As car enthusiasts eagerly await the release of the 2023 Subaru WRX, we here at Autoblog have been fortunate enough to have one in our long-term garage for the past few months. And let me tell you, it has been an absolute blast to drive. But as with any long-term test, we’ve had the opportunity to really get to know this car inside and out. And today, we’re going to be focusing on one particular aspect of the WRX that often gets overlooked – its sound system.
Now, some may argue that the performance of a car is the most important aspect to consider. And while we can’t deny that the WRX’s 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine is a true gem, we also can’t ignore the fact that a great sound system can truly enhance the driving experience. And that’s exactly what the WRX’s Harman Kardon sound system does.
From the moment you turn on the car, you’re greeted with crisp and clear audio. The 9-speaker system, including a subwoofer, produces a well-balanced sound that fills the cabin. Whether you’re listening to your favorite podcast or blasting your go-to driving playlist, the sound quality is top-notch. And even at higher volumes, there’s no distortion to be heard.
But what really impressed us was the sound quality when playing CDs. Yes, you read that right – the 2023 Subaru WRX comes equipped with a CD player. And while many may scoff at this seemingly outdated feature, we were pleasantly surprised by the sound quality. The system does a great job of reproducing the warmth and depth of music, making it a perfect option for those who still enjoy listening to physical media.
And let’s not forget about the convenience of having a CD player in the car. How many times have you been on a long road trip and had to constantly switch between radio stations or fumble with your phone to find something new to listen to? With the WRX’s CD player, you can simply pop in your favorite album and enjoy uninterrupted music for hours.
But that’s not all – the WRX’s sound system also comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to access your favorite music streaming apps. And with the car’s user-friendly infotainment system, you can easily switch between different sources and control the sound settings to your liking.
Now, we know what you may be thinking – this all sounds great, but how does the sound system hold up against the engine noise of the WRX? Well, we’re happy to report that the sound system is more than capable of holding its own. Even with the windows down and the engine revving, the audio remains clear and enjoyable.
But enough about the sound quality, let’s talk about the WRX’s overall performance. As mentioned earlier, the 2023 WRX is equipped with a 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that produces an impressive 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. And while it may not have the raw power of some of its competitors, the WRX’s all-wheel drive system and quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission make for a thrilling driving experience.
The WRX also boasts impressive handling capabilities, thanks to its sport-tuned suspension and responsive steering. It’s a car that begs to be driven on winding roads and will put a smile on your face with every turn.
But what about practicality, you may ask? Well, the WRX may be marketed as a performance sedan, but it’s still a Subaru at heart. This means it still offers the practicality and reliability that the brand is known for. With 12 cubic feet of trunk space and comfortable seating for five, the WRX is a great option for everyday driving as well.
In conclusion, the 2023 Subaru WRX is a well-rounded car that offers both performance and practicality. And with its impressive sound system, you can enjoy your favorite tunes while cruising around town or tackling a twisty mountain road. So if you’re in the market for a new sports sedan, we highly recommend giving the WRX a test drive. Trust us, you won’t be disappointed.
