In an era dominated by SUVs, electric crossovers, and giant screens, the Subaru WRX remains an endangered species. A compact, sporty sedan with permanent all-wheel drive and available with a manual transmission.

For 2026, far from surrendering to trends, Subaru decided to adjust its strategy to keep this concept alive without burdening the buyer's wallet.

While many manufacturers take advantage of each new model year to justify sustained price increases, Subaru opted for a less traveled path. The 2026 WRX not only maintains a similar cost to its immediate predecessor, but in several versions it is even more accessible. In real terms, considering the accumulated inflation since the early 2000s, the current price remains surprisingly close to that of the original WRX in its first generations, even though it now offers a much higher level of safety, connectivity, and refinement. This decision makes the WRX a rarity in today's market: a relatively "honest" sports car, designed for everyday use and not just as a weekend indulgence. A pricing strategy that goes against the grain. The adjustment made by Subaru is especially noticeable in the mid-range versions. The Premium and Limited trims reduce their price by several thousand dollars compared to the previous model, a nearly unprecedented measure in a context where production and development costs continue to rise. The brand's intention is clear: to keep the WRX within an attainable range for young enthusiasts and drivers seeking real performance without having to jump to the European premium segment or larger, heavier models. Under the hood remains the familiar 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, delivering 271 horsepower. It's not a record-breaking figure, but it's more than enough for a compact sedan with permanent all-wheel drive.

The acceleration is powerful, the throttle response is immediate, and thanks to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system,the power is transmitted to the ground with an efficiency that few front-wheel-drive rivals can match, especially in the rain or on low-traction surfaces.

Subaru seems to have understood that the appeal of the WRX lies not in competing for absolute numbers, but in offering a balanced and authentic driving experience.

Modern safety, even with a manual transmission

One of the most relevant changes to the 2026 WRX isn't immediately apparent, but it makes a significant difference in daily use: the addition of the EyeSight Driver Assist system in all versions, including those equipped with a six-speed manual transmission.

Until now, many buyers had to choose between the pleasure of shifting gears themselves or accessing advanced driver assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control or Automatic emergency braking. Subaru managed to resolve this dilemma by calibrating the system to work correctly with a traditional clutch and pedal. This makes the WRX one of the few manual sports cars to offer a complete package of driver assistance systems, something increasingly valued by those who use the vehicle both on the highway and in congested urban environments. The interior is also evolving in the right direction. Versions with small screens or basic multimedia systems are gone. Even the base model features an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen with the Multimedia Plus system, wirelessly compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This equipment is no longer a luxury reserved for the most expensive versions and becomes part of the standard experience.

Series.Yellow and the sporting heritage of the tS

For those looking for something more exclusive, Subaru maintains its tradition of special editions with the 2026 WRX Series.Yellow. This variant will be limited to just 350 units and brings back the striking Sunrise Yellow hue, a direct nod to the most memorable WRX models of the early 2000s.

But the appeal of this version isn't limited to the paint. It's based on the tS trim level, the sportiest in the range, developed with technical support from STI.

This includes electronically controlled suspension, configurable driving modes, and a high-performance Brembo braking system with six-piston front calipers. The result is a WRX capable of transformation: relatively comfortable for everyday use and firm, precise, and communicative when the driver decides to push it on a mountain road or racetrack. Having this level of preparation directly from the factory, with an official warranty, remains a compelling argument against aftermarket modifications.

Versions and focus of each

The 2026 range is designed to cover very different profiles:

2026 Subaru WRX price list

Overall, the 2026 Subaru WRX doesn't try to reinvent the formula,but rather perfect it. It maintains its mechanical character, all-wheel drive, and sporty spirit, but adds technology, safety features, and a pricing policy that is almost subversive in the current context.