WASHINGTON — The 2016 Subaru WRX Limited is open to a new world of drivers who don’t drive manuals; CVT automatic now an option.
If you wanted to enjoy this fun compact sedan with a big punch, you had to know how to drive a car with three pedals, since the manual was the only option. That’s OK with me, but not everyone wants to drive or knows how to drive a manual, and some find it a chore on our crowded roads.
This time, Subaru has done something about it — and for as little as $1,200 on some WRX trim levels.
Let’s cut to the chase: Does it ruin the WRX to have a CVT transmission instead of the manual that’s been the only transmission for so long? No, not really.
I prefer the manual, but the CVT automatic is well-suited to this turbocharged four- cylinder engine. It even shifts like a normal automatic with paddle shifters. I don’t think it’s as fast as the manual, but easy to live with driving in stop-and-go traffic. This WRX is a fast compact sedan with 268hp. With different driving modes you can set up the car between a more normal ride, or turn the dial up and have a very responsive machine. Handling is really good, plus standard AWD means in just about any road condition, this little sedan will be ready.
The ride is a bit stiff but for a performance car, but it’s not too bad. You do feel more bumps and road than the competition. There’s more noise both from the road and wind, but it’s an improvement from Subaru WRXs of the past. Fuel economy does suffer a bit when you choose the CVT. I managed 21.6 mpg in 185 miles.
The Subaru WRX Limited is pricey at nearly $37,000 loaded for the luxury version of the small compact sedan. That’s not cheap, but it does come with a lot of options like NAV with a larger 7-inch screen, a 440 watt premium sound system and the very good Eyesight driver assist system that uses cameras to help with Pre Collision braking, Adaptive cruise control and other safety features. There are leather-trimmed seats and the driver seat is eight-way adjustable, and it does a good job of holding you in place. The rear seat is small car-size and about normal for this class. It’s best for two adults and not three for trips. The interior materials are step up from the past with more soft touch materials, but it still has a few trimmings and pieces of a compact sedan.
The styling outside isn’t as in your face as past WRX models — no more bug eye headlights like the original model in 2002. This new WRX has a more rounded and softer look but with some styling cues that say “this is something more than a small sedan.” The hood scoop is still there letting fresh air into the intercooler and is a staple for the WRX. Bulges around the wheel wells give it a meaner look and helps it stand out from the more pedestrian Subaru Impreza that this car is based from. There are quad exhaust tips out back that lend to its sporty demeanor and thankfully, a small, tasteful spoiler looks better to me.
The 2016 Subaru WRX Limited adds a touch of luxury to this small sedan without taking away its bite. And now more people can enjoy this little rocket machine as the addition of a CVT means people who don’t want a manual can finally enjoy it. If you want all the toys, you will have to pay more than before, but Subaru has been on a roll and I think these WRXs won’t have a problem finding new buyers to join this fun car club.
