2019 Subaru WRX Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?
Designed for the drivers who desire more fun, the 2019 Subaru WRX remains one of the top sport compacts on the market. While the Subaru WRX is an exciting ride, it’s still practical enough to handle the task of hauling around your family. Let’s find out if the new Subaru WRX is a good choice for you.
What’s New for 2019?
A few changes were made to the 2019 Subaru WRX. Aside from introducing a limited-edition Series.Gray model, Subaru also equips the new WRX with an updated infotainment system. Meanwhile, the high-performance STI model packs just a touch more power under the hood.
Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2019 Subaru WRX – The Pros
1. Engaging Base Powertrain
Motivating the base WRX is a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It’s rated to produce a formidable 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. There’ll always be plenty of power on tap. While an available CVT makes the WRX easier to drive in traffic, driving purists will love the six-speed manual transmission’s sportiness. When tested at the track, the Subaru WRX recorded a speedy 0-60 time of 5.5 seconds.
2. High-Powered STI Model
While even the base WRX is a fun driving machine, the STI model is more potent. Power comes from a larger 2.5-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This year, Subaru managed to squeeze out an extra five horsepower. It now pushes out an exciting 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. With an estimated 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds, the WRX STI is destined to trigger an adrenaline rush.
3. Handles Like a Sports Car
The four-door Subaru WRX is a great alternative to traditional sports car. Fortunately, it does not sacrifice any fun. You will certainly enjoy the WRX’s slick handling. Active Torque Vectoring comes standard throughout the lineup. Direct steering makes the WRX even more engaging to drive. If you plan to hit the track, consider getting the STI model. It comes equipped with a few extra performance upgrades. A more aggressive suspension helps the WRX STI to feel incredibly stable at high speeds.
4. All-Weather Performance Car
Unlike most other compact sport sedans, the 2019 Subaru WRX comes standard with all-wheel drive. Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system ensures the maximum traction in all types of driving conditions. It’s especially helpful during the winter time. Because of the WRX’s AWD system, you’ll be able to have fun throughout the year. Aside from enhancing traction, the system helps you to rip around corners on the track.
5. Boy Racer Styling
If you love an aggressive-looking car, the 2019 Subaru WRX is destined to catch your eye. A sleek body kit and vented hood give it a sinister look. On the rear, quad exhaust outlets further highlight the WRX’s sporty design. You’ll also notice the WRX’s powerful stance. Featuring a set of 18-inch black wheels and a special paint color, the new WRX Series.Gray is a true head-turner. A large spoiler adds to the WRX STI’s aggressiveness.
6. Dealer-Installed Performance Goodies
Even without any upgrades, the Subaru WRX is an exciting ride. However, you can elevate the WRX’s fun factor by opting for the available dealer-installed parts. A lot of drivers will like the performance exhaust, which gives the sedan an intimidating sound. Meanwhile, the optional short-throw shifter will come in handy when making laps around the track. You can also upgrade the WRX with light-weight alloy wheels.
7. Enough Space for Families
Don’t underestimate the Subaru WRX’s ability to comfortably transport families. Despite the WRX’s compact design, it provides plenty of space on the inside. Available heated front seats help you to remain cozy on cold days. Most importantly, there’s a generous amount of passenger room in the back. With a total of 12 cubic feet of trunk space, the WRX can easily accommodate groceries and travel bags.
8. Improved Infotainment System
Last year’s infotainment system was considered to be a bit dated. Luckily, Subaru has revamped the WRX’s Starlink interface. Drivers will certainly appreciate the system’s high-resolution touch screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto make it easy to connect your smartphone. You can also enjoy standard Pandora and Aha music app streaming. While a 6.5-inch screen comes standard, a larger 7.0-inch display is featured on most models.
9. Worthy Safety Technologies
The new Subaru WRX allows you to ride with an extra sense of security. While all versions of the WRX provide outstanding impact protection, Subaru's EyeSight safety package will make it easier for you to avoid collisions. Some of the world-class driving aids include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Available LED Steering Responsive Headlamps promote better visibility at night. Blind-spot monitoring is also offered.
10. Easy-to-Use Components
Some of today’s newest in-car technologies can be a distraction. Fortunately, the 2019 Subaru WRX doesn’t suffer from this problem. All of its interior controls are a breeze to use. Like the infotainment system, the climate control system is simple to operate.
Reasons Not to Buy a 2019 Subaru WRX – The Cons
1. Can Have a Rather Stiff Ride
If you’re looking for a plush ride, the 2019 Subaru WRX may leave you disappointed. In exchange for the WRX’s tight handling, you are forced to sacrifice some ride quality. When driving on broken pavement, expect to experience some bumpiness. The high-performance WRX model has an even harsher ride. Drivers who desire a more refined ride should check out the 2019 Volkswagen GTI. Although the Volkswagen GTI is a hatchback, it rivals the WRX’s performance capabilities.
2. Heavy Clutch
When equipped with a manual transmission, the Subaru WRX can be a pain to drive in congestion. Its heavy clutch requires more effort to use. Furthermore, failing to smoothly press the throttle can cause jerkiness. The constant stopping and going will be draining for some drivers. Although the automatic CVT may not be as fun, it is more suitable for driving in urban areas.
3. Not Luxurious
Subaru designed the WRX to satisfy your desire for driving excitement. It’s not meant to deliver a luxurious driving experience. You won’t have access to premium features such as ventilated seats. While the WRX has a user-friendly interior, it doesn’t feel special. The cabin looks similar to that of an ordinary economy car. On the bright side, everything looks neat and organized.
4. Some Models Aren’t Fuel-Efficient
When fitted with a manual transmission, the 2019 Subaru WRX can return a reasonable 21 mpg in the city and up to 27 mpg on the highway. Opting for the automatic CVT drastically lowers the car’s fuel economy. Driving in heavy traffic will further decrease efficiency. Because of the WRX’s performance-oriented engine, you will need to pay extra for premium unleaded fuel.
5. Less Reliable Than Some Competitors
The Subaru WRX has a below-average predicted reliability rating. This could be a concern for the drivers who plan to use their WRX for everyday commuting. Performance upgrades make the STI model even more expensive to maintain. Keep in mind that the WRX’s powertrain warranty expires after 60,000 miles.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
You can compare the 2019 Subaru WRX to the new 2019 Honda Civic Si. Although the Honda Civic Si doesn’t offer all-wheel drive, it’s almost as fun to drive. You can also take advantage of the Civic Si’s better fuel economy, which tops at 38 mpg on the highway. If you want an automatic transmission, you are out of luck with the Civic Si.
Some people will also considering getting the 2018 Mazda 3 instead of the 2019 Subaru WRX. While the Mazda 3 handles great and offers better gas mileage, it doesn’t come close to matching the WRX’s thrilling performance. The Mazda 3’s front-wheel-drive system also limits its traction in the snow.
Conclusion
The 2019 Subaru WRX is hands-down one of the best sport compacts you can buy. It’s a great choice for the sports car fanatics who need to haul around their kids. Although the WRX rides rough, most people find its razor-sharp handling to be well worth it. Valuable safety technologies make the WRX even more suitable for families. Standard all-wheel drive adds to the WRX’s appeal.
