Subaru’s iconic performance model, the WRX, has won New Zealand Autocar magazine’s 2022 Car of the Year ‘Best Bang for Buck’ award.
Announced today, the WRX’s accolade follows 12 months of Autocar’s staff reviewing more than 90 new vehicles last year, covering many kilometres over a variety of New Zealand roads to deliver their view on how last year’s models stacked up in the market.
Autocar had plenty of positive things to say about the Subaru WRX in the award statement.
“This still provides the thrills the WRX badge is renowned for but the new model adds to its all-round appeal with the adoption of adaptive dampers to bring yet more civility to this more than capable AWD, all-weather performance sedan.”
“Bigger, safer and more refined, you can still get it with a manual or go for the convenience of the two-pedal option. This also gets all the safety features, while a new infotainment system brings it up to date. You can also get your hands on one, with fewer supply issues than some other performance options.”
Eligible cars are those introduced in the past 12 months which Autocar reviewed in full. Points for consideration include a vehicle’s value for money and what it offers in terms of space, spec and style, along with other aspects like the level of aftersales service.
The Autocar statement reads: “Dynamics still play a vital part in our assessment; you want something that’s a decent drive. Its relative performance is important too, but must be balanced with its impact on local air quality and emissions. Safety is vital, you need the full range of active driver aids, while we take into account just how well they work on our roads. Practicality is another biggie – it has to be user-friendly.”
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