2017 Subaru WRX: Unleashing Performance and Practicality in a Sport Sedan

The beauty of sports cars derived from everyday compact vehicles lies in their unique blend of exhilarating performance and surprising practicality. It’s fascinating to consider how two vehicles sharing the same foundation can evolve into such distinct personalities. Platform sharing is a common practice in the automotive industry, allowing manufacturers to manage development costs across different models and brands. Few platforms, however, have given rise to vehicles as dramatically different in purpose as the Subaru WRX and the humble Impreza, from which it originates.

Power Under the Hood: Examining the 2.0L Turbocharged Engine of the 2017 WRX

2017 subaru wrx engine specs

The 2017 Subaru Wrx’s character is fundamentally shaped by its engine. While both the WRX and the Impreza share a 2.0L engine displacement, the addition of a turbocharger in the WRX variant transforms its nature entirely. This forced induction system nearly doubles the power output, boosting it to an impressive 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The moment you take the wheel, it’s clear that the 2017 WRX is built for more than just mundane commutes or grocery runs. (It’s worth noting that the 2022 Subaru WRX pushes these figures even further, achieving 271 horsepower while maintaining 258 lb-ft of torque).

The 2017 WRX’s engine responsiveness is characterized by a sensitive throttle and a clutch that demands precise engagement. This setup suggests that the WRX is most at home when driven with intent. Achieving smooth, gentle starts requires practice, and it was only towards the end of a week-long test drive that a comfortable launch technique began to feel natural.

However, this eagerness for spirited driving isn’t always perfectly translated into raw performance. In lower gears, full-throttle acceleration can reveal turbo lag at the lower end of the rev range, possibly stemming from a torque deficit below 2,000 rpm. Additionally, a slight flat spot around 4,000 rpm can be detected. Pinpointing the exact RPM during these moments can be challenging, as the focus tends to be firmly on piloting this turbocharged machine.

The engine’s auditory character also contributes to the driving experience. While functional, the engine note is not particularly melodious. This lack of auditory feedback can make shifting by ear difficult. During one instance on a sweeping highway on-ramp, the engine reached its nearly 7,000 rpm rev limiter unnoticed until a glance at the instrument cluster revealed the diminishing acceleration.

The power delivery of the 2017 Subaru WRX can feel abrupt to drivers unfamiliar with its nature. The throttle can feel almost binary – a light touch yields minimal response, while a slightly deeper press unleashes a surge of power. This characteristic prevents the smooth, progressive torque build-up often associated with true sports cars. Instead, the WRX delivers a sensation of rapid acceleration, leaning more towards a very quick machine than a refined sports car experience.

In comparison, the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the Volkswagen Golf R delivers its 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque with greater sophistication. The Golf R offers a more polished and enjoyable experience when driven with enthusiasm.

Handling and Driving Dynamics: Exploring the 2017 WRX on the Road

2017 subaru wrx handling

The 2017 WRX excels in handling. Its chassis demonstrates remarkable grip in fast corners, possibly enhanced by a degree of body roll over uneven surfaces. While this body motion might initially feel unsettling mid-corner at high speeds, it translates into a surprisingly compliant ride quality that is well-suited for daily driving. During testing, the 2017 WRX achieved an average fuel consumption of 11 L/100 km in city driving, which compares favorably to its official ratings of 11.3/8.5 L/100 km (city/highway).

Interior and Practicality: The Cabin of the 2017 WRX

The 2017 Subaru WRX, while performance-focused, retains a practical interior thanks to its Impreza origins. The front seats offer adequate support without being overly aggressive in their bolstering. Both front and rear passengers enjoy generous head and legroom. The 340-liter trunk is commendably free of intrusions, making it genuinely useful for luggage and larger items.

The 2017 WRX starts at a competitive price point, including standard features such as an infotainment system with smartphone integration, a backup camera, 17-inch alloy wheels, and heated front seats. The test vehicle was equipped with the Sport-Tech package, which elevates the features list with a nine-speaker, 440-watt Harman Kardon sound system with navigation, keyless entry, a rear spoiler, 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, a sunroof, blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and leather upholstery.

Opting for the Sport-Tech package adds a significant amount to the price. A middle-ground option is the Sport trim, which includes a selection of these additional features at a more moderate cost. A continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is available as an option, which includes Subaru’s SI-Drive drive mode selector – a feature that could be beneficial even in the manual transmission version, considering the WRX’s responsive throttle.

Conclusion: Is the 2017 Subaru WRX a Worthy Choice?

2017 subaru wrx red color

Ultimately, the 2017 Subaru WRX’s inherent desire for speed can be a double-edged sword for everyday usability. While a four-door performance sedan suggests a vehicle equally at home on the track and during daily commutes, the WRX leans more heavily towards the former. While undeniably quick and possessing a distinct character compared to its Impreza sibling, the 2017 WRX’s raw and less refined nature may not resonate with every driver seeking a balance of performance and everyday comfort. Drivers prioritizing a more polished and sonically engaging driving experience might find other options more appealing, even some with less outright power.

2017 Subaru WRX Specifications