The WRX has been the performance sedan of choice for years, with all-wheel drive and rally-bred handling. Over time, the WRX has changed a lot, as technology and consumer tastes have evolved. Comparing the 2019 WRX to the 2025 WRX shows a mix of old and new. Below, we look at the differences and similarities in performance, design, tech, and safety.

Performance and Powertrain

The 2019 WRX had a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine making 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Its symmetrical all-wheel drive and 6-speed manual transmission were all about a traditional driver-focused experience. For more power, the WRX STI had a 2.5L engine making 310 horsepower. Those models were all about raw performance, handling, and acceleration.

Fast forward to 2025 and the Subaru WRX still has performance DNA but with a lot of updates. The 2025 WRX gets a new 2.4L turbo engine and 271 horsepower. The difference in horsepower is small but the new powertrain has a broader torque band so you get more drivability across the speed range. Subaru has also refined its continuously variable transmission (CVT) called the Subaru Performance Transmission which offers smoother shifts and better response for those who don’t opt for the 6-speed manual.

Also, the 2025 WRX gets improved suspension tuning and a new platform on Subaru’s Global Architecture. That means more rigidity and better handling than the 2019. For enthusiasts who want even more performance the high-output WRX STI will return with hybrid technology combining electrification with turbo power.

Exterior and Design

The 2019 WRX was a traditional sedan shape with aggressive lines, a big hood scoop, and C-shaped LED headlights. While the design was liked for its sportiness some critics felt it lacked the refinement of the competition.

The 2025 WRX is more aggressive in its design with cues from crossover-inspired vehicles. Its wider stance and flared fenders give it a more muscular look. While the hood scoop is still there the updated LED lighting and improved aerodynamics show Subaru is serious about modern design. The functional vents and reworked front grille also set the 2025 WRX apart from the 2019.

Another change is more aggressive wheel designs and more color options for buyers who want to customize their ride. Opinions on the crossover-inspired cladding are mixed but the overall design language shows Subaru is trying to balance tradition with innovation.

Interior and Tech

Interior is one of the biggest areas of change between the 2019 and 2025 WRX. The 2019 WRX had a no-frills, function over form interior. While the materials were durable critics felt there were too many hard plastics and not enough premium touches. Technology in the 2019 WRX was a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system. While it was functional it was behind the competition in terms of screen size and features.

In contrast, the 2025 WRX takes a big step forward in interior refinement. The dashboard now has an 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, standard on most trims, for more intuitive navigation, media, and vehicle settings. Upgraded materials including soft-touch surfaces and available leather upholstery make the interior feel more premium. Subaru also adds customizable ambient lighting and better sound insulation for a quieter ride.

Seating also gets a boost. The 2025 WRX has sport seats with optional heating and ventilation for both comfort and performance driving. Rear passenger space is the same as the 2019 but slight changes in the cabin architecture give more headroom and shoulder room.

Safety

Safety has always been a Subaru strength and both the 2019 and 2025 WRX have that in common. But the advancements in driver assist systems show how far the brand has come in recent years.

The 2019 WRX had Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology as an option on CVT trims. That included adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. But it was limited and manual transmission models had no access to those safety features at all.

By 2025 EyeSight is standard on all WRX trims regardless of transmission. The system also gets 360-degree cameras, improved lane-keeping assist, and more semi-autonomous driving capabilities. Additional features like rear cross-traffic alert and reverse automatic braking address parking and low-speed collision concerns. So the 2025 WRX is one of the safest in its class.

Pricing and Value

In 2019 the WRX was praised for its value in the performance sedan market. With a starting price of around $28,000, it was the most affordable way to get a turbo and all-wheel drive.

The 2025 WRX reflects the market with a higher starting price of around $33,000. While that’s more than the 2019 WRX the added features and inflation are accounted for. Subaru softens the sticker shock with more standard equipment, modern tech, and better performance. Subscription-based connected services and premium trims allow buyers to customize the WRX to their wants and budget.

The comparison between the 2019 Subaru WRX and the 2025 Subaru WRX shows Subaru is evolving the performance sedan while staying true to its roots. Enthusiasts and buyers will find the 2019 WRX delivers raw driving excitement and the 2025 WRX has modern tech and versatility. Both have all-wheel drive and rally heritage.