Subaru has public some details regarding the two performance versions of its Impreza model, the WRX and WRX STI. Of the changes being made, the most relevant for fans of the model are a boost in power for 2019.
That said, we’re not talking herculean levels of power: The 2019 edition of the WRX STI will deliver 310 hp, or 5 more than last year. This brings it into line with the power output of the limited-edition STI Type RA, which debuted in 2018.
The increase comes courtesy a few mechanical tweaks, notably stronger pistons, a high-flow exhaust and a reprogrammed electronic control unit (ECU) for the 2.5L 4-cylinder turbo.
Also of note is that Subaru engineers adjusted the third gear of the 6-speed transmission to make the acceleration livelier when passing through that gear.
As for the WRX, it holds on to its 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo engine, which will again offer 268 hp. This motor can be twinned with a 6-speed manual or a CVT transmission.
For the rest, the most noteworthy change involves the multimedia system, now incorporating
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Those who were hoping for more meaningful changes for the 2019 model-year will have to arm themselves with patience. Though the Impreza got a big overhaul in 2017, its performance variants are still awaiting their makeover. This will likely happen for the 2020 model-year, which is when the WRX becomes a stand-alone brand under the Subaru banner.