The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek has arrived, ready to captivate Canadian drivers with its ruggedly athletic design, advanced technology, and exceptional capabilities. I’m excited to share valuable insights…

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Showcase

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek has arrived, ready to captivate Canadian drivers with its ruggedly athletic design, advanced technology, and exceptional capabilities. I’m excited to share valuable insights about this remarkable vehicle. This article delves into the key specifications, innovative features, and unique experiences the 2024 Crosstrek offers in the Canadian marketplace.

Rugged Design for Adventurous Souls:

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek embraces its adventurous spirit with a more ruggedly athletic exterior design. Its robust silhouette, bold front grille, and LED steering-responsive headlights (SRH) with High-Beam Assist (HBA) command attention on the road. Whether navigating city streets or exploring off-road trails, the Crosstrek’s stylish design reflects its capability and versatility.

Unmatched Capability for Every Terrain:

Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical Full-Time All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system is at the heart of the 2024 Crosstrek’s exceptional performance. It ensures optimal traction, stability, and control in various weather and road conditions, allowing you to confidently tackle Canadian landscapes. The standard X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control enhances capability further, enabling controlled descents on steep terrains. With SI-DRIVE®, you can personalize your driving experience, whether you seek efficiency or a spirited ride.

Advanced Technology for Connected Journeys:

Step inside the 2024 Crosstrek, and you’ll find a cabin designed for comfort and connectivity. The dual 7-inch touch-screens infotainment system takes center stage, featuring Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ functionality. Seamlessly integrate your smartphone to access navigation, music, and favorite apps. With the available SiriusXM® Satellite Radio and Travel Link® subscription, you can enjoy a wide range of entertainment and real-time information to enhance your driving experience.

Safety Features that Inspire Confidence:

Subaru’s commitment to safety shines in the 2024 Crosstrek, equipped with advanced technologies to protect you and your loved ones. The EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, featuring a wide-angle mono-camera and Lane Centring Assist, acts as a vigilant co-pilot, assisting in recognizing and avoiding potential hazards. Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and Lane Keep Assist are just a few of the features that contribute to a safer driving experience, fostering peace of mind on every journey.

Conclusion:

As you embark on your automotive journey, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek stands ready to exceed your expectations. Its rugged design, unmatched capability, advanced technology, and unwavering commitment to safety make it a standout option in the Canadian marketplace. Whether you’re a weekend adventurer, a city dweller seeking versatility, or a parent looking to provide your adult child with a reliable vehicle, the Crosstrek delivers in every aspect. Visit your local Subaru dealership to experience the 2024 Crosstrek firsthand and discover the freedom and confidence it offers on the road.

Access the Crosstrek MSRP & Invoice Price here

Learn about factory Incentives, Lease Rates and Finance Rates here

Looking for detailed info about the Vehicle Specifications? Get them here

Find out about all of the new features here 

Amid the best month of Outback sales Subaru Canada has ever had, resulting in 3,455 units down the road in April for a 21.4-percent gain over the same month last year, the refreshed 2023 model was revealed…

Subaru reveals refreshed 2023 Outback including new Onyx trim

A 2023 Subaru Outback going up a hill on the trail.
Other than more rugged looking fender flairs and new wheels, changes to the Outback’s rear are less noticeable than those up front, but its new bumper is visually cleaner.

Amid the best month of Outback sales Subaru Canada has ever had, resulting in 3,455 units down the road in April for a 21.4-percent gain over the same month last year, the refreshed 2023 model was revealed at the New York International Auto Show.

This mid-cycle update integrates the brand’s new WRX-inspired grille design, showing a wider, happier grin-like shape that should put a smile on the faces of brand loyalists, plus even more radical (although not as aggressive) front fascia updates than outgoing Wilderness trim, which include massive matte black end pieces that square off the frontal design as they wrap upwards to underscore a complex set of new multi-angle LED headlamp clusters. Additionally, new fog lights are integrated within a tougher looking lower fascia below.

The edgier new fender flares look as if they’re pulled right off of 2022’s Wilderness model, which ironically sees no visual updates for the new model year, while the rocker panel cladding appears unchanged. The meaty roof rack and sizeable rooftop spoiler look the same too, but the new Outback’s matte black rear bumper shows a less aggressive design, incorporating smaller horizontally positioned reflectors to each side in place of the outgoing model’s vertical set that featured larger, angular bezels. A variety of new wheels round out the updates.

New Onyx trim follows the popular blacked-out trend

The black-painted wheels from new Onyx trim.
Black-painted alloy wheels come as part of a new Onyx trim line (also shown above), which includes more blackened elements as well.

A new Onyx Edition, previously only available in the U.S., will be positioned just below Wilderness trim for 2023. As the name implies, exterior elements that might otherwise be bright metal are finished in black, including the 18-inch gunmetal alloy wheels, while Subaru has even gone so far as to apply black badging, and an exclusive grey two-tone cabin. The seats are covered in a soft-touch, all-weather water-resistant material to enhance comfort and durability, while other features added over Touring trim include alloy foot pedals, heatable rear outboard seats, and dual-function X-MODE.

Unlike the American-spec version, which solely utilizes the optional XT powertrain, which is a 2.4-litre turbocharged boxer-four that’s good for 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, the Canadian iteration gets built upon naturally-aspirated Touring trim, which includes a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine making a more modest 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque.

All 2023 Outback models, which remain five-seat crossovers in all trims (Subaru buyers that need more seating will want to look to the larger Ascent), come standard with Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) touting eight-speed manual mode, complete with steering wheel paddles. Subaru Canada estimates 9.0 L/100km in the city, 7.1 on the highway and 8.2 combined for the base engine, or 10.1, 7.9 and 9.1 respectively for the XT turbo, while the Wilderness is separately rated at 10.9 L/100km city, 8.9 highway and 10.0 combined.

Subaru adds new standard and optional features across the Outback line

2023 Subaru Outback cockpit showing the updated infotainment system.
The Outback gets plenty of technology updates for 2023, including wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, plus USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad in Touring trim.

All 2023 Outback trim levels, including Convenience, Touring, Onyx, Limited, Wilderness, Limited XT, and Premier XT, receive plenty of interior updates including new four-way adjustable power lumbar support for the driver’s seat, plus a rear USB-C port, while all the standard features from the previous base model continue forward, including heated side mirrors with welcome lighting, LED interior dome lights, a full-circumference heatable steering wheel rim, heated front seats, automatic climate control (dual-zone in second-rung Touring trim), a power-adjustable driver’s seat, front and rear USB-A ports, and one-touch folding rear seatbacks.

