It’s Time To Have The Subaru WRX Hatch Discussion Again

The 2022 Subaru WRX arrives this spring with a sedan body style. With no next-generation STI coming, here’s why Subaru needs to bring back the WRX hatch in 2023.

The 2022 Subaru WRX gets a redesign, but Subaru Corporation left out a significant upgrade. Subaru would be wise to return the WRX hatch because the Japanese automaker killed the performance-tuned STI model. The next-generation WRX needs a hatchback body style.

Subaru needs to keep interest in the WRX high after they dashed performance enthusiasts’ hopes by dropping the WRX STI. A new 2023 Subaru WRX with a hatchback body style would generate new hunger for the sport-tuned sports car.

photo credit: Subaru Corporation

Performance fans have asked for a WRX hatch since the Japanese automaker discontinued the body style in 2015.

Why did Subaru drop the popular hatchback WRX/STI in 2015? If you ask Subaru, it was because of slow sales. Mamoru Ishii, the head of Subaru’s design department, told Digital Trends at the Geneva Motor Show, “We don’t have plans to bring back a WRX hatch to the market.”

But according to Subaru’s sales numbers, sixty percent of WRX and STI sales were hatchback models before they dropped the model.

Will Subaru offer the japan-spec 2022 WRX hatch in the U.S.?

Subaru of America will likely not bring the 2022 WRX hatch to the U.S. that launched in Japan and Australia. It’s the Levorg with a WRX badge, and it only comes with a CVT automatic transmission. The 6-speed manual gearbox is a must for the WRX in North America.

Over the CVT automatic, a full 90 percent of WRX buyers opt for the 6-speed manual transmission. It’s no surprise because Subaru uses a Continuously Variable automatic transmission (CVT) which is not a popular choice with performance enthusiasts.

The next-generation WRX would benefit from a hatch body style to compete with the Honda Civic Type R and new 2022 Volkswagen Golf R hot hatches. It does have its place in the performance car lineup and offers improved utility and cargo-carrying ability. Subaru has not said whether they will bring back the 5-door hatch, and it’s a perfect time after dropping the STI.

In the comments below, let Subaru know if you want them to bring back the WRX hatch in 2023. We will pass on your comments to Subaru of America.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru