2022 Subaru WRX revealed: Stiffer, sharper, and available with a manual

Subaru of America has introduced the all new 2022 WRX.

The new rally icon is now powered by a new 271bhp 2.4-litre engine and is now based on the Subaru Global Platform, which offers increased safety, improved dynamics, and reductions in noise, vibration, and harshness.

The 2022 WRX has a wide-body delivering an aggressive stance and bold new look. At the front, Subaru's signature hexagonal grille is partnered with compact LED head lights and a broad front hood scoop to emphasise the wide and low look.

And at the rear, the deck lid has an integrated low-profile rear spoiler in matching body color. Rear taillights are designed to glow with a look reminiscent of volcanic magma.

The new WRX now has a new top-of-the-line 'GT' trim. This trim comes with what the firm dubs the 'Subaru Performance Transmission' - a continuously variable transmission - as standard. The new WRX also comes with Subaru's first ever electronically controlled dampers on 'GT' trim models. A drive mode selector will also offer additional options to configure steering feel, damper settings, SI-Drive settings, and more. Engine and automatic transmission operation can be tailored to driver preferences with three different settings for the SI-Drive Performance Management System.

Peak power from the 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer engine is offered at 5,600rpm. The new engine also has a broader torque curve, with 350Nm of torque from 2,000rpm to 5,200rpm. The increased displacement, along with a turbocharger equipped with electronically controlled wastegate and air bypass valves, is said to improve both responsiveness and acceleration.

Every WRX is equipped with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Active Torque Vectoring. Power is put to the road either through a six-speed manual transmission, or the new automatic.

Subaru states the new gearbox will perform rev-matching downshifts under braking, maintain the ideal ratio through corners, and respond faster on corner exit. Total ratio coverage range has been enlarged, and lower 'fixed' gear ratios have been revised to improve acceleration and response.

For additional driver involvement, an eight-speed manual mode can be accessed using steering wheel paddle shifters. An available external transmission fluid cooler improves durability and capability under demanding conditions.

The adoption of the Subaru Global Platform also promises increased chassis stiffness and a lower center of gravity for the 2022 WRX. Subaru is claiming a 28% increase in overall torsional rigidity and a 75% increase in suspension mounting point rigidity from the new platform.

Other handling improvements include a longer suspension stroke, for increased vehicle stability and lateral grip on uneven surfaces. The rear stabiliser bar is also now mounted directly to the body to further reduce body roll when cornering.

Also new is a dual-pinion electric power steering system also promises quicker response to driver inputs, improved accuracy, and a more natural steering feel.

The 2022 Subaru WRX gets a black interior with contrast red stitching and carbon fiber pattern accents throughout. Also featuring here is a flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated switches for audio, voice recognition, and EyeSight control.

An optional new tablet-style 11.6-inch infotainment display comes with Subaru's Starlink Multimedia Plus technology, allowing easy access to entertainment and vehicle settings. The system supports smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The 2022 Subaru WRX will also come with an optional 11-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and a 504W equivalent amplifier.