Subaru WRX

Name: 2016 Subaru WRX
Brand: Subaru

EPA MPG: 24 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

EPA MPG: 24 mpg

Owner Reported MPG:

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

RECALL ALERT: There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

There are 3 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

Reliability Details

Owner Satisfaction Details

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Road Test

When the WRX first appeared here in 2002, we found this rally-car inspired version of the Impreza sedan very engaging: a genuine sports car with tons of power and super-sharp handling lodged within a mild-mannered, all-wheel drive, four-door sedan. The redesigned 2015 "Rex" carries on that tradition, and it tests out very well in some areas. But we like it a lot less, because the typical car became more civilized over the past decade and the WRX has not. Like a talented teenager who just won't grow up, after a while the lack of subtlety gets irritating.

2016 Sports Cars & Convertibles Reliability

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Subaru WRX

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Owner Reports

Owner Satisfaction

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Driving Experience

Comfort

Value

Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

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Crash Tests

IIHS Front Moderate Overlap

Good

IIHS Front Small Overlap, Driver

Good

IIHS Side Crash

Good

NHTSA Overall Crash

NHTSA Overall Frontal-Crash

NHTSA Overall Side-Crash

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Subaru vs. Other New Car Brands

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2016 Sports cars 4/5-seat Ratings

2016 Subaru WRX

$9,775 - $16,725

EPA MPG 24 mpg

Road test

Reliability

Owner Satisfaction

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$8,925 - $15,825

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$7,250 - $14,400

EPA MPG 27 mpg

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$8,750 - $15,550

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EPA MPG 24 mpg

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EPA MPG 32 mpg

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Features & Specs

sedan

2 front, 3 rear

AWD

2-liter 4 turbo (268 hp)
2.5-liter 4 turbo (305 hp)

CVT
6-speed manual

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Model History

2022-Present

Current Generation

The redesigned 2022 Subaru WRX sticks close to the established formula, with this next-generation best defined by advancements in performance and technology. It features a new 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, with a modest power increase to 271 hp, and a choice of a 6-speed manual and a continuously variable transmission. Suspension and steering changes promise improved handling. The updated interior is dominated by a large center screen used for infotainment and many other controls. A new top-level GT trim brings Recaro front seats, adjustable suspension, and further driver assist features. Standard on all trims from 2024, the latest EyeSight active safety suite expands its capabilities. It includes FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, LDW, and lane centering. 2025 saw the introduction of a new performance-focused tS version, featuring electronically-controlled STI-tuned dampers with drive mode select, a full LCD digital gauge cluster, exclusive exterior and interior accents, high-performance Brembo brakes, Recaro Ultrasuede front seats, and 19-inch wheels. Changes are minimal for 2026.

2017-2021

2017 Redesign Year

With its blistering acceleration and tenacious cornering grip, the WRX is built for the enthusiast driver. A six-speed manual is standard, but a CVT is offered. Power is abundant and handling is nimble, but the ride is very stiff and choppy, and the stiff-feeling shifter and abrupt clutch engagement make the WRX frustrating as a daily driver. The higher-performance WRX STi has transmission and suspension differences along with a stronger 305-hp engine. Subaru's EyeSight safety system, including FCW and AEB, is optional.

2015-2016

2015 Redesign Year

With its blistering acceleration and tenacious cornering grip, the WRX is built for the enthusiast driver. A six-speed manual is standard, but a CVT is offered. Power is abundant and handling is nimble, but the ride is very stiff and choppy, and the stiff-feeling shifter and abrupt clutch engagement make the WRX frustrating as a daily driver. The higher-performance WRX STi has transmission and suspension differences along with a stronger 305-hp engine. New for 2016 is Subaru's Eyesight assistance package, which includes lane-keep assist, pre-collision braking, and lane-departure warning. Blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert are also available. The hatchback is no longer available.