Styling on the front is rather nice, with integrated headlights and grille.

The intercooler is evident on top of the engine. This power plant produces 224 horsepower at 2,800rpm.

The sides of the WRX copy the 'flame surfacing' from recent BMWs. It's a more mature look than the old WRX.

Performance cues, in the form of dual exhausts and a lip spoiler, are prominent on the back of the WRX.

The sport seats, which come standard with the WRX, have fixed headrests and a sculpted look that fits well in the cabin.

Subaru keeps the dashboard simple, with HVAC controls topped by a touch-screen LCD.

We like how the buttons for audio and cruise control are smoothly integrated into the steering wheel spokes.

In keeping with its sporting character, the tachometer is the most prominent instrument, with the speedometer off to the side.

We would have preferred a close-ratio, short-throw, six-speed manual over the WRX's five-speed.

The navigation system has great resolution and gives various split-screen options.

The navigation system gives flexibility when planning routes, for example, letting you choose whether a location is a waypoint or your final destination.

The points-of-interest database is very complete, listing most retail establishments.

The single CD/DVD slot lives behind the motorized LCD.

Audio and video inputs are mounted in the console, useful for hooking up a PlayStation or MP3 player.

The touch screen makes selecting satellite radio stations easy.

The screen shows complete ID3 information for MP3 tracks.

This equalizer is the most complex we've seen in any car, letting you select the volume of individual frequencies.

Surround-sound options are extensive.

You can watch movies on the WRX's LCD, as long as the car isn't moving.