Subaru Reveals the 2016 WRX and its Updated Technology

2016 Subaru WRX (Credit: © Subaru )

The Subaru WRX and WRX STI have become relative legends in their segment, despite the fact that they have lost ground in recent years. For the 2016 model year, the recently redesign duo return with no visual or performance upgrades, save for a small lip spoiler on the STI Limited trim. However, they have a handful of tech updates to add a little extra value.

The biggest update to the 2016 Subaru WRX is the addition of the acclaimed EyeSight Driver Assistance Technology. This system is only available on models with the Sport Lineartronic transmission, and it uses stereo cameras to analyze the road ahead. These cameras then use the WRX’s adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning to keep the driver out of sticky situations. A new addition to the EyeSight system for 2016 is lane keep assist to help keep the driver in his lane should he drift.

2016 Subaru WRX STI (Credit: © Subaru )

With the EyeSight package also comes navigation, a nine-speaker audio system with a harman/kardon amp, keyless access, push-button start, blind-spot detection, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert.

For the new model year, Subaru is also introducing an updated infotainment system. As standard, the WRX gets the STARLINK 6.2 Multimedia system, which includes a 6.2-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM, a CD player, Aha, Pandora radio, Bluetooth connectivity and audio streaming, and a rearview camera.

Also available is a the STARLINK 7.0 system (a $2,100 upgrade on the WRX Premium). This system includes the nine-speaker Harman/kardon audio system, a 7-inch LCD touchscreen, SMS texting, and dual USB ports.

2016 Subaru WRX (Credit: © Subaru )

Carrying over into 2016 is the 2.0-liter boxer-four engine that produces 268 horsepower in the standard WRX. This engine comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission mated to it, but a Lineartronic CVT is available as an option. There is no mention of the STI model’s engine, but I will assume for now that it carries the same 2.0-liter engine with 305 horses and 290 pound-feet of torque. The STI comes with only a six-speed manual transmission.

The 2016 WRX starts from $26,595 and tops out at $31,595 for the Limited model with the CVT. The WRX STI starts at $34,695 and rises to $39,995 for the Limited trim.