Subaru introduced the 2025 WRX tS in North America, which will take its place as the most aggressive of the lineup without stepping into full-blown STI territory. The model replaces last year’s WRX TR, featuring a new STI-tuned adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, Recaro buckets, and a new digital instrument cluster. Unfortunately for WRX fans, the tS retains the stock powertrain and misses out on a rear wing. The most important feature of the tS trim is the electronically controlled dampers and revised suspension by the STI division. These can now be controlled by the Drive Mode Select system (Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings), which was previously exclusive to the flagship WRX GT trim.
The sharper chassis setup is combined with
larger brakes by Brembo, comprising six-piston front and two-piston rear
calipers finished in gold, hiding behind a set of satin gray 19-inch wheels.
Despite the upgrades, the WRX tS retains the stock turbocharged 2.4-liter Boxer
engine producing 271 hp and 350 Nm of torque.
Power is transmitted to all four wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox and
Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. The only standout styling change
compared to last year’s TR is the tS logo on the tailgate and the WRX emblem on
the grille. The red finish of the latter makes it look like an aftermarket
attempt to copy the original STI logo, which is missing for obvious reasons.
The tS doesn’t get the fancy rear wing found on the Australian WRX Club Spec
Edition, as Subaru of America opted for a smaller spoiler finished in Crystal
Black Silica.
Inside, the highlight for the 2025 WRX tS
is the new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, bringing it closer to the
competition in terms of technology. The new gauges feature the STI logo which
can also be found on the ignition start button. The carry-over 11.6-inch
infotainment touchscreen and the Eyesight ADAS suite are included as standard.
Elsewhere in the cabin, there is a set of
Recaro Performance Design buckets with an 8-way power adjustment for the
driver, combining black Ultrasuede upholstery with blue accents. Additionally,
Subaru added WRS tS logos on the headrests and floor mats. As with last year’s
TR, the moonroof has been deleted allowing a hint of extra headroom and
lowering the center of gravity.
The 2025 Subaru WRX tS will make its first
public outing on June 2 at the annual Wicked Big Meet held in Stafford,
Connecticut. The model is expected to reach US dealers in the first quarter of
2025. Pricing will be announced later this year. For a good measure, the 2024
Subaru WRX TR started at US$ 42,775 including destination.
