wrx 2023 review Page 2

Want a 2023 Subaru WRX that still does the rally-hero thing without wearing a giant wing like it’s 2004? The new 2.4‑litre turbo flat‑four serves up about 202 kW and 350 Nm, and with Subaru’s trademark AWD it grips like a koala on eucalyptus.

The 6‑speed manual is engaging; the CVT (sorry, “Performance Transmission”) is quicker on paper but a bit beige for the ears. Ride is firm but compliant enough for craggy Aussie B‑roads, and the steering’s properly feelsome.

Cabin tech gets a big portrait screen and decent safety kit—note: the full EyeSight suite is CVT‑only, so manuals miss some toys.

Budget roughly AUD 45k–60k new depending on trim, with near‑new used examples hovering AUD 40k–55k if someone got impatient waiting for delivery. It’s still the daily you can fang on Sundays—subtle, quick, and just rowdy enough.