What model is the WRX based on?
The WRX is based on the Subaru Impreza, sharing its platform and many core components with the performance-focused variant.
Historical lineage and platform foundations
The WRX originated in the 1990s as a high-performance variant of Subaru’s compact Impreza. Over its generations, it has largely used the Impreza’s chassis and drivetrain architecture, tuned for sportier handling and performance. In 2017 Subaru introduced the Subaru Global Platform (SGP), a unifying architecture for multiple models, and since around 2022 the WRX has been positioned on this shared platform alongside the Impreza and other Subaru models.
Key aspects of how the WRX relates to the Impreza’s platform are summarized below:
- Shared foundations: The WRX uses the Impreza’s chassis architecture, with refinements for higher stiffness, braking, and suspension tuning.
- All-wheel drive and drivetrain: Both models typically employ Subaru’s symmetrical AWD layout, with WRX calibration tailored for performance driving.
- Body styles and footprint: The WRX mirrors the Impreza’s sedan/hatchback options and generally aligns with similar wheelbase and overall dimensions.
- Engineering family: Powertrain options and electronics are developed within the same product family, enabling shared components and easier servicing.
In short, the WRX is not a completely separate platform from the Impreza; it is a performance variant built on the same core architecture, with tuning and features aimed at sportier driving dynamics.
Platform evolution and the current generation
How Subaru has evolved platform sharing over time reflects a broader strategy to unify parts across its lineup while preserving distinct driving personalities. The WRX has followed the Impreza from its earlier, Impreza-based chassis to the modern, SG Platform-based architecture used by newer models.
The following outlines how platform relationships have evolved across generations:
- Pre-2017 generations: WRX continued to be based on the Impreza’s established chassis, sharing a common underpinning with the Impreza hatchback and sedan.
- 2017–2021 generations: The Impreza and WRX remained closely linked on the evolving Subaru Global Platform, with the WRX receiving performance-focused tuning on the shared layout.
- 2022–present generations: The WRX is built on Subaru Global Platform (SGP), the same underpinning used by the newer Impreza and other contemporary Subaru models, enabling broader component sharing and improved rigidity.
That evolution shows how Subaru maintains a core architecture for efficiency and safety while differentiating the WRX through suspension, braking, engine tuning, and all-wheel-drive calibration.
Summary
The WRX is based on the Subaru Impreza, sharing its platform and many core components. In recent years, Subaru has aligned both models under the Subaru Global Platform, reinforcing their commonality while preserving the WRX’s distinct performance characteristics. The WRX remains the rally-inspired variant derived from the Impreza lineage, with appropriate sport-oriented enhancements.
Is a WRX the same as an Impreza?
No, while they were once considered the same car with the WRX being a high-performance trim, they are now two distinct models. The Subaru WRX was originally an Impreza model with a turbocharged engine, but after the 2014 model year, Subaru dropped the "Impreza" name from the WRX, and they have been separate vehicles since.
Before 2014
- The WRX was a high-performance version or trim of the Impreza.
- It had a turbocharged engine, more horsepower, and a sportier suspension compared to the standard Impreza.
- It was a performance-focused model derived from the Impreza platform.
After 2014
- The "Impreza" part of the name was dropped, and the high-performance model became known simply as the WRX.
- The Impreza became a separate, non-turbocharged, standard model.
- While they share some platform elements, they are now marketed and sold as distinct cars with different styling, engines, and features.
What platform is the WRX built on?
Subaru Global PlatformSecond generation (VB; 2021)
| Second generation | |
|---|---|
| Production | 2021–present |
| Model years | 2022–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | Subaru Global Platform |
Which is faster, STI or EVO?
The Evo averages an astonishing 4.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. It might only beat the Subaru STI to that mark because the Evo can get there, just barely, in second gear, although it also holds a slight advantage through the quarter-mile, too. That's despite ceding 10 horsepower and 192 pounds of curb weight to the STI.
What is the WRX based on?
The Subaru WRX all-wheel-drive sport compact car was originally based on the Impreza and created for the World Rally Championship back in 1992. Subaru tells us that the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental."
