2022 Subaru WRX 6-Speed Review: Is Growing Up a Good Thing?

The 2022 Subaru WRX is all grown up. Despite being generally good to drive - and better-looking in person - it left us wanting a bit more. Every 2022 WRX is powered by a new 2.4 liter turbocharged flat four making 271 HP and 258 lb-ft, and the 2022 Subaru WRX can either be had with a six-speed manual transmission or Subaru Performance Transmission, which is a CVT. Our 2022 WRX 6-speed test car was fun to drive in some regards, but left us wanting in others.
00:00 Introduction
00:43 Platform, Engine, Transmission, Steering Rack
04:00 Styling, Aero, WRX GT Trim
06:50 Interior Tour
12:12 Driving Impressions
21:03 Final Thoughts
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[@esemteckreal4873]

Baught mine the first two days it came out. Excellent car. Had two sti 2018 then 2020. This is far more better and more driver friendly than the sti. No rev hang. It’s an amazing car. Everyone will eventually see.

[@rohanm54]

I feel like everyone’s talks sh!t until they actually drive it. Sure it isn’t as much of a looker like the older gen but it is THE best driving one.

[@lash9400]

I wasn’t sure about the rear end styling when I saw it online, however 3 weeks ago I saw my first WRX while servicing my Outback at a dealership. I took it for a test drive and the next day I traded my twilight blue Outback for a world rally blue pearl, 22 WRX prem. Manual of course. I must say I love this car. Flawed in some areas but brimming with character.

[@jasonmoyer]

My experience of owning one (for about 2 weeks) is that every WRX or Lancer owner thinks it's awesome, and everyone else is like "urrrr, cladding" or "urrrr, more powah". I don't care how it looks really (that's the entire point of the WRX to me - an econo sedan with subtle hints of what's there) but the chassis, suspension, engine tuning is so much better than any other WRX it's night and day. And living in PA, I won't have giant chunks of rust all over the sideskirts or wheelwells in 5 years.

[@channelgreen5949]

Agree…but STi brakes way better and transmission also better and sounds better. I also used to own 2021 STi. But yes 2022 i also like but i gotta upgrade brakes which will cost about 5k

[@channelgreen5949]

Oh and yes I almost forgot the electronic steering….I remember my STi hydraulic feels way better. But im not hating on 2022, im actually thinking of getting one….im just saying I just have to upgrade a couple of things which will cost extra 💰

[@gallivantingsprt]

Bought one in grey in 2024, and its amazing. The car is everything I want it to be and more. I love this car and always feel excited to drive it. If you're thinking about buying one of these, just take a test drive. You will fall in love with it .

[@johnjohson5493]

Best review of this car I’ve seen yet, and I’ve seen all of them. Great work.

[@OutMotorsports]

Thanks, glad you enjoyed! Share the channel with your friends ;-)

[@victorvictor7978]

I bought my first WRX about 3 weeks ago. Great car… you explained the car perfectly. The steering is something I notice and I’m no pro driver.. I’ve never been able to get it into words but you did.

[@chrislaid214]

the dark gray color goes well with the black cladding and fenders

[@sparky3869]

I have this car, I feel that it is a lot more solid then the previous model that I owned. I really like this car

[@gallivantingsprt]

its for comments like this, why I decided to order one. So many subie drivers telling this. Im a newcomer, and they say it is a good car for a first subaru. So thank you for this comment. Actually helped me make my mind on it

[@launderedentertainment]

The steering can be improved with a Perrin Steering Dampener Lockdown ($90). It’ll improve the driving response by 20-30%. Personally, it’s a mandatory install.

[@OutMotorsports]

Good to know! Glad the aftermarket is already responding, though we wish there was better feel from the factory.

[@gabrielteran2577]

I’m glad I found your comment! I actually just test drove one a few days ago and it actually surprised me however that steering was a bit numbed so it’s good to see some support for that in case I decide to go with this car.