Of course, Subaru’s symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive is standard too, as is active torque vectoring, Vehicle Dynamics Control and X-MODE with Hill Descent Control. Of note, regular Outback models get 220 mm (8.6 in) of ground clearance, while Wilderness trim adds another 10 mm (0.4 in) to 230 mm (9.0 in). Notably, this is more ground clearance than many so-called SUVs, yet Subaru keeps the Outback’s overall ride height closer to terra firma in order to provide easier access via a lower step-in height.

EyeSight safety and convenience tech has been improved for 2023

A 2023 Subaru Outback driving through heavy rain.
Safety is still ultimate important in the new 2023 Outback, causing Subaru to add many new features.

Subaru’s latest EyeSight driver assist technology is standard too, although the system has been improved for smoother operation under more variable conditions. This is managed by providing cameras with a wider field of view, while the control software has also been updated, and an electric brake booster added. Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Centering Assist is also included, while Touring trim and above receive Reverse Automatic Braking and Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection {SRVD) with Blind Spot Detection and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert.

Safety in mind, the 2023 Outback will continue forward with eight standard airbags, including one for the driver’s knees, while all of the above, as well as the Outback’s 2017 update to the Subaru Global Platform, which helped to increase torsional and front-suspension rigidity by 70 percent, front lateral flexural and rear subframe stiffness by 100 percent, and overall crash protection via more than 40-percent more energy absorption in front/side crashes than the prior model, the new model should once again qualify for a another five-star rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), as well as an additional Top Safety Pick+ placement from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

New Outback extras join long list of carryover options

The new LCD Smart Rearview Mirror in the 2023 Subaru Outback Premier XT.
A full LCD Smart Rearview Mirror is new for top-tier Premier XT trim.

Additional new items for Touring trim include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as part of this model’s carryover upgrade to the larger 11.6-inch high-resolution Starlink infotainment touchscreen (increased from 7.0 inches in the base model), while a front USB-C port and a wireless phone charger is now also included in this trim (which is made more useful thanks to the wireless smartphone integration).

What’s more, an additional bit of Touring (and above) tech dubbed what3words (W3W) could be quite popular once users adapt to it. It’s an innovative location system that allows for easy navigation to just above anywhere in the world via a short three-word prompt. As Subaru explains it, “W3W has divided the world into a grid of 3-metre squares and given each square a unique combination of three words — a what3words address. Customers can navigate to and share trailheads, scenic overlooks and other hard-to-find places with precise accuracy using just three words.” Cool, eh?

Carryover items in this Touring model continue to include proximity-sensing access with pushbutton ignition, a windshield wiper de-icer, an auto-dimming centre mirror with a Homelink universal remote and compass, Subaru Starlink connected services, and a moonroof. Additionally, on Touring trims and above, which come standard with aforementioned SRVD and more, EyeSight includes new Automatic Emergency Steering that works in conjunction with Pre-Collision Braking to help in collision mitigation at speeds below 80 km/h.

Subaru gives customers plenty of good reasons to move up into higher trims

The rear seating area in every Outback is as least as spacious and comfortable as in other five-passenger mid-size crossover SUVs.
The Outback continues to be very roomy in all five seating positions, while access is easier than most SUVs thanks to a lower overall ride height.

Having already gone over Onyx features, next-in-line Limited, plus upper-level Limited XT and Premier XT trims gain a DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System that utilizes a dedicated infrared camera and facial recognition tech to identify signs of driver fatigue, such as tired eyes, or distraction before providing audible and visual warnings to alert the driver and passengers that it might be time to rest.

Moving up, the Outback’s most off-road capable Wilderness trim, along with its top-tier Premier XT model, now have the option of a Front View Monitor, which shows a 180-degree forward video image of the driver’s blind spot ahead of the front bumper on the 11.6-inch infotainment display, increasing safety in all types of conditions, whether parking or off-road.

The 2023 Subaru Outback out on the trail.
The new 2023 Subaru Outback, shown here in Onyx trim, will arrive in Canada later this year.

Lastly, the range-topping Premier XT gets a new Wide-Angle Mono Camera that works in tandem with the Outback’s main dual-camera EyeSight system to further expand its overall field of vision. It now has the ability to more quickly recognize pedestrians and bicycles when entering an intersection at low speed. Once a potential collision is detected, EyeSight alerts the driver, and if required applies the brakes automatically. A full LCD Smart Rearview Mirror is also new for Premier XT trim, complete with auto-dimming capability, a compass, and a Homelink universal remote.

So far Subaru Canada hasn’t announced pricing for the refreshed 2023 Outback, but these should be available on their website fairly soon, with deliveries starting later in the year. Until then, the 2022 Outback starts at $31,195 plus destination, while Touring trim can be had for $35,395, Limited for $39,595, Premier for $41,395, Wilderness for $41,995, Limited XT for $42,395, and Premier XT for $44,195. New 2023 Outback prices should remain fairly close to those for the outgoing model.

Story credits: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Subaru

Subaru is all about subtleties when it comes to redesigns, with the latest Outback staying true to the course by paying suitable homage to its predecessors. The sixth-generation design, once again based…

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor Road Test

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
More rugged looking Outdoor trim is the best Outback for light-duty off-roading this year, but those choosing a 2022 model can opt for the even more intense Wilderness model.

Subaru is all about subtleties when it comes to redesigns, with the latest Outback staying true to the course by paying suitable homage to its predecessors. The sixth-generation design, once again based on the Legacy wagon (albeit the seventh-gen version of that car, which is no longer available in our market), arrived in late 2019 as a 2020 model, and paying special tribute to its soft-roader roots, became available in my tester’s Outdoor XT 2.4i trim for both the 2020 and 2021 model years.

From a styling perspective, this is my favourite Outback, and not only because its military-inspired Autumn Green Metallic paintwork goes well with the olive-drab half of my wardrobe. Of note, the Outdoor XT 2.4i will make way for an even beefier 2022 Outback Wilderness later this year, which muscles up the design with more black plastic body cladding than many Subaru traditionalists will appreciate, but Subaru knows it needs to pull in new buyers while still maintaining its diehard loyalists, so the bulked-up iteration will sell alongside those with softer edges.

2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness
The new 2022 Outback Wilderness adds bolder styling cues as well as better off-road chops, making it ideal for more adventurous types.

Back to 2021, the $39,295 Outdoor XT 2.4i isn’t the Outback’s fanciest trim. That honour belongs to the $43,995 Premier XT 2.4i, while the $41,195 Premier 2.5i and $41,995 Limited XT 2.4i fill in the blanks between. On the other side of the pricing spectrum, entry-level Outback ownership starts with the $30,995 Convenience 2.5i, while the trims bridging the gap to my Outdoor XT 2.4i tester include the $35,195 Touring 2.5i and $39,195 Limited 2.5i.

