2019 Subaru WRX: Horsepower And Performance Specs

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2019 Subaru WRX and talk about what really makes it tick: its horsepower and overall performance. If you're a fan of rally-inspired rides and that iconic Subaru rumble, you’re probably already familiar with the WRX. But let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of the 2019 model, so you know exactly what kind of power you’re dealing with.

Engine and Horsepower

Okay, so when we talk about the 2019 Subaru WRX, the heart of the beast is its 2.0-liter turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine. This isn't just any engine; it's designed to give you a thrilling driving experience. The horsepower? You're looking at a solid 268 hp at 5,600 rpm. That’s a pretty sweet spot for power delivery, making it super fun whether you're cruising around town or hitting those backroads. The engine’s design, with its horizontally opposed cylinders, helps keep the center of gravity low, which improves handling and stability. This is a big deal when you're pushing the car a bit, giving you more confidence in corners and overall control. Plus, the turbocharger spools up quickly, providing almost instantaneous power. This means you get that satisfying surge of acceleration as soon as you put your foot down, which is definitely one of the things that makes the WRX so enjoyable to drive. And it's not just about peak horsepower; the engine also delivers a healthy dose of torque, which is crucial for everyday drivability. With 258 lb-ft of torque available from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm, you've got plenty of grunt for passing, merging, and tackling hills. This wide torque band ensures that the WRX feels responsive and eager to please, no matter the situation. Whether you opt for the standard six-speed manual transmission or the available Sport Lineartronic CVT, you're getting an engine that's built to perform. The manual gives you that raw, connected feel that enthusiasts love, while the CVT offers smooth and efficient power delivery, especially when equipped with paddle shifters for simulated gear changes. The engine’s robust design and advanced technology make it a standout in its class. It’s not just about raw power; it’s about how that power is delivered and the overall driving experience it provides. The 2019 WRX continues the legacy of Subaru performance, offering a potent and engaging package for drivers who demand more from their cars. It’s a true driver’s car that’s equally at home on the track as it is on the daily commute, thanks to its well-engineered engine and carefully tuned performance characteristics.

Performance Specs

Let's dig deeper into the performance figures that define the 2019 Subaru WRX. Beyond just horsepower, several factors contribute to its impressive performance. The torque we mentioned earlier, at 258 lb-ft, plays a huge role in how quickly the WRX gets up to speed. This car isn’t just about straight-line speed; it's designed to handle corners with precision. The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a key component here. Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is legendary, and for good reason. It provides exceptional grip and stability in a variety of conditions. This system constantly distributes power to all four wheels, maximizing traction and control. Whether you're driving on dry pavement, wet roads, or even snow, the AWD system helps keep you planted and confident. It’s a major reason why the WRX is so popular in regions with challenging weather conditions. The 2019 WRX also features a sport-tuned suspension that strikes a great balance between comfort and performance. It’s firm enough to minimize body roll in corners, yet compliant enough to absorb bumps and road imperfections. This makes the WRX a fun car to drive on a daily basis, without sacrificing too much comfort. The steering is precise and responsive, providing good feedback from the road. This allows you to accurately place the car in corners and feel connected to the driving experience. The brakes are also up to the task, offering strong stopping power and a confident feel. With ventilated discs at all four corners, the WRX can handle repeated hard braking without significant fade. When it comes to acceleration, the 2019 WRX can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.5 to 6.0 seconds, depending on the transmission and testing conditions. That's pretty quick for a car in this class, and it's certainly enough to put a smile on your face. The quarter-mile time is typically in the mid-14-second range, which is also respectable. But the performance of the WRX isn't just about numbers. It's about the overall driving experience. The combination of the powerful engine, responsive handling, and confident AWD system makes it a joy to drive in a variety of situations. Whether you're carving up a twisty road, navigating city streets, or tackling a snowy mountain pass, the WRX delivers a thrilling and engaging experience. It’s a car that begs to be driven, and it rewards you with its performance and capabilities.

