2025 Subaru WRX tS: The Jack-of-All-Thrills, But Is It Master of Any?

Does the 2025 Subaru WRX tS deliver on its promise to bridge the gap between daily practicality and weekend thrills? With 271 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.4-liter BOXER engine, it certainly makes a compelling case. But as any Subaru enthusiast knows, the WRX isn