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New era for old favourite

The WRX defined a generation of motorists, now it’s ready for a comeback

NATHAN TAYLOR

Subaru Australia has launched preorders for its highly anticipated fifth generation all-new WRX range.

The first details of the iconic performance machine’s Australian specification have been revealed – with more details to follow closer to its imminent launch.

Built on three decades of innovation, the fifth generation WRX range will be priced from $44,990.

A new completely revised powerful and responsive Subaru 2.4-litre turbocharged, Horizontally-opposed Boxer Engine brings enhanced performance across the range, delivering an exhilarating 202 kilowatts of power at 5600rpm and 350 newton metres of torque from 2,000 – 5,200rpm.

As previously revealed, new generation WRX will be available in both Sedan and Sportswagon, offering two equally enthralling models with clear differentiation.

WRX Sedan will be available in three variants – WRX AWD, WRX AWD RS and WRX AWD tS – with both WRX AWD and WRX AWD RS offered in a choice of sixspeed manual or Subaru Performance Transmission, and WRX AWD tS offered exclusively in Subaru Performance Transmission.

WRX Sportswagon will also be available in three variants – WRX Sportswagon AWD, WRX Sportswagon AWD GT and WRX Sportswagon AWD tS – all offered exclusively in Subaru Performance Transmission.

Inside the plush WRX Sedan and Sportswagon cockpit, an impressive high-tech 11.6” touchscreen integrated infotainment system with vertical orientation allows intuitive operation similar to a smartphone or tablet.

All WRXs feature dual zone climate control air conditioning and D-shaped leather steering wheel.

Every WRX comprises sports bucket seats (driver and front passenger) which keep the driver’s body firmly in place with controls within easy reach, eliminating the need to re-centre the body.

“The WRX is iconic and legendary, for generations people have desired this car and new generation WRX takes its existing status to an entirely new level. Building on its reputation as an exhilarating rally-rich car, the Subaru engineers have delivered a new WRX with aggressive styling, more power, new technology, and handles just as the driver intended,” Subaru Manager Director, Blair Read said.

“We’re thrilled to offer choice to Subaru customers within the all-new WRX range, with an aggressive, refined cult-classic Sedan and a sophisticated wolf in sheep’s clothing Sportswagon both powered by a new 2.4-litre turbocharged, Horizontallyopposed Boxer engine.

“WRX has been an icon for 30 years and we are confident the new generation WRX Sedan and Sportswagon will continue to exceed Subaru enthusiasts’ expectations.”

Interested customers can pre-order their all-new WRX by visiting www.subaru. com.au/configure or through their local Subaru retailer.

The Subaru WRX is back and ready to impress.

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