Why Are Subaru WRX Sales Plummeting in 2025?
Let’s not sugarcoat it: Subaru’s WRX is having a rough go in 2025. According to the latest US sales data, registrations for the once-beloved rally-bred sedan have dropped a staggering 35.4% from January through July compared to last year. July was especially brutal, with sales falling off a cliff—just 457 units found new homes, down from 1,369 in July 2024. That’s a 66.6% nosedive in a single month. For context, even the niche BRZ coupe, long considered Subaru’s slowest seller, is now nipping at the WRX’s heels.
What’s Fueling the WRX’s Downward Spiral?
It’s tempting to blame a single factor, but the WRX’s slump is more like death by a thousand paper cuts. Sure, the car still packs a punch—271 horsepower, standard all-wheel drive, and a manual gearbox that purists adore. But the market has shifted. Rivals like the Toyota GR Corolla are stealing the WRX’s thunder with more power, quicker acceleration, and—let’s be honest—a fresher vibe. Plus, with the legendary WRX STI now discontinued, there’s no “next step up” for enthusiasts who want even more performance.
There’s also a sense that the WRX has lost its edge. Subaru itself has admitted that its lineup has gotten a bit too safe, too vanilla. The WRX’s once-rowdy personality has mellowed, and buyers are noticing. It’s not just about raw numbers; it’s about the feeling you get behind the wheel—and lately, that feeling’s been a bit muted.
How Do WRX Sales Compare to the Rest of Subaru’s Lineup?
The WRX isn’t the only Subaru feeling the pinch, but it’s definitely the hardest hit. The Ascent SUV is also sliding, down nearly 29% in July and almost 24% year-to-date. The Impreza, recently refreshed but now pricier for 2026, slipped 7.9% last month and is down a hair for the year. Outback sales are off by 8% year-to-date.
But here’s the twist: Subaru’s overall US sales are actually up 4.5% in July and 0.5% for the first seven months of 2025. The Crosstrek is on fire, surging 15.1% in July and nearly 14% for the year. The all-electric Solterra jumped 24% in July, and the Forester posted an 11.3% gain. Even the BRZ, despite tiny volumes, managed an 11.9% year-to-date increase. So, while the WRX is sputtering, Subaru’s bread-and-butter crossovers and EVs are picking up the slack.
Is the WRX Still Competitive in Today’s Market?
On paper, the WRX should be a winner. It’s affordable (starting around $32,000), offers genuine performance, and comes with Subaru’s bulletproof reputation for reliability. Yet, the landscape has changed. Hot hatches and compact performance cars are more diverse than ever, and buyers have more choices—many with more power, sharper styling, and advanced tech.
Take the Toyota GR Corolla: it’s got 300 horsepower, a rally-bred pedigree, and a cult following. The Honda Civic Type R? Still a benchmark for front-drive fun. Even Hyundai’s Elantra N is turning heads. The WRX, meanwhile, feels like it’s stuck in a holding pattern, waiting for a spark that hasn’t come.
What Could Subaru Do to Revive the WRX?
This is the million-dollar question. Subaru could double down on performance, perhaps by bringing back a true STI variant or offering a more aggressive powertrain. They might also rethink the WRX’s design language—make it bolder, more distinctive, less “safe.” Tech upgrades wouldn’t hurt either, especially as buyers expect more connectivity and driver-assist features in this segment.
Another angle: embrace electrification. Imagine a hybrid or even fully electric WRX with instant torque and all-wheel drive. That would shake things up. Subaru’s success with the Solterra shows there’s appetite for EVs among its loyalists.
Are There Lessons from Subaru’s Other Models?
Absolutely. The Crosstrek’s surge is no accident. It’s practical, affordable, and hits the sweet spot for buyers who want a little adventure without sacrificing comfort or efficiency. The Solterra’s growth, though from a small base, signals that Subaru fans are open to new ideas—especially if they align with the brand’s outdoorsy, go-anywhere ethos.
The WRX could borrow a page from these playbooks. Maybe it needs to lean harder into its rally roots, or perhaps it should evolve to meet the needs of a new generation of drivers—those who want performance, yes, but also versatility and modern tech.
Where Does the WRX Go from Here?
There’s no denying the WRX is at a crossroads. Its sales slide isn’t just a blip; it’s a wake-up call. Subaru has a choice: let the WRX quietly fade, or invest in a bold reinvention that honors its legacy while embracing the future.
The big takeaway? Saving the WRX isn’t about perfection—it’s about smarter adjustments. Start with one change this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end. Sometimes, all it takes is a fresh spark to reignite a legend.