Verified vehicle record
2026 Subaru WRX
Car and Driver says Subaru brought back the WRX's base trim, lowering the price of entry considerably: the Premium trim had been the least-expensive level for 2025, but the 2026 WRX base model brings the starting price back under $34,000 and only forgoes a few bits of equipment such as heated seats, rear USB ports, and LED fog lights. MSRP runs $33,690-$47,190 with a 271-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four. MotorTrend says every 2026 WRX has standard AWD and a standard six-speed manual (paddle-shifted CVT available), with the manual reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and the CVT-equipped WRX GT at 5.7 seconds in MotorTrend testing; driving purists will gravitate toward the sharp, rewarding tS trim even though it's no STI, but a narrow powerband, damped clutch, and mediocre fuel economy hold it back, and MotorTrend says those craving a purer rally feel should also consider the Toyota GR Corolla, listing top-ranked competitors as the Toyota GR Corolla, Volkswagen Golf R, Hyundai Elantra N, and Honda Civic Type R.
Current archiveChecked Sep. 20, 2026United States specification
Powertrain2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo)
Output271 hp
DrivetrainAWD
Seating5
Decision answers17Trim, ownership and verification
What changed for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says Subaru brought back the WRX's base trim, which lowers the price of entry considerably. The Premium trim had been the least-expensive trim level for 2025, but the 2026 WRX base model brings the starting price back under $34,000 and only forgoes a few bits of equipment such as heated seats, rear USB ports, and LED fog lights.
Pricing and powertrain for 2026
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $33,690-$47,190. Engine: a 271-hp turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four.
MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) says every 2026 WRX comes with the 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four producing 271 hp and 258 lb-ft, paired with standard all-wheel drive; a six-speed manual transmission is standard, with a paddle-shifted CVT automatic available. In testing, the manual WRX reached 60 mph in 5.9 seconds, and the CVT-equipped WRX GT shaved that to 5.7 seconds.
How it compares to its closest rivals
MotorTrend (opens in a new tab) says driving purists will gravitate toward the tS trim -- sharp and rewarding, even if it's no STI -- but a narrow powerband and damped clutch hold back outright performance compared to the previous generation, and fuel economy is mediocre for a compact. The WRX remains a compelling all-weather sport sedan, but those craving a purer rally feel should also consider the Toyota GR Corolla. MotorTrend lists top-ranked competitors as the Toyota GR Corolla, Volkswagen Golf R, Hyundai Elantra N, and Honda Civic Type R.
Questions buyers ask
What's new for the 2026 Subaru WRX?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) says the return of a base trim that brings the starting price back under $34,000.
How much does the 2026 Subaru WRX cost?
Car and Driver (opens in a new tab) lists MSRP at $33,690 to $47,190.
Research paths
Move from the vehicle to the decision.
Compare like with like: the closest configuration, not an unrelated advertised maximum.
Record summary
What to know first
The 2026 Subaru WRX is a compact sedan that Kelley Blue Book lists in 6 trims, from the Base to the Series.Yellow. Its engine is the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo). Power is 271 horsepower, and Kelley Blue Book lists all-wheel drive. Its curb weights run 3,351 to 3,560 lb and its combined fuel economy 21 to 22 mpg. Kelley Blue Book records the Series.Yellow with the same figures and equipment as the tS, so each pair shares one trim page.
Model-year note
Against the 2025 model year in Kelley Blue Book's rows, Base and Series.Yellow join the lineup.
Trim map
How the lineup separates.
Trim descriptions identify the meaningful change from one trim to the next; individual options can still vary.
| Trim | Place in the lineup | Notable equipment |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Entry trim | See full equipment map |
| Premium | Trim 2 of 5 | See full equipment map |
| Limited | Trim 3 of 5 | See full equipment map |
| tS | Trim 4 of 5 | See full equipment map |
| GT | Top trim | See full equipment map |
01
Entry trim
Base
03
Trim 3 of 5
Limited
04
Trim 4 of 5
tS
05
Top trim
GT
1 more row Kelley Blue Book lists for the 2026 WRX
These rows are close to a page already on this site, so they are listed here with what sets each apart.
| Configuration | Engine | Power | Drive |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series.Yellow | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | 271 hp | AWD |
Trim-by-trim specifications
The 2026 Subaru WRX: 6 trims compared.
