Driving Sports

When Subaru introduced the new-generation 2008 WRX it was met with disdain from a large segment of its enthusiast community. The WRX was always a rally car bred for the road, but now Subaru was using the name on a bread-and-butter hatchback. This was something very different than the car enthusiasts knew and loved: the 2008 model was, dare I say, "sensible."

Sensible has its place, but usually that's on the boot lid of a Toyota. Not a rally car bred for the street. And yes, Subaru did provide enthusiasts with the STI, but with a price starting in the low 30's, it was an expensive pill to swallow for the less-than-well-heeled masses. Then, something amazing happened. Where most manufacturers would stick to their guns and point to charts that tell customers what cars they really want, Subaru did the unexpected: it listened and went back to the drawing board for a complete refresh, only one year after the original was released.

If you are a fan of the outgoing, soft and sensible WRX, that model will live on as the automatic-only Impreza GT. A great fit for soccer moms (and dads) that want to be reasonably sensible, but still enjoy passing in the fast line. For those that have blue and gold wardrobes and and think that the late Colin McRae should have his own holiday, Subaru finally has a car that will meet your demands, without breaking the bank.

This is the new 2009 Subaru WRX. With it Subaru kept all the good stuff, like the high-tech chassis and upgraded interior appointments, but everything that really needed to be upgraded has been improved: suspension, turbo, grille, aero, heck -- even the tires are better. The new 2009 Subaru WRX will be available for less than $25,000 starting this fall.

Now, watch the video.  If you want a detailed, written review, check out this one by Travis Geny, editor of Subiesport Magazine.