• The 2022 Subaru WRX gets an all-new GT trim with adaptive shocks
• Subaru’s fuel economy figures are rather disappointing
• The new WRX makes 271 hp and 258 lb-ft

Despite much controversy, plastic fenders, and wonky trim level structure, Subaru has debuted the latest generation of its rally-bred sedan. The 2022 Subaru WRX is here. And here, we’ll go through everything you need to know about the brand’s latest AWD, turbocharged machination. If you want one, this is your one-stop-shop for all things ’22 ‘Rex.

2022 Subaru WRX specs and fuel economy

First, the spec sheet. The new WRX’s engine is shared with a crossover, but that doesn’t stop it from being potent. Subaru’s ever-present 2.4L turbocharged flat-four moves things about, making 271 hp and 258 lb-ft. However, the WRX gets worse fuel economy than some sports cars, managing only 22 mpg combined. Thankfully, you’ll be getting a bit more for those fuel ratings when the 2022 Subaru WRX STI drops later this year. However, no word yet on the power figures for the STI. We expect at least 320 hp. 60 mph is dealt with in a respectable 4.7-5.6 seconds. Of course, much of that is dependent on your choice of transmission. That’ll get covered in more detail below.

Subaru WRX safety features

While performance is all well and good, the 2022 Subaru WRX doesn’t skimp on safety. The last automatic transmission WRX came with Subaru’s full suite of EyeSight active safety features, and we expect the same here. That means features like automatic braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control will be here for 2022. However, the manual transmission is somewhat more of an unknown. It’s tough to integrate these features into a stick car, but we know that lane departure warning will at least be there. The last 2014-2021 Subaru WRX scored an IIHS Top Safety Pick rating and a 5-star rating from the NHTSA.

Interior space and cargo capacity

In most aspects regarding storage space, the 2022 Subaru WRX remains largely unchanged. The seats still fold down, though not quite flat. Hopefully, the belt you see above can be detached. There’s ample room in the new WRX, though taller folks will find the back a bit cramped. The ‘Rex is still a compact sedan, after all. We still bemoan the loss of the hatchback Impreza WRX, but we’ll take what we can get. Subaru has greatly revised the interior, and there’s plenty of cubbies and hidey holes to keep your things in place.

2022 WRX technology

While much of Subaru’s updates are universal across the model range, the infotainment is not. Base models instead get a split-screen deal. From what we’ve heard, it’s far less responsive than the 11-inch tablet unit you see above. Thankfully, Apple Carplay and Android Auto still come standard. The rest of the tech comes down to the driver assists listed above.

Which WRX trim should you buy?

Let’s talk trim levels. Much like last year’s model, the 2022 Subaru WRX gets a base, Premium, and Limited trim. All of those can be had with either a 6-speed or a CVT automatic. You know which transmission to get. Obviously, the niceties improve the further up that trim level structure you get. Then there’s the Subaru WRX GT, which lands all-new adaptive shocks. This is as loaded up as the new WRX will come, complete with heated seats and all those Subaru EyeSight features. If you’re asking me, a Premium stick Subaru WRX is the way to go. You’ll still get heated seats, but who wants all those cushy features in their rally car?