Does it handle? Please tell me it does something right.
This is the best thing about it. Despite that unholy thirst for fuel and semi-forgettable acceleration, the WRX redeems itself through corners where ferocious levels of mechanical grip (courtesy all-wheel-drive and sticky Dunlop Sport Maxx tyres) and almost zero body roll make it a most joyful dance partner.
Yeah, you've got to spend a whole lot more money to garage a car that corners as flat as this. It's mouth-droppingly impressive. So while most rivals will escape your sights down the straights, you'll be the one smiling when the road starts to squiggle and switchback - especially if you've got a bit of talent behind the wheel. Almost at complete odds with its cornering prowess the WRX never feels uncomfortable across uneven surfaces.
Firm, yes, but never crashy or uncontrolled, which is quite a feat. Finally, braking performance deserves a mention: those special Jurid brake pads ensuring firm and progressive pedal feel during bouts of spirited street driving. They're nicely resistant to fade too, which inspires even more confidence in this machine's tremendous dynamic talents.
Let's address the elephant in the room - how's that CVT gearbox?
Awful. The Lineartronic transmission is fine in a humdrum Forester or XV but it has no business being in a WRX for the following reasons. One, it makes a terrible droning noise. Two, it actually makes the car slower. Three, it makes the car drink more fuel. Four, it makes the car slower to react to throttle inputs and, five, it worsens the already noticeable effects of turbo-lag. Luckily you don't have to have it.
For a whopping R50,000 less you can bag yourself a Subaru WRX with a manual gearbox, which, at R581,400, makes it both a viable and interesting alternative to members of the now predictable hot-hatch brat pack. Particularly if you favour your driving thrills served where it really matters: through corners.
Fast Facts: Subaru WRX CVT
Engine: 1998cc four-cylinder boxer turbo
Power: 197kW at 5,600rpm
Torque: 350Nm at 2,400rpm
Transmission: CVT
0-100km/h: 6.3-seconds (claimed)
Top speed: 240km/h (claimed)
Fuel: 14.8l/100km (achieved)
CO2: 199g/km
Price: From R631 400