Fans gave Subaru some flack about the WRX hatchback launched in 2007 so – ta-dah! – the WRX sedan is back in 2009 and Car Showroom has already put it through its paces.
Let’s be frank – we like it a lot.
We also liked the hatchback version a lot.
In fact we can’t think of a current Subaru model we don’t like a lot – the Japanese company continues to do great work.
Some have said the new WRX (or ‘Rex’ to its fans) has the bite the hatchback is missing.
For sure the ride is firmer, cornering is flatter and steering response is sharper. All this the result of firmer spring rates, re-tuned shock absorbers, new valving in the power steering hydraulics and wider Dunlop 225/45R 17 tyres.
To its credit, Subaru actually undertook a large amount of suspension development right here on Australian roads.
Power and torque are also up – now 195 kW and 343 Nm.
To prove the point, Subaru engaged its works rally drivers Cody Crocker and Dean Herridge for some back-to-back testing of a ’09 WRX sedan against a 2008 hatch at Sydney’s Eastern Creek Raceway and the result was a clear win to the sedan – nearly one second faster in the standing quarter mile and nearly two seconds faster lap time.
Inside there is the usual Subaru high quality trim material, great sports seats and even a WRX logo or two to appease the true aficionados.
Get behind the wheel of the WRX and there is that comfortable familiarity we find with all Subarus – nice driving position, great ergonomics…it all just works so well.
As with the hatch, the sedan’s rear seat – while not in Patrol or LandCruiser league - is more than adequately spacious. Legroom gets a bit tight if the front seat driver and passenger are tall, but otherwise it’s all good in back
Externally, arrival of the WRX sedan is part of a minor ’09 model upgrade and keen observers will notice a slightly revised grille in both hatch and sedan. No doubt sedan models do accentuate the sharp angles of the overall design and we like the appearance…definitely Subaru and distinctly modern.
So has the Rex got its bite back?
Yes and no…
As we said, the sportier ride and handling is a positive, the extra grunt is good and overall the ’09 WRX sedan is a stunning high performance sedan – just as you would expect.
But the fact is, Subaru sought to ‘mature’ the WRX and broaden its appeal to a wider audience – the hatch was intended to do that and so too will the sedan. For example leather trim is now an option.
Subaru’s research showed a number of potential WRX customers (middle-aged, family types) felt the previous generation was bit too edgy for them.
Priced from $39,990, the ’09 WRX sedan succeeds in appealing to its fans and also meeting the needs of a whole new breed of ‘rex’ lovers.
