The current generation of the Subaru WRX debuted to some controversy, mostly over its plastic fantastic lower body cladding. That hasn’t stopped buyers though as the brand sold just under 25,000 last year. Subaru dealers seem set to draw in even more customers with a new performance variant for the WRX, the WRX tS.
I know you’re probably disappointed it’s not a full blown STI, but cool your jets because it’s close enough and probably the closest we’re going to get. The WRX tS follows the same formula as the BRZ tS: a performance tuned suspension and lots of blue. The WRX tS takes things one step further though.
The biggest difference with the WRX tS is the addition of STI tuned adaptive dampers and suspension. Using Subaru’s Drive Mode Select system — a system that was previously only available on the WRX GT — drivers can select from comfort, normal and sport modes for the dampers. Combined with high performance Brembo brakes — six piston up front and two in the rear — and stickier Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires, the WRX tS should be more than able to hold its own when the road gets twisty. Sadly no power upgrades have been made to the 271 horsepower 2.4-liter turbocharged engine.
You’ll be able to tell the tS apart from other WRXs by it’s signature blue exterior paint, unique satin gray 19-inch wheels, “tS” badging, and mirrors, roof antenna and rear spoiler finished in black.
Big changes were made inside as well. There’s a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster that hopefully makes its way to other WRX trims, an “STI” starter button, blue accents and Recaro sport seats with “WRX tS” logos. No word on pricing yet, but it’ll be interesting to see where this sits in the WRX’s five trim lineup. The 2025 WRX tS is set to arrive at dealers in the first quarter of 2025.
