Subaru WRX (US) review

It’s the WRX, Subaru’s performance sedan that brings more practicality to the table than the BRZ coupe without any loss in the fun department. Apart from two extra doors and an actual back seat, the WRX distinguishes itself from its coupe sibling with permanent all-wheel drive and a turbocharged version of Subie’s 2.4-liter boxer engine, possibly just to wind up the “moar power” BRZ lot. Which we say affectionately, of course.

This car used to be more wacky, no?

The WRX has certainly matured with age. The Impreza-based versions are the ones we still think of when the name crops up, and even after it was spun off, the first generation of the standalone WRX had all the go-fast bits we associate with the nameplate. With that said, the current-gen sedan is, at its heart, the WRX we want it to be: punchy, all-wheel drive and versatile. All models in the current lineup are powered by a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine that whips up 271hp and 258lb ft of torque. Power is routed to all four wheels either through a six-speed manual gearbox or a so-called performance CVT.

And yet, no STI version?

It doesn’t seem likely. As it stands, the closest version yet is the all-new Subaru WRX tS, the “tuned by STI” iteration with an updated brake package, electronically controlled dampers and suspension tuning unique to this model. Apart from a handful of unique visual exclusives like interior highlights and badges, the WRX tS’s other unique feature is a brand new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.

Hey, some of these options sound familiar.

Indeed. Some trims offered one of these options or the other, but never together. For instance, the WRX GT comes with an electronically controlled suspension and different drive modes, but no manual gearbox. The WRX TR has the six-piston Brembo brakes and a six-speed manual, but not the GT stuff. This tS model essentially goes through the list of existing options and puts together a previously unavailable combo along with a few new elements for a real performance-forward package.

Interesting. How much does that run?

Speaking of, while we’re still waiting to hear an official number, it’s fair to expect the WRX tS to start at a price around the WRX GT, which is around $45k. That puts it in direct competition with known winners like the Honda Civic Type R and Toyota’s GR Corolla, as well as newcomers like the surprisingly engaging - and more affordable - Hyundai Elantra N. We can only hope the WRX’s ample cladding protects it from the kind of beating that comes from entering the fray with such tough opponents.

If it sweetens the deal, there are a number of tS exclusive options like a satin gray for its 19-inch multi-spoke wheels, which look pretty swanky paired with the gold-painted calipers. The Recaro seats up front not only feature plenty of badging for us forgetful types, they’re also wrapped in black “ultrasuede” with contrasting blue accents; blue being Subaru’s distinctive performance color.

Along with what it has, it’s worth noting what’s been removed, specifically the lack of option to equip the WRX tS with a powered moonroof. That’s gone due to weight saving and center-of-gravity reasons, but it also means your helmet-wrapped noggin can fit inside without too much squeeze.

Subaru’s WRX may look more down to earth than previous versions but it’s still as capable and accessible as ever, if not more. The modest power output and all-wheel drive stability make it a fun plaything that isn’t intimidating to new drivers while still pleasing the more experienced ones. Wherever you land on this scale, the WRX rewards bravery with security.

In between track days, the WRX operates as a daily driver without any of its utility compromised by what you get up to on the weekends. The ample cargo and passenger space will be sufficient for most, and it’s a particularly compelling option if, like the car itself, you’ve matured out of your carefree adolescent period. Not sure if this is you? Well, if your ears twitched at the mention of several standard safety features…