Now that we’re on the subject of pricing, Subaru is currently offering up to $1,000 in additional incentives for 2021 models, or up to $750 in incentives off of 2022 variants, while CarCostCanada members were saving an average of $2,008 at the time of writing. That’s pretty impressive considering how tight the car market is these days, but membership does have its benefits, such as timely rebate info, regular details about manufacturer leasing and financing rates, plus dealer invoice pricing that gives you a significant edge when it comes time to negotiate your best deal. Check out how the CarCostCanada system works, and also be sure to download their free app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outdoor’s rear styling is a bit more aggressive than the regular Outback’s, but not quite as gritty as the upcoming Wilderness.

While new Wilderness trim looks like it could pave its own way through the wild, and to that end its rugged new body panels and matte-black paintwork are joined by a special set of black-tone 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 225/65R17 all-terrain tires, plus hexagonal LED fog lamps up front, and a quad of underbody skid plates protecting the engine, transmission and rear differential below, the as-tested Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor holds its own when the tarmac ends and muddy, dirty, gravel roads begin, or for that matter snow-covered ski hill parking lots.

2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness
Here’s a rear shot of the new Wilderness model. Check out more larger pics in the gallery.

The Outdoor’s alloys are larger at 18 inches, and come encircled with 225/60R18 all-seasons instead of A/Ts, so you’ll be trading off some off-road grip for on-road traction and comfort, but Subaru’s renowned full-time all-wheel drive comes standard as always, albeit upgraded with an enhanced dual-function X-Mode drive system that also provides Snow/Dirt and Deep Snow/Mud settings. This dual-function X-Mode system isn’t available with any other trim this year, and likewise will be exclusive to the new Wilderness model for 2022.

Additional Outdoor features include a front-view camera for previewing the rougher stuff before venturing forward (or alternatively making sure you don’t hit the car in front while parking at the mall), a full-size spare tire just in case you get a flat far away from civilization (or just don’t feel like fixing it right away—note to self, get the spare tire fixed), a black-painted front grille and door mirrors, special XT badging, all-weather rubber floor mats, and really nice soft-touch, breathable and weatherproof two-tone light and dark grey upholstery with cool light-, almost lime-green contrast stitching, which goes really well with all of the upscale accoutrements throughout the cabin.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
Distinctive C-shaped LED driving lights look sharp at night.

Some of these niceties include fabric-wrapped A pillars, pliable synthetic surfacing across the entire dash top, a really plush instrument panel facing that’s padded and covered in stitched medium-grey leatherette, this extending into the door panels just above the door pulls and slightly below the soft-touch door uppers, front and rear, while darker grey padded and stitched leatherette inserts can be found lower down on the door panels, plus lighter grey padded armrests just under these, and overtop the centre console bin as well. Just ahead of the latter, Subaru even added padded and stitched leatherette to each side of the centre console, as well as the intersecting point where the centre stack meets the lower console, all of which shows just how premium-like the Outback is getting with each new generation.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
Outdoor trim adds some unique styling details, plus 18-inch black-painted alloys with all-season tires, instead of the all-terrain’s found on the new Wilderness.

Of course, you might not have noticed any of these subtler details due to the mega-touchscreen on the just-noted centre stack, which would’ve certainly grabbed your attention first. The vertical display measures 11.6 inches diagonally, which outclasses every direct rival in the mid-size crossover class, even besting the Ford Explorer’s 10.1-inch unit, although Toyota Prius owners can at least take pride in matching the familial Subie for having an identically sized and shaped display (Toyota and Subaru probably co-created it, being that the latter is partially owned by the former), whereas Ram takes claim for having the largest infotainment screen in the mainstream volume-branded sector at 12 inches. The sky’s the limit in the premium class, however, especially when factoring in new electrics like the Lucid Air, which incorporates a 34-inch curved display that also houses the car’s primary gauge cluster, but I digress.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback has two of the best roof rails in the industry.

Of course, the Outback won’t set you back $91,900 in base trim (not bad for what it is, really), and of course, until available in trail-ready Lucid Gravity crossover guise (sometime in 2023), the Air is not even remotely competitive to this Subaru. Then again, Volvo makes two premium models that at first glance might seem like logical moves upmarket for anyone planning to trade up, and not just because of the large, vertical, touchscreen found on every Volvo model’s dashboard, but more so because the V60 Cross Country and V90 Cross Country have long been moulded after the Outback’s proven wagon-cum-crossover image (the Volvo V70 XC was introduced in 1997, even beating the Audi A6 Allroad Quattro by two years, whereas the original Outback arrived eight years earlier in 1989, although kudos for now-defunct AMC motors that came up with the idea back in 1980 with the introduction of the Jeep 4WD-enhanced Eagle Wagon). Still, the Outback’s upward moves in luxury, technology and performance make it less likely for Subaru owners to crave one of these off-road capable Volvos.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The “XT” designation denotes much more energetic turbocharged power.

Digression seems to be the order of the day, so, getting back to the Outback in question, its vertical touchscreen includes all the expected radio functions, such as FM, AM, satellite, and device streaming, plus climate controls that pop up on a separate panel, full phone connectivity including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Subaru’s proprietary Starlink system, while SiriusXM Travel Link optimizes the navigation system, as does a “My Subaru” section that allows you to make an appointment for service, call for Roadside Assistance, and more, plus the infotainment interface provides a very nice, easy-to-use graphical layout that ties everything together.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outdoor’s creative multi-grey and green-highlighted interior is much more upscale than you’ll likely expect.

What might be immediately noticeable to previous owners, is the lack of a multi-information display on top of the dash. This feature, normally found within most competitive cars’ primary instrument clusters, is now incorporated within the top quarter of the vertical infotainment display. It’s a much better setup and easier to modulate than the dashtop design, but it doesn’t have the retro ancillary gauge look that some who are faithful to the brand would’ve become used to.

Additionally, along with the Outdoor trim’s front-view camera is a regular backup camera, with moving guidelines to help place the car into a parking spot, but like the Prius this real-time monitor only uses the top half of the display screen, albeit the bottom portion appears like a dark blue sky on a starry night with a wild, natural vista silhouetted below. This is much more entertaining to look at than the plain black bottom section shown to Prius owners, however, so kudos to Subaru for make the most of a less than ideal situation (using the “dead” space for multiple rear angles or even reverse side cameras would’ve been optimal). This said, a view button shows the aforementioned frontal video of the road or trail ahead, but alas, no overhead camera is offered at all.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The first thing most peoples’ eyes fall upon when entering any new Outback is the massive touchscreen on the centre stack.

Subaru locates powered auxiliary and USB-A ports at the base of the Outback’s centre stack for connecting a phone to the infotainment system as well as charging, while a wireless device charger (standard in Limited trim and above) can be found just below in a clever reverse-angle slot, which therefore optimizes space on the lower console where such devices normally go.

