Buckle up, Subaru fans! We’re diving into the WRX world, uncovering its best and worst years.
I’ve crunched data from NHTSA, Consumer Reports, and real drivers to bring you a no-nonsense breakdown of every WRX generation.
We’ll cover common issues, recalls, and reliability ratings, arming you with the intel for a smart purchase or just to geek out over this rally-inspired legend.
Ready?
Let’s hit the gas on this WRX deep dive!
Table of ContentsShow
Subaru WRX Generations
Let’s kick things off with a brief history lesson. The WRX isn’t just a car; it’s a slice of rally racing heritage wrapped in a street-legal package. Subaru unleashed the first standalone WRX model in 2015, breaking away from its Impreza roots.
Check out this breakdown of WRX generations since 2015:
| Generation | Years |
|---|---|
| 1st generation (VA) | 2015-2021 |
| 2nd generation (VB) | 2022-Present |
Here’s the deal: understanding these generations is crucial. Why? Because each generation brings its own flavor of improvements, quirks, and potential headaches. Knowing the differences could be the key to landing your dream WRX or dodging a money pit.
Subaru WRX Best, Neutral, and Worst Years
Now, how do we separate the wheat from the chaff in the WRX lineup? It’s not just about gut feeling or that fresh car smell. We’re talking solid data, folks. Here’s what goes into our WRX report card:
- Owner-reported reliability (the real-world test)
- Annual maintenance costs (because your wallet matters)
- Safety ratings (because, well, safety first)
- Consumer Reports reliability scores (they know their stuff)
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores (happy drivers tell no lies)
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints (the official red flags)
- Edmunds owner ratings (straight from the driver’s seat)
- JD Power owner ratings (another trusted voice)
- Kelley’s Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings (because resale value counts)
- VehicleHistory owner ratings (digging into the car’s past)
- Cars.com owner ratings (more real-world feedback)
Coming up, you’ll see a graph that pulls all these ratings together. It’s like a report card for each WRX year – no sugarcoating, just the facts.
Then, we’ll break it down further. I’ve sorted each model year into three categories: the best (the ones you want), the neutral (solid performers without much flair), and the worst (the years to steer clear of).
| Generation | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st generation (VA) | 2018 2019 2020 2021 | 2017 | 2015 2016 |
| 2nd generation (VB) | 2023 | N/A | 2022 |
Remember, more NHTSA recalls and complaints mean reduced reliability. It’s basic math in the car world.
Enough warm-up. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of WRX generations!
Best & Worst Years for Subaru WRX 1st Generation (2015-2021)
The 2015 Subaru WRX burst onto the scene, finally breaking free from its Impreza cocoon. This initial-gen WRX aimed to blend the excitement of a sports car with the practicality of a daily driver. But did it hit the mark every year? Let’s find out.
Here’s the scoop: steer clear of the 2015 and 2016 models. They’re the troublemakers of this bunch. On the flip side, if you’re hunting for the cream of the crop, set your sights on the 2018-2021 range. These are the golden years of the first-gen WRX.
The Best Years: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021
Why do these years take the crown? Simple – they aced the reliability ratings across the board. Let’s break it down:
Under the hood, you’ll find the trusty 2.0L FA20F turbocharged boxer engine. Transmission options? Take your pick: a slick 6-speed manual or a smooth Lineartronic CVT. This combo delivers a respectable 21 city / 27 highway mpg – not too shabby for a performance car.
Trim levels came in three varieties: Base, Premium, and Limited. Each step up the ladder packed in more features.
Tech-wise, these models upped the ante. The Starlink infotainment system got a significant upgrade, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto joined the party. Safety features? The EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite brought some substantial peace of mind with adaptive cruise control and pre-collision braking.
But here’s the kicker – even the best have their quirks. Some 2018 and 2019 models faced recalls due to fuel pump issues. It’s not a deal-breaker, but definitely something to keep an eye on.
The Neutral Years: 2017
The 2017 WRX sits in the middle ground – not a showstopper, but not a dud either. It shared the same 2.0L heart and transmission options as its successors. The Starlink system made an appearance, and a rearview camera became standard kit.
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. This model year didn’t quite nail the refinement of later versions. Some owners griped about premature clutch wear and battery drain. Not major red flags, but worth noting if you’re eyeing a 2017 model.
The Worst Years: 2015, 2016
Now, for the years you might want to skip. The 2015 and 2016 WRX models? They hit some serious speed bumps.
The main gripes? Engine and powertrain problems aplenty. We’re talking battery drain issues, engine head gasket failures, and throttle response that left drivers wanting more. And that’s just the beginning.
Recalls became a regular headache. Turbocharger intake duct cracks led to engine stalling – not exactly what you want in a performance car. The collision mitigation braking system, backup lights, and rearview cameras also faced their fair share of hiccups.
Got WRX fever?
Check NHTSA’s 2015, 2016, 2017 WRX recalls and complaints. It’s crucial intel for buyers and fans.
Best & Worst Years for Subaru WRX 2nd Generation (2022-Present)
Enter the VB chassis – Subaru’s second crack at the standalone WRX. This generation aimed to push the envelope, blending state-of-the-art tech with the WRX’s characteristic sportiness.
In this new era, 2023 stands tall as the star pupil. But 2022? Let’s just say it stumbled out of the gate.
The Best Years: 2023
Looking for the most reliable WRX in this new generation? 2023 is your golden ticket.
Under the hood, you’ll find a beefed-up 2.4L FA24F turbocharged boxer engine. Paired with Subaru’s famed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, it’s a match made in performance paradise.
Transmission choices? You’ve got options. Purists can stick with the razor-sharp 6-speed manual, while those seeking a balance of performance and convenience can opt for the retuned CVT. Either way, you’re looking at decent fuel economy.
The tech game stepped up big time. Subaru’s latest Starlink system boasts a larger screen, snappier responses, and voice recognition that actually understands you.
Trim levels? They’ve got something for everyone, from the budget-conscious to the luxury seeker.
Safety wasn’t an afterthought either. The EyeSight system got some major upgrades, including lane-centering and improved pre-collision braking.
The Worst Years: 2022
Now, about that 2022 model. It’s the black sheep of the second-gen family, and here’s why:
The biggest headache? Excessive RTV silicone around the oil pan. It might sound minor, but here’s the deal: chunks of this stuff could break off and clog the oil pickup. The result? Potential engine starvation. Not exactly what you want to hear about your new ride.
Beyond this substantial hiccup, the 2022 model faced the typical first-year jitters of a new generation. It laid the groundwork for the improvements we saw in 2023, but at the cost of being the guinea pig.
Craving that 2022 WRX?
Check NHTSA’s recalls and complaints for 2022 first.
Subaru WRX Resale Values
Ready for some number-crunching, WRX enthusiasts? Buckle up! Check out this graph – it’s like a roller coaster ride of WRX resale values over the years:
Conclusion
There you have it, folks – the highs and lows of the Subaru WRX lineup. The verdict? The 2018-2021 models stand out as the top dogs, offering the finest blend of performance, reliability, and features. On the flip side, you might want to think twice about the 2015, 2016, and 2022 models – they’re the troublesome children of the WRX family.
Now, I want to hear from you! Have you struggled with a problematic WRX or struck gold with one of the top-rated years?
Drop a comment below and share your WRX battle stories.
Your practical experience could be the deciding factor for a fellow Subaru enthusiast!
