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2015 Subaru WRX

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2015 Subaru WRX
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The WRX is back and 2015 brings us some changes for the good and some would argue others for the not so good. The Subaru WRX is again available with an automatic transmission and although my other half was praying it would have one when we picked it up in Gatineau, I was on the other side of the fence – make mine a six-speed manual please. Thankfully my prayers were answered.

This week’s victim… I mean test mule, uh chariot is the all-new 2015 Subaru WRX Sport-tech with six-speed manual transmission, in Red — unfortunately the missing link here is that the car is not in World Rally Blue with gold wheels, but the Lightning Red with black wheels looks stellar as well.

2015 Subaru WRX
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The Sport-tech package adds a few things to the base WRX that do seem very desirable: a sunroof, leather seats, push-button start with smart key and probably the most desirable feature on a WRX to date – a Harman/Kardon sound system with 440-watt amplifier and subwoofer. Finally a Subaru with a decent stereo.

Also included in the Sport-tech package is navigation with a 6.1-inch display, although like every WRX before it, it is poorly integrated and you may just want to spring for an aftermarket unit. But what isn’t poorly executed of course is the drivetrain.

For 2015 the WRX offers a 2.0L DOHC, 16-valve four-cylinder boxer engine, turbocharged with intercooler, Dual Active Valve Control System (DAVCS) producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It is more fuel efficient than the less powerful outgoing 2.5L engine.

I’m looking forward to finding out if the new WRX is faster and more refined than the outgoing model or if it is more of the same with a different body.

Pricing: 2015 Subaru WRX
Base Price: $29,995
Options: Sport Tech Package – $5,500
A/C Tax: $100
Freight and PDI: $1,650
Price as Tested: $37,245

Competitors:
Honda Civic Si
Mini Cooper S
Volkswagen GTI

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