bumper traffic, to whit I believe is its main purpose. At first I wasn't sure I'd like the gear ratios but after driving it in so many different circumstances, I see the brilliance of the engineering and decisions to design it as such.
Again, driving it will enlighten you. Reviews do not do this car justice.
It's roomier, more refined and well thought out, faster, handles better, and has better gas mileage than my old 2014. On top of that, is that its engine can stand for some serious upgrading without fear of it blowing up (like the old 2.5's did). When the aftermarket gets rolling on WRX mods, I think this car will be the most popular WRX yet, proving all the naysayers wrong.
If I have the option to update this review in the future I will, for now, I've pretty much covered the basics. There are many little details that I wanted to include in this review, but I'd rather leave some room for surprise and to your own experience to find.
If you live in So Cal give Irvine Subaru a try, I can't recommend them enough. Family owned and awesome down to earth staff, they will take care of you like a friend, no hassle, top rate service.
Update: Just reread my review, I agree with everything that I've said previously still. It's because my weekend driver. I hope I have it the rest of my life. Cobb tuning now has a tuning kit available you can purchase if you want more horsepower out of your WRX. Check it out online you can bring the torque up to 400 foot pounds and the horsepower over 300 (barely). I may look into that in the future.
Still 100% satisfied with my purchase I have no real complaints about my new WRX I just wish Subaru would make a hatchback version. Subaru do not get rid of the gas powered WRX. Subaru do not get rid of the manual transmission. If you do both you will kill the spirit of driving.
"A jack of all trades is a master of non, but often times better than a master of one" This is true for the 2022 WRX. The engine produces pretty good horsepower, excellent handling, comfortable seats, actual usable back seats for adults and good space in the trunk, enough technology, good price and with good resale value. I dig the looks and functionality of the plastic cladding around … the car (not exaggerating). My premium manual trim cost $33k which I feel is a very good deal for what the car comes with. My brother had a 2017 WRX Premium and upgraded to a 2021 STI and both I've test drove, but the tuning of the 2022 and in all areas (interior, engine -power delivery, handling, tech) is just better. Are there any other car brand/model that'll offer what the WRX can (270hp, AWD) starting at $30k? Probably not. No, it's not as fast as the Elantra N, does not have the gas efficiency of a Civic SI, or excellent interior like the Mazda 3, but if you are looking for sporty, practical, and fun sedan, the 2022 WRX is a wonderful bang for the buck car!
I bought the premium model with the sunroof and updated radio package. Added the short shifter too. This car is AMAZING. Powerful, shifts smoothly, comfortable interior. Bought it in the mag grey. Hides the wheel cladding. You will have zero regrets buying this car.
UPDATE - I'm not wild about the touchscreen infotainment system. During daylight hours it catches glare and is difficult to see even with sunglasses. It's not intuitive, and there's no knobs or switches to control common heat/ac functions. I have to take my eyes off the road to make changes - not cool.
I traded in my 2015 silver WRX premium cvt (88,000 miles) for a 2022 black WRX … premium 6 spd, and I'm ecstatic! I didn't plan on getting black, but it looked way better to me in person than the silver or blue - the black cladding on the fenders is more noticeable on the non-black cars. My neighbors love it, and they're not even sure what it is. The new platform is an improvement in every respect, and the ride is more refined, while still firm and sporty. The 6 spd is a joy to shift, and a huge improvement over my last stick (2005 STI). This car is marginally bigger than my 2015, but seems larger inside because the space is better utilized. The front seats are more comfortable too. From 1900 rpm to redline, you get maximum linear torque. I had to pay sticker, but until recently that was just a dream. I'm not sure why people are bashing this car in online reviews. There are MANY good reasons why the 2022 WRX only stays on a dealer's lot for an average of 8 days, an industry low.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2025 Subaru WRX, so we've included reviews for other years of the WRX since its last redesign.
Subaru’s WRX is based on the Impreza, but it’s harder to tell now that the current generation Impreza is only sold as a hatchback and the WRX is only available as a sedan. The mechanical differences are even more meaningful, as the WRX is thoroughly reengineered as a rally-bred hooligan with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four making 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque and an available six-speed manual transmission sending power to all four wheels.
Edmunds spotlight: Fuel economy isn't a strong suit
For all the joy it delivers on the road or on a track, the WRX's powertrain is at a disadvantage when it comes to delivering competitive fuel economy. A relatively large four-cylinder, forced induction and all-wheel drive conspire to make the WRX far thirstier than its direct rivals. Its EPA-estimated highway fuel economy of 26 mpg (with the manual transmission) is 8 mpg behind the manual Volkswagen GTI. The WRX’s 22 mpg combined rating trails the GTI by 6 mpg. For budget performance cars burning premium fuel, the difference adds up fast.
Competitors to consider
The WRX is one of the original sport compacts, and its competitors are a mix of longtime rivals and fresh challengers. In the former category, the Honda Civic Si and Volkswagen GTI have been brawling with the WRX for generations, and all three are outstanding in their current iterations. In the newcomers’ corner are the Hyundai Elantra N and — if you’re considering one of the WRX’s more expensive trim levels — the Toyota GR Corolla. Shoppers in the snowbelt should note that only the WRX and GR Corolla are all-wheel-drive.
Edmunds says
More mature and comfortable than previous generations, the Subaru WRX is still a turbocharged riot, with a playful chassis and powerful flat-four.
FAQ
Is the Subaru WRX a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2025 WRX both on the road and at the track, giving it a 7.5 out of 10. Edmunds’ consumer reviews show that the 2025 WRX gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 35 reviews) What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the WRX has 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Subaru WRX. Learn more
What's new in the 2025 Subaru WRX?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2025 Subaru WRX:
New STI-tuned tS trim level
Part of the fifth WRX generation introduced for 2022
To determine whether the Subaru WRX is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the WRX. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the WRX's 5-star average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2025 Subaru WRX a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2025 Subaru WRX is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2025 WRX and gave it a 7.5 out of 10. Our consumer reviews show that the 2025 WRX gets an average rating of 5 stars out of 5 (based on 35 reviews). Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2025 WRX is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2025 Subaru WRX?
The least-expensive 2025 Subaru WRX is the 2025 Subaru WRX Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $35,750.
Other versions include:
Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $35,750
Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $37,100
Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $40,130
Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $41,680
GT 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT) which starts at $45,705
tS 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M) which starts at $45,705
If you're interested in the Subaru WRX, the next question is, which WRX model is right for you? WRX variants include Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M), Premium 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT), Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo 6M), and Limited 4dr Sedan AWD (2.4L 4cyl Turbo CVT). For a full list of WRX models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more