2016 Subaru WRX Limited

Redesigned for 2015, the rally car-esque Subaru WRX carries over with few changes for 2016.

The WRX still has all-wheel drive, a turbocharged flat-4 engine and somewhat loud styling with fender flares and hood-scoops, but the current model is much more refined and handles on on pavement much better than previous iterations.

The WRX engine is now a 2.0-liter, direct-injected unit, with a reasonable 258 horsepower. Helped by the all-wheel-drive traction, it’s capable of good acceleration times, although these require a willingness to drop the clutch at high RPM and mash the throttle like a maniac. In corners, the WRX likewise rewards intense driving, with some trail braking required to overcome the nose-heavy sedan’s inertia. Balance, however, is much improved over the older Subaru WRX and STi models, and this sedan feels much more sports car-like, with a stiff structure and little body roll. The 6-speed manual’s shifter is positive and direct, and the electrically-assisted steering is quick and precise and gives above average feedback.

The 2016 Subaru WRX is now a rewarding drivers’ car, not just a fast economy car. As a bonus, the 2015-and-up Subaru WRX now has advanced safety and comfort features, including a standard back-up camera. As with many recent Subaru models, crash test results are impressive, especially considering the WRX’s low price. For under $27,000 brand new, it’s hard to beat the WRX’s combination of performance, practical utility (it comes with a folding rear seat and generous interior room) and economy. Rated at 20/27 mpg city/highway with the optional CVT, we actually came close to those numbers in our LA commute test, which is rare especially in a modern turbocharged car.