Sporty Subaru WRX chalks up 70K sales in Aus

AIDED BY a distinctive exhaust note, eye-opening performance and sharp handling coupled with international and local rally championship triumphs, Subaru’s potent WRX has chalked up 70,000 Aussie sales since being introduced back in 1994. 

Conceived and homologated for rallying, the WRX has run through five generations with a few facelifts and hardcore STI (Subaru Tecnica International) variants thrown in, the 'Rex' formula remaining pretty much the same across more than three decades. 

It has been variously built around a four-door small sedan and five-door hatch (plus one two-door wide-body STI 22B coupe in 1998), as well as being a key ingredient for the Levorg wagon, and is now only available in sedan and Sportswagon configurations having ditched its link to the Impreza a couple of generations ago. 

Generation and variant dependent, power has come from a turbocharged 2.0, 2.5 and now 2.4-litre horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engines driving through “symmetrical” all-wheel drive, aided by various go-fast and stop-hard components. 

Despite the nameplate being 31 years old, the Rex still captures hearts as its legend lives on through the ages, with early models still in demand among performance car fans. 

Subaru Australia says the Rex’s appeal to enthusiasts centres on its mix of everyday usability, rally-inspired performance and unmistakable character. 

The model has unequivocally played a defining role in shaping Subaru’s performance DNA and helped the brand to grow a passionate owner community that remains one of the strongest in the automotive world. 

In the early days, interest redoubled with the arrival of the WRX STI in 1998 which elevated the WRX’s reputation even further as it became a true motorsport legend in the hands Australian Rally Championship winners Cody Crocker, and Kiwi Possum Bourne who dominated the sport for years. 

With its rally-bred engineering, the STI cemented the WRX’s place in performance car history and became a symbol of Subaru’s pursuit of speed, precision and control. 

Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said the sales milestone is a testament to the enduring bond between the WRX and its fans. 

“WRX has always been more than just a car. It represents a spirit of fun and connection that has resonated with Australians for more than 30 years. There’s something special about the way it makes people feel – that confidence behind the wheel, the sense of control, the grin it puts on your face. 

“From those early models that took on the rally stages to the cars we see on the road today, WRX has built a community that’s incredibly passionate and loyal. 

“We’re grateful to every WRX owner who’s been part of the journey. Whether you’ve just picked up your first ‘Rex’ or have owned several over the years, your enthusiasm has helped make WRX what it is today.” 

Subaru Australia says the recent introduction of the WRX tS Spec B pays homage to the performance heritage that made WRX a household name, with signature features such as Brembo brakes, STI-tuned suspension and a large rear spoiler reminiscent of classic generations. 

“Since its introduction, WRX has achieved multiple awards and accolades, inspired dedicated owner clubs across the country and played a central role in cementing Subaru’s reputation for performance and innovation,” says Subaru Australia. 

“As the brand looks to the future, WRX remains a cornerstone of Subaru’s performance line-up, continuing to deliver the same blend of power, control and excitement that has defined it for over three decades.