The fastest WRX in factory form is the latest generation, starting with model year 2022, which adopted a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 271 horsepower. Real-world performance depends on the drivetrain and tires.
Context matters: WRX performance is often contrasted with the higher-performance WRX STI, which sits outside the standard WRX lineup. Here we focus on the WRX models themselves and how their speed has evolved across recent years.
What counts as fast for a WRX
Fast can mean straight-line acceleration, top speed, or on-track lap times. The WRX line is all-wheel drive with turbocharged engines, but the biggest leap in speed came when Subaru switched to the 2.4-liter FA24 turbo engine in 2022, increasing horsepower and torque. Transmission choice (manual vs. CVT), tires, weight, and gearing all influence real-world performance.
Fastest WRX by year
Before listing, note that the major performance upgrade for modern WRXs came with the 2022 refresh. The following years reflect the timeline of that faster-generation WRX lineup, with minor refinements but the same core power output.
- 2022 WRX — first year with the 2.4-liter FA24 turbo, 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque; widely regarded as the fastest WRX in factory form to date.
- 2023 WRX — retained the 271 hp engine; performance remains at the top within the WRX lineup, with ongoing refinements.
- 2024 WRX — continued with 271 hp; typically cited for handling improvements and standard features, still among the quickest WRX models available.
In short, the current fastest WRX in production is the 2022–present generation, thanks to the 2.4-liter engine. The exact 0–60 mph times and top speed depend on transmission and tires, but the 2022 model year represents the performance benchmark for the WRX lineup today.
Important caveat: WRX vs WRX STI
For clarity, the WRX STI is a separate, higher-performance variant often faster in acceleration and top speed. If you include STI models, the fastest overall Subaru performance within the WRX family typically sits with late-generation STI variants, which deliver higher horsepower and quicker 0–60 times. This article focuses specifically on WRX models (not the STI).
Summary
The fastest WRX currently is the 2022–present generation, which uses a 2.4-liter turbo engine producing 271 hp. Real-world performance varies with transmission and tires, but this generation marks the speed peak for the WRX lineup. If you broaden the scope to include WRX STI variants, those typically offer higher ultimate performance but are not part of the WRX line itself.
What's faster, WRX STI or Type R?
STI is the engine. The 2019 Honda Civic Type R features a turbo-four engine that pumps out 306 horsepower. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission. In comparison, the WRX STI has a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that outputs 310 horsepower, combined with a six-speed manual transmission.
Is Subaru's WRX faster than the BRZ?
And the and the newer. BRZ. Then we're going to compare the older. Versions.
What is the fastest year WRX?
Methodology and Sources
- Rank 1 – 2021 WRX STI (Final Generation) 0-60 mph: 4.6 sec.
- Rank 2 – 2025 WRX TR. 0-60 mph: 5.6 sec.
- Rank 3 – 2025 WRX Base/Limited. 0-60 mph: 5.4 sec.
- Rank 4 – 2025 BRZ.
- Rank 5 – 2025 Legacy Sport (Turbo)
- Rank 6 – 2025 Solterra AWD.
- Rank 7 – 2025 Outback Touring XT.
- Rank 8 – 2025 Crosstrek Wilderness.
Which year of WRX is most reliable?
Top Picks for the Most Reliable Subaru WRX Model Years
Based on comprehensive reliability data, we recommend the 2017-2021 period as the sweet spot for dependable WRX ownership. The 2017 model year stands out with only 65 NHTSA complaints, while the 2020 model earned a 76/100 J.D. Power score.