Introduction
Subaru has changed tack with its Impreza and the resultant WRX isn't anything like as exciting as it used to be.
What are its rivals?
That used to be a simple question to answer: Mitsubishi's Evo, and any other madcap four-wheel drive, turbocharged machine. The new Impreza retains both its four-wheel drive transmission and a turbocharged engine, but it's a completely different animal to its predecessor. That car was loved by driving enthusiasts for its big performance, rally credibility and surefooted traction and grip. People were prepared to put up with its shortcomings - notably the hopelessly plasticky interior - because it drove so well, with sharp steering and remarkable ability when you pushed it hard. The key difference between this new car and the old one is that this Impreza is now a five-door hatchback instead of a saloon, and it signals a change in the character and appeal of the car dramatically.
How does it drive?
The sharpness and precision of its predecessor has completely gone. For all the WRX's numbers (226bhp and a 0-62mph time of 6.5 seconds), the sparkle has been lost from the driving experience. It's unquestionably fast, but it's no longer as manic in its thrust for the red-line, the engine isn't as tuneful and the gearshift isn't as incisive. It's the chassis that really spoils the driving experience though, the WRX's suspension being soft, which benefits ride comfort dramatically, but does nothing for sharpness and poise. All that might be forgivable if the steering were better, but the lack of information and weighting at the steering wheel's rim is remarkable, leaving you to guess as to what the front wheels are up to.
Trust the chassis and push on and you're treated to understeer, the new WRX's chassis lacking the adjustability of its ancestor. Subaru is aiming the Impreza at a wider audience in its new hatchback guise, and it's clearly dialled out some of the more extreme - and appealing to previous Impreza owners - driving characteristics. It no longer feels like a rabid tarmac shredding, apex-hunting four-wheel drive cross-country weapon, instead feeling like a fast and capable hatchback with little in the way of driver interaction. Conventional hot hatches are far more fun.
What's impressive?
A scant 6.5 seconds to 62mph is impressive, particularly when you consider that's offered in a car that costs just £19,995. The engine is the strongest aspect in the WRX's performance repertoire, the 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer unit accelerating with remarkable urge even when already at speed. It's nicely tractable too, pulling easily from low revs. There's a lot of space in the WRX, the rear legroom is decent among its class rivals, and that soft suspension makes for a rather comfortable ride - even if that's perhaps not what WRX drivers might want. Refinement is okay, the seats comfortable and visibility out is good too. Huge rear-view mirrors help here, even if they're not the most attractive styling feature.
What's not?
Not only does the WRX lack any styling flair, but it's lost the magic driving appeal that used to mark out its predecessor as special. The interior plastics might have improved, but the materials are hardly a leap forward in quality and style, remaining a considerable margin behind what's now on offer elsewhere, even from budget brands. Fuel economy remains an issue; despite minor improvements you'll struggle to get anywhere near the 27.2mpg Subaru claims if you take advantage of the WRX's performance. Equipment levels are a bit stingy too - there are no automatic lights or wipers for instance, equipment that's increasingly common on superminis, let alone cars near the top of the model range. A sixth gear would be welcome too. Dynamically, you'll have more fun in a run-of-the-mill front-wheel-drive hatch, so prominent is the understeer and lack of feel at the wheel.
Should I buy one?
Quite simply, no. The WRX is no longer a credible driver's choice when stacked up against competition like VW's Golf GTI, the SEAT Leon Cupra or a host of other hot hatches. The Impreza used to stand out among such rivals for being a bit different, a rally refugee that over-delivered in the performance department. Certainly the new car is quick, but there are far better cars out there for the money, crucially cars that look and feel good, and offer their drivers some real enjoyment behind the wheel.
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