2016 Subaru WRX: Performance Icon Gains New Amenities

Subaru Canada Inc.

Subaru Canada Inc.

• Newly available rear radar system introduces Subaru brand's next step towards full-perimeter preventative safety offering three functions: Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
• 2016 WRX introduces new 18-inch alloy wheels and upgraded suspension for even better performance.
• New audio and navigation systems enhance technology, infotainment offering.

MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 4, 2015 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) today announced the release of its 2016 Subaru WRX. Subaru's performance sedan for the true enthusiast offers refined styling yet still delivers a menacing message. For 2016, the Subaru WRX boasts new technologies designed to enhance the driver's experience behind the wheel along with the response, sharp handling and unmatched levels of control characteristic of this performance icon.

Spine-tingling Sport Performance
Powered by a 268-horsepower 2.0-litre direct-injection turbocharged (DIT) SUBARU BOXER engine, the 2016 WRX offers a choice between a six-speed manual transmission or a sport-tuned Sport Lineartronic automatic transmission that offers smooth shifting as well as an 8-speed manual shift mode with sharp shifting response. In Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE), selecting Sport Sharp (S#) switches to 8-speed shifting. SI-DRIVE's Sport Sharp mode within Sport Lineartronic emulates traditional shift points to let drivers feel the WRX's impressive power and performance.

Equipped with the Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system built around the SUBARU BOXER engine, the WRX remains the symbol of Subaru AWD sport performance. The Subaru WRX employs an Active Torque Vectoring system that supplements the AWD system, making handling more precise and improving cornering speeds. Multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) provides a precise and enjoyable driving experience.

Three Trim Levels, New Amenities
The 2016 Subaru WRX is offered in three trim levels: the entry level WRX, WRX Sport Package and WRX Sport-tech Package. For the 2016 model year, the WRX adds an AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio) and updated steering wheel-integrated controls. The 2016 WRX also adds a one-touch turn signal for added convenience.

The 2016 WRX Sport Package gains door mirrors with LED-integrated turn signals as well as the Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD). This new rear radar system introduces the brand's next step toward full-perimeter preventive safety. The rear radar system offers three functions: Blind Spot Detection detects vehicles behind the C-pillars and in other blind spots; Lane Change Assist detects fast approaching vehicles when changing lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert detects close vehicles while reversing, such as out of a parking space or driveway. LED indicators on the side mirrors paired with an audible warning alert the driver of vehicles travelling in their blind spots and when changing lanes.

The WRX Sport-tech Package pushes the performance envelope even further with new 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels and upgraded suspension. The highest trim package also integrates a new AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 7-inch high-resolution capacitive touchscreen display with GPS navigation system, STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio), dual USB port/iPod control, auxiliary audio input, SMS text messaging capability and SiriusXM Satellite Radio installed (free 3-month trial subscription included).

All-around Safety
Following Subaru's safety philosophy of all-around safety, the 2016 WRX covers all areas of safety performance. The combination of Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, a light body, chassis rigidity and performance, oversized brakes with high-performance ABS, a highly advanced multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system and active torque vectoring all work together to give the WRX the best hazard avoidance in its class – ensuring the driving is exciting, but safe in every scenario. In terms of passive safety, the WRX features exceptionally rigid construction and incorporates the latest thinking in passive safety protection. Like all Subaru models, the 2016 WRX uses the brand's proven ring-shaped reinforcement frame, which has been shown to excel in the small overlap test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Subaru WRX also features a full complement of supplemental restraints, including dual-stage deployment front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and side-curtain airbags for front and rear outboard occupants.

Model Overview
Trim: WRX
Price: $29,995
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with Direct Injection
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features: Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive;  315 x 24 mm dual-piston caliper ventilated front disc brakes; 286 x10 mm single-piston caliper solid rear disc brakes; driver and front passenger front and side-impact airbags; side curtain airbags; driver's side knee airbag; whiplash-reducing design front performance seats with height- and tilt-adjustable head restraints; engine immobilizer system and anti-theft security system; 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels; quad-tip high-performance exhaust; windshield wiper de-icer; automatic climate control; 4.3-inch colour multi-function display with centre-console mounted control (boost display, vehicle dynamics monitor, clock, outside temperature, maintenance reminder, customizable settings); AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha Radio, USB port, iPod control, auxiliary audio input and steering wheel-integrated controls; Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls; SiriusXM Satellite Radio installed (free 3-month trial subscription included); 3-spoke flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and audio, Bluetooth and cruise control switches;  one-touch turn signals.

