Next Subaru WRX for SA - details

Subaru South Africa has announced that its all-new WRX will be launched on May 23 2014. According to the automaker, the biggest improvements for its latest WRX-badged model lie in refinement and standard features.

POWER

Under its all-new body lies a new 2.0-litre DOHC direct injection turbocharged Boxer petrol capable of 197kW/350Nm.

The Boxer engine can be mated to either to a six-speed manual or Sport Lineartronic CVT, either of which transfers the power and torque to Subaru’s All-Wheel Drive system which, in the case of the new WRX, also features Active Torque Vectoring for crisper turn-in and improved cornering dynamics.

The petrol engine enables to it reach 0-100km/h in 6.0 seconds (6.3 seconds for the Lineartronic model) and a top speed of 240km/h.

DRIVING MODES

Sport Lineartronic is based on Subaru’s own CVT. In autoc mode and under Intelligent (I) mapping, six simulated gear ratios are served up with a focus on fuel efficiency and comfort. Switching to Sport (S) or Sport Sharp (S#) modes reprograms the transmission with eight predetermined ratios, which maximise performance from the Boxer engine.

Steering wheel-mounted shift paddles transfer Sport Lineartronic into full manual mode, allowing full driver control of transmission ratios.

The two new models in the new Subaru WRX range are both available in Premium guise, with no options available.

Exterior highlights include the automaker's trademark bonnet scoop, dual-twin exhaust pipes, power sunroof, a rear diffuser and boot spoiler, daytime running lights, auto headlights with self-levelling LEDs, rain-sensing wipers, LED tail lights, privacy glass, a sports body kit and 17" alloys with 235/45 R17 94W Dunlop SP Sport Maxx RT performance tyres.

REFINED INTERIOR

The interior benifits from leather upholstery and soft-touch surfaces, complemented by a six-speaker multi-media audio system (with USB, Bluetooth and voice controls), red stitched accents, power steering, keyless access and push-button starting.

Other cabin features include folding rear seats, a 10cm colour multi-info display screen, new digital boost gauge, a reversing camera, cruise control, SI-DRIVE, auto aircon and red ambient lighting.

As with its fellow Subaru vehicles, the new five-star ANCAP-rated (Australian New Car Assessment Program)WRX features a host of safety systems and equipment such as anti-lock brakes with brake-force distributions, brake assist, vehicle dynamics control, electronic stability control, traction control with Limited slip device.

SA customer can pre-order the new Subaru WRX now though pricing will be confirmed closer to its launch in May 2014.