2022 Subaru WRX Premium: Is It Worth It?

by Alex Braham 41 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium to see if it lives up to the hype. If you're like me, you've probably drooled over the WRX at some point, dreaming of its rally-inspired performance and that iconic boxer engine rumble. But does the Premium trim offer the sweet spot between affordability and features? Let's find out!

Performance and Handling

Let's talk performance of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, which churns out a respectable 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This is a slight increase over the previous generation, but the real magic lies in how this power is delivered. The engine feels responsive and eager to rev, providing plenty of grunt for both daily driving and spirited weekend romps. The six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, with short, precise throws and a well-weighted clutch. If you prefer an automatic, Subaru offers a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with simulated gear ratios, but honestly, the manual is the way to go if you want the full WRX experience. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is, of course, standard, providing excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or navigating snowy streets, the WRX feels planted and confident. The handling is sharp and direct, thanks to a revised suspension and steering system. The car corners flat and predictable, inspiring confidence even when pushing the limits. The ride quality is firm, as you'd expect from a performance-oriented car, but it's not overly harsh or uncomfortable for daily driving. Overall, the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium delivers a thrilling and engaging driving experience that's sure to put a smile on your face. The raw power combined with the renowned Subaru AWD system is definitely something that makes this car stand out from the rest.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium, you'll find a cabin that's functional and well-equipped, but not exactly luxurious. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing good bolstering for spirited driving. The Premium trim adds nice upgrades like heated front seats and a sunroof, which are welcome additions. The dashboard layout is straightforward and easy to use, with a large touchscreen infotainment system taking center stage. The system is responsive and intuitive, with clear graphics and a user-friendly interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. While the interior materials are generally of good quality, there are some hard plastics here and there, which detract from the overall premium feel. However, the focus here is clearly on performance, and the interior reflects that. In terms of practicality, the WRX offers a decent amount of space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats are surprisingly roomy, and the trunk is large enough to accommodate luggage or groceries. Visibility is also good, thanks to the large windows and relatively thin pillars. One of the standout features of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium is its safety technology. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system is available on models equipped with the CVT, and it includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can help to prevent accidents and make driving safer and more relaxing. So, while the interior may not be the most luxurious, it's functional, well-equipped, and packed with safety features, making it a great place to spend time behind the wheel.

Design and Styling

The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium boasts a bold and aggressive design that's sure to turn heads. The widebody design, prominent hood scoop, and signature hexagonal grille give it a muscular and athletic stance. The Premium trim adds some nice touches like LED headlights and fog lights, which enhance the car's appearance and improve visibility. The rear of the car features a subtle spoiler and dual exhaust outlets, adding to its sporty appeal. While the design is certainly eye-catching, it's also somewhat polarizing. Some people love the aggressive look, while others find it a bit too boy-racerish. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. One thing's for sure, the WRX is not a car for shrinking violets. It's a statement piece that announces your arrival with authority. The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium is available in a range of colors, from classic Subaru hues like WR Blue Pearl to more modern shades like Ignition Red. The paint quality is generally good, and the car looks great when it's clean and shiny. The overall fit and finish are also impressive, with tight panel gaps and a solid feel. Whether you love it or hate it, there's no denying that the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium has a distinctive and memorable design. It's a car that stands out from the crowd and makes a statement about its owner's passion for performance.

Fuel Economy

Okay, let's be real: fuel economy isn't usually the top priority for WRX buyers. But, it's still important to consider. The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium with the manual transmission is EPA-rated at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. With the CVT, those numbers improve slightly to 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. In real-world driving, you can expect to see numbers close to these, but your mileage may vary depending on your driving style. If you have a heavy foot, you'll likely see lower fuel economy. The WRX requires premium gasoline, which can add to the cost of ownership. While the fuel economy isn't terrible, it's not exactly stellar either. If you're looking for a fuel-efficient car, the WRX is probably not the best choice. However, if you're willing to sacrifice some fuel economy for the sake of performance, the WRX is a worthwhile trade-off. After all, you're not buying a WRX to save money on gas; you're buying it for the thrill of the drive. So, while fuel economy may not be the WRX's strong suit, it's a small price to pay for the performance and excitement it offers. The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium strikes a reasonable balance, considering its capabilities.

Pricing and Value

The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium occupies a sweet spot in the WRX lineup, balancing affordability with a desirable set of features. The MSRP starts at around $33,000, positioning it above the base model but below the higher-end trims like the Limited and GT. For the money, you get a well-equipped performance car with a potent engine, all-wheel drive, and a host of standard features. The Premium trim adds niceties like heated front seats, a sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable daily driver. Compared to its rivals, the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium offers excellent value for money. It undercuts competitors like the Volkswagen GTI and Honda Civic Si in terms of price, while offering similar levels of performance and features. Of course, there are other factors to consider, such as reliability and resale value. Subaru has a good reputation for reliability, and the WRX typically holds its value well over time. Overall, the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium represents a compelling package for those seeking an affordable and fun-to-drive performance car. It offers a great balance of performance, features, and value, making it a smart choice for enthusiasts on a budget. The WRX is a car that you can enjoy every day, whether you're commuting to work or hitting the track on the weekend.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium:

Pros:

  • Potent turbocharged engine: The 2.4-liter boxer engine delivers plenty of power and torque.
  • Symmetrical all-wheel drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
  • Sharp handling: The WRX corners flat and predictable, inspiring confidence.
  • Well-equipped: The Premium trim adds desirable features like heated seats and a sunroof.
  • Good value: The WRX offers a lot of performance for the money.

Cons:

  • Fuel economy: Not the most fuel-efficient car in its class.
  • Interior: Some hard plastics detract from the overall premium feel.
  • Styling: The design can be polarizing.

Final Verdict

So, is the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium worth it? Absolutely! If you're looking for a fun-to-drive, affordable performance car with all-weather capability, the WRX Premium should definitely be on your list. It offers a thrilling driving experience, a practical interior, and a host of desirable features, all at a reasonable price. While it may not be perfect, the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium is a well-rounded package that's sure to satisfy driving enthusiasts of all kinds. Just be prepared to answer a lot of questions about that hood scoop! You'll definitely enjoy the drive, guys! It’s a solid choice, and I think most WRX enthusiasts will agree.