Transmission Options

Alright, let’s break down the transmission choices you have with the 2019 Subaru WRX. You’ve got two main options: the six-speed manual transmission and the Sport Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Each offers a different driving experience, so let's dive in. First up, the six-speed manual. For many WRX enthusiasts, this is the only way to go. It provides a direct and engaging connection to the engine, allowing you to fully control the car's performance. The throws are relatively short and precise, making it easy to shift quickly and smoothly. The clutch is also well-weighted, providing good feedback and making it easy to modulate. With the manual, you can really rev out the engine and take full advantage of its powerband. It’s perfect for those who enjoy the art of driving and want to be fully involved in the process. The manual transmission also includes a hill start assist feature, which prevents the car from rolling backward when starting on an incline. This is a handy feature, especially if you live in an area with a lot of hills. Now, let’s talk about the Sport Lineartronic CVT. While some purists might scoff at the idea of a CVT in a performance car, Subaru has done a good job of tuning it for the WRX. It offers smooth and seamless acceleration, and it can actually be quite quick in certain situations. The CVT features paddle shifters, which allow you to simulate gear changes. This gives you some control over the engine's RPM and can make the driving experience more engaging. In Sport mode, the CVT will hold gears longer and provide quicker response. It’s not quite the same as a traditional automatic, but it’s a decent compromise for those who want the convenience of an automatic transmission. One of the benefits of the CVT is its efficiency. It can help improve fuel economy compared to the manual, especially in city driving. However, keep in mind that the CVT might not be as durable as the manual, especially if you’re planning on doing a lot of hard driving or modifications. Ultimately, the choice between the manual and CVT comes down to personal preference. If you value engagement and control, the manual is the way to go. If you prefer convenience and efficiency, the CVT might be a better fit. Both transmissions are well-suited to the 2019 WRX, and they each offer a unique driving experience.

Handling and Drivetrain

Let's get into how the 2019 Subaru WRX handles and the details of its drivetrain, which are crucial for its performance and driving experience. The handling of the WRX is one of its standout features. It’s designed to be nimble and responsive, making it a blast to drive on twisty roads. The sport-tuned suspension plays a big role here, providing a firm but not harsh ride. It minimizes body roll in corners, which helps keep the car flat and stable. The steering is also precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback from the road. This allows you to accurately place the car and feel connected to the driving experience. The combination of the suspension and steering makes the WRX feel confident and predictable in corners. You can really push it hard without feeling like you’re going to lose control. The car communicates well with the driver, giving you a sense of what’s happening at each wheel. The drivetrain is another key component of the WRX’s handling prowess. As we’ve mentioned before, it features Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This system constantly distributes power to all four wheels, maximizing traction and control. It’s a major reason why the WRX is so capable in a variety of conditions. The AWD system isn’t just about providing traction in slippery conditions. It also helps improve handling on dry pavement. By distributing power to all four wheels, it reduces wheel spin and allows you to accelerate more quickly out of corners. The AWD system also helps improve stability at high speeds. It keeps the car planted and prevents it from feeling twitchy or nervous. The 2019 WRX also features Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which is Subaru’s electronic stability control system. VDC helps prevent skidding and loss of control by automatically applying the brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power when necessary. It’s a valuable safety feature that can help you stay in control, even in challenging situations. The combination of the sport-tuned suspension, precise steering, Symmetrical AWD, and Vehicle Dynamics Control makes the WRX a joy to drive. It’s a car that’s equally at home on the track as it is on the road, thanks to its well-engineered handling and drivetrain.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, folks! The 2019 Subaru WRX is a seriously fun car with a potent engine, capable handling, and a legendary all-wheel-drive system. With 268 horsepower on tap, it's got plenty of punch for both daily driving and spirited weekend adventures. Whether you choose the engaging six-speed manual or the smooth Sport Lineartronic CVT, you're in for a thrilling ride. The WRX continues to be a favorite among car enthusiasts for good reason, offering a unique blend of performance, practicality, and that unmistakable Subaru character. If you're in the market for a sporty sedan that can handle just about anything you throw at it, the 2019 Subaru WRX is definitely worth a look. Happy driving!