Select your car
Many driving enthusiasts want to know if their car offers the satisfying rev-matching feature, like you and your 2022 WRX. Does the 2022 WRX have auto rev matching? It's a question we get here at Car Parts Guys all the time, so let's find out. Before we get started, this article focuses on the US market, so if you’re somewhere else, the features might be a bit different. Don't forget we offer parts for the 2022 WRX and sell aftermarket parts for the 2015-2021 WRX.
First off, rev matching is super cool for a couple of reasons. When you’re downshifting, it automatically raises the engine revs to match the speed of the wheels. This means your transition to a lower gear is way smoother, putting less strain on the transmission, and making your ride feel more sporty. It's something you typically see in performance vehicles.
Does the 2022 WRX Have Automatic Rev Matching?
Okay, let's cut to the chase. The answer is YES, but only if you pick a 2022 WRX with the Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT). This is actually their CVT.
You might be thinking, "Wait a minute, a CVT?" and we hear you. CVTs have gotten a bad reputation over the years, but Subaru made some serious improvements. With this transmission, shifting is super fast – about 30% faster when going up in gears and 50% faster when dropping down gears compared to the last WRX.
Plus, Subaru included a rev-matching system. So, when you brake going into a corner, the SPT will drop down gears with a sweet little engine blip. If you’re someone who loves that traditional, manual driving experience, then you won’t find an auto rev-matching feature on the 6-speed manual transmission. However, those familiar with a stick shift can nail those rev-matching downshifts themselves with a bit of practice. This could make choosing between a CVT or manual tough, depending on how important automatic rev matching is to you.
Other Noteworthy Features of the 2022 Subaru WRX
Enhanced Powertrain
Now, besides the transmission choices, there’s more about this WRX that’s got people talking. This WRX packs a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine that spits out 271 horsepower and offers plenty of torque vectoring. Compared to the old 2.0-liter in previous WRXs, you’ve got more power lower in the RPM range.
This is the same engine you’ll find in some Subaru SUVs like the Legacy and the Outback. That might make some wonder why this car doesn't quite have the high-revving spirit of other sports cars. You can get it with either a manual shifter or CVT, making it appealing to a wider group of drivers.
Improved Handling and Dynamics
They built this WRX on the Subaru Global Platform, and Subaru says it is a lot stiffer than the older WRX, helping the car feel planted and in control. The increase in torsional rigidity is noticeable. In addition, the electric power steering is now dual-pinion, which basically translates to more precision and responsiveness in how it steers.
Plus, you get standard all-wheel drive – a hallmark of Subaru performance that gives incredible road feel and traction on different roads, especially in tricky conditions. This predictable handling will make you want to push the car harder.
Redesigned Interior and Exterior
Inside the 2022 WRX, Subaru opted for a minimalist look, even including soft-touch materials on the dashboard and doors. Some versions feature a huge 11.6-inch tablet-style infotainment screen with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
However, one thing many reviewers comment on is the black cladding surrounding the wheel wells. It gives the car an off-road look. That’s a bit strange for a performance sedan meant for sporty driving, right?
Trim Levels and Features
The 2022 WRX has a few different trims, each offering a little something different:
- Base: Starts at around $30,100; a great starting point with tons of features already packed in.
- Premium: This adds a bit more comfort and luxury starting around $32,600.
- Limited: Here’s where things get even more upscale. The Limited runs about $36,990.
- GT: If you want the most powerful experience, this is it, and it is CVT only, running you about $42,890. This top trim gets some amazing features, like adjustable suspension (electronically controlled), allowing the driver to tailor the handling to the specific driving conditions, plus the Recaro seats we’ll discuss below. Many buyers might like to see those suspension options available with the manual.
Recaro Seats - A Bittersweet Addition
One really cool option available is Recaro seats in the GT trim. You know Recaro - they make great performance seats. They’re supportive, hugging you in the turns and making you feel more connected to the car.
They’re definitely an upgrade in terms of comfort. But the Recaro seats only come with the GT trim, which only comes with the CVT. You can't get Recaros with the manual transmission if you want the performance seating and a traditional driving feel. The 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters is said to offer the same downshift rev-matching feature but can be chosen over the CVT, however some buyers would like Subaru to offer auto rev-match even in the manual.
EyeSight: Not Just For Safety
Subaru's EyeSight suite has many standard driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. You’ve even got emergency braking for when things get a little too close for comfort. If you get the GT with the CVT, the SI-Drive system changes how EyeSight works.
If you have EyeSight set to Normal, Comfort Mode will still feel smooth. Sport mode keeps the suspension taught. But put EyeSight in Sport, then put your car in Comfort Mode, and those shocks feel different. This setup actually adds a lot more adjustability to the car and is definitely something to play around with. EyeSight with these adaptive options only works with the CVT, however.
FAQs about does the 2022 wrx have auto rev matching
Does Subaru have auto rev match?
Yes, some Subaru models do. Most notably, you will find rev-matching downshifts in Subarus with the Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT), their more recent CVT. The 2022 WRX with the SPT is a perfect example.
Does the 2022 WRX have a rev limiter?
All modern cars have rev limiters. This is an electronic safety feature built into the engine control unit (ECU) to prevent the engine from spinning to RPM levels that could cause damage. While the specifics of the 2022 WRX's rev limiter aren't widely publicized, rest assured that the feature is present to protect the engine.
Does the 2024 WRX have auto rev match?
Yes, the 2024 Subaru WRX with the Subaru Performance Transmission (SPT) has a system to perform rev-matching downshifts under braking, making your driving smoother, and less impactful on your drivetrain. Just remember, only those WRX models equipped with the SPT feature rev-matching.
What is the difference between the 2022 and 2023 Subaru WRX?
There isn't much that sets them apart. Both are based on the fifth-generation WRX introduced in 2022. So they both have that bold new design, and offer the more powerful 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine paired with a 6-speed manual or a CVT. If you’re considering which to buy, it really comes down to availability and price, and of course any subtle refinements they might have implemented from one model year to the next.
Conclusion
So, does the 2022 WRX have auto rev matching? It all depends on your transmission. Get it with the SPT (their CVT), and you get rev-matching as you downshift. If you go with the manual, no auto rev-matching for you, BUT… with a little practice, any driver can get the hang of rev-matching while shifting gears themselves. Remember to test drive the 2022 WRX with both transmission choices, get a feel for what best matches your driving style and what matters to you when behind the wheel.
