When I got into this car, buckled up and started the engine with a loud whompa-whompa-whompa, I started laughing. Out loud. That’s because the WRX is the polar opposite of everything that the Subaru brand stands for—at least in my mind. In fact, if it wasn’t already in the lineup, I’m sure Subaru would never approve of doing a car like this today.

It’s loud. It’s crude. It rough. It’s fast.

This is not a sensible car for law abiding citizens. The WRX does not make an environmental statement for all to see. Your dog will not enjoy getting thrown around as you gymkhana your way to a destination.
And that is how you’ll drive this car, every chance you get.

Resistance is futile. The WRX will quash any of your milquetoast qualities and unleash your inner beast. It’s a blast to drive and you won’t be able to resist the urge to get the most out of it.

The driving position is excellent. Your feet are firmly planted at the same distance and angle. The bolstered seats hug your butt and back. The steering wheel and gear shift lever are right where they need to be. And the pedal positions are perfect for easy heel-and-toe shifting.

Just keep it up on the cam, as they say. When you’ve got some revs going, this 271 hp 2.4-liter turbo responds magnificently. But if you’re caught in one of those traffic situations where you need to stomp on the gas and the revs are low, it moves like molasses. Might I suggest an electric turbo?

Inside, the WRX is a throwback to about a decade ago. It has a chunky look and lots of switches and buttons—not a sleek, high-tech look, though it does have the requisite tablet stuck on the center stack. But who cares? WRX buyers are going for the visceral experience, not an Apple store display look.

The WRX and its beefier brother the Sti only account for 3% of Subaru’s US sales. But they generate a devoted band of enthusiasts for the brand, or at least that side of the brand that likes noise and speed.

Base Price: $30,000
Fully loaded: $43,000

–John McElroy

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