The Subaru WRX has long been celebrated as a performance bargain, a rally-bred beast for the streets, derived from the humble Impreza. While often associated with its engaging manual transmission, the Subaru WRX also offers a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for those seeking automatic convenience. But how does this automatic option affect the iconic WRX performance, specifically its 0-60 mph acceleration? Let’s delve into the performance figures and driving experience of the Subaru WRX automatic.
WRX Engine and Transmission Options
2017 subaru wrx review2017 WRX. Photo: Subaru
Under the hood, the 2017 Subaru WRX, like the model reviewed in the original article, houses a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-4 engine. This engine delivers a robust 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Crucially, this powerplant is available with two transmission choices: a traditional 6-speed manual transmission for purists and a Sport Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) for those prioritizing ease of driving, especially in daily traffic.
The original article primarily focuses on the manual transmission WRX, highlighting its spirited but sometimes raw driving character. However, for many drivers, the appeal of an automatic transmission in a performance sedan is undeniable. The CVT in the WRX aims to blend performance with accessibility, offering a different flavor of the WRX experience.
Subaru WRX Automatic 0-60 Time: Bridging the Gap
The question on many performance enthusiasts’ minds is: how does the automatic CVT impact the Subaru WRX’s acceleration, particularly its 0-60 mph sprint? While the manual version of the 2017 Subaru WRX achieves a 0-60 mph time of approximately 5.5 seconds, the automatic Subaru WRX, equipped with the CVT, is slightly different.
Independent testing and manufacturer figures indicate that the Subaru Wrx Automatic 0-60 time typically falls in the range of 6.3 to 6.5 seconds. While a touch slower than its manual counterpart, this figure is still impressive for a sedan in its class and price range. It’s important to note that real-world conditions, such as road surface, tire condition, and weather, can influence these numbers.
The slight difference in 0-60 times reflects the inherent characteristics of a CVT compared to a manual transmission. CVTs prioritize smooth and efficient power delivery, often optimizing for fuel economy and seamless transitions through the gear ratios. While modern CVTs like Subaru’s Sport Lineartronic are designed to mimic stepped gears and offer a more engaging driving experience, they may not always deliver the absolute quickest acceleration times compared to a well-driven manual.
Driving Dynamics: Automatic WRX vs. Manual WRX
2017 subaru wrx review2017 WRX. Photo: Subaru
The driving experience of the Subaru WRX automatic differs noticeably from the manual version. The original review points out the manual WRX’s sensitive throttle and clutch, requiring practice for smooth launches. The CVT, on the other hand, eliminates the clutch and gear changes, offering a more user-friendly experience, especially for drivers less experienced with performance cars or those navigating congested city streets.
However, the CVT in the WRX is not simply about convenience. Subaru’s Sport Lineartronic CVT is designed with performance in mind. It often includes features like simulated gear ratios and paddle shifters, allowing drivers to manually select “gears” and engage with the driving experience more actively. Furthermore, Subaru’s SI-Drive system, often paired with the CVT, provides different driving modes that can alter the transmission’s behavior, ranging from fuel-efficient to sport-oriented.
While the automatic WRX might not offer the same level of raw, driver-involved engagement as the manual, it provides a compelling blend of performance and ease of use. For drivers who appreciate the WRX’s power and all-wheel-drive grip but prefer the convenience of an automatic, the CVT option is a worthy consideration.
Interior and Practicality Remain
2017 wrx2017 WRX. Photo: Subaru
Regardless of the transmission choice, the Subaru WRX retains its practical aspects, stemming from its Impreza roots. As mentioned in the original article, the WRX offers a surprisingly spacious interior for a performance sedan. Front and rear passengers enjoy ample head and legroom, and the trunk provides a useful 340 liters of cargo space, making it suitable for daily errands and longer trips.
The interior features and technology, such as infotainment systems with smartphone integration and safety features, are also consistent between the manual and automatic versions of the WRX, ensuring a well-rounded package.
Conclusion: Automatic WRX – Performance with Ease
The Subaru WRX automatic, while slightly slower in 0-60 mph acceleration compared to the manual, still delivers a respectable performance figure and a distinct driving experience. The Sport Lineartronic CVT offers a smoother, more accessible entry point into the WRX’s performance world without sacrificing too much of its sporty DNA.
For drivers seeking a balance of performance and everyday usability, particularly in environments where an automatic transmission is preferred, the Subaru WRX automatic presents a compelling option. It retains the core appeal of the WRX – turbocharged power, all-wheel-drive grip, and practical sedan packaging – while adding the convenience of an automatic transmission. While purists may always favor the manual, the Subaru WRX automatic 0-60 time and overall driving experience demonstrate that performance and automatic convenience can indeed coexist.
