Subaru updates WRX and STI for 2018

Subaru's WRX and WRX STI models have been upgraded for the new model year, offering enhanced equipment, revised underpinnings and 'more aggressive' styling.

And the range still kicks off at $39,240 for the entry-level WRX with manual transmission.

The updated model continues to be based on the previous platform, rather than the current Impreza's modular platform. Subaru has no plans for an all-new WRX/STI model for at least two years.

In the meantime, the WRX and STI will soldier on in the current form, supported by occasional running changes.

For the '2018' model WRX Subaru has specified fade-resistant Jurid high-performance brake pads, red-painted brake calipers (front only for auto models), redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels, heated door mirrors, LED for front fog lights and retuned suspension. The entry-level WRX now adopts the dusk-sensing headlights and rain-sensing wipers previously available in the WRX Premium only.

In addition, WRX Premium and WRX STI Premium variants also gain electric lumbar adjustment as part of the upgrade package to eight-way adjustment for the driver's seat, with two-position memory.

Across the entire range – including WRX STI – all cars now feature roof-carrier brackets, adaptive LED headlights/LED daytime running lights and a 5.9-inch multi-function display (previously 4.3-inch). Automatic variants now feature EyeSight Assist Monitor – a head-up display-based system specifically for the WRX Premium – and an electronic parking brake with Automatic Vehicle Hold.

STI models now come equipped as standard with yellow Brembo brake calipers (six-piston front, twin-piston rear), cross-drilled rotors, larger (19-inch) alloy wheels, red seatbelts and retuned suspension – for reduced body roll.

The basic STI adds heated mirrors and the STI Premium is now specified with a standard front camera to aid parking. An eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with lumbar adjustment and dual-position memory offered in the WRX Premium is also added to the standard kit for the STI Premium.

Subaru has filled out the range with a new flagship, the WRX STI spec.R, which is trimmed as for the WRX STI Premium, including the new front camera, but with the addition of Recaro bucket seats in front.

Cosmetic changes extend to new bumpers and grille, headlight clusters now incorporating the indicators, different fog light bezels and a larger blacked-out section of the lower air intake. The wheels are new for all models, and are finished in a dark gunmetal colour.

Subaru designers have opted for a finish (like piano-gloss black lacquer) throughout the interior of the WRX STI. This is applied to door switch panel, centre fascia, gear shift plinth and steering wheel hub.

"Current generation WRX and WRX STI have truly taken on a life of their own in sales terms, harking back to the success they achieved in first generation back in the late 1990s," says Subaru Australia Managing Director, Colin Christie.

"WRX fans recognise the amazing value these cars represent – and also engineering integrity – which sees these fantastic fun cars growing their audience more than 23 years after they launched in Australia, to create a cult following that is now well and truly mainstream.

"These comprehensive changes right across the range underline that fun, value, performance and safety can go hand-in-hand."

Subaru WRX pricing (plus ORCs):
WRX manual – $39,240
WRX Lineartronic CVT – $42,240
WRX Premium manual – $45,640
WRX Premium Lineartronic CVT – $48,840
WRX STI – $50,890
WRX STI with rear spoiler – $51,190
WRX STI Premium – $55,640
WRX STI Premium with rear spoiler – $55,940
WRX STI spec.R – $57,690