[@malboro555]

Good improvement, but poor steering response could be also caused by all season tires which shouldn't be installed on sport car. Set of Michelin pilot super sport or 4s will help a lot.

[@LowKey-Dee]

@@malboro555 what should i put on them in the winter/ northeast / New York area?

[@malboro555]

@@LowKey-Dee Pirelli P zero winter or Dunlop Winter Sport 5, both are very good for winter driving on snow, tire pressure is also important.

[@ChazOfGod]

I’m trying to find reviews with a lot of outside footage of the car in motion, this was not it but I stayed for the great review! Good information and very well delivered. Thanks!

[@OutMotorsports]

Glad you enjoyed! Tell all your friends ;-)

[@raiderfan367]

Sweet review. I got the base model 2022 in Sapphire Blue, and I’m having a lot of fun with it so far. It’s highly capable and they have prioritized function over form which I appreciate in a true rally inspired all wheel drive sedan. The big negatives on the base model which I miss from other cars I’ve owned is..1. No push button start 2. No keyless unlock 3. No keyless trunk release. 4. No lumbar adjust and 5. No retracting/sun visors. Pretty small complaints though compared to how exhilarating it is to drive down a dirt road and driving flat out! Top Gun level fun.

[@OutMotorsports]

Congrats, glad you are enjoying! The base models are definitely decontented to a goofy amount in some ways. But, they all drive the same (unless you get that GT with drive modes/dampers but... CVT)

[@jabrother]

I have the base model too and don't really miss those items, although for about 2 grand the bump to the premium model alleviates most if not all of those items you mentioned!

[@alvinhang8721]

I feel like Subaru WRX has always had some weird look or design. Honestly I'm getting to like this design

[@SarcasticComments23]

I didn’t like the look of the old Subarus but the new ones they actually made look good and practical.👍🏼

[@joshanderson3716]

I appreciate this review, it's fair. My only critique is that that, subjectively, the steering feels pretty dang good to me. I have been driving Mustangs and Jeep Wranglers for the last few cars though, so maybe anything is better than those...

[@twystedhumour]

Thanks for the review, Jake. I think the looks are "quirky cute," and don't mind it at all. I got the Orange one, and it makes me think of driving a Matchbox (loved them when I was a kid). That back bumper is ideal for living in SF so they scrape plastic and not your painted bumper (saw too many expensive, luxury cars with gashed bumpers). Mine will stay on the road, but the protection from the plastic from road debris is appreciated. And "out" or not, just keep doing a good job reviewing as that's what we're here for. I'm "out" elsewhere, LOL.

[@jayczyzyk7607]

Excellent review

[@OutMotorsports]

Glad you liked it!

[@deanknoote114]

Drove my new WRX ( RS in Australia) premium, 5 speed manual, in Subi Blue, home on Wednesday, my 3rd consecutive WRX ! In a few short words, is the best car I’ve ever owned, the other two WRXs were the 2 other best. And, I’m old ! I’ve had 2 x BMWs, an Audi, a Mazda 9, 2 Toyotas, a Ford Cortina 3000 GT , a Ford Escort Cosworth 2000, a Ford Escort XR3i and a cheaparse company car Ford Laser, the ones I remember ? ThisWRX 2022 is hands down the best car I’ve ever owned ! Sadly, I know.. it’s last Internal combustion I’ll ever own!!

[@ChrisProuse]

Great review! Do you think you'd get use to the steering, or do you think it's a question of going into turns and not getting feedback like the vehicle's losing grip and may understeer / oversteer without feeling it in the wheel? Thanks!

[@OutMotorsports]

You'd definitely get used to it more if you owned the car vs driving it for a week. But... there's really not much feedback going on. We never experienced understeer - there is truly a ton of grip to be had - but could see where it would be more challenging to feel and recover from than in some other cars we've driven recently.

[@arianewell6252]

By far the best overall review of this vehicle.

