2018 Subaru WRX Gets a Light Refresh, Still No Hatch
Subaru has revealed the 2018 WRX lineup, sporting some slightly revised looks and some new features.
The restyled front fascia comes to all WRX models, though the changes are’t exactly big. WRX Limited and STI models get further restyling thanks to new steering-responsive LED headlights.
Power for the WRX remains at 268 horsepower from a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, with power still going to all four wheels. Subaru says that new front and rear suspension tuning has arrived for 2018 for better steering stability and comfort, while the optional six-speed manual has better feel. The power steering was also revised to make it smoother and more natural.
Another new addition for 2018 is a performance pack for the WRX Premium which includes Recaro 8-way power seats, red-painted brake calipers, upgraded JURID brake pads, and a moonroof delete.
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As for the high-performance STI model, power also stays the same at 305 hp, though the handling has been enhanced thanks revised suspension tuning and a new DCCD all-wheel-drive system that now only uses electronic control for the center limited slip differential rather than mechanical. Upgraded brakes are also standard on the car, hiding behind the first-ever set of 19-inch wheels on an STI.
Opting for the Brembo performance package has changed as well thanks to stronger monoblock six-piston calipers in the front, monoblock two-piston units in the rear and larger cross-drilled brake rotors.
Some small interior changes have also arrived for the cars to help with everyday usability. All 2018 WRX models feature better interior materials, rear seat armrests with cup holders, new interior door grips and faster remote trunk opening. The interior has been made quieter with thicker door glass and more foam around the windshield header while information is displayed on a larger 5.9-inch multi-function display.
Finally, safety features on the new WRX have been improved with a new Eyesight assist monitor, which will display the status of the Eyesight system on the windshield. There will also now be a hill holder and hill start assist.
Discuss this story at our Subaru WRX Forum
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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Paint is still poor and is the #1 reason I sold both my cars. Please Subaru, hear us owners a WRC inspired vehicle should not have thin, weak paint. Fix this for the next STi hatch and you will have a winner.
Where is the hatchback ???? Forget the 19 inch wheels, put your efforts into more power and a hatchback !! 14-15 years ago Subaru performance, was cutting edge, but since ,everyone has left Subaru in the dust. MORE EFFORT SHOULD BE MADE TOWARD BETTER PERFORMANCE, ( ie : horsepower and torque ), and a hatchback model !!!!!