Subaru’s new range is snappy
The addition of the twin-camera EyeSight driver-assistance system to the WRX spearheads a suit of upgrades for what Subaru New Zealand calls its ’’performance range’’: the aforementioned Rex, Levorg GT-S wagon and enthusiast-oriented STi.
EyeSight, already a familiar feature across the rest of the Subaru range, enables a variety of driver-assist and active-safety features, including adaptive cruise control and autonomous braking. But it’s only available on the Subaru Lineartronic Transmission (SLT) two-pedal model, meaning the manual-only flagship STi is still sans-EyeSight.
The WRX Premium, STi Premium and Levorg have another three new safety features: Front View Monitor, Smart Rear View Monitor (which shows you an image of the back of the car through the rear-vision mirror) and Automatic Vehicle Hold for the electronic parking brake.
The trio’s turbo engines now meet Euro 6b emissions standards and the Levorg has been firmed up with revisions to the Bilstein suspension.
All have new grilles, front bumpers and alloy wheel designs. The WRX gets red brake calipers, with the Premium picking up 20 per cent more efficient Jurid brake pads. The STi gets a more serious stopper upgrade: six-piston (front) Brembo units and rear crossdrilled rotors, with bright yellow calipers all-around. The driver-configurable differential on the STi is now fully electronic.
Prices for all SLT models rise by $1000: $50,990 for the WRX, $55,990 for the WRX Premium and $57,990 for the Levorg GT-S..