Subaru’s WRX tS follows the BRZ version’s formula in giving customers performance upgrades but is also not the STI model loyalists have been asking for.
Subaru confirmed that it will be replacing the TR with the all-new 2025 tS
The venerable Subaru WRX has always been an icon in the budget performance vehicle market. The sedan not only brings an impressive amount of performance to the table but also the rally-bred capability that has always underpinned its mission in life. However, Subaru made it clear that this generation of the WRX will not get an STI model souring the mood of hardcore fans.
Instead, Subaru has been content with offering lightly upgraded versions of the car. The WRX TR was the first example of this in action, but the company has decided to follow things up with the all-new 2025 WRX tS that adds its own suite of upgrades to the spunky four-door.
tS looks like an STI in sheep’s clothing
tS interior benefits from styling upgrades including Recaro sport seats
At first glance, you would be forgiven if you thought Subaru finally gave in to peer pressure and built an STI with the tS getting the STI’s trademark blue paint, bronze brake caliper covers, and red-tinged badging. However, look closer and you’ll see that the model goes in the same direction as the BRZ tS with Subaru designers electing to give the WRX a subtler presentation that does not include a large rear wing.
This focus on subtlety also extends into the interior with the front seats being replaced with blue-tinged Recaro sport seats that are upholstered in black faux suede and the headrests get the tS logo stamped into the headrests. A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is standard and is joined by the company’s 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Subaru’s EyeSight system is also along for the ride and gives owners features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
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tS replaces TR in WRX family tree
Subaru’s STI division gave the car a suspension that’s track-ready and eager to please
Subaru confirmed that the tS will be replacing the TR model in the WRX lineup but it will still be following the same basic formula for performance. All models are still powered by the WRX’s 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder that still makes 271 hp and is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with no plans for a CVT variant anytime soon.
The bulk of the performance upgrades are found in the suspension with Subaru’s STI division taking the reins when it came to tuning it. the tS gets electronically controlled dampers to improve ride quality with the GT model’s drive mode select feature also being included. The tS gets beefier Brembo brakes and stickier Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires that are shod onto 19-inch wheels.
When can I buy one?
The tS will replace the TR when it begins making its way to Subaru showrooms
Subaru wasn’t ready to release final pricing information for the WRX tS, but confirmed that the model will go on sale in early 2025. Look for Subaru to release more details over the next few months that will hopefully fill in the gaps and provide a clearer perspective on this newest flavor of WRX.
As for the STI model, past reports have it potentially returning on the next-generation WRX which is due towards the end of the decade. An electrified powertrain will most likely make its appearance in the model but it remains to be seen if Subaru will make it a pure EV or if it will be forced to adapt to changing market conditions and potentially make the STI a hybrid offering with an ICE engine continuing to be the key motivator behind its performance ambitions.
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