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2021 Subaru WRX review

Research, photos, specs, and expertise
6 photos

Subaru WRX highlights

Customer rating

Pros

  • All-wheel drive for secure handling and traction
  • Long list of available driver-assist features
  • Has a strong base engine

Cons

  • Interior feel is just okay
  • Cabin can get noisy on the highway
  • Infotainment system is outdated

Mileage (EPA estimate)

16 city, 22 highway, 19 combined

Pricing for current inventory

(no current inventory)

6 photos
Price
Year

All Subaru WRX years

What is new for the 2021 Subaru WRX?

  • The WRX Premium and WRX STI trims have been discontinued for 2021.
  • Automated Cruise Control features are now available as options on select trims.
  • The Premium trim now comes with Sunroof(s) and Smart Key as standard equipment.

2021 Subaru WRX trims

Curious how Subaru WRX trims differ? Use our side-by-side vehicle comparison to see the differences and similarities

Base:

  • 268-hp, 258-lb-ft of torque 2.0L
  • Rear Defroster
  • Cruise Control
  • Cloth Seats
  • Power Mirrors
  • Traction Control
  • Side Airbags
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Rear View Camera
  • View our Subaru WRX inventory

Premium:

Limited:

STI:

STI Limited:

Subaru WRX photos

5 reasons to buy the 2021 Subaru WRX

1. Show-stopping engine

If you have a need for speed, you'll appreciate the 2021 Subaru WRX. It comes standard with a 268-hp 2L four-cylinder engine. On the road, that means you can blast from zero to 60 mph in under six seconds (according to the manufacturer, when new). Whether you're on the racetrack or commuting to work, the 2021 Subaru WRX can deliver the adrenaline rush you crave.

2. Practical interior

The 2021 Subaru WRX may be designed for performance, but it has a dose of practicality as well. The sedan seats five and has enough rear legroom (35.4 inches) to fit a couple of child car seats. The trunk provides 12.5 cu-ft of cargo space, enough for a stroller or golf clubs. In short, this is a sports car that can handle day-to-day driving for parents, sports enthusiasts, and commuters alike.

3. Standard all-wheel drive

Whether you're navigating snow-covered roads or looking for a bit of extra traction on the track, you'll appreciate that all trims of the 2021 Subaru WRX come standard with all-wheel drive. That means you can enjoy peace of mind in winter weather and have more confidence when you're cornering on long weekend drives through the mountains.

4. Hands-on driving experience

The Subaru WRX is designed to give you an unforgettable sense of control. Even if you're not a race car driver, you'll feel like one behind the wheel. The 2021 Subaru WRX comes standard with a manual transmission in the base trim, while higher trims have an automatic transmission with manual driving mode and paddle shifters. If you want to break through the mundane daily commute and have some extra fun on the road, the WRX is a great choice.

5. Smart connections

The 2021 Subaru WRX makes it easy to stay connected. Each trim comes standard with Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto, and Bluetooth® connectivity. Combine that with two USB ports and a standard six-speaker audio system, and you'll never miss out on your favorite tunes while you're on the road.

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Ratings & reliability

Customer ratings

4.7 out of 5

3 customer reviews
3
1
2
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

Base 4WD/AWD 4D Sedan

Standard Features

  • 4WD/AWD
  • ABS Brakes
  • Air Conditioning
  • Alloy Wheels
  • AM/FM Stereo
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • Auxiliary Audio Input
  • Bluetooth Technology
  • CD Audio
  • Cloth Seats
  • Cruise Control
  • Manual Transmission
  • Overhead Airbags
  • Power Locks
  • Power Mirrors
  • Power Windows
  • Rear Defroster
  • Rear Spoiler
  • Rear View Camera
  • Satellite Radio Ready
  • Side Airbags
  • Traction Control
  • Turbo Charged Engine
  • Kicker Speaker System

Drive Wheels

All Wheel (4WD/AWD)

Engine size

2.0L

Horsepower

268

Torque (ft-lbs)

258

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

P235/45WR17

Rear tires

P235/45WR17

Seating capacity

5

Transmission

Manual 6

2021 Subaru WRX FAQ

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