[@TacoPotatoMustang]

Great review, as always. I don’t mind the looks overall, though the back bumper is a bit overdone. I think my biggest gripe (not having driven one yet), is the infotainment. We didn’t like the similar touch screen heavy setup in the 2021 Outback. Would much prefer a dual screen setup with more dials and buttons like in the Forester.

[@garrettbarbosa3080]

I am a save the manual guy.I presently have a beautiful ford bronco 2 door black diamond with a stick. My favorite truck of all time and I have been blessed by GOD to own so many thank you JESUS. I have been a fan of the wrx for a long time and almost bought a few over the years but just never pulled the trigger. But due to spine injuries I think my clutch driving days have come to an end,so I drove a cvt ,wrx yesterday and all I can say is wow!!! I will miss rolling my own gears. But this new wrx with the cvt is an amazing machine for the money and wow the car really runs. I look forward to ,GOD WILLING,many many winding road trips with my new wrx! Have a blessed day.

[@LowKey-Dee]

OUCH!!! on the steering criticism! this is actually the grippiest car i've ever owned! my first stick! you must be coming from something even more sporty/tuned. I'm enjoying my 2022 very much! time to mod it up with lights and such~

[@OutMotorsports]

Keep in mind, steering feel and outright grip are two very different things!

[@jasonmoyer]

I put some All/Season 4's on mine and it's improved the numb-ish steering feel somewhat. A little more comfy when cruising at low speed than the Dunlops, too.

[@oniatdlp]

Min 5:45 - S/I and S# comes with ALL versions, if you get the SPT (CVT). Does not require the GT model.

[@victorpena6543]

Awesome vid! I just got my WRX Premium! Is freaking awesome! I do see is a bit bouncy or jerky going from 1st to 2nd gear... even with a super slow clutch release. I usually shift around 2500-3000 rpm. Any suggestions?? Thanks bro!!!

[@naldovaz9157]

clutch modulation

[@alexmartin-schael7556]

I own one and the car is a blast for the money. I do not feel that the steeriing is a problem at all (perhaps you would if you are a professional driver and run the car through racing conditions). The only complaint I am having is with sincronyzing the car with my Android device, which has been horrible so far (not sure for now if it is the phone's or the car's fault).

[@danieldotter6077]

Makes absolutely no sense to have recaro seat option only in the CVT. Every iteration, I feel like Subaru takes all of the consumer suggestions and does just the opposite. Such a bummer. My favorite "drivers car" is basically ruined. I'd rather get a Corolla GR at this point.

[@QactisX]

As soon as 23 launches I'm ordering instantly. I think the steering is the part I'm gonna have the hardest time getting used to, and going from an 04 Highlander LTD floaty bagged-like suspension to super stiff is going to be interesting. I think my biggest gripe is going to be the infotainment. I'm happy to know most things that one wouldn't like about this car can be modded. Cladding can be replaced or painted Suspension can be replaced Tires can be replaced Speakers can be replaced Windows can be tinted| Steering wheel damper can be added 1st/2nd gear shift stop to reduce slop Short Shifter

[@CG-rb4xo]

Might want to find a 22 model. The 23 model years are all going up by $1000-1500, except for the gt.

[@QactisX]

@@CG-rb4xo I saw that and plan to do so. Time to get my current car ready to sell

[@jakeq3530]

Gonna get all of the cladding painted to match the color of the car. Will look way better.

[@ontarioman6301]

I ordered mine in rally blue. 3 months waiting

[@mrsubaru5367]

I have a manual transmission no issues with staring I don't know what everyone is always talking about with the staring...and i sit at 14.1 psi on boost.

[@christophermccord3757]

How wide is it from outer ends of mirrors

[@scottanders5333]

Why did the designers put a non functional rear diffuser on that car ?

[@eastmedic]

You can totally tell this guy is from the suburbs of Chicago when he refers to Chicago as "The City"

[@OutMotorsports]

Only been to Chicago like twice ever and not from that area!

[@UnknownPerson-vf3lh]

It’s growing on me actually.

