Dating back to the mid-1990s with the Impreza, the Subaru WRX is an iconic nameplate that has given its dedicated fans an enjoyable and memorable experience for almost thirty years now. As fun-to-drive as it was back then, it wasn’t until 2013 when the model spread its wings as it broke away from the Impreza WRX and become a stand-alone car. Since then, it’s pretty much remained in the spotlight as a gearhead’s go-to car, thanks to its robust powertrain, luxurious interior, and spectacular design cues from the Subaru brand. And today, even having entered its 2022 model year, the WRX is still among the very best in its class, with an even bolder style and an excellent driving demeanor.
This current-generation Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, which transfers 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque to all wheels via either the standard 7-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) system. The manual transmission version is able to achieve a 62-mph sprint in just 5.9 seconds. The latter CVT-equipped models clock in at 6.1 seconds, improved from last year’s record of the 6.3-seconds. For reasons such as the brand’s electrification strategy as well as emissions, Subaru has officially discontinued the top-performing STi version. Regardless, this 2022 model year features a return of the wagon body style after a 15-year hiatus.
The wagon version is largely similar to the design model, underpinning the same Subaru Global Platform (SGP), with the same engine, but sadly, no manual transmission on the Sportswagon. On the outside, the front fascia is adorned with the iconic hood-scoop and the sharp-looking LED lights whereas the rear end provides a sloping rear end for a sportier appeal. There are also a ton of accessories on the add-on catalog, such as the cargo pod, roof rack, STi body kit, bike rack, and more. Like the outside, the Sportswagon's cabin screams high performance, with its advanced technologies, intuitive controls, and an abundance of multimedia options.
Here's what the 2022 Subaru WRX Sportswagon’s interior has in store.
The Subaru WRX Wagon's Stunning Interior Design
The 2022 WRX Sportswagon will get the same layout as the standard WRX, with accents of carbon fiber pattern throughout along with contrast red stitching. Once inside the 2022 WRX, the driver's grip on the leather-wrapped, flat-bottomed steering wheel with integrated switches for music, voice recognition, and EyeSight control intensifies the sense of high-performance and somehow keeps you coming back for more. Compared to the preceding WRX sedan versions, the cabin material quality is improved in the 2022 WRX lineup.
Regarding comfort, the Subaru WRX excels, but it is not always given the credit it deserves in this criterion. And the Sportwagon’s interior isn’t any different. And this year, the cabin is much more comfort-focused than ever before. No matter how long the drive is, those neatly-designed seats will keep you comfy without pain or fatigue. Also, the seats have this bulge-edged design, which holds the occupant in place, especially when you’re going around tight corners.
The 2022 Subaru WRX Sportwagon gets sporty front bucket seats depending on the trim level, the seats themselves come upholstered in either Cloth or Ultrasuede – the latter adding a much more luxurious appeal. While both front seats get heat functions, the driver’s seat is either eight- or ten-way power-adjustable.
Features And Tech In The Cabin Of The Subaru WRX Wagon
Like most of the design cues, the technology of the sedan and the wagon are largely the same. The WRX base model comes with a standard SUBARU STARLINK® 7-inch touchscreen display screen with features like HD Radio capability, Bluetooth, dual USB ports in front, steering wheel integrated controls, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Sitting at the front and center of the dash of the high-end trim is a huge 11.6-inch touchscreen display, which comes with a 3-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio with Travel Link, and the SUBARU STARLINK® Connected Services – a suite of safety and security features, like the Advanced Automatic Collision Notification and Remote Lock/Unlock. Despite the different sizes, both screens provide elegant, crystal-clear images and react swiftly to your inputs. Although, the portrait screen layout may take some getting used to.
Move up the ladder to the mid-spec RS trim, and you’ll enjoy desirable inclusions, like an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo with subwoofer, as well as the satellite navigation system. For added convenience, the multimedia screens come with physical buttons and knobs, allowing you to adjust volume and temperature easily.
The Subaru WRX Wagon's Cabin And Cargo Space
The WRX Sportswagon should be your top choice if you’re looking for a high-performance vehicle with more practicality. Like its sedan sibling, the Sportswagon's cabin has enough room and seats for up to 5 occupants. There is plenty of wiggle room in the front cabin area. The rear occupants, however, have considerably less legroom, which can give the taller folks a more confining ride.
While the sedan only offers 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space, the WRX Sportswagon is more practical, with up to 17.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats. The rear seats have a 60/40-split, which expands your cargo capacity to 31.9 cubic feet (or 50.5 if you stack luggage to the ceiling), allowing you to haul more or larger cargo.