What’s new on the 2015 Subaru WRX

The all-new 2015 Subaru WRX will be coming with many more new features and options over the outgoing model. It should appeal to a wider audience with all the new high-tech and luxury items. First of all, we’ll look at the standard features you will see on the new performance WRX. Ever since the first “bugeye” arrived in the U.S. market back in 2002, WRX featured lots of racing technology that appealed to performance fans. This new-generation model comes with more goodies that will make it the best so far.

It starts with a new 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve 4-cylinder powerplant. It’s turbocharged and intercooled like the outgoing 2.5-liter mill. It features Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS), 268 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. peak torque. It will come mated to a new six-speed manual transmission that replaces the five-speed gearbox. Will it be improved over the outgoing 2.5-liter engine?

WRX will also be available for those wanting an automatic. In 2002 it came with a new four-speed auto, for 2015 it comes with a Sport Lineartronic automatic, with Variable Torque Distribution AWD. It features a planetary gear-type center differential and an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch. WRX now rides on new 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels and will be wrapped in 235/45 R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT tires.

For safety and security, the 2015 model will be the safest yet. WRX comes standard with a new impact-sensing fuel cutoff switch, driver’s side knee airbag and new whiplash-reducing design front performance seats with separate height and tilt-adjustable head restraints that replace the stationary headrests from the previous model.

The overall length of the the 2015 model will be one inch longer than the outgoing version. It also features new aerodynamic body components including front bumper under-spoiler, front fender side scoop, rear bumper under-spoiler and rocker spoiler.

Inside the cabin, WRX gets a new three-spoke, flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and integrated audio, Bluetooth and cruise control switches on the wheel. The WRX logo will appear on the carpeted floor mats for the first time. It will also come standard with new high-grip cloth upholstery with red stitching and a dual rear retractable center console. The electroluminescent instrument panel will now have gauges with LCD color display. Also new for 2015 will be illuminated power window switches on all doors and a standard rear vision camera.

For the new model year, WRX Premium comes standard with new illuminated visor vanity mirrors and a low-profile rear deck spoiler. The Sport Lineartronic automatic transmission will be optional on the Premium model and will come with high torque capacity, SI-DRIVE performance management system with two manual shifting modes (6-speed and 8-speed) and steering wheel paddle-shift control switches.

WRX Limited now comes with a plethora of new standard and optional luxury items. Standard on Limited will be an 8-way power driver’s seat, front seatback pocket (driver’s seat), leather-trimmed upholstery, LED low-beam headlights with automatic height adjustment. It also includes multi-reflector halogen high beams and automatic off/on and welcome lighting. Optional for WRX Limited will be the Sport Lineartronic automatic transmission, Keyless Access & Start and the new Touch Screen Navigation Package.

The all-new 2015 Subaru WRX now comes with more standard and optional equipment than ever. Subaru said they wanted to appeal to a wider audience with the WRX. With all the extra technology and luxury features, it looks like they will succeed in attracting new buyers to the performance model. In my opinion, the Japanese automaker has done a good job of keeping their existing fans happy with the performance upgrades, and are reaching out to a new buyer with the high-tech and comfort features.