Subaru showcases 2023 WRX sedan, wagon at Singapore Motorshow 2023

MANILA: At the recently finished 2023 Singapore Motor Show at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Center, Subaru unveiled the new WRX and the WRX Wagon.

Singapore marks another appearance of the WRX in Southeast Asia. Last year, Motor Image Pilipinas (MIP), the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in the Philippines, brought the fifth-generation Subaru WRX and WRX Wagon.

The 2023 Subaru WRX models join the equally fresh second-generation BRZ coupe to make the local Subaru sports car lineup truly thrilling for gearheads who wish to drive something special.

“The all-new WRX is here to ignite your senses," Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Tan Chong International (MIP parent company) Glenn Tan was quoted as saying. "From its stunning exterior and premium interior, to the sporty sound and powerful performance of its new 2.4-liter turbo boxer engine, the invigorating smell of the exhaust and the exciting handling, the WRX gives a raw driving experience that makes burning rubber fun."

Subaru’s modern design philosophy “Dynamic x Solid” has guided the complete redesign of the WRX in both notchback-sedan and station-wagon body styles.

The classic WRX trademark, a functional hood scoop, is present and accounted for, feeding fresh air to the intercooler of the turbocharged boxer engine. The athletic design of the WRX continues on the body sides, which are dominated by eye-catching fender extensions to visually convey the all-wheel-drive power and blacked-out lower sections to accentuate the road-hugging stance. The 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels are shod in high-performance tires.

Both models are built on the newest iteration of the Subaru Global Platform, with full inner frame construction and expanded application of structural adhesive to greatly improve the car’s rigidity

According to Subaru’s internal studies, the torsional stiffness of the chassis is up by 28% for the new WRX and 44% for the new WRX Wagon. The bonnet is still aluminum, like the older WRX, while the front fenders are now also made from the light yet strong metal, saving 2.3 kilograms.

At the heart of the 2023 Subaru WRX cars is Subaru’s turbocharged FA24 boxer engine. The 2.4-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder nets 275ps and 350Nm, thanks to increased displacement and twin-scroll turbo with computer controlled valves for the wastegate.

Two transmissions are available for the 2023 Subaru WRX. The WRX sedan variant gets a choice of a six-speed manual or Lineartronic CVT with eight virtual gears. The WRX wagon variant, in keeping with its cruiser character, is only available as an automatic.

The manual gearbox is paired with a viscous-coupling locking center differential, which splits the torque 50:50 between the front and rear axles. Both auto and manual are paired to Subaru's signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. When the system detects wheel slippage, it will transfer the torque to the appropriate wheels for maximum traction.

The 2023 Subaru WRX cars are supported by the Subaru Global Platform, and sport-tuned suspension, which features geometry optimized for great control and good comfort over all kinds of roads. Front-strut rebound springs mitigate body roll while changing direction, rigid subframe resist lateral forces from the tires without resorting to hard bushes, and a rear stabilizer mounted directly to the body ensures greater stability.

Inside, the 2023 WRX gets leather seats, flat bottom tiller, and a 11.6-inch touchscreen display. Through the screen, infotainment, climate control, and vehicle settings can be accessed. A long list of standard features include power windows, door locks, and side mirrors; dual USB-A input/charge ports in the front center console; Welcome Lighting; remote keyless entry; and combination meter with color LCD; Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control with Track Mode; and Incline Start Assist. The Subaru WRX comes with 60/40 split fold-down rear seats for greater versatility.

Apart from the tS models that are available on a indent order bases, the Subaru WRX and WRX Wagon are available for order with pricing as follows:

• WRX sedan M/T – P 2,508,000
• WRX sedan CVT – P 2,658,000
• WRX tS sedan CVT – P 2,808,000
• WRX CVT wagon – P 2,558,000
• WRX tS wagon CVT – P 2,708,000

At the Singapore Motorshow 2023, Subaru displayed its widest lineup to date. There were thrilling performances, special offers, freebies, and exciting activities that highlight Subaru's cutting-edge technologies.

“We are starting this Singapore Motorshow on the right gear with a celebration of Subaru’s multiple firsts. Firstly, with the launch of the legendary all-new fifth-generation sporty WRX and WRX Wagon, as well as the stunning GT Edition of Subaru’s well-loved Forester e-Boxer Hybrid. Also, making its first ASEAN debut, Subaru’s first EV – the Go-Anywhere SUV, Solterra will be unveiled! So, get ready to ignite your senses with what the Subaru brand has to offer,” Tan Chong International Limited Deputy Chairman and Managing Director Glenn Tan stated.

Photos from Subaru and Jeff Reyes

Also read: Subaru launches Solterra, Forester e-Boxer Hybrid GT Edition at Singapore Motorshow 2023