No Comments

Subaru Releases Info on 2016 Subaru WRX, 2016 Subaru WRX STI

Late last month, Subaru announced that the 2016 Subaru WRX and the 2016 Subaru WRX STI (performance version) would be arriving at dealerships this summer. When they arrive, they will have added some new available safety technology for the first time, to include Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The new models will also get STARLINK touchscreen infotainment systems.

Related: What Is the Subaru Love Promise?

The 2016 Subaru WRX will still be offered in three trims: standard, Premium, and Limited. Meanwhile, the 2016 Subaru WRX STI, good for 305 horsepower, will be offered in standard and Limited trims. The former will carry a starting MSRP of $26,595, and the latter will start at a suggested $34,695.

Powering the 2016 WRX is a 2.0-liter direct injection turbo BOXER engine, producing 268 horsepower and on Subaru’s famous Symmetrical All Wheel Drive platform. The BOXER is mated to a six-speed manual transmission, though drivers can opt for a performance automatic tranny, called Sport Lineatronic, which features a manual mode.

Aside from the available safety features mentioned above, the WRX benefits from Subaru’s EyeSight system, with functions such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Brake, and Lane Departure Warning. This system is available on the Limited trim in the same package that includes Navigation and the other safety features previously mentioned. Also in that package is a Harman/Kardon amplifier with a nine-speaker sound system, as well as Push-Button Start (Pin Code Access), Keyless Access, and Steering Responsive Fog lights.

While this content is available via a special package, even the base WRX gets the Subaru STARLINK 6.2-inch multimedia system with AM/FM stereo, touchscreen display, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio, Radio Data broadcast, STARLINK connectivity with Aha and Pandora integration via smartphone integration, Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, a single-disc CD player, iHeart Radio, a USB port, an auxiliary input jack, a rear vision camera, and iPod control capability. Try saying that five times fast.

Vehicle Research: 2015 Subaru WRX Trims and Features

The Premium trim upgrades that infotainment technology, and the Limited adds leather-trimmed upholstery, Welcome Lighting, LED low-beam headlights, and an 8-way power driver’s seat.

The performance-bred 2016 WRX STI is motivated by a 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled BOXER engine. For no cost, drivers can replace the signature wing with a low-profile trunk spoiler on the Limited trim.

The WRX STI boasts an All-Weather Package, dual-zone automatic climate control, the STARLINK system, and more. Upgrading to the Limited trim adds similar content as the WRX’s Limited, though the WRX STI Limited gains a power moonroof.

Look out for the new WRX and WRX STI this summer.