Kelley Blue Book specifications, one row per trim.
| Trim | Engine | Transmission | Drive | Horsepower | Torque (lb-ft) | EPA city / hwy / comb | Seats | Basic warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Manual, 6-Spd | AWD | 271 | 258 | 19 / 26 / 22 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Premium | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Manual, 6-Spd | AWD | 271 | 258 | 19 / 26 / 22 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Limited | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Automatic, 8-Spd Performance w/Manual Mode | AWD | 271 | 258 | 18 / 25 / 21 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| tS | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Manual, 6-Spd | AWD | 271 | 258 | 19 / 26 / 22 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| GT | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Automatic, 8-Spd Performance w/Manual Mode | AWD | 271 | 258 | 18 / 25 / 21 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Series.Yellow | 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) | Manual, 6-Spd | AWD | 271 | 258 | 19 / 26 / 22 mpg | 5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Trim | Curb weight | Length | Height | Wheelbase | Ground clearance | Turning circle | Fuel tank | Front headroom | Front legroom | Tires |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.7 ft | 16.6 gal | 39.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/40YR18 | |
| Premium | 3,351 lb | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.7 ft | 16.6 gal | 39.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/40YR18 |
| Limited | 3,554 lb | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.7 ft | 16.6 gal | 38.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/40YR18 |
| tS | 3,430 lb | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.1 ft | 16.6 gal | 39.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/35YR19 |
| GT | 3,560 lb | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.7 ft | 16.6 gal | 38.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/40YR18 |
| Series.Yellow | 3,430 lb | 183.8 in | 57.8 in | 105.2 in | 5.4 in | 36.1 ft | 16.6 gal | 39.8 in | 43.1 in | P245/35YR19 |
Equipment by trim
Which 2026 Subaru WRX trim has what.
Std is standard, Opt is optional, a dash means Kelley Blue Book lists it as not available.
| Equipment | Base | Premium | Limited | tS | GT | Series.Yellow |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | ||||||
| Adaptive headlights | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Anti-theft alarm | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Blind-spot alert | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child door locks | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Child-seat anchors | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Forward collision warning with automatic braking | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Driver-attention monitor | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hill-start assist | Std | Std | – | Std | – | Std |
| Rearview camera | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Traction control | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Technology | ||||||
| Text-message reader | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth audio streaming | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Bluetooth | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Hands-free calling | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| IPod connector | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| IPod interface | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Built-in internet access | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Navigation system | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Premium audio system | – | Opt | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Satellite radio | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Apple CarPlay or Android Auto | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Steering-wheel audio controls | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Touchscreen | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Voice recognition | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Emergency and security services | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Comfort | ||||||
| Heated front seats | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Heated mirrors | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power driver's seat | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather seats | – | – | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Leather-wrapped steering wheel | Std | – | – | – | – | – |
| Tilt steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Cup holders | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Folding rear seat | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Exterior and convenience | ||||||
| Alloy wheels | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Fog lights | – | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear spoiler | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote liftgate or trunk release | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| 12-volt power outlet | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Power windows | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Remote keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Proximity keyless entry | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Push-button start | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
| Rear-window defroster | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std | Std |
Complete certification table
2 configuration records.
Direct answers
17 questions tied to this model-year.
Each answer names its source.
Q01How many trims does the 2026 WRX come in?
Kelley Blue Book lists 5 trims for the 2026 Subaru WRX (compact sedan): Base, Premium, Limited, tS, GT.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
Q02What are the 2026 WRX trims?
Kelley Blue Book lists these 5 trims for the 2026 Subaru WRX, in this order: Base, Premium, Limited, tS, GT.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
Q03What engine or powertrain does the 2026 WRX use?
The 2026 Subaru WRX is built around 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo), rated at 271 horsepower across its compact sedan body style.
Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications
Q04Is AWD or 4WD available on the 2026 WRX?
The 2026 Subaru WRX is offered with AWD.
Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications
Q05What changed for the 2026 WRX?
Against the 2025 model year in Kelley Blue Book's rows, Base and Series.Yellow join the lineup.
Source: Kelley Blue Book model-year information
Q06How much cargo space does the 2026 Subaru WRX have, per EPA measurement?
The EPA lists 12 cubic feet of measured luggage or cargo volume for the 2026 Subaru WRX.
Source: FuelEconomy.gov current vehicle table
Q07How did the 2026 Subaru WRX do in NHTSA's side crash and rollover tests?
The 2026 Subaru WRX earned 5 stars in the side crash test (5 stars driver side, 5 stars passenger side) and 5 stars for rollover resistance, a 9% chance of rolling over in a single-vehicle crash.
Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program
Q08What brake fluid, refrigerant and key-fob battery does the 2026 Subaru WRX use?
