Will new-generation 2015 WRX alienate existing fans?

Subaru will unveil the all-new next-generation 2015 WRX today at the Los Angeles Auto Show. How will the new performance car be accepted by Subaru fans?

The all-new-generation 2015 Subaru WRX is about to be unveiled today, but how will current WRX fans accept the changes? Anticipation is building, but current Subaru WRX fans are cautiously waiting to see what Subaru has done to the iconic performance car. We know there are changes coming to the performance WRX, but will they be changes that WRX fans will embrace?

Change is always hard, and the Japanese automaker is beginning to move into new territory and is attracting a new customer who has never purchased a Subaru product before. We see Subaru continuing to change their lineup to appeal to a larger audience. This seems to be the year where many changes are coming in the whole lineup. But will broadening the appeal alienate their existing performance fan base?

We have reported here on new revealed details about the next-generation WRX that will be coming with a new 2.0-liter engine and a longer wheelbase. It’s also been reported that Subaru will ax the five door hatch and the new WRX will only be available as a four-door sedan. Current fans are worried the new powertrain won’t boost power enough, and that the longer wheelbase will effect performance in the corners.

WRX fans have valid concerns about the power, new wheelbase and if the new WRX will have enough of the same goodies they have come to know and love about the performance model. Subaru has been very clear about wanting to appeal to new customers and change the lineup to reflect this new philosophy.

Nick Senior, Australia Subaru boss told Motoring.au recently, "I think the real DNA of WRX over the time has been its driving credentials, and I know certainly from the factory point of view, the driving experience of the new WRX was paramount... I've had the opportunity to drive it and I think it will not disappoint any of those existing customers. But I think it will appeal to new customers because of the changes that they've made. Everyone's conscious that we need to widen the appeal of the WRX, and I'm certain that this car is going to hit the mark," he said.

The all-new 2015 Subaru WRX reveal from the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show is just hours away. WRX fans have lots of questions that will be answered soon. See newest pics and details on the 2015 WRX from LA here.