Trim: WRX (Sport Lineartronic)
Price: $31,295
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with direct injection
Transmission: Sport Lineartronic features SI-DRIVE performance management with 6-speed and 8-speed manual shifting modes and steering wheel paddle switches
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features: Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive;  315 x 24 mm dual-piston caliper ventilated front disc brakes; 286 x10 mm single-piston caliper solid rear disc brakes; driver and front passenger front and side-impact airbags; side curtain airbags; driver's side knee airbag; whiplash-reducing design front performance seats with height- and tilt-adjustable head restraints; engine immobilizer system and anti-theft security system; 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels; quad-tip high-performance exhaust; windshield wiper de-icer; automatic climate control; 4.3-inch colour multi-function display with centre-console mounted control (boost display, vehicle dynamics monitor, clock, outside temperature, maintenance reminder, customizable settings); AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha Radio, USB port, iPod control, auxiliary audio input and steering wheel-integrated controls; Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls; SiriusXM Satellite Radio installed (free 3-month trial subscription included); 3-spoke flat-bottom leather-wrapped steering wheel with red stitching and audio, Bluetooth and cruise control switches;  one-touch turn signals.

Trim: WRX Sport Package
Price: $32,795
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with direct injection
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX): low-profile rear spoiler; LED low-beam automatic off/on headlights; multi-reflector halogen fog lights power tilting and sliding glass sunroof; 8-way power driver's seat; door mirrors with LED-integrated turn signals; welcome lighting; Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD).

Trim: WRX Sport Package (Sport Lineartronic)
Price: $34,095
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with direct injection
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX): low-profile rear spoiler; LED low-beam automatic off/on headlights; multi-reflector halogen fog lights power tilting and sliding glass sunroof; 8-way power driver's seat, door mirrors with LED-integrated turn signals, Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD).

Trim: WRX Sport-tech Package
Price: $36,095
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with direct injection
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission 
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX Sport Package): 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels; proximity key with push-button start; AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 7-inch high-resolution capacitive touchscreen display with GPS navigation system; STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha radio; dual USB port/iPod control; auxiliary audio input and SMS text messaging capability; Sirius XM Traffic (subscription required); Harman Kardon 440-watt amplifier; Harman Kardon premium speaker system (9 speakers including subwoofer); leather seating surfaces.

Trim: WRX Sport-tech Package (Sport Lineartronic)
Price: $37,395
Engine: 2.0L horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine with direct injection
Transmission: Sport Lineartronic features SI-DRIVE performance management with 6-speed and 8-speed manual shifting modes and steering wheel paddle switches
Horsepower: 268
Torque: 258 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX Sport Package): 18-inch aluminum alloy wheels; proximity key with push-button start; AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 7-inch high-resolution capacitive touchscreen display with GPS navigation system; STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha radio; dual USB port/iPod control; auxiliary audio input and SMS text messaging capability; Sirius XM Traffic (subscription required); SiriusXM Satellite Radio installed (free 3-month trial subscription included); Harman Kardon 440-watt amplifier; Harman Kardon premium speaker system (9 speakers including subwoofer); leather seating surfaces.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of 90 authorized dealers across Canada. For more information, please visit www.subaru.ca or www.pr.subaru.ca or follow @Subaru_Canada on Twitter.

SOURCE Subaru Canada Inc.

Image with caption: "Subaru’s performance sedan for the true enthusiast offers refined styling yet still delivers a menacing message. (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150504_C6537_PHOTO_EN_16158.jpg

Image with caption: "The 2016 WRX introduces new 18-inch alloy wheels and upgraded suspension for even better performance. (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150504_C6537_PHOTO_EN_16159.jpg

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