
Price as tested: $29,095 (est.)
Miles driven during test: 690
Subaru launched the WRX Impreza back in 2002 to rave reviews from enthusiasts. We overlooked the unique styling of the first WRX because it was such a great car from behind-the-wheel. A turbocharged variant of Subaru’s creamy flat-four and symmetrical all-wheel-drive all rolled up into one very neat package made our hearts beat just a little bit faster every time we drove one. Four generations later, we still praise the WRX for these qualities, though the initial shock value has worn off. The same general components are there, but this WRX has just a little bit more to love.
Introduced at this year’s New York International Auto Show, members of the press and Internet forum goers instantly turned away from the fourth-generation WRX’s exterior styling. While we’re not in love with it, let it be known that two-dimensional photography does not do this Subie justice. When our silver test car first arrived at our Ann Arbor offices, we were a little skeptical about the appearance, but after spending some quality time with the WRX, many staffers warmed up to its look. Overall, we feel that the front fascia isn’t nearly as aggressive as the outgoing model, but like the added ground effects along the front and side panels.
Inside, the WRX’s interior quality is much improved...
(Click through the jump for more impressions of the WRX, and click the images below to open a high-resolution gallery)