The 2026 Subaru WRX regains its entry-level trim, bringing the iconic sports sedan back within reach at a significantly lower price. Subaru reintroduces the base version after a one-year absence, responding to weaker sales and shifting production priorities. With more standard features and unchanged performance, the move aims to restore the WRX’s appeal among driving enthusiasts.
Base WRX Returns as Entry Point to the Lineup
Subaru confirms the return of the base WRX for the 2026 model year, lowering the entry price to $33,690. This represents a major price reset compared with recent versions, positioning the WRX once again as one of the most accessible performance sedans on the market.
The model is scheduled to arrive at dealerships in spring, offering a more affordable alternative to higher trims while retaining the core mechanical setup.
More Standard Equipment Than Before
Despite its lower price, the base WRX gains additional standard equipment compared with previous entry-level versions. Subaru enhances everyday usability without compromising the car’s performance-oriented character.
Standard features now include:
- Keyless entry with push-button start
- Summer performance tires
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Tire pressure monitoring system
- Wireless smartphone connectivity
- Rear-view camera
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- LED headlights
- Leather-wrapped steering wheel
- Cloth seats and power front windows
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2026 Subaru WRX Pricing Overview
| Model | 2026 Price | 2025 Price | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| WRX | $33,690 | N/A | N/A |
| WRX Premium | $35,190 | $38,920 | −$3,730 |
| WRX Limited | $40,190 | $43,695 | −$3,505 |
| WRX GT | $46,190 | $48,875 | −$2,685 |
| WRX tS | $46,190 | $48,875 | −$2,685 |
| WRX Series.Yellow | $47,190 | N/A | N/A |
Most trims see notable price reductions for 2026, reinforcing Subaru’s effort to reposition the WRX lineup more competitively.
Series.Yellow Becomes New Flagship
A new WRX Series.Yellow joins the range as the most exclusive variant. Production will be limited, and pricing starts at $47,190.
Key highlights include:
- Sunrise Yellow exterior paint
- 19-inch black alloy wheels
- Black exterior badging
- Black interior with yellow stitching
This version shares its performance hardware with the WRX tS, which now costs $46,190, slightly undercutting the special edition.
WRX tS: Track-Focused Hardware
The WRX tS remains the most performance-oriented standard model in the lineup. It features:
- STI-tuned electronically controlled dampers
- Brembo braking system
- Recaro front seats
- Bridgestone Potenza S007 performance tires
These upgrades position the tS as the driver-focused choice below the limited Series.Yellow.
Unchanged Powertrain Across the Range
Every 2026 Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine producing 271 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission remains standard across most trims.
Subaru’s Performance Transmission (CVT) is optional on the Limited trim and comes standard on the WRX GT.
Sales Decline and Production Strategy Shift
WRX sales dropped sharply in 2025, with deliveries falling 41.2 percent to 10,930 units. This decline coincided with the removal of the base trim and rising prices.
However, Subaru later clarified that WRX production was intentionally limited to prioritize the higher-demand Forester. With Forester production expanding in the United States, capacity has been freed at Subaru’s Gunma plant in Japan—allowing the WRX lineup to expand again.
The return of the base 2026 Subaru WRX marks a strategic reset for the model. Lower pricing, broader trim affordability, and consistent performance signal Subaru’s intent to reconnect with enthusiasts. As affordable performance cars become increasingly rare, the WRX’s renewed accessibility could play a key role in stabilizing sales going forward.
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