

Sedan
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5 Seats
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23 MPG
(Combined)
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Key specs of the base trim
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Compare 3 trims
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Overview
The Good
- Comfortable seats
- Visibility
- Handling and acceleration
- Relatively affordable (WRX)
- Highway poise
The Bad
- CVT operation in most situations
- Small trunk
- Sound quality of standard stereo

What to Know
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New limited-edition Series.Gray models
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Five-seat compact performance sedan
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All-wheel drive standard
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Manual or CVT (WRX)
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High-output WRX STI model available
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EyeSight active safety system available
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2019 Subaru WRX Review
from the Cars.com expert editorial team
What Is the 2019 Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are compact performance sedans with room for up to five people. They have turbocharged engines, performance-oriented all-wheel-drive systems and racy bodywork. The WRX has a 268-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and the high-output WRX STI has a 310-hp, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder. It also includes other high-performance hardware like Brembo brakes and a driver-controlled center differential. The WRX faces competition from the Honda Civic Si, Ford Focus ST and Volkswagen Golf GTI, while the WRX STI goes up against the VW Golf R, Ford Focus RS and Honda Civic Type R.
What’s New on the 2019 Subaru WRX?
New limited-edition Series.Gray models — 750 for the WRX and 250 for the WRX STI — have a gray exterior, black badges and black 18-inch alloy wheels. WRX STI versions get 19-inch wheels and Bilstein shocks, too. Subaru's EyeSight safety system is now included standard on WRX models with a continuously variable automatic transmission, and updated multimedia systems with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity are offered.
A new air intake, retuned engine computer and high-flow exhaust system result in a 5-hp boost for the WRX STI's engine. Third gear in the WRX STI's six-speed manual transmission has been revised for faster acceleration, according to Subaru.
What Features in the 2019 Subaru WRX Are Most Important?
Unlike many other compact sedans that have front-wheel drive, Subaru’s WRX and WRX STI are distinguished by standard all-wheel drive. Both cars still offer a standard six-speed manual transmission for those interested in shifting for themselves.
Should I Buy the 2019 Subaru WRX?
If you’re looking for entertaining performance and four-season usability in one car, the WRX and WRX STI are worth a look. That said, we're not impressed with the automatic transmission, and trunk space is limited.
More Reviews from Our Experts
2019 Subaru WRX: Our ViewConsumer Reviews
What drivers are saying
Read reviews that mention:
Great daily driver with some power to back it up
Car is great in Pennsylvania winter, it has a great exterior styling but the interior feels cheaper. I’m not upset with this as it’s a sub 30,000 car and I see the trade off with the legacy for the ... Read full review
WRX: affordable performance car
Great handling, quick acceleration, fun to drive. Not great on gas in the city, but pretty good on the highway. Had the short-throw shifter installed, which was a great decision for city driving. I ... Read full review
Safety
Recalls and crash tests
Recalls
The 2019 Subaru WRX currently has 0 recalls
Crash and Rollover Test Ratings
Warranty
New car and certified pre-owned programs by Subaru
New Car Program Benefits
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Bumper-to-Bumper
36 months / 36,000 miles
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Powertrain
60 months / 60,000 miles
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Roadside Assistance
36 months / 36,000 miles
Certified Pre-Owned Program Benefits
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Maximum Age/Mileage
5 years/80,000 miles
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Basic Warranty Terms
Coverage available for purchase
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Powertrain
7 years/100,000
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Dealer Certification Required
152-point inspection
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Roadside Assistance
Yes