2018 Subaru WRX Priced from $27,855
Refreshed model goes on sale this spring
Kelly LinWriter
2018 Subaru WRX Priced from $27,855
Refreshed model goes on sale this spring
Kelly LinWriter
The 2018 Subaru WRX goes on sale this spring with a starting price of $27,855, up $340 from last year. Base STI models are priced from $36,955, a $940 increase.
For 2018, the WRX and STI receive styling updates, increased sound deadening for a quieter cabin, and an overhauled suspension for improved handling and ride comfort. Subaru also tweaked the shifter and electric power steering for smoother operation in the WRX. All models in the WRX/STI lineup come standard with a six-speed manual transmission.
The base Subaru WRX is a bit more expensive than some rivals, including the Ford Focus ST ($25,650) and Volkswagen GTI ($26,415). Similarly, the upcoming 2017 Honda Civic Si is expected to start in the mid-$20,000 range.
The base WRX, only available with a manual transmission, adds heated exterior mirrors to its lineup of standard features this year. Meanwhile, the Premium WRX boasts a new 7.0-inch infotainment system and 18-inch alloy wheels. Premium models start at $30,155 with the manual, or $31,355 with the CVT. These prices are up $340 from the previous WRX Premium. Buyers can also upgrade with a $2,050 Performance package, which adds a Recaro driver seat, red-painted brake calipers, and upgraded brake pads while deleting the moonroof to save weight. This package is offered exclusively on Premium models with the six-speed manual.
WRX Limited models, which boast a new 10-way power driver seat with lumbar and LED headlights and fog lights, start at $32,455 with the manual and $33,655 with the CVT. Both are $640 more expensive this year. On manual models, a navigation package brings a Harman/Kardon audio system, blind spot detection, and rear cross traffic alert for an extra $2,100. On those with the CVT, EyeSight safety technologies and navigation can be had for $3,300.
While WRX models come standard with a 2.0-liter turbo boxer engine making 268 hp, the STI upgrades to a 2.5-liter turbo boxer engine with 305 hp and paired exclusively to the six-speed manual. The STI model receives upgraded Brembo brakes and a few other minor upgrades for the new model year. Limited models, which get standard Recaro seats, are priced from $41,755, up $940.
Source: Subaru
When I tell people I write about cars, the most common reply I receive is “Really?” I guess I never strike people as a car type as I drive down the freeway in the right lane going 60 mph in my old SUV. My gripes about driving in city traffic and fast drivers don’t help my case, either. For a time, the only cars I liked were old cars. Not old as in "classic" or "vintage," but as in well-worn. My first appreciation of cars came when I drove a very old Ford pickup. It wasn't perfect: I used a booster seat to reach the gas pedal, and the turn signal once fell off in my hand as I was learning to drive. But the thing I valued most was the memories. It took several years for me to truly become a "car person." Being a long-time writer and an avid reader has helped me develop a healthy curiosity and a desire to know how things work. This has made cars one of the most fascinating points of study for me because they are such intricate machines. I am interested in how cars can reach 200 mph, how they can run on hydrogen, and how they can drive and park on their own. I also enjoy learning how cars can solve problems whether it be in the form of reducing pollution, minimizing traffic, or helping people stay connected on the road. Yes, maybe I’m not a gearhead. Perhaps I’m a car nerd. Either way, I very much enjoy writing about cars and helping people stay in tune with the automotive industry. I wouldn't want to be writing about anything else. And don’t get me wrong: I know how to drool over a hot car. I am fascinated by the Tesla Model S, awed by the Lamborghini Veneno, and am hopelessly obsessed with the Audi R8.
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When I tell people I write about cars, the most common reply I receive is “Really?” I guess I never strike people as a car type as I drive down the freeway in the right lane going 60 mph in my old SUV. My gripes about driving in city traffic and fast drivers don’t help my case, either. For a time, the only cars I liked were old cars. Not old as in "classic" or "vintage," but as in well-worn. My first appreciation of cars came when I drove a very old Ford pickup. It wasn't perfect: I used a booster seat to reach the gas pedal, and the turn signal once fell off in my hand as I was learning to drive. But the thing I valued most was the memories. It took several years for me to truly become a "car person." Being a long-time writer and an avid reader has helped me develop a healthy curiosity and a desire to know how things work. This has made cars one of the most fascinating points of study for me because they are such intricate machines. I am interested in how cars can reach 200 mph, how they can run on hydrogen, and how they can drive and park on their own. I also enjoy learning how cars can solve problems whether it be in the form of reducing pollution, minimizing traffic, or helping people stay connected on the road. Yes, maybe I’m not a gearhead. Perhaps I’m a car nerd. Either way, I very much enjoy writing about cars and helping people stay in tune with the automotive industry. I wouldn't want to be writing about anything else. And don’t get me wrong: I know how to drool over a hot car. I am fascinated by the Tesla Model S, awed by the Lamborghini Veneno, and am hopelessly obsessed with the Audi R8.
Read More