2015 Subaru WRX Photos, engines & full specs

Subaru ditched the Impreza nameplate in 2014 when it launched the first generation of the WRX model, enraging the brand's fans, who were fond of the name that dominated the World Rally Championship in the early 2000s.

Subaru used the WRX nameplate as a version of the Impreza. It was the mild-powered model that preceded the top-trim level, the WRX STI. It was a fast car, very quick on launching thanks to its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. When Subaru decided to drop the Impreza nameplate, it kept the WRX to still be attractive to customers. And it was, especially since it was offered exclusively as a three-box sedan, not as a hatchback or station wagon anymore.

The Japanese automaker unveiled the WRX's first generation in 2014 for the 2015 model year. It was developed for the North American market to compete in the sport-compact segment. The car's front fascia featured headlights designed to mimic an eagle's eyes and flanked a black grille adorned with the automaker's blue badge. Subaru placed a trapezoidal-shaped lower grille on the lower side of the bumper for additional cooling and flanked by side scoops for the fog lamps. From its profile, the enlarged fenders featured fake vents. But at least the air intake from the hood was functional and provided cold air to the engine. The four-door sedan also featured wide rear quarter panels, creating a muscular look for the vehicle. At the back, Subaru installed a small lip spoiler on the trunk's lid, while underneath the vehicle, the carmaker added four pipes, two on each side of the car.

Since the Impreza was never a landmark in terms of comfort and luxurious interiors, the WRX continued the same with a cabin that looked rather cheap than premium. Customers complained about the car's poor infotainment system. Even though it featured touch controls, it lacked a tuning knob, and the resolution of the 6.2” screen was low. Still, the high-bolstered bucket seats at the front provided excellent side support for high-speed cornering maneuvers. The driver fronted an instrument cluster filled with two large dials for the tachometer on the left and the speedometer on the right. Between them, Subaru installed a small TFT display for information from the car's onboard computer. In the back, the flat bench was available with a split-folding seatback that enlarged the trunk area.

But the car's main attributes relied on the technical platform. Subaru used its famous flat-four engine, only upgraded with direct fuel injection and helped by a turbocharger. The automaker offered the 2015 WRX with either a sleek six-speed manual or with a CVT tuned for performance named Lineartronic. Like the Impreza before it, the WRX featured the well-known symmetrical all-wheel-drive system that sent power in all corners via an electronically controlled center differential.