A simple powered glass sunroof is positioned overhead, controllable via an overhead console that comes complete with LED reading lamps and emergency contact switchgear. A very small sunglasses holder is included as well, which isn’t finished all that nicely due to no felt or rubberized padding inside, except for a tiny bit of cloth stuck to the front portion. I suppose it’s better than no sunglasses holder at all.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback Outdoor features nice padded and stitched leatherette throughout the cabin, especially the dash.

Speaking of not quite hitting the mark, the power-adjustable driver’s seat was inherently comfortable, with good lower back support and ample length from the lower cushion squab, but the two-way powered lumbar adjustment didn’t meet the small of my back ideally. Fortunately, the driving position was especially good thanks to excellent reach from the tilt and telescopic steering column. The steering wheel rim is leather-wrapped as well, normal in this class, but I would’ve liked it better if stitched in the lovely green from the seats.

Ok, now I’m really nitpicking, but I’m not complaining when wondering where the heated steering wheel rim was. If included in the Outdoor, a button would’ve been added to the right side of the third spoke, and according to a video from a very cool salesperson on YT from Prince George, BC (thanks Tyson), it heats up to 36.1 C (97 F) on equipped cars, albeit only on the lower two-thirds of the wheel (not uncommon). Thankfully, all Outback trims will get heated steering wheels for 2022, which is a smart upgrade for the Canadian market.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
Compared to the centre display, the Outback’s primary gauge cluster is a bit old-school.

I also noticed it was almost exactly the same steering wheel as found in the larger three-row Ascent, complete with what seemed like identical switchgear for the audio system, phone, and multi-information display (MID), plus trip computer, the former once again integrated within the centre touchscreen, and the latter not as large or fully featured as the one used for the bigger SUV. At least a splash of colour could be seen on the vertical MID, with some useful graphics for the adaptive cruise control system, but due to Subaru’s choice to mix multi-info and infotainment functions into one, the primary instruments don’t look anywhere near as advanced as the centre touchscreen next door.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback’s 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen is one of the largest in the entire industry.

Looking beyond aesthetics to more practical issues, the second-row seating area is as large and spacious as it was in the previous Outback, and includes a nice, wide folding armrest at centre, with two big integrated cupholders featuring useful rubber grips. Two-way rear seat heaters also come as part of this trim, with switchgear located on the backside of the front console, along with two additional USB-A charging points.

When sitting behind the driver’s seat that was set up for my long-legged, short-torso five-foot-eight frame, meaning that it was pushed farther rearward than it might otherwise be for someone of my height, I still had about six inches from my knees to the upper seatback, plus plenty of room to stretch out my legs underneath the driver’s seat while wearing winter boots. There was about five or six inches from my shoulders to the side window too, plus almost the same from my outer hip to the door panel, and about four inches above my head. This makes the Outback’s rear seating area excellent for all sizes of adults and teens, while the rear outboard backrests also provided impressive lower support. Levers on the outside bolsters allow rear passengers to recline those backrests too, or sit more upright, making this one of the more comfortable cars in its class.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The infotainment interface is very graphical and fully featured.

As for cargo, simply nudging the retractable cargo cover with an elbow when loading items inside causes it to retract automatically, a very useful and unique feature, whereas removing it altogether provides the Outback’s generously sized dedicated cargo area with even more space for longer cargo. On this note, I so wish it had 40/20/40 split rear seats, or at least a centre pass-through, as it would be much easier to stow longer items inside, such as ski equipment, plus more comfortable for rear passengers when returning from the slopes, being that both could use the outboard seat warmers. Like so many Japanese and domestic automakers, Subaru doesn’t go the extra mile for passenger/cargo accommodations, instead simply incorporating 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks. At least the Outback provides levers on the cargo wall for lowering the seats automatically, plus the usual package tie-down hooks are included as well.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The rearview camera only occupies the top half of the display, just like Toyota’s Prius, but at least with the Outback the lower portion is filled with a nice nighttime vista.

Notably, the Outback stows just as much gear as the average five-passenger mid-size crossover SUV. By the numbers, it can manage up to 920 litres (32.5 cu ft) of what-have-you behind the rear seatbacks, plus a total of 2,144 litres (75.7 cu ft) when those backrests are flipped forward, which means it’s a bit tighter than a Hyundai Santa Fe or Ford Edge for dedicated space, but roomier than both when lowering its rear seats. Try to stuff the same number of bags into a Nissan Murano, however, and you’ll get a fraction more into the Outback’s dedicated cargo area, plus way more when their rear seats are folded flat. It’s not the end all to be all, however, with Honda’s Passport showing up all of these two-row CUVs, but it’s certainly up to the majority of tasks any of the others take on.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback’s CVT incorporates eight pseudo gears for fairly sporty driving characteristics.

Most of the above crossover SUVs are powered by six-cylinder engines, some throughout the range and others just in upper trims, which was also the case for the former Outback prior to 2020 when the arguably cool yet less efficient 3.6R flat-six was in use, but now the previously noted 2.5i and 2.4i model designations refer to four-cylinder engine displacements. What might come as a surprise is the larger engine is in fact the entry-level powerplant, with the 2.5i being naturally aspirated for 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque, and the 2.4i utilizing a turbocharger to make 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, while all feed through a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), albeit beefed up to high-torque specs when matched to the turbo. There are no mechanical changes for 2022, including the CVT’s eight-speed manual mode and standard steering wheel-mounted shift-paddles, which are literally a nice touch, making this normally slushy-feeling type of transmission relatively sporty.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
This Outdoor model’s driver seat is inherently comfortable, but would be better with four-way powered lumbar support.

Fortunately, the Outdoor incorporates the more energetic power unit, and I must admit it’s more entertaining than the old 3.6R horizontally opposed six, which makes sense considering the new engine’s 4-horsepower improvement and 30 lb-ft of additional torque. The outgoing engine was quite smooth and made adequate power, but the new turbo-four combines stronger acceleration with better fuel economy, the latter now rated at 10.1 L/100km in the city, 7.9 on the highway, and 9.1 combined, compared to 12.0, 8.7 and 10.5 for the six. That’s a big gain, and while the naturally aspirated 2.5i doesn’t improve as dramatically, the 2021 model’s 9.0 L/100km city, 7.1 highway and 8.2 combined rating is better than the 2019 base 2.5i’s respective 9.4, 7.3 and 8.5.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback is big on rear seat roominess and comfort, while the finishing in back is nice too.

