All WRX grades share the same 2.4-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder 'boxer' engine making 202kW and 350Nm. It’s great to see that depending on the grade buyers have a choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic transmission (CVT).

The WRX can sprint from 0-100km/h in about six seconds. Top speed is approximately 235km/h.

Standard features on the entry-grade WRX include an 11.6-inch (portrait) media screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone climate control, 18-inch alloy wheels, sports bucket seats and a leather steering wheel (with WRX logo).

Stepping up to the RS grade adds satellite navigation and an electric sunroof, heated seats in the front and the rear outboard positions, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system plus power driver and front passenger seats.

The tS brings a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, Recaro sports bucket seats, a leather steering wheel with STI logo, 18-inch alloy wheels and electronic control dampers.

At the top of the range is the tS Spec B and that brings 19-inch alloy wheels, gold Brembo brake calipers and a gigantic rear wing.

The Subaru WRX’s interior can be described as sporty but you wouldn’t call it stylish. A large portrait media screen dominates a cockpit that’s full of dark coloured materials, including the hard and soft plastics. The tone heads more upmarket on higher grades which come with suede-like material over the glove box, stitched WRX lettering and stainless steel pedal covers.

All WRXs have five seats but there are five different types of seat across the model range.

The entry-grade has cloth with a black/grey combo for the manual gearbox variant and black for the auto transmission cars. The Sportswagon GT has leather-accented seats. The RS has a suede-like material, while the tS and tS Spec B have Recaro seats with suede and leather-look accents.

Fuel tank volume is a healthy 63 litres, delivering a theoretical range of 606-741km.