Canadian-Spec Subaru WRX Gets Upgrades With No Price Increase; A New RS Package and Safety Tech is Coming

The redesigned Subaru WRX sports sedan gets numerous upgrades for the 2018MY and the base model doesn’t get a price increase in Canada. A new RS Package and safety tech is also coming.

The newly-remodeled 2018 Subaru WRX remains the best sports car value in North America as the performance sedan gets additional upgrades with enhanced performance and no price increase in Canada. The rally-bred base WRX holds a starting price of $29,995 for 2018. Performance enthusiasts north of the border will get the new models starting in June.

What’s new for 2018?

The newly-refreshed 2018 Subaru WRX gets enhanced performance, a new RS Package, and new safety tech. The driving dynamics have been improved with the the addition of improved steering feel and revised suspension tuning. The interior gets needed noise reduction throughout the cabin. Other new upgrades for 2018 include a larger capacity battery, revised front bumper, revised door trim, an updated front grille, a revised fog light bezel, more passenger side body strength and a new roof bracket.

Inside, all WRX trims get an updated instrument panel and center console trims, a new fold-down center rear armrest with cup holders, a revised gauge cluster, and a new 5.9-inch high-resolution color multi-function display with new menu screens. Models equipped with the six-speed manual gearbox get a revised shift lever while the transmission and clutch feel have both been improved. CVT-equipped models have received improvements to the gear selector operation.

New RS Package

An optional RS Package is also new for the 2018 WRX Sport-tech trim with 6-speed manual gearbox ($38,795). It features interior enhancements and performance parts. It comes with 8-way power adjustable leather and Ultra-suede Recaro front seats, Ultra-suede and leather seating material on rear seats, Jurid brake pads and red-painted calipers.

Also new for 2018, the Canadian-spec WRX can be equipped with the optional EyeSight Package for the first time. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system is now available on the WRX Sport-tech CVT trim only ($39,095). The safety system includes an entire suite of preventative safety features that includes pre-collision braking, pre-collision brake assist, pre-collision throttle management, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane sway warning, lead vehicle start alert and lane keep assist.

The 2018 Subaru WRX gets numerous performance enhancements, styling revisions, interior functionality, and safety upgrades with no price increase on the base trim. The performance sedan is offered in three trim levels: WRX ($29,995), WRX Sport ($33,195) and WRX Sport-tech ($36,495). Canadian performance enthusiasts will see the new models arrive in showrooms starting in June.

Photo credit: Subaru