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12th
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Highlights*
World-class performance and handling, great sound effects, and upgraded components make the 2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI some of the best driver's cars under $50,000.
Lowlights*
These machines disappoint when it comes to interior fit and finish. Also, more supportive seats would be appreciated in the WRX STI. And given the car's weight and turbocharged power, fuel economy isn't exactly good.
Pricing
In 4-door configuration, the 2013 Subaru WRX ranges from $32,495 in base trim to $41,695 when equipped with the STI Sport-tech Package. Meanwhile, the 5-door variant starts at $33,395 and goes all the way up to $42,595. Similar to the regular Impreza, the hatchback always requires an extra $900 over a comparable sedan.
Fuel consumption
The 2013 Subaru WRX posts ratings of 11.1L/100km city and 8.0L/100km highway. Expect 12.6L and 8.8L, respectively, with the WRX STI. In both cases, premium gasoline (minimum octane rating of 91) is necessary.
Styling
The current generation is now nearing its end, and no cosmetic changes were made for 2013. In fact, Subaru introduced the new WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show in late March 2013. Compared to the run-of-the-mill Impreza, the extroverted WRX and WRX STI models boast widened fenders and aerodynamic add-ons including a giant rear wing on the 4-door sedan that works to increase high-speed stability.
WRX vs. WRX STI
− High-pressure turbocharger and high-capacity intercooler boost output from 265 to 305 horsepower, and torque from 244 to 290 lb-ft;
− 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, down from 5.4 seconds;
− Larger, high-performance brakes courtesy of Brembo, with Super Sport ABS and double the number of caliper pistons;
− 6-speed manual transmission instead of 5-speed;
− SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive) engine management system;
− Multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD);
− TORSEN limited-slip rear differential instead of shot-peen open-type differential;
− STI performance-tuned suspension.
Cargo capacity
The sedan boasts a 320-litre trunk, while the hatchback's cargo area expands from 538 to 1,257 litres when you fold the rear seats.
Safety
In addition to the automaker's symmetrical full-time AWD system, the 2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI provide confidence and protection thanks to Vehicle Dynamics Control (with lateral-g and yaw-rate sensors), traction control, collapsible pedals and steering column, along with six airbags.
Competitors
Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/Evolution, Mazdaspeed3, Volkswagen Jetta GLI/GTI/Golf R.
*Based on expert reviews
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.518
Aubé Vincent, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.546
www.subaru.ca
World-class performance and handling, great sound effects, and upgraded components make the 2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI some of the best driver's cars under $50,000.
Lowlights*
These machines disappoint when it comes to interior fit and finish. Also, more supportive seats would be appreciated in the WRX STI. And given the car's weight and turbocharged power, fuel economy isn't exactly good.
Pricing
In 4-door configuration, the 2013 Subaru WRX ranges from $32,495 in base trim to $41,695 when equipped with the STI Sport-tech Package. Meanwhile, the 5-door variant starts at $33,395 and goes all the way up to $42,595. Similar to the regular Impreza, the hatchback always requires an extra $900 over a comparable sedan.
 |
| Photo: Subaru |
Fuel consumption
The 2013 Subaru WRX posts ratings of 11.1L/100km city and 8.0L/100km highway. Expect 12.6L and 8.8L, respectively, with the WRX STI. In both cases, premium gasoline (minimum octane rating of 91) is necessary.
Styling
The current generation is now nearing its end, and no cosmetic changes were made for 2013. In fact, Subaru introduced the new WRX Concept at the New York Auto Show in late March 2013. Compared to the run-of-the-mill Impreza, the extroverted WRX and WRX STI models boast widened fenders and aerodynamic add-ons including a giant rear wing on the 4-door sedan that works to increase high-speed stability.
WRX vs. WRX STI
− High-pressure turbocharger and high-capacity intercooler boost output from 265 to 305 horsepower, and torque from 244 to 290 lb-ft;
− 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds, down from 5.4 seconds;
− Larger, high-performance brakes courtesy of Brembo, with Super Sport ABS and double the number of caliper pistons;
− 6-speed manual transmission instead of 5-speed;
− SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive) engine management system;
− Multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD);
− TORSEN limited-slip rear differential instead of shot-peen open-type differential;
− STI performance-tuned suspension.
 |
| Photo: Subaru |
Cargo capacity
The sedan boasts a 320-litre trunk, while the hatchback's cargo area expands from 538 to 1,257 litres when you fold the rear seats.
Safety
In addition to the automaker's symmetrical full-time AWD system, the 2013 Subaru WRX and WRX STI provide confidence and protection thanks to Vehicle Dynamics Control (with lateral-g and yaw-rate sensors), traction control, collapsible pedals and steering column, along with six airbags.
Competitors
Honda Civic Si, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart/Evolution, Mazdaspeed3, Volkswagen Jetta GLI/GTI/Golf R.
*Based on expert reviews
Poirier-Defoy Michel, L'auto 2013, Montreal, Les éditions La Presse, 2012, p.518
Aubé Vincent, L'annuel de l'automobile 2013, Montreal Transcontinental, 2012, p.546
www.subaru.ca