Subaru WRX 2.0 AWD CVT Review: Relax in this Rex

What we like:

Refined and smooth

the new WRX has most certainly matured

giving quick point-to-point pace in an accessible

fuss-free way

What we dislike:

We’re not sure if this is what fits the WRX nameplate

and apart from the quad tailpipes you’d be hard-pressed to tell this is not a normal Impreza sedan

With this ease behind the wheel, it made for rapid progress on nip and tuck roads. The AWD system helped, giving the car immense, unflappable grip that allowed you to use every single horsepower effectively. However, it does seem to be geared more for road-holding security than adding to the overall sporty driving experience. It gave the car a predictably understeer-biased character, although it is possible to shed this away with throttle input, corrected with little joy.

On bumpy roads the car also rode very well, despite keeping body roll to a minimum – you can really feel the benefit of the lower centre of gravity of the boxer engine.

With all the promise of the WRX nameplate, we’re not so sure if it still has its roots in rallying. Its surprising refinement is a big plus, but that is a bonus to me rather than the main point of buying a WRX; I was expecting a road-going version, if only a mild one, of a WRC machine but it is far from that.

While being a very rapid point-to-point machine, helped in no small measure with a highly effective engine and a well-sorted ride, it does not have much interest in engaging the driver in the process. Speed comes easy in this car, and while this may appeal to many drivers these days, in this case unfortunately it also trades away driver involvement.

Credits: Wong C W