2013 Subaru Impreza WRX Short Review

In all honesty, Cars Viewers were hoping to be introducing an all-new 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI in this space. By all accounts, the new sport-tuned models would have been based on the redesigned Impreza that debuted last year. We were hoping that the improvements in fuel efficiency and interior quality would have carried over to the WRX, but alas, we must wait yet for it.

To the Subaru's credit, the WRX and STI still offer thrilling performance, even as they start their ride off into the night. The Impreza WRX generates 265 horsepower and features a well-tuned and balanced chassis that allows for hard cornering on a track or on winding canyon roads. Then there's the added benefit of all-wheel drive to help improve traction in inclement weather or while powering quickly out of tight corners. The WRX STI further enhances performance with a more powerful turbo that kicks output up to 305 hp, plus limited-slip differentials both front and rear to get that power to the pavement.

Outside of performance, however, the 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STI come up short of the competition. A certain lack of refinement is most noticeable within the interior, where hard plastics abound and the fit and finish seems unimpressive. The navigation and audio systems are also a sore spot, as they suffer from indifferent performance and frustrating controls.

Vehicle OverviewWhile the compact Impreza was completely redesigned for 2012, the high-performance WRX and WRX STI variants remain unchanged. The five-seat WRX is more powerful than the regular Impreza but not as unfettered as the WRX STI.

What New for 2013?

There are no changes for 2013.

Exterior

The WRX has aggressive exterior styling with wider fenders, squared-off bumpers, a black grille and a functional hood scoop used to funnel air into the turbocharged engine's intercooler. The sedan's taillights are red, whereas the hatch has clear lenses. 

Best exterior features include:
Standard 17-inch wheels that are 8-inches wide for better grip Standard rear roof spoiler (hatchback) Available heated side mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer Available power moonroof

Interior

The WRX's interior features sport seats with black cloth upholstery and red accent stitching. The pedals and foot rest have aluminum covers. 

Best interior features include:
Standard 60/40-split folding rear seat Standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel Standard automatic air conditioning Standard USB port and MP3 jack


Under the Hood

The WRX is powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. 

Best mechanical features include:
265 horsepower and 244 pounds-feet of torque Five-speed manual transmission Engine uses premium gas

Safety

Best safety features include:
Front-seat side-impact airbags Side curtains airbags that protect front and backseat occupants against head injury Antilock brakes Electronic stability system

WRX STIThe STI version of the WRX comes in sedan or hatchback form. Its suspension is tuned with higher spring rates and thicker stabilizer bars and remains a step firmer and more performance oriented than the regular WRX.

Available Exterior Colors

	WR Blue Pearl
	Satin White Pearl
	Plasma Blue Pearl
	Ice Silver Metallic
	Dark Gray Metallic
	Crystal Black Silica

Available Interior Colors

Carbon Black

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