Another benefit to the new 2.4i is weight reduction over the front wheels, which of course improves handling. This combines with a lower centre of gravity over taller, more SUV-like crossovers, causing the Outback to feel a lot more agile through the corners than something like a Ford Edge (ST aside). At the same time, the Outback has to be one of the smoothest cars in its class. I’d say one of the smoothest in any class, but Volvo’s aforementioned V60 and V90 Cross Country models are probably cushier.

Unfortunately, my test wasn’t all roses. On occasion, the engine idle-stop system restarted much more abruptly than any vehicle I’ve tested in a long time. Strangely, this issue was sporadic, with smooth restarts being the norm. Therefore, this could be an issue with my specific test car, and not systemic.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
The Outback’s cargo cover pops out of the way automatically by pressing down on the rear edge.

Unusual as well, the dual-zone automatic climate control system required a much lower temperature setting than normal, in order to meet my comfort criteria. I set it at 22.5 C at first, which is usually good for me, but due to the sweltering heat was forced to turn it all the way down to 19 C. Again, I don’t know if this was a problem with my test car, and therefore cannot be sure what an owner might experience with their new Outback. Either way, it would hardly be a deal-killer, just an adjustment from the norm.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
All Outbacks come standard with similar cargo capacity to taller mid-size SUVs.

So as not to leave this review on a sour note, let me sum up the remaining few paragraphs with safety, value, and reliability info from third party sources. Pertaining to the first item on the list, Subaru’s advanced driver assistance system, dubbed EyeSight, has led the industry for years, and remains amongst the most effective and least intrusive available. I’ve already mentioned the adaptive cruise control system, which comes standard on all Outbacks as part of the EyeSight package and works very well, while other features include pre-collision braking, pre-collision throttle management, lead vehicle start alert, lane centring assist, and lane keep assist with sway warning.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
Handy levers on the cargo walls make lowering each 60/40-split side of the rear seatbacks easier.

Together with every Outback trim’s standard steering-responsive (SRH) LED headlights that also feature standard High-Beam Assist (HBA) and attractive looking C-shaped LED Daytime Running Lights (DRL), Subaru’s two-row crossover was awarded a best-possible IIHS Top Safety Pick + rating, while the U.S. NHTSA gave it a five-star ranking in front driver side tests and four stars for front passenger side test results. It earned a perfect score in the NHTSA’s side barrier and pole tests, however, so altogether the NHTSA gave the 2021 Outback a five-star safety rating. And this comes before a buyer might add on the Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection (SRVD) system, Reverse Automatic Braking (RAB), and DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System (DMS), this threesome coming standard when moving one step up from base Convenience trim.

2021 Subaru Outback XT 2.4i Outdoor
Check out all that space! With both rear seatbacks flattened, a total of 2,144 litres (75.7 cu ft) is at your disposal.

Another feel-good story is the Outback earning Vincentric’s Best Value in Canada Award for its “Mid-Size SUV/Crossover” segment, an honour it also achieved in the U.S. On the negative, the Outback received no mention in any of the various third-party dependability and/or initial quality surveys/studies, but only three models could potentially break through the top of J.D. Power’s VDS and IQS studies, plus the Outback’s category is the most competitive of any, so therefore it makes sense it might not achieve best-in-class.

Likewise, the Outback got no love regarding resale/residual values from Canadian Black Book (won by the Toyota 4Runner) or J.D. Power’s 2021 Canada ALG Residual Value Awards (won by the Honda Passport), but the WRX and Crosstrek achieved a top score in the latter, and the Crosstrek earned an honourable mention in the former, reminding that Subaru models normally depreciate less than most others in their respective classes, so therefore it would be unusual to expect anything different from the 2021 Outback.

In the end, you can feel confident the Outback delivers big on value, safety, comfort and reliability, while it now provides higher levels of luxury, technology and performance than ever before. Certainly, improvements could be made, but that’s true with any new car. Therefore, I think the Outback will continue proving positive to Subaru’s loyal customers while attracting some new clientele along the way, steadily helping to grow the brand.

Review and photos by Trevor Hofmann (2022 Outback Wilderness photos by Subaru)

Well executed, affordable sports cars are few and far between these days, with Subaru’s BRZ being much-loved amongst purists. It’s compact, lightweight, nicely finished inside (for the money), adequately…

Subaru’s BRZ gets ground-up redesign plus more power for 2022

2022 Subaru BRZ
Subaru has completely redesigned its sporty BRZ for 2022, with more dramatic styling and quicker performance.

Well executed, affordable sports cars are few and far between these days, with Subaru’s BRZ being much-loved amongst purists. It’s compact, lightweight, nicely finished inside (for the money), adequately powered and fabulous through the corners, therefore the BRZ has been a performance enthusiasts’ go-to alternative since arriving on the scene nine years ago, at least for those choosing not to purchase the import sector’s best-selling Mazda MX-5, or a Fiat 124 Spider (that shares the latter car’s underpinnings), an entry-level Nissan 370Z, or of course, Toyota’s near-identical 86 (née Scion FR-S).

After no shortage of rumours that both the BRZ and 86 would get the axe after the first-generation cars ran their course, lo and behold an all-new second generation of Subaru’s version was unveiled online earlier this month, and at first glance it just might offer the right mix of ingredients to give the previously-noted MX-5 a run for its money.

2022 Subaru BRZ
There’s no mistaking the new BRZ for anything but Subaru’s low-slung sports car, other than possibly Toyota’s renewed 86 when it eventually debuts.

Most immediately noticeable is a fresh new look that tosses aside the old car’s simpler, sporty elegance for arguably more aggressive character traits. Many of the new BRZ’s design cues pay homage to the one it replaces, such as the general shape of its front fascia, long hood line, fender bulges, arcing greenhouse, and short rear deck lid, but a great deal has changed too, and while some of its updated details could be arbitrarily, and possibly unfairly attributed to other sport coupes that have come before, on the whole its appearance stands out amongst its peers.

In an automotive world that seems to be augmenting front grilles beyond reason, Subaru chose a welcome reduction in grille size for the 2022 BRZ, or at least it looks smaller now that the bumper is more cleanly integrated within the design instead of topping off the outgoing model’s central opening. Air vents are once again housed to each side, but they now look larger and more pronounced. On the contrary, the simpler headlamp design doesn’t appear as wide, narrow and eye-like when seen from the front.

2022 Subaru BRZ
The BRZ’s narrow, animal eye-like headlamps have been replaced by these seemingly more upright lenses.

More side creases and new front fender ducts that pay respect to those found on Subaru’s own ultimate performer, the WRX STI, embellish the BRZ’s flanks, while the aforementioned fender swells and sweptback rear glass now culminate into an integrated ducktail-like deck lid spoiler that sits above the new three-piece combination taillight’s narrow, centre strip for a totally new look from behind. It doesn’t hurt that the license plate cutout has been moved much farther down the rear fascia, this causing the need to carve some space out of the more organically shaped rear diffuser that continues to house twin exhaust ports as well as a centre-mounted reflector and backup lamps, although Subaru has squared the latter lighting elements off compared to the older model’s angular design.

