2016 Subaru WRX: A Detailed Overview
The 2016 Subaru WRX continues the lineage of the iconic rally-bred performance sedan, offering a potent blend of everyday usability and exhilarating driving dynamics. For 2016, Subaru refined the WRX further, focusing on enhancing its already impressive performance credentials and practicality. This iteration caters to enthusiasts who crave a powerful, all-wheel-drive machine that can handle daily commutes as competently as it tackles spirited drives.
Highlights
- Engine:
- 2.0L Turbocharged Subaru BOXER Engine: This punchy engine produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Its signature flat-four configuration contributes to a lower center of gravity, aiding in the WRX's agile handling. The turbocharger provides a broad power band, ensuring strong acceleration throughout the rev range.
- Safety Features:
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard on all WRX models, Subaru's renowned AWD system actively distributes power to all four wheels, maximizing traction and stability in various driving conditions, from dry pavement to slippery roads.
- Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC): This electronic stability control system helps prevent skidding and loss of control by selectively applying brakes and reducing engine power when it detects a deviation from the driver's intended path.
- Brake-Based Torque Vectoring: While not a direct braking intervention, the system subtly applies the brakes to the inside wheels during cornering, helping to turn the car more precisely and reduce understeer.
- Available EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: On models equipped with the optional automatic transmission (CVT), EyeSight offers a suite of advanced safety features including:
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting speed.
- Pre-Collision Braking: Alerts the driver to potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid them.
- Pre-Collision Throttle Management: Reduces engine power if a frontal collision is imminent and the throttle is being applied.
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning: Alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane or exhibits erratic steering.
- Trims:
- WRX: The base model offers a robust package, including the turbocharged engine, Symmetrical AWD, and a 6-speed manual transmission.
- WRX Premium: Steps up with the addition of alloy wheels, fog lights, a rear spoiler, heated front seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration.
- WRX Limited: Further enhances the Premium trim with leather-trimmed seating, an 8-way power driver's seat, and a premium audio system.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Sport-Tuned Suspension: The WRX features a stiffened suspension designed for precise handling and minimal body roll during aggressive driving.
- Responsive Steering: The electric power-assisted steering is well-weighted and provides excellent feedback, allowing the driver to feel connected to the road.
- Practical Sedan Body Style: Despite its performance focus, the WRX remains a practical four-door sedan with a usable trunk, making it a viable option for daily driving.
- Revised Exterior Styling: For 2016, Subaru introduced subtle styling tweaks, including updated headlights and a revised grille, giving the WRX a more aggressive and modern appearance.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Subaru WRX generally means embracing a spirited driving experience with the confidence of all-wheel-drive. The typical ownership experience is characterized by the thrill of its turbocharged engine and sharp handling.
- Maintenance: Like most turbocharged performance vehicles, the WRX benefits from diligent maintenance. Regular oil changes with the correct oil specification are crucial, as are checks of the air and cabin filters. Subaru's boxer engine design can sometimes lead to slightly higher maintenance costs compared to more conventional engines, particularly regarding spark plug replacements and potential valve adjustments at higher mileage intervals. Following Subaru's recommended maintenance schedule is key to ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Brake wear can also be accelerated with enthusiastic driving.
- Insurance: Due to its performance nature and the demographics that often gravitate towards the WRX, insurance premiums can be higher than for a standard sedan. Factors such as driving history, age, location, and chosen coverage will significantly impact the cost. It's advisable to get insurance quotes early in the purchasing process.
- Driving Experience: The WRX offers a communicative and engaging driving experience. The clutch feel is often described as firm, and the shifter is precise, rewarding skillful gear changes. The ride can be on the firmer side, especially on models with the performance-oriented suspension, which might be noticeable on rougher roads. However, this firmness contributes directly to its excellent handling capabilities.
Potential Considerations
While the 2016 WRX is a highly desirable performance car, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of:
- Ride Comfort: As mentioned, the sport-tuned suspension, while excellent for handling, can result in a firm ride. This might be a compromise for those prioritizing absolute comfort over driving dynamics.
- Cabin Noise: The WRX's focus on performance means that cabin noise, particularly road and wind noise at higher speeds, can be more pronounced than in a luxury sedan. This is often accepted by enthusiasts who value the auditory feedback of the engine and exhaust.
- Fuel Economy: The turbocharged boxer engine, while powerful, is not the most fuel-efficient in its class. Owners can expect to see lower MPG figures compared to less performance-oriented vehicles, especially when driving with enthusiasm.
- Manual Transmission Clutch Wear: For vehicles equipped with the manual transmission, the clutch is a wear item that will require replacement at some point in its lifespan, the timing of which is heavily dependent on driving style.
- Potential for Turbo Lag: While Subaru has worked to minimize it, some degree of turbo lag is inherent in turbocharged engines, meaning there might be a slight delay in power delivery when accelerating from a standstill or at very low RPMs.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Subaru WRX stands as a compelling choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a practical and affordable performance sedan. Its potent turbocharged engine, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and finely tuned chassis deliver an exhilarating and confidence-inspiring driving experience across a variety of conditions. While the ride can be firm and fuel economy is not a strong suit, these are often acceptable trade-offs for the exceptional handling and engaging performance the WRX provides. It remains a benchmark for accessible rally-inspired performance.