Subaru WRX S4 (VBH)

The VA-spec Subaru WRX is a decent sports sedan that balances its sensible behavior with the rally-honed performance that you would expect for a Subaru. Although its main rival, the Volvo S60, will eat it alive because of the performance figures between them, it's a no-contest between them because the VB-spec Subaru WRX S4 has arrived and it promises to be as good as the Swedish competitor it idolizes.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

Starting at 4,004,000 Japanese Yen (less than $41,000) plus additional costs, the all-new Subaru WRX S4 is proof that the sedan race is still alive and kicking despite being devoured by the rise of crossovers. Although priced cheaper than the Volvo S60, is the all-new WRX S4 the bargain super-saloon of the season? Let's find out.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

Let's begin with the design, page one of this deep-dive with the new model. Like the previous model, the WRX S4 is essentially the sedan version of the second-generation Levorg, the sports wagon that won last year's Japan Car of the Year. Although it bears similar looks as its Levorg counterpart, the new WRX S4 differentiates it with its striking sedan looks and some black cladding, which is odd for a sedan like this, although there's nothing new about adding claddings on a saloon because history tells us only a few saloons have practiced it. Still, the new model is strikingly attractive compared to the previous WRX S4, and above all, it's dressed to kill.

2022 Subaru WRX S4 interior

Just like the Levorg it was based on, the new WRX S4's interior is festooned with the Tesla-esque dashboard that spells misery for speedo boys behind the wheel as well as the instrumental panel that works just like the Audi Virtual Cockpit. Yep, that's why it's called the WRX S4. What a coincidence, and that doesn't stop here because, in the more expensive STi Sport variants, you will be greeted with the available STi RECARO front seats that snug you tight like a gaming seat. Cozy.

Despite being a Levorg with a trunk, the new WRX S4 is surprisingly comfortable and roomier at the back compared to the previous model, giving you less to complain about, except the evidence of last night's debauchery clattering around in the cockpit.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

The new model's flat-four boxer turbo engine's size has been increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L so you might expect it packs more power compared to the old one but sadly, no. It produces 275PS and 375Nm of torque, which is 25PS less powerful and 25Nm less in torque than the previous model. Less fuel-efficient compared to the old one as well because of its 10.8km/L fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. Boo.

Disappointing the performance figures are, the new WRX S4 features a different kind of gearbox built specifically for this car. Called Subaru Performance Transmission, a sport-tuned CVT with an 8-speed manual mode that delivers 30% faster upshifts and 50% faster downshifts compared to the previous WRX S4's Sport Lineartronic CVT. Sounds cheesy but it feels slightly more engaging. Of course, a Volvo S60 will eat it alive at the Shutokou but the jokes on the Swede because Volvos of today are now capped at 180kph, don't you know?

Of course, the new WRX S4 is almost as good and civilized just like the Volvo S60, but out in the open, the Subaru magic comes alive with its Subaru Global Platform, a first for the WRX, reworked suspension setup, and Subaru's legendary Symmetrical AWD, not to mention SI-DRIVE that alters its behavior at the turn of the dial. Mild but menacing, that's what the new model's dynamics best summed up.

After having fun with its mild but menacing dynamics that made the new WRX S4 an enjoyable sports sedan for all levels of driving, it boasts high levels of safety thanks to its EyeSight driver assist with Lane Centering Function and Speed Sign Recognition, among many others. Coupled with the most advanced Driver Monitoring System and Vision Assist technology, the new WRX S4 is about as safe to drive as the Swedes but with the drama involved.

Despite its performance, which feels downgraded compared to the old model, the new WRX S4 feels good to drive from the streets of Tokyo to the corners of Mt. Haruna with its reworked dynamics, striking looks, interior, the questionable Subaru Performance Transmission, and the added tech. Like it or not, the new model is sure enough to get you hooked as your next everyday car. It almost is the bargain of the season because despite being outrun by the Volvo S60, they're on equal footing because while the S60 is focused on being safe, the new WRX S4 is focused on being safe and fun in every way and now you know the rest of the story.

Available colors: Ceramic White, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Ignition Red, Solar Orange Pearl, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and WR Blue Mica.

Photo: Subaru