What is the difference between a WRX base and premium?
The Subaru WRX is a high-performance sports sedan known for its turbocharged engine, all-wheel-drive system, and rally-inspired design. When purchasing a WRX, buyers have the choice between the base and premium trims, each offering a distinct set of features and capabilities. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between the WRX base and premium models to help you determine which one best suits your needs.
Engine and Performance
Both the WRX base and premium trims are powered by the same 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a standard 6-speed manual transmission, with an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) available on the premium trim. The performance capabilities of the base and premium models are virtually identical, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience regardless of the trim level.
Exterior and Interior Features
The primary differences between the WRX base and premium trims can be found in their exterior and interior features. The base model comes equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the premium trim upgrades to 18-inch alloy wheels. The premium model also features a power moonroof, LED steering responsive headlights, and a rear spoiler, adding a more aggressive and sporty appearance.
Inside the cabin, the premium trim offers several additional features not found on the base model. These include leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The premium trim also comes with a Harman Kardon premium audio system, providing a more immersive listening experience.
Suspension and Brakes
The WRX premium trim features a more advanced suspension system compared to the base model. The premium trim is equipped with Bilstein shock absorbers and a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances the vehicle's handling and responsiveness. Additionally, the premium model comes with larger, Brembo performance brakes for improved braking power and fade resistance.
Pricing and Value
The Subaru WRX base model has a starting MSRP of $29,605, while the premium trim starts at $32,955. The premium model's additional features and upgrades come at a higher price point, but many enthusiasts consider the premium trim to be the better value proposition, offering a more comprehensive package of performance and luxury-oriented enhancements.
In conclusion, the choice between the Subaru WRX base and premium trims ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. The base model provides an excellent foundation for a high-performance sports sedan, while the premium trim offers a more comprehensive package of features and upgrades for those seeking a more refined and capable driving experience.
What's the difference between WRX base and premium?
The 2023 Subaru WRX Premium delivers the superb qualities you love in the Base trim with added functional amenities such as an enhanced infotainment system, heated seating, keyless access, and dual-zone climate control. Most Base features, plus: 18-in. aluminum alloy wheels with dark gray finish.
What does WRX stand for?
World Rally eXperimental
Subaru tells us that the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental." Fast forward to 2015, and the WRX lineup was split from the Impreza range along with a different body style to simply be marketed as the stand-alone WRX.
What are the grades of WRX?
The WRX sedan line-up currently comprises three grades (WRX, RS, tS) and five variants, only two of which come with a manual transmission – the rest feature continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) while the associated Sportswagons (WRX, GT, tS) are CVT-only.
Is the base WRX fast?
“The WRX is a speedy little car when fitted with the standard-equipment six-speed manual transmission, shown by its sprint from 0 to 60 mph of just 5.8 seconds.
Does a WRX really need premium gas?
If you drive a Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy or Ascent, your vehicle is designed to run on 87 octane, or regular fuel. Performance Subaru models – the WRX, WRX STI and BRZ – have a premium fuel requirement, but even with those vehicles, check your manual for information on which fuels are appropriate.
What is the difference in WRX models?
| Subaru WRX Trim Levels Comparison | ||
|---|---|---|
| Subaru WRX | Limited | 268-hp, 2.0-liter H-4 (premium) |
| Subaru WRX STI | Base | 310-hp, 2.5-liter H-4 (premium) |
| Limited w/Lip | 310-hp, 2.5-liter H-4 (premium) | |
| Limited w/Wing | 310-hp, 2.5-liter H-4 (premium) |
Which Subaru WRX is the fastest?
Subaru WRX Project Midnight
It's called the Subaru WRX Project Midnight, it's very black and it packs a Nissan GT-R beating 670 horsepower.
What is the difference between WRX and WRX premium?
Upgrade to the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium and enjoy added capabilities like heated front seats, a larger multimedia system touchscreen, and more. Includes most base model features, plus: 18-in. aluminum alloy wheels with dark gray finish.
Does a base model WRX have a turbo?
WRX may stand for World Rally eXperimental, but for Subaru devotees, it actually means fiercely fun performance. This rally-bred sporty sedan offers Base, Premium, Limited, and GT trims, all powered by a 271-horsepower turbocharged flat-four engine.
Can you mix premium and regular gas?
There's nothing wrong with mixing premium and regular gas in the same tank. In fact, this is how midgrade gas is formulated at the station. Rather than drawing from a separate storage tank for each octane rating, gas pumps actively mix high-octane fuel with lower-octane fuel to create midgrade gas.