2022 Subaru BRZ
Performance gets a big boost from a new 228 hp four-cylinder.

Those hoping for WRX STI levels of grunt under the new BRZ’s lovely long hood can begin their sob session now, as Subie’s new sports car won’t see a turbo attached to its 2.4-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, at least not yet. It’s a bigger mill than the 268-horsepower base WRX’ turbocharged 2.0-litre four, incidentally, albeit 100 cubic centimeters smaller than the WRX STI’s 310-hp lump.

In fact, this 2.4-litre engine is a naturally aspirated version of the engine first introduced in Subaru’s Ascent SUV and now optional in the Legacy and Outback, so there’s always potential for the Japanese brand (or someone with tuning skills) to push its performance up to the three-row family crossover’s heights of 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. Nevertheless, those wanting more power from the new off-the-rack BRZ can at least be satisfied that its stock powerplant produces 23 more horsepower and 28 additional lb-ft of torque than the outgoing model, the new specs being 228 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, so it should be a lot more fun to drive.

2022 Subaru BRZ
The rear design is shows a significant styling shift from the current model.

Another BRZ strongpoint was Subaru’s ability to maintain the car’s light curb weight, which only increases by a scant 7.7 kilos (17 lbs). It now hits the scales at 1,277 kg (2,815 lbs), even though it has grown from end to end by 25 mm (1 in) to 4,265 mm (167.9 in), and has a 5-mm (0.2-in) longer 2,575-mm (101.4-in) wheelbase.

At least as positive, the new BRZ’s Subaru Global Platform-sourced body structure is an impressive 50-percent stiffer than the outgoing model. Key areas of strengthening include “a reinforced chassis mounting system, sub-frame architecture and other connection points,” stated Subaru in their press release. What’s more, the car’s front lateral bending rigidity has been increased by 60 percent, which is claimed to “improve turn-in and response.”

2022 Subaru BRZ
The only curving element of the dash design, other than the corner vents and various dials, is the hood that covers the primary instruments.

The BRZ’s general suspension layout remains unchanged, however, including its front struts and double-wishbone rear design, but Subaru has reportedly made plenty of updates, while its standard 17-inch and optional 18-inch alloy wheels will be shod with 215/45R17 and 215/40R18 tires respectively.

Most BRZ buyers will probably choose the standard six-speed manual gearbox that carries forward from the previous car. It once again features a short-throw shifter, while a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel paddle shifters and downshift rev-matching continues forward into the 2022 model as well. Also staying the same, all BRZ trims will receive a standard limited-slip differential.

2022 Subaru BRZ
The new gauge cluster features seven inches of colour display screen and some pretty snazzy graphics.

New BRZ owners will be able to see those revs spinning from an all-new gauge cluster incorporating a large 7.0-inch digital display, while a new 8.0-inch centre touchscreen will house standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration along with the usual array of infotainment and convenience features.

The larger centre touchscreen is housed within a new centre stack that boasts a larger more modern trio of HVAC dials above a fresher row of silver toggle switches, while those familiar with the old car’s arcing centre air vent module and rounded outer dash top sections will be greeted by a new more linear instrument panel design overall. Circular side vents are still included, albeit now infused with a propellor-style design featuring a control knob in the middle instead of the previous conventional flap system. Additional changes go even further to differentiate the second-gen BRZ from the first, all of which should be more appealing to sports car buyers.

2022 Subaru BRZ
Subaru’s familiar (and very good) infotainment interface fills the eight-inch centre touchscreen.

Prospective customers in mind, the brutal truth (that Subaru would probably rather not have mentioned) are sales numbers, which as of 2019 (let’s not use 2020’s as they’re totally out of whack) were just 647 units for the entire year. While that will sound like peanuts when compared to Subaru’s top-selling Crosstrek that found 15,184 new owners last year (up 4.4 percent), it wasn’t actually all that bad when factoring in more than 7 percent in year-over-year growth and, even better, 348 more sales than Toyota’s 86 (Ouch! Toyota 86 sales were down more than 52 percent last year). The BRZ sold 147 more units than the 300Z too (its sales down 28.5 percent), and actually came very close to unseating the MX-5’s rather lacklustre 774-unit total (and it’s sales were up almost 26 percent from 2019, when these two models almost tied for popularity).

2022 Subaru BRZ
The BRZ’s six-speed manual and six-speed auto continue forward into the new 2022 model.

The big winners in this category are American muscle cars, however, notably Chevy’s Camaro with 2,220 sales (albeit down nearly 18 percent), the Dodge Challenger with 2,341 deliveries (up by almost 3 percent), and Ford’s Mustang with 7,628 units sold (down a hair over 5 percent). Interestingly, Volkswagen delivered 2,910 examples of its now discontinued Beetle last year, thanks to a staggering 40-percent upsurge in YoY growth.

Yes, it’s bizarre to contemplate why VW would cancel such a comparatively successful sports car when Subaru is renewing one that regularly sells at about one-quarter the rate in both Canada and the U.S., but the Japanese brand obviously believes the sportier side of its mostly practical lineup needs an image car, despite the more formidable WRX STI still being its performance flagship.

2022 Subaru BRZ
Once again, the BRZ’s seats look comfortable and totally supportive.

We’re not at all upset about this news, of course, being that Subaru’s BRZ and its Toyota 86 cousin are true sports cars that already were revered amongst enthusiasts long before the 2022 updates will arrive sometime next year, and on that latter note stay tuned to these pages for a similar overview of the incoming 2022 86 when Toyota drops the details.

All said, we’re not expecting a big price increase despite the improvements, but then again, it’s highly unlikely you’ll be able to get up to $2,500 in additional incentives on the 2022 when it hits Subaru retailers next year, at least not initially. Check out CarCostCanada’s 2020 Subaru BRZ Canada Prices page for more information, and while you’re at it, find out how their inexpensive program can save you thousands off your next car purchase, via timely information about manufacturer rebates, financing and leasing deals, and dealer invoice pricing that will really help when it comes time for you to negotiate your deal.

Also, make sure to download the free CarCostCanada app from the Google Play Store or Apple Store, which provides all of this helpful, money-saving information exactly when you need it most, at the dealership.

Before signing off, make sure to check out the massive 2022 Subaru BRZ photo gallery above, as well as the videos Subaru provided below.

