Hello there, fellow car enthusiasts! Today, we’re going to talk about the latest and greatest release from Subaru, the 2022 WRX. We all know the WRX for its legendary rally heritage and precision handling, but the question that’s on many of our minds is: is the MSRP worth it?
After all, the WRX has always been known for its affordability, making it an accessible option for those who want a bit of performance without breaking the bank. So, is it still the case with the 2022 model? We’ll be taking a closer look at the price tag and everything else that makes the WRX a fan favorite to help you decide if it’s worth the investment.
What is the MSRP of the 2022 Subaru WRX?
The MSRP, or Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price, is the price that the automaker recommends dealerships sell their vehicles for. It’s important when considering car buying decisions because it gives consumers an idea of what they can expect to pay for the car they’re interested in. The MSRP shouldn’t be confused with the final price paid by the consumer, as dealerships may offer discounts or negotiate prices with customers.
The Base MSRP
The 2022 Subaru WRX starts at a base MSRP of $28,420. This model comes standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Standard features also include Subaru’s all-wheel drive system, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, heated mirrors, and a rearview camera. Inside the vehicle, consumers can expect a 6.5-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, cloth upholstery, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescoping adjustments.
Consumers looking for additional features can opt for the Premium or Limited trim levels, which come at an additional cost. The Premium trim level includes an 8-inch infotainment system, 18-inch alloy wheels, and heated front seats, while the Limited trim level adds leather-trimmed upholstery, a Harman Kardon nine-speaker audio system, and LED headlights.
The Fully Loaded MSRP
The top-tier 2022 Subaru WRX model is the STI, which comes with a fully loaded MSRP of $42,020. This model includes a more potent 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Along with Subaru’s all-wheel drive system, 19-inch BBS alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, and a high-performance Bilstein suspension system come as standard features.
The interior of the WRX STI also has added features that give it a luxurious feel, such as Recaro performance front seats, an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a 7-inch infotainment system with integrated navigation. Additionally, unique STI infotainment displays and oversize fog lights make this model stand out from the pack.
These added features do come at a higher cost, with the fully loaded WRX STI model coming in at over $13,000 more than the base model. However, for the consumer who is looking for a high-performance vehicle with top-of-the-line features, the additional cost may be worth it.
Conclusion
The MSRP for the 2022 Subaru WRX ranges from $28,420 for the base model to $42,020 for the fully loaded STI model. The starting MSRP gives consumers an idea of what they can expect to pay for the vehicle, while the top-tier MSRP shows the added features and performance upgrades available to those who are willing to pay the higher price tag. While the final price paid by the consumer may vary depending on discounts and negotiations with dealerships, the MSRP is an important starting point for consumers when considering a car purchase.
What Other Costs Should Buyers Consider?
When buying a car, the MSRP is just one factor to consider. In addition to the base price of the 2022 Subaru WRX, buyers will also need to factor in a number of other costs that can add up quickly. Here are some of the key costs to consider when buying a 2022 Subaru WRX.
Dealer Fees
One cost that can quickly inflate the price of a new car is dealer fees. These fees can vary depending on the dealership and the state, but buyers should be prepared to pay around $500 to $1,000 in dealer fees on top of the MSRP of the 2022 Subaru WRX. Dealer fees can include items such as documentation fees, preparatory fees, and advertising fees. While some of these fees are legitimate, others may be negotiable. Buyers should always review the itemized list of dealer fees and question any that seem excessive or unnecessary.
Tax & Registration
Another significant cost that buyers will need to factor in is tax and registration fees. These costs will vary depending on the state in which the car is purchased, but buyers should be prepared to pay around 6 to 10 percent of the purchase price in sales tax. In addition, registration fees can range from $50 to $150 or more, depending on the state. However, some states may allow buyers to deduct sales tax from their federal income tax return, which can help offset some of these costs.
Insurance & Maintenance Costs
Finally, buyers should consider the ongoing costs of owning a 2022 Subaru WRX, such as insurance and maintenance. Insurance costs for the WRX can vary significantly depending on the driver’s age, driving record, and location, but buyers should budget around $1,500 per year for insurance. Maintenance costs will also vary depending on how often the car is driven and how well it is maintained, but buyers can expect to spend around $600 per year on routine oil changes, tire rotations, and other basic maintenance. Buyers should also be prepared for the cost of any unexpected repairs or replacements that may be necessary over the life of the vehicle.
Overall, while the MSRP of the 2022 Subaru WRX may be the most visible cost associated with buying a new car, buyers should be prepared to factor in a number of other costs as well. By understanding these costs and budgeting accordingly, buyers can ensure that they are fully prepared for the financial responsibility of owning a 2022 Subaru WRX.
Is the MSRP Worth It?
The 2022 Subaru WRX has a starting MSRP of $28,420 for the base model, with the top-of-the-range model the WRX STI priced at $43,795. The question on most consumers’ minds is whether the MSRP is worth it or not. In this section, we will explore the features and benefits of the new Subaru WRX, compare it to similar models in its price range and provide an overview of expert and consumer reviews.