[@steve8803]

I like it and am considering one, cross shopping with the si and gti, but that fuel mileage though!

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

@@steve8803 si is $40k after mark up and accessories keep that in mind buys a lot of gas

[@steve8803]

@@FATmenDRIVEtrucks I am in Canada, there is no adm here.

[@Scotty_in_Ohio]

Like a fungus...... But seriously - almost EVERY new or restyle is met with a certain level of "hate".... Some say that darker colors help with the body cladding issue and others say that they'll plan to paint a portion of the rear black plastic the body color. I think, in time, most will be "okay" with the looks - I know I'm becoming to "accept" it - when I see a couple in person and in different colors I'll probably be fine too.

[@ninjaknight-jn9ky]

I mean the cvt is faster even without the better dampers. So doesn't surprise me.

[@curtfox91]

You want to feel the power but your Granny shifting. you have to drop Gears and rev match to stay in the band and use it fully

[@blackadder1966]

Whats everyone got against a cvt?

[@devoz7]

they're trash transmissions and cheaply made. Don't last as long compared to a true auto, plus why on God's earth would you get a cvt on a sports car. Defeats the purpose of the car

[@azhule4041]

Ya know it doesn't look that bad in this color compared to that orange

[@OutMotorsports]

We're big fans of color and LOVE the orange (and red, and blue) but the gray definitely reduces how impactful the cladding is. We've seen some photos of shops who painted or wrapped the cladding to match a lighter color, which is also a neat look.

[@gabrielteran2577]

I was going to say the same with white. I would go with the white but it’s mandatory to body match the plastic cladding, then it would look pretty nice actually

[@user-yy4wk5ws6r]

You’re wrong there buddy it’s 271 hp and 258 foot pounds of torque might want to do your research before you make videos, sir

[@ontarioman6301]

😅the gr Corolla is 10 grand more in Canada. I have a down payment for the 2024 wrx

[@mrkilroy9167]

Point of fact Subaru is having major financial problems hence all the cost cutting on the WRX and deletion of the STI! Where are the Brembos, leather seats? Painted cladding? Yes cost cutting……

[@EvolutionIX219]

Even after all those changes this car still feels better built than previous gens. The engine alone is worth the upgrade imo

[@Blue_Ghost-X]

@@EvolutionIX219 car is great! My 22 is in WRB and I love it. Traded my 15 for it.

[@jasonmoyer]

The drive modes aren't really necessary unless you need more comfort. AFAIK the stiffest setting is basically what you get by default in the 6MT cars. And it adds weight/complexity I really don't need. It would be cool to have an adjustable LSD, but really the 50/50 diff is what you'd be using in most situations anyway. Being able to run some front bias would be nice in the snow, I guess, but the standard symmetrical AWD is fine as-is.

[@OutMotorsports]

So we got to spend 30 minutes or so with a loaded WRX GT that had the CVT and drive modes (and Recaros) - the drive modes are indeed nice if you want to soften things up a bit, but not really a dealbreaker. We'd really, really like to have the Recaros available with the manual as they are a fantastic upgrade over the "lesser" seats (which are also just fine).

[@jasonmoyer]

Yeah, it's disappointing the Recaros are a CVT-only option. I'm finding the seats in the Premium are still surprisingly comfortable and well-bolstered, though.

[@naldovaz9157]

ride is stiff, not so supple. motor and transmission is a perfect match, plenty grip

[@Tomas.X]

That's my car😍 Smart people get the GT, though 😁

[@devoz7]

you mean the lazy people get the cvt/gt

[@Wazza722]

The year 2022 and no wireless Apple car play! Lost me sorry!

[@tomrakusan1179]

Makes 271, not 276 HP….and the torque in the WRX version of the power train has less torque than the Ascent and the other “crossovers” aka minivans. They went a different direction this time around. Some people like it, but i like the older-style rougher versions. Nice video, not a great car. Thanks

[@robertscott305]

The body Plad makes the car look like a grandma's car.. I understand the rally heritage of the car. 90% of the people who buy that car are not gonna take it it off that is a street car the people who do rally that car are going to mod to crap out of it so you're clad means nothing except for making it look like grandma's car when the car fails it's not the car's fault, it's the designer's fault remember that .

