Review: 2017 Subaru WRX Premium

The rivalry between Subaru and Mitsubishi has been around for years, the Mitsubishi Evolution against the Suabru WRX and STI. Both sides have huge fan bases that assure everyone else that their car and brand is the better. Unfortunately I can only comment on that I have driven and that so far is the Subaru WRX. But boy oh boy, if the Evo is anything like the WRX its definitely loads of fun. The sleek styling and modern technology they've crammed into this beautiful 4 door Sedan is wonderful. The only thing I regret is not driving it longer. It was absolutely amazing. It suits literally everyone, families singles, couples, businessmen everyone. Unless you're looking to climb a mountain or fit 10 people in a car this should be high on your list. But lets get into it.

The cars styling has changed quite dramatically over the 15 year history of the WRX. Each style loved by many, and hated by some. But in all was normally very good. The sleek body styling with the aggressive front grill and bar make this a menace on the roads. Giving it the look that goes with the feel and power within. But a per normal there are two main types of the WRX, the standard, and the Premium. Normally there wouldn't be much difference between them, but this time there is. With the premium WRX you get leather seats, sunroof and satnav. But you also get all the extra assist as well. Including side view monitor, blind spot monitor, lance change assist, rear cross traffic alert and high beam assist. Keeping you just that little bit safer. The later is some good stuff, but not really necessary for some people, if you're looking for some more styling upgrades you can get the standard WRX and simply add some STI goodies to the mix. Such as front lip, rear diffuser, side skirts and rear wing. Fortunately I was able to get behind the wheel of a Premium WRX with the STI front lip and STI boot and rear wing. Making it just that little bit better to look at. However these come with a cost and stand the wing alone sits at $2k installed. But it does definitely look very good. Definitely one of the best looking sports sedans in the market.

The handling of the WRX is almost what made it famous. With the WRX being made with the World Rally Championship in mind. Its all wheel drive system makes it a breeze to drive with corners being absolutely no problem. With the car competing heavily in the Rally Championship the car has to be able to get traction under any circumstance and that is clearly evident with the WRX as on the street there never a problem with traction. Dabbling with technology Subaru has added a menu into the display that shows the traction to all the wheels. Where you are loosing traction, and where you got normal or sufficient traction. Although for most road conditions it won't be necessary, but if you intend to take your WRX out into the bush to run a muck there is some tech there for you. But not only does it stick to the ground like glue, it can turn on a dime. The turning circle on the car is amazing making even the hardest of 3-point turns into simple obstacles. Plus the suspension is quite hard reducing sway, bounce and roll but also very soft when it comes to bumps, as you barley feel them at all. But overall the handling on the WRX is second to none. It really makes it a great car and a fun way to get from point A to point B. But its not just the handling that sets this car apart, it still produces some respectable power numbers too.

​​ With the car rocking the 2.0L flat 4 turbocharged boxer engine you could expect that the power isn't that great. And well it isn't ground breaking. With a power output of 197Kw making 264HP it definitely isn't the highest power vehicle out there, but it sure is fun to drive. With the turbo spooling up quickly and kicking in early you feel the car picking up instantly. If I was to have a fault with the car it would be that the turbo spools up too quickly getting on boost seconds after applying throttle. But its only annoying 1% of the time so I'll let it slide. Otherwise though once it gets on boost you feel it and it always brings a smile to your face. Along with the signature spool sound for the WRXs it just makes everything so much better. The whole engine note and sounds from the engine bay are amazing. Making every journey in it a happy one. But along with the beautiful engine comes a pretty damn good gearbox. The gears are short and easy, making punching through the gears super easy with such a short throw. It took some getting use to though since I had driven lots of cars with very long gears, making it feel as if it wasn't even close to gear when it definitely was. But overall under the hood is amazing, the feel, the look, the sound it just makes you happy looking, feeling and hearing the WRX. It may not have the power of a V8 but its gets up and goes.

Overall the WRX is an amazing vehicle and personally I can't wait to get into another one. Just so much happiness in one vehicle it is beyond me. However the only down sides the price of these new guys. With the standard starting at $43K and the Premium starting at $50K it is a little steep for some buyers. But once you get past that speed bump there is only good things with these cars. With a great look, a great feel and a great drive, the WRX is an amazing vehicle and something I would go out and buy straight away. But I would advise all, if you get a chance to drive one, take it with both hands as these are great cars to drive.

Specifications: 2017 Subaru WRX Premium

Engine: 2.0L 4-Cylinder Turbocharged Flat Boxer

Power: 197kW 264HP

Transmission: 6-Speed Manual / 8 Speed Auto CVT

Length: 4595mm (180.9 In)

Width: 1795mm (70.6 In)

Height: 1475mm (58.0 In)

Weight: 1476KGs Standard 1514KGs Premium