The 2022 Subaru BRZ Global Reveal (5:54):

The 2022 Subaru BRZ. Sports Car Purity, Subaru DNA (2:11):

Scott Speed Test Drives All-New 2022 Subaru BRZ (4:33):

Story credit: Trevor Hofmann

Photo credits: Subaru

Are you a wing spoiler or a lip spoiler person? That’s a question you’ll need to ask yourself when purchasing a new Subaru WRX STI. It might come down to your age, or how fast you plan on driving…

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport Road Test

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The 2020 WRX STI gets some styling tweaks, but the 2019 still looks fabulous. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Are you a wing spoiler or a lip spoiler person? That’s a question you’ll need to ask yourself when purchasing a new Subaru WRX STI. It might come down to your age, or how fast you plan on driving your new ride. If you’ve got a race course close by, choose the wing as it adds significant downforce at high speeds.

Being that Vancouver doesn’t have a decent track within easy distance I’m personally torn, because the big aerofoil on the backside of this high performance Subaru actually has purpose, unlike so many of its contemporaries. The WRX STI’s predecessor, after all, won the FIA-sanctioned World Rally Championship (WRC) three years in a row from 1995 to 1997, amassing a total of 16 race wins and 33 podiums, no small feat. Of course, that was a long time ago and Subaru hasn’t contested a factory WRC team for more than a decade, but the road-going rally race replica before your eyes is a much better car than the one I tested in 2008 in every way.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI features some aggressive lower aerodynamics plus this sizeable rear wing on Sport and Sport-tech trims. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Competitors have come and gone over the years, the most saddening being the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (EVO) that was cancelled at the end of 2015, and no doubt sport compact enthusiasts are also lamenting the more recent loss of Ford’s Focus RS that went wayward with the demise of the model’s less potent trims at the end of 2018. Still, the segment isn’t down and out. Volkswagen raised its Golf R from the dead for 2016 and it’s still running strong, while Honda’s sensational Civic Type R hit the streets with front-wheel screech for 2018, and Hyundai is getting almost as serious with its new Veloster N for 2020, although these last two are front-wheel drive entries and would therefore rally in a different class than those mentioned previously.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
All the scoops and ducts are functional, the WRX STI one of the most purposeful performance cars in its class. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

The WRX STI being reviewed here is a 2019, which means it’s devoid of the styling enhancements available with the 2020 model, but both receive the 5-horsepower performance boost added last year. What styling enhancements? To be clear, the regular WRX looks the same for 2020, at least externally, although its interior gets some red stitching on the door trim and its engine bay comes filled with a retuned 2.0-litre boxer, while the differential receives some tuning too. This said only the STI receives any styling upgrades, which include a new lower front fascia and redesigned 19-inch aluminum machined alloy wheels for Sport and Sport-tech trims. Additionally, 2020 Sport trim gets proximity-sensing keyless entry with a pushbutton ignition system.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
LED headlights add sophistication to the STI’s raw power. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

This 2019 WRX STI was tested in Sport trim, which sits between the base and top-line Sport-tech models. The base STI starts at $40,195 plus freight and fees, with the Sport starting at $42,495 and the more luxury-trimmed Sport-tech at $47,295. Incidentally, the wing spoiler comes standard with the Sport and Sport-tech, but can be exchanged for the aforementioned rear lip spoiler with the Sport-tech at no charge.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI Sport gets new 19-inch alloys wrapped in grippy Yokohama rubber. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Your pickings are slim for a 2019 model, but I scoured Canada’s Subaru dealer websites and found plenty for sale. Still, don’t expect to be picking and choosing trims or options. At least you’ll save if opting for the 2019, with CarCostCanada reporting up to $2,500 in additional incentives available at the time of writing, seen on its 2019 Subaru WRX Canada Prices page where you can also get complete trim, package and option pricing for the WRX and WRX STI, plus info on special offers like financing/leasing, notices of manufacturer rebates, and dealer invoice pricing that will help you secure the best deal possible when it’s time to negotiate. On that note, if you don’t find the trim or options you’re wanting from a 2019 model, make sure to check out CarCostCanada’s 2020 Subaru WRX Canada Prices page that was showing up to $750 in additional incentives at the time of writing. 

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
To wing or not to wing? With the Sport you don’t have a choice. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Even though the 2019 WRX STI appears no different than the 2018, it’s still a fine looking sport sedan. Last year’s STI added new LED headlights for a more sophistication look and brighter frontal illumination, while standard cross-drilled Brembo brakes get yellow-green-painted six-piston front calipers and two-piston rear calipers enhanced with four-channel, four-sensor and g-load sensor-equipped Super Sport ABS. Subaru revised the STI’s configurable centre differential (DCCD) so that it’s no longer a hybrid mechanical design with electronic centre limited-slip differential control, but rather an electric design for quicker, smoother operation, while the interior received a set of red seatbelts that, like everything else, also get fitted to this 2019 model.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI Sport’s cabin is nicely finished, and filled with a decent assortment of features. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

The interior also includes red on black partial-leather and ultrasuede Sport seats, with the same soft suede-like material used for the door inserts, along with nice red thread that extends to the armrests as well, while that red stitching also rings the inside of the leather-wrapped sport steering wheel, the padded leatherette-covered centre console edges, and the sides of the seat bolsters. Recaro makes the seats, and therefore they come as close to race car-spec as most would want for a daily driver. They provide power adjustment for the pilot, including two-way lumbar support. The rear passenger compartment is comfortable too, and gets finished identically to that up front, even including the padded door uppers.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI’s cockpit is near perfect for optimal driver control and comfort. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

That rear passenger compartment is one of the strongest selling points of the WRX STI, in that it couples legendary sports car performance with day-to-day practicality. Along with a rear seating area that’s good enough for two regular-sized adults or three smaller folk, upgraded with a fold-down centre armrest featuring integrated cupholders in the 2018 model year, the 340-litre trunk holds plenty of gear, while the rear seat even folds down 60/40 via pull-tab latches on the tops of the seatbacks.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The mostly analogue gauges include a highly functional display at centre. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

All occupants continue to benefit from reduced interior noise too, not to mention a retuned suspension with a more compliant ride, while the car received a beefier battery and upgraded interior door trim last year too. Additionally, the driver received a revised electroluminescent primary gauge cluster with a high-resolution colour TFT centre display that Subaru dubs Multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system indicator, showing an eco-gauge, driving time info, a digital speedometer, a gear display, cruise control details, an odometer, trip meter, SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) indicators, and the Driver Control Centre Differential (DCCD) system’s front/rear power bias graphic, whereas the 5.9-inch colour multi-information dash-top display, also updated last year, shows average fuel economy, DCCD graphics, a digital PSI boost gauge and more.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
Base WRX and STI’s include a 6.5-inch centre touchscreen instead of the 7.0-inch unit found in Sport-tech trim. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Subaru has been updating its electronic interfaces for all models in recent years, and now they’re some of the best in the business. The most impressive, a giant vertical touchscreen, is found in the new 2020 Legacy and Outback, so after experiencing that, the WRX STI’s centre display seems a bit lacklustre. Truly, the base 6.5-inch system found in this 2019, as well as the 2020, should no longer exist in a car that starts at more than $40k. Instead, the top-line Sport-tech’s 7.0-inch touchscreen should at the very least be standard across the line. I wouldn’t care if navigation was included or not, this worth paying more for some and not for others, but a single interface makes sense from a build cost scenario too. Then again the larger display might cost more than the smaller one even after factoring in economies of scale, but both incorporate glossy screens with deep contrast and crisp, bright colours, which is what’s needed to compete in this space.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The multi-information display at the top of the dash is a brilliant bit of electronics. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