[@xtrekrex]

I’ve already been taking mine in the dirt and now the snow. I’m not a rally driver. The cladding along with mudflaps has protected the paint on the lower portion of my paint.

[@jcollins2826]

So, you could also say that the Outback shares a chassis with a sports car. Also, it sounds like you haven’t driven the automatic, but you’re willing to trash the transmission. You should try being objective. The world champion rally driver says he would choose the auto over the six speed. Overall, your review shows a lot of predisposition.

[@OutMotorsports]

The Outback came first (before this new WRX) so if you wanna get pedantic, Subaru chose to use the Outback's platform when developing the new WRX. But sure, the comparison works either way. Have not driven the CVT, but have driven plenty of other Subaru CVTs (and non-Subaru CVTs) that are all entirely _fine_ . In general, a two-pedal transmission will allow faster lap times on track, and if a CVT is programmed right, it'll keep the engine in its happiest bits of power band. BUT... if a manual is offered and it's a good one (as this one is) we'll prefer it, given there are fewer cars offered with them every year and many drivers, us included, prefer them if they pair to the rest of the drivetrain well. Some do not and the two-pedal option is better.

[@jcollins2826]

@@OutMotorsports I like manual transmissions too, but Subaru went to a lot of effort to make their new CVT better. You should give it a chance before simply trashing it to a large audience. Maybe drive one and give an honest opinion. That’s all.

[@OutMotorsports]

@@jcollins2826 Absolutely will, if we get the chance to drive one. We drive what's in our local fleet, and in this case it was a 6MT example. We may get other opportunities to drive one and given the chance, would certainly take Subaru up on that.

[@jimmyglea]

I’m an old guy. The GT trim is exactly what I need.

[@malboro555]

Don't buy CVT, it's a crap. They should put double clutch in this car.

[@myroadtours6147]

1:44 There is only a 3hp difference between the out going WRX and the new 2022 WRX. Does it make more power, sure, but does 3hp make a difference, no. Both generations are rated the same on torque. Subaru really missed the mark on this generation and discontinuing the STI shows signs of disconnect with their fans.

[@GenZBiker]

I encourage you to to dig deeper. HP is not the only thing that matters. Once you get a better understanding of the powerband you’ll see where the real improvement lies within the VB over the VA.

[@M1KEMEX]

I don't think performance was the ultimate concern, but emissions regulations. More displacement means a more complete combustion of fuel, increasing efficiency.

[@gs98999]

If they kept the awful crappy tune of the previous gen, they could have made 320-330hp easily out of this. They fixed the tune but kept the power low.

[@jeffortman6395]

Just say AUTOMATIC for F*** sake

[@OutMotorsports]

I mean, a CVT isn't a torque-converter automatic and that's what most people refer to when they say "automatic." So we'll always distinguish a CVT or dual-clutch because they are both *vastly* different to drive than a torque converter auto. Subaru calling theirs the Subaru Performance Transmission is indeed a bit silly.

[@jeffortman6395]

@OutMotorsports just wondering because if you have to shift manually or the transmission shifts automatically for you?

[@OutMotorsports]

@@jeffortman6395 the CVT will shift on its own, and there are paddle shifters if you want to override it.

[@jeffortman6395]

@@OutMotorsports I like paddles

[@devoz7]

auto and cvt are completely different transmissions from each other

[@kimmyymmik]

Lol it’s funny how you said you pressed the trip reset button instead of start 😂 that hasn’t happened to me yet 😅 I have the automatic tho 🥲

[@victorvictor7978]

I bought my first WRX about 3 weeks ago. Great car… you explained the car perfectly. The steering is something I notice and I’m no pro driver.. I’ve never been able to get it into words but you did.