The 2026 Subaru WRX owner's manual names R-1234yf air-conditioning refrigerant. Source: 2026 Subaru WRX owner's manual.
Source: Manufacturer owner's manual
Q09What is the 2026 Subaru WRX's top speed?
Car and Driver's estimate for the 2026 Subaru WRX puts it at a top speed of 145 mph.
Source: subaru.com (opens in a new tab)
Q10What is the destination charge on the 2026 Subaru WRX?
The destination charge on the 2026 Subaru WRX is $1,195. It is the gap between Subaru's own starting MSRP and Kelley Blue Book's national price for the same trim, which includes destination (Premium: Subaru $33,995, Kelley Blue Book $35,190; same gap on 3 trims).
Source: subaru.com (opens in a new tab)
Q11What suspension does the 2026 Subaru WRX use?
MotorTrend describes the 2026 Subaru WRX's suspension this way. Front: a MacPherson-type strut design. Rear: a double-wishbone design.
Source: subaru.com (opens in a new tab)
Q12How did the 2026 Subaru WRX do in IIHS crash tests?
IIHS rated the 2026 Subaru WRX: Good in the small overlap front test, Poor in the updated moderate overlap front test, Good in the updated side test. IIHS states the rating applies to 2022-26, 2024-26 and 2025-26 models. Grades run Good, Acceptable, Marginal, Poor.
Source: iihs.org (opens in a new tab)
Q13What size wheels does the 2026 Subaru WRX have?
The 2026 Subaru WRX's wheel diameter is 18 inches on the Base, Premium, Limited and GT and 19 inches on the tS and Series.Yellow. Source: Kelley Blue Book specifications.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q14What warranty does the 2026 Subaru WRX AWD Base 4dr Sedan come with?
CarDealerships.com lists the 2026 Subaru WRX AWD Base 4dr Sedan with basic coverage of 36 months or 36,000 miles, powertrain coverage of 60 months or 60,000 miles and roadside assistance of 36 months or 36,000 miles.
Source: CarDealerships.com model-year specification page
Q15How quickly does the 2026 Subaru Wrx accelerate from 0 to 60 mph?
The most recent instrumented 0 to 60 mph tests of this model that 0-60Specs.com lists are of earlier model years than the 2026 Subaru Wrx: 5.6 seconds for the 2025 Subaru WRX tS Sedan (Car and Driver) and 5.8 seconds for the 2025 Subaru WRX tS Sedan (Motor Trend).
Source: 0-60Specs.com model-year specification page
Q16How do the 2026 Subaru WRX trims differ from one another?
All 6 trims share the 2.4-liter 4-cylinder (Turbo) making 271 hp. The Premium has fog lights, heated front seats and heated mirrors as standard equipment over the Base. The Limited has leather seats, a navigation system, a power driver's seat and a premium audio system as standard equipment over the Premium. The tS has hill-start assist as standard equipment over the Limited. The Series.Yellow has hill-start assist as standard equipment over the GT.
Source: Kelley Blue Book vehicle specifications
Q17What does the 2026 Subaru WRX cost across its trims?
Kelley Blue Book's national base prices for the 2026 Subaru WRX run from $33,690 for the Base Style to $47,190 for the Series.Yellow, across 6 trims.
Source: Kelley Blue Book
Live NHTSA evidence
Current federal safety records for 2026 Subaru WRX.
Exact-vehicle evidence desk
Move from the guide to the VIN record.
Trim research establishes the marketed lineup. These primary-source paths resolve recall applicability, manufacturer-submitted identity fields and exact EPA configuration data.
01 · NHTSARatings, recalls, complaints and manufacturer communicationsExact model-year search → (opens in a new tab)02 · NHTSACheck unresolved safety recalls by VINOfficial remedy status → (opens in a new tab)03 · vPICDecode manufacturer-submitted vehicle attributesInternal VIN tool →04 · EPAResolve the exact fuel-economy configuration1984–current browser →
Other model years
Compare the Subaru WRX across model years.
Source trail
Evidence behind the record
01
Kelley Blue Book 2026 Subaru WRX specificationsPer-trim specifications and standard and optional equipment
↗ (opens in a new tab)02FuelEconomy.gov vehicle dataEPA-certified configuration and fuel-economy records
↗ (opens in a new tab)03NHTSA vehicle data and recallsVIN attributes, safety campaigns and ratings
↗ (opens in a new tab)Specifications and pricing can change after publication. Critical purchasing decisions should be confirmed against the exact vehicle window sticker or manufacturer build record.