Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual. If you're like me and appreciate the feel of a stick shift and the raw connection to the road, then this review is for you. We'll cover everything from its performance and handling to its interior, tech, and overall driving experience. Buckle up, because this is going to be a fun ride!

Performance and Handling: The Heart of the WRX

Let's kick things off with the heart of the beast: performance. The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, which churns out a healthy 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Now, those numbers might not sound like a massive leap over the previous generation, but trust me, the way this power is delivered makes all the difference. The engine feels more responsive, especially in the mid-range, which is where you spend most of your time on the street. The turbo lag, which was a bit of a nuisance in the older models, has been significantly reduced, making for a more linear and predictable power delivery.

The six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use. The throws are short and precise, and the clutch has a good weight to it, providing excellent feedback. Rowing through the gears is an engaging experience, and it really puts you in control of the car. The Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is another standout feature. It provides excellent grip and stability, especially in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Whether you're tackling a twisty mountain road or navigating a snowy highway, the WRX feels planted and confident.

Handling is another area where the 2022 WRX shines. The car feels nimble and responsive, with sharp steering and minimal body roll. The suspension strikes a good balance between sporty and comfortable, making it suitable for both daily driving and weekend spirited runs. The brakes are also strong and provide good pedal feel, inspiring confidence when you need to scrub off speed quickly. Overall, the performance and handling of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual are top-notch. It's a car that begs to be driven, and it rewards you with an engaging and exhilarating experience.

Interior and Technology: Balancing Sportiness and Comfort

Moving inside, the interior of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is a step up from the previous generation. While it's not exactly luxurious, it's functional and well-laid-out. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing good bolstering for spirited driving. The materials used are of decent quality, and the overall fit and finish are respectable.

The dashboard is dominated by an 11.6-inch touchscreen display, which houses the infotainment system. The screen is large and easy to read, but the system itself can be a bit clunky at times. The menus aren't always intuitive, and some of the touch controls can be finicky to use while driving. However, the system does offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, which is a big plus. This allows you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and use your favorite navigation, music, and communication apps.

Other notable features include a Harman Kardon sound system, which delivers crisp and clear audio, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies, such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features add an extra layer of safety and convenience, making the WRX a more livable daily driver. While the interior might not be the most luxurious in its class, it's a comfortable and functional space that complements the car's sporty character. The tech features are a welcome addition, and they enhance the overall driving experience.

Driving Experience: A Car That Connects You to the Road

The driving experience of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is what truly sets it apart from its competitors. This is a car that connects you to the road in a way that few modern vehicles do. The manual transmission, the responsive engine, and the sharp handling all work together to create an engaging and visceral driving experience.

From the moment you start the engine, you know you're in for something special. The Boxer engine has a distinctive rumble that's music to any car enthusiast's ears. As you row through the gears, you feel a direct connection to the car and the road. The steering is precise and communicative, and the suspension provides excellent feedback, allowing you to feel every bump and imperfection in the pavement.

The WRX is a car that begs to be driven hard. It rewards you for pushing it to its limits, and it makes you feel like a better driver in the process. Whether you're carving up a twisty road or blasting down the highway, the WRX is always eager to please. It's a car that puts a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

Of course, the WRX isn't perfect. The ride can be a bit harsh on rough roads, and the interior isn't the most luxurious. But these are minor quibbles in the grand scheme of things. The 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is a driver's car through and through, and it delivers an unmatched level of engagement and excitement.

Is the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual Right for You?

So, is the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual the right car for you? Well, that depends on your priorities. If you're looking for a comfortable and luxurious daily driver, there are probably better options out there. But if you're a driving enthusiast who values performance, handling, and engagement above all else, then the WRX is definitely worth considering.

This car is perfect for those who enjoy the tactile experience of a manual transmission and the raw connection to the road. It's also a great choice for those who live in areas with inclement weather, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system. The WRX is a versatile car that can handle daily commutes, weekend spirited drives, and even the occasional track day.

However, it's important to be aware of the WRX's drawbacks. The ride can be a bit harsh, especially on rough roads, and the fuel economy isn't the greatest. The interior is also not the most luxurious in its class, although it's functional and well-laid-out. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy a 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is a personal one. But if you're a driving enthusiast who's looking for an engaging and exciting car, then it's definitely worth a test drive.

Final Thoughts: A True Driver's Car

In conclusion, the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is a true driver's car. It offers a unique blend of performance, handling, and engagement that's hard to find in modern vehicles. The turbocharged engine, the six-speed manual transmission, and the all-wheel-drive system all work together to create an exhilarating driving experience.

While the WRX might not be the most comfortable or luxurious car on the market, it's a car that's built for one purpose: to be driven. If you're a driving enthusiast who appreciates the feel of a stick shift and the raw connection to the road, then the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual is definitely worth checking out. It's a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

So there you have it, folks! My comprehensive review of the 2022 Subaru WRX Premium Manual. I hope you found this helpful and informative. Happy driving!