As it is, the standard infotainment system incorporates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus Subaru’s own StarLink smartphone integration that also includes Aha radio and the ability to download additional apps. I like Subaru’s updated interface, which features colourful smartphone/tablet-style candy drop graphics on a night sky-like blue 3D tile-style background, plus the system’s easy functionality that for 2019 includes near-field communication (NFC) phone connectivity, a Micro SD card slot, HD radio, new glossy black topped audio knobs, and more. The standard six-speaker audio system is very good too, but that said I missed the top-line 320-watt nine-speaker Harman/Kardon upgrade tested previously in the Sport-tech package.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The base WRX’ might be a bit on the small side, but it’s an excellent system. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Along with everything already mentioned, all STI trims include a glossy black front grille insert, brushed aluminum door sills with STI branding, carpeted floor mats with red embroidered STI logos, aluminum sport pedals, a leather-wrapped handbrake lever, black and red leather/ultrasuede upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, a backup camera with dynamic guidelines, voice activation, Bluetooth phone connectivity with audio streaming, an AM/FM/MP3/WMA audio head unit, vehicle-speed-sensitive volume control, Radio Data System, satellite radio, USB and aux ports, plus more.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI’s six-speed manual is silky smooth and brilliantly engaging. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

STI trims get plenty of standard performance enhancements too, such as quick-ratio rack and pinion steering, inverted KYB front MacPherson struts with forged aluminum lower suspension arms, performance suspension tuning, high-strength solid rubber engine mounts, a red powder-coated intake manifold, a close ratio six-speed manual gearbox, a Helical-type limited-slip front differential and a Torsen limited-slip rear diff, plus more.

2019 Subaru WRX STI Sport
The STI’s new electric configurable centre differential (DCCD) apportions drive bias to the front, centre or rear. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Sport trim adds 19-inch dark gunmetal alloy wheels wrapped in 245/35R19 89W Yokohama Advan Sport V105 performance tires, the high-profile rear spoiler, light- and wiper-activated automatic on-off headlamps with welcome lighting, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, a powered glass sunroof, Subaru’s Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD) featuring blindspot detection, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, and more.

Lastly, Sport-tech features not yet mentioned include proximity-sensing keyless access with pushbutton ignition, navigation with detailed mapping, SiriusXM Traffic and Travel Link with weather, sports and stocks info, while the Sport-tech’s Recaro sport seats are only eight-way power-adjustable.

STI’s configurable centre differential (DCCD)
The STI’s Recaro sport seats are fabulously comfortable and ultra-supportive. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Of course, like with almost all Subaru models (the rear-drive BRZ sports car excluded) the WRX STI comes standard with Symmetrical-AWD, its torque-vectoring system continuing to push and pull its way to the front of the sport compact pack. You can pitch it sideways on dry pavement or wet, or for that matter on gravel, dirt, snow or almost anything else, and be confident in its ability to pull you through, as long as you’ve got the right tires underneath as well as the driving chops to apply the correct steering, throttle and braking inputs exactly when required.

STI’s configurable centre differential (DCCD)
The rear seating area is finished as nicely as the front, the seats are comfortable, and Subaru added a folding centre armrest last year. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

On this last note it almost feels redundant talking about WRX STI performance, considering its legendary status noted earlier, but I should point out changes made a couple of years ago to the shifter and suspension, which made it a much nicer car to drive both around town and at the limit. The manual gearbox is much smoother, and clicks into place with greater precision than the previous one. In fact, I’d go so far to say it’s now one of the better six-speed manuals on the market, rivalling the Civic Si manual’s brilliance, which I would place at the top of almost anything on the market. That’s heavy praise to both automakers, but certainly well deserved.

STI’s configurable centre differential (DCCD)
This is as practical as sports cars get. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

The six-speed manual connects through to a turbocharged 2.5-litre four that includes stronger pistons, a new air intake, new ECU programming and a higher-flow exhaust system than in previous generations, resulting in the same 290 lb-ft of torque, albeit five more horsepower for a new total of 310, while the just-noted gearbox features a revised third gear for quicker acceleration. This means the new STI feels even more energetic off the line than its predecessor, which was already brilliant fun.

STI’s configurable centre differential (DCCD)
The rear seats fold 60/40, opening up the cargo area for longer cargo. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

As anyone who’s driven a WRX STI knows, its handling is outrageously good. Then again the EVO mentioned earlier was capable of outmanoeuvring the previous five-door STI. I’d love to put the new STI up against the final EVO back-to-back, like I previously did with the old models, because Subaru has completely eradicated any handling problems of past STI models. It feels light and lively, yet mostly locked in place through fast-paced corner, whether the road surface is smooth or filled with bumps and dips. I say mostly because the old five-door held on too tight, and a little oversteer in the rear is important when making quick time through particularly sharp curves, such as those found on autocross courses. Braking is stupendous, with incredible bite from high speeds, the meaty 245/35R19 Yokohamas grippy on most surfaces and the majority of conditions, snow aside.

2019 Subaru WRX STI
If you like looking at mechanicals, the STI’s “naked” engine is a thing of beauty. (Photo: Karen Tuggay)

Fuel economy won’t likely matter much to anyone purchasing an STI, but it’s nevertheless reasonably efficient for its performance at 14.1 L/100km in the city, 10.5 on the highway and 12.5 combined, this number not changing one iota from last year. Subaru isn’t showing any improvement from zero to 100km/h either, its claimed sprint time still 0.5 seconds quicker than the regular WRX, at 4.9 seconds. With only negligible changes to its 1,550- to 1,600-kilo curb weight (depending on trims), plus five additional horsepower joining a stronger third gear, both off-the-line and mid-range acceleration should be quicker, which leaves us to believe Subaru is either being conservative or their marketing department just hasn’t gotten around to changing all the specifications on their website.

If you’ve never driven a WRX STI you should, because it’s one of the best sports cars available in its low- to mid-$40k range, plus it’s a practical everyday road car that can manage an active lifestyle.