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2016 Subaru WRX review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise

Subaru WRX highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • Offers all-wheel drive for confident handling
  • An impressive list of available driver assists
  • Features a solid and capable base engine

Cons

  • The interior materials are just average
  • The cabin can be loud when driving on the highway
  • The infotainment system isn't as modern as it could be

Mileage (EPA estimate)

17 city, 23 highway, 19 combined

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Price
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All Subaru WRX years

Not sure what year to select? Learn about each Subaru WRX generation from 2015 to 2025

What is new for the 2016 Subaru WRX?

  • Trim Added: Sport Edition for enhanced performance features.
  • Trim Discontinued: Base Model, now only available in higher trims.
  • Standard Equipment on all models includes advanced safety features and upgraded infotainment system.
  • New Equipment: All-wheel drive option now available on select trims.
  • Significant removal: Manual transmission option is no longer offered.

5 reasons to buy the 2016 Subaru WRX

1. AWD capability

Subaru is known for its amazing all-wheel-drive technology, and the 2016 WRX makes great use of its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. That means that the rally-bred WRX is just at home sliding through a dirt trail as it is carving corners on a paved race track or your favorite back road. It's also pretty handy when the weather goes sideways; its AWD can help improve traction in wet or slippery weather.

2. Turbo power

How does a standard turbocharged 2.0L flat-four "boxer" engine with 268 horsepower sound? A direct-injection twin-scroll turbo, plus that great AWD system, help the 2016 WRX hit 60 mph in 5.5 seconds. If you need more power, check out the performance-focused WRX STI version that ups the ante to 305 horsepower and has an even quicker blast to 60 in just 4.6 seconds.

3. Sedan practicality

A sports car usually comes with numerous compromises, a tiny (or non-existent) back seat, a small trunk, and limited storage. Thankfully, the 2016 WRX has both performance and practicality. The five-seat WRX comes in a handy four-door layout which means more room for both people and gear. It's got a 12 cubic-foot trunk, plus 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks, and 35.4 inches of rear legroom, which makes it great for both daily driving and weekend adventure duty.

4. Comfort trim levels

You might set a personal track record in your WRX on Saturday, but you can also set the cruise control and ride back home in comfort on Sunday. If you're looking for additional comfort and convenience upgrades, check out the WRX Premium, which adds great stuff like a power sunroof, heated front seats, windshield wiper de-icers, and heated outside mirrors. If you want more, the Limited model (available on the WRX and STI) adds leather upholstery, an eight-way power driver seat, and more.

5. Tech, too

Don't worry, you don't need to compromise on technology in your 2016 Subaru WRX. Standard tech includes Subaru's Starlink infotainment system which is controlled by a nicely sized 6.2-inch touchscreen. Also standard is both satellite and HD radio, a CD player, and a USB interface. Premium and Limited trims get an upgraded seven-inch screen, plus a premium nine-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system and navigation.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

The 2016 Subaru WRX is praised for its powerful engine, sharp handling, and aggressive styling, making it enjoyable for commuting and spirited driving. However, reliability concerns are frequent, with reports of engine issues and high maintenance costs. Cabin noise and limited comfort are drawbacks, but 2016 retains strong appeal for its performance-focused character.
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Above Average

RepairPal gave the Subaru WRX an overall reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, which RepairPal describes as Above Average. This rating ranks Subaru WRX 39th out of 46 among Compact Cars.

View RepairPal's full rating of the Subaru WRX

Subaru WRX features and specs

STI Series.Hyperblue 4D Sedan 4WD/AWD

Standard Features

  • Smart Key
  • Heated Mirrors
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Blind Spot Monitor
  • Cruise Control
  • Front Seat Heaters
  • Leather & Suede Seats
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Seat(s)
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear View Camera
  • Side Airbags
  • Sunroof(s)
  • Traction Control
  • Alloy Wheels
  • Rear Spoiler
  • 4WD/AWD
  • Manual Transmission
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • CD Audio
  • Harman Kardon Sound
  • Navigation System
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Smart Key
  • Bluetooth Technology

Drive Wheels

All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.5L

Horsepower

305

Torque (ft-lbs)

290

Engine type

Turbo Gas

Fuel capacity

15.9

Wheelbase

104.3"

Overall length

180.9"

Width

70.7"

Height

58.1"

Leg room

F 43.3"/R 35.4"

Head room

F 39.8"/R 37.1"

Front tires

P245/40WR18

Rear tires

P245/40WR18

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Manual 6

2016 Subaru WRX FAQ


* Price excludes taxes, title, registration, and fees. Applicable transfer fees are due in advance of vehicle delivery and are separate from sales transactions.

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Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.

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