Subaru WRX goes hi-tech

The latest active safety features and selected price cuts highlight Subaru's update of the 2016 WRX and WRX STI models.

Mechanically both models remain unchanged but  the WRX Premium and STI Premium models are now available with Subaru's full suite of active safety features; including blind spot monitoring, lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert.

Other changes include the introduction of a new 6.2-inch touchscreen to the entry-level WRX while the Premium models get a 7-inch touchscreen that has voice recognition and the Pandora smartphone app integration.

"WRX is already regarded as well specced, but these latest additions make it the best ever in terms of the performance, value and features equation," said Nick Senior, Subaru Australia managing director, who said the cars are selling at levels not seen since the 1990s.

The changes also mean new prices for more models. The base WRX remains unchanged but the WRX Premium is $900 more expensive thanks to the introduction of the new safety items.

The STI gets a $500 cut while the STI Premium models get a $400 increase (no spoiler) and $700 (with rear spoiler) with its extra features.

2016 Subaru WRX and WRX STI pricing*

WRX manual: $38,990 (no change)

WRX CVT: $40,990 (no change)

WRX Premium manual: $44,890 ($900 increase)

WRX Premium CVT: $46,890 ($900 increase)

WRX STI: $49,490 ($500 decease)

WRX STI with rear spoiler: $49,790 ($200 decrease)

WRX STI Premium: $55,390 ($400 increase)

WRX STI Premium with rear spoiler: $55,690  ($700 increase)

*All prices exclude dealer charges and on-road costs.