After six years being based on the previous-generation Impreza, the new WRX finally moves to the Subaru Global Platform that underpins all Subarus. With the new platform, Subaru notes that torsional rigidity is up 28 percent and the rigidity of the suspension mounting points are 75 percent stiffer than before, creating a more stable platform for the suspension to work. Under the hood of the new WRX is the 2,4L turbo boxer-four that powers the Ascent and premium versions of the Legacy/Outback. Power output is 271, 11 more than in its showroom mates. All-wheel drive with Active Torque Vectoring, is standard. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual or a CVT that Subaru calls the Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT). The oil-cooler-equipped SPT is stated to have 30 percent faster upshifts and 50 percent faster downshifts than the CVT in the previous WRX. CVT-equipped WRXs (but not the manuals) feature the fourth generation of Subaru’s Eyesight active safety suite. Eyesight software has been revised and the system features a wider field of view than before. Emergency automatic steering, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and throttle management, lane keep assist, sway warning, and lane centring assist, are all included this year. Blind spot and rear cross traffic are part of the Sport and higher trims and reverse automatic braking has been added to CVT models.

Starting with the Impreza sedan base, Subaru has added WRX-characteristic flared fenders (aluminum in front) and a number of other styling features, such as rear taillights said to glow like volcanic magma, to give the WRX a more aggressive look than the mainstream Impreza. The cabin of the new WRX is essentially that of the Impreza but with the dashboard from the 2024 Imprezza-Crosstrek. Base models will feature the brilliantly logical infotainment screen and straightforward climate controls from the Impreza. Sport and higher trims use the large-format touchscreen seen in the Legacy-Outback. It looks great, but fan speed and air distribution are screen based, which is an unnecessary distraction while driving. Excellent packaging means very good space for four adults,

The base WRX trim is reasonably equipped but is only offered in manual transmission which precludes the EyeSight active safety suite. Moving up from the manual-transmission WRX to the manual-transmission Sport adds blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, push button start, fog lights, a sunroof, upgraded cloth, the large-format infotainment screen, rear USB ports, dual-zone air conditioning and lit vanity mirrors, and is priced to reflect the value of the content. Moving from a Sport with EyeSight to a Sport-Tech with Eyesight includes faux-suede seats, heated rear seats, navigation and a Harman-Kardon branded audio system, but is overpriced.

Predicted reliability is average at best for the first three or four years, declining after that. Higher than expected servicing costs.