If you’re the type who craves a thrilling ride and isn’t afraid of a little turbocharged power, the 2012 Subaru WRX might just be your dream machine. This compact wagon packs a serious punch with its impressive specs and performance features designed to get your heart racing and your adrenaline pumping. Designed for driving enthusiasts, the WRX offers a well-rounded package that’s as practical as it is fun. Let’s dive into what makes this beast tick and whether it lives up to the hype.
Overview of the 2012 Subaru WRX
The 2012 Subaru WRX comes in the form of the Impreza WRX 5-door Manual Wagon, and it’s priced starting around $26,345. With its all-wheel drive capability, turbocharged flat-four engine, and sporty suspension, this little wagon is designed to handle twists and turns with ease while still providing the comfort and utility of a hatchback layout. But is it worth your hard-earned money? Let’s break it down further.
Engine and Performance
The heart of the 2012 WRX is its 2.5L turbocharged boxer engine, delivering a robust 265 horsepower at 6000 RPM and a torque rating of 244 lb-ft at 4000 RPM. Imagine the roar as you press down on the accelerator! This engine isn’t just about numbers; it provides a visceral thrill with each gear shift. The manual transmission—equipped with 5 speeds—gives you a direct connection to the road, allowing you to feel every punch of the turbo and respond accordingly.
Transmission and Handling
Shifting through the gears is a smooth affair with the well-placed gear ratios. The first gear ratio of 3.17 allows for a quick launch, and the aggressive final drive axle ratio of 3.90 means you’ll have plenty of power on hand when you need it. With a performance-tuned suspension and all-wheel drive, the WRX feels at home on winding roads or city streets alike. The turning radius sits at 36.1 feet, making tight maneuvers a breeze.
Interior Comfort and Technology
Step inside, and you’ll find a driver’s cockpit that’s all about functionality and comfort. The front seats are designed for spirited driving, featuring height-adjustable settings and embroidered WRX logo highlights. There’s ample headroom of 40.3 inches and legroom of 43.5 inches, so even taller drivers will feel at home.
Entertainment Features
Tech features may not be the focus when you’re behind the wheel of a performance car, but the WRX doesn’t skimp here either. You get an AM/FM stereo with CD player, Bluetooth audio streaming, and a USB port to keep your devices connected on long journeys. The six-speaker sound system ensures you’ll enjoy every tune pumped through the cabin during your next adventure.
Safety Features
Safety is a biggie when it comes to any car purchase, and Subaru takes it seriously with the 2012 WRX. Equipped with a 4-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS), vehicle dynamics control, and multiple airbags, the WRX has proven safety credentials. It scores a 4 out of 5 in rollover ratings, giving you a little extra peace of mind when pushing it to the limits.
Fuel Economy
Now, let’s talk about fuel efficiency—a less glamorous but essential part of car ownership. On the 2012 WRX, you can expect to see around 21 MPG in combined conditions, which isn’t groundbreaking but isn’t terrible for its class. With a fuel capacity of 16.9 gallons, you’ll have a range of about 321 miles in the city and up to 422 miles on the highway. That means fewer stops and more fun!
Exterior Design
Exterior-wise, the WRX looks the part with its sporty aerodynamics and aggressive stance. The signature hood scoop not only enhances its visual appeal but also helps to cool that mighty engine. With 17-inch alloy wheels and P235/45R17 summer performance tires, this car means business on the road.
Storage and Practicality
Despite its performance focus, the WRX doesn’t leave cargo capacity behind. The rear hatch opens to offer around 19 cubic feet of cargo space, and the 60/40-split fold-down rear seatbacks let you store larger items with ease—making this car surprisingly practical for everyday use.
Pros and Cons of the 2012 Subaru WRX
Before we wrap this up, let’s summarize some standout pros and cons:
- Pros:
- Impressive power and acceleration with the turbocharged engine.
- Aggressive styling with a sporty aesthetic.
- All-wheel drive provides excellent handling and stability.
- Spacious interior with high-quality materials and comfortable seating.
- A solid set of safety features for peace of mind.
- Cons:
- Fuel economy is below average compared to the competition.
- Some may find the ride a bit harsh compared to regular sedans.
- Rear visibility can be an issue due to the hatchback design.
The Verdict
So, there you have it—the 2012 Subaru WRX is a thrilling ride for those who want a performance-oriented vehicle that doesn’t compromise on daily usability. Is it the absolute top pick for everyone? Maybe not, but if you’re after that driver-focused experience with a bit of spunk, it’s hard to go wrong with this turbocharged powerhouse. From its rugged all-wheel-drive versatility to the vibrant driver-centric cabin, the WRX holds its own as a legendary performer. So, gear up, hit the roads, and enjoy the ride!