Features and Benefits
The WRX is designed for superior performance, with a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers up to 268 horsepower. The engine is paired with symmetrical all-wheel-drive with dynamic torque vectoring, providing optimal control on any road surface. Additionally, the WRX comes equipped with features such as the STARLINK multimedia system, LED headlights, and a rear-vision camera. The interior of the WRX is spacious, with comfortable sport seats and ample legroom and headroom. The car also comes with an array of safety features such as EyeSight driver-assist technology and Blind-Spot Detection System. Overall, the features and benefits of the WRX are impressive and designed for the driving enthusiast who wants a perfect combination of power, comfort, and safety.
Comparison to Competitors
The 2022 Subaru WRX is in a class of its own when it comes to performance cars that are affordable. Its main competitors include the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and the Hyundai Veloster N. The Subaru WRX is significantly cheaper than the Type R, which comes in at $37,495. The Golf R is also priced similarly, at $43,645 and, lastly, the Veloster N comes in at $34,995.
While the competition provides a challenging comparison, the Subaru WRX manages to stand out with its symmetrical all-wheel-drive and a slightly more powerful engine. The WRX offers an excellent combination of power, handling and fun-to-drive experience compared to the competition
Expert and Consumer Reviews
The new Subaru WRX has been positively received by experts and consumers. Car and Driver rated the car 4.5 out of 5 stars, praising the car’s value, excellent handling, and practicality. Edmunds also rated it highly, giving it an 8.2 rating out of 10 and praising the car’s precise steering and all-wheel-drive system. On the consumer review side, CarComplaints.com gives the 2022 WRX a score of 4.6 out of 5.0, with most consumers lauding the car for its overall durability, top-notch design and impressive safety features. Overall, the expert and consumer reviews of the WRX are overwhelmingly positive, giving confidence to potential buyers.
Final Thoughts
The MSRP of the 2022 Subaru WRX may seem steep, but based on its features and benefits, it is worth it. The car is designed for the driving enthusiast who wants a car that combines power, comfort and safety in one package. The WRX’s main competitors are the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, and the Hyundai Veloster N, but the Subaru bootstraps with its symmetrical all-wheel-drive and slightly more powerful engine. With excellent expert and consumer reviews, it is no surprise that the WRX is a popular choice for anyone looking for a car that packs a punch without compromising on safety and comfort. The MSRP of the 2022 Subaru WRX is indeed worth it!
Closing Thoughts
We hope this article has helped you make an informed decision about the 2022 Subaru WRX and whether its MSRP is worth it. As with any major purchase, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your own individual needs and preferences.
If you’re still on the fence about the 2022 Subaru WRX, we encourage you to do further research and perhaps even schedule a test drive to experience the car for yourself. And of course, feel free to visit our site again in the future for more informative articles and reviews on all things automotive.
Thank you for reading, and drive safely!
FAQ
1. What does MSRP stand for?
MSRP stands for Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price. It’s the price suggested by the automaker for the vehicle.
2. What factors affect the MSRP of a car?
Several factors can influence the MSRP of a car, including the manufacturer’s production costs, market demand, and competition within the segment.
3. Is the MSRP the actual price I’ll pay for the car?
No, the MSRP is just a suggested price. The final price you’ll pay for a car will depend on various factors, such as negotiating skills and available incentives or discounts.
4. What features come standard on the 2022 Subaru WRX?
Standard features on the 2022 Subaru WRX include all-wheel drive, a 6-speed manual transmission, LED headlights, and a 6.5-inch infotainment display.
5. Can I get an automatic transmission on the 2022 Subaru WRX?
Yes, the 2022 Subaru WRX is also available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
6. How does the 2022 Subaru WRX compare to its competitors?
The 2022 Subaru WRX is a popular choice in the sport compact car segment, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive, sporty handling, and affordable price point. Some of its competitors include the Honda Civic Type R, Mazda MX-5 Miata, and Volkswagen GTI.
7. Is the 2022 Subaru WRX a reliable car?
Subaru has a reputation for building reliable cars, and the 2022 Subaru WRX is no exception. However, as with any car, maintenance and proper care is key to ensuring longevity.
8. What kind of fuel economy can I expect from the 2022 Subaru WRX?
The fuel economy of the 2022 Subaru WRX will vary depending on factors such as driving conditions and transmission choice. The manual transmission model is rated for 20 city/27 highway mpg, while the CVT model is rated for 21 city/27 highway mpg.
9. Does the 2022 Subaru WRX come with any active safety features?
Yes, the 2022 Subaru WRX comes standard with several active safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
10. What is the warranty coverage for the 2022 Subaru WRX?
The 2022 Subaru WRX comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Additionally, Subaru offers a 3-year/36,000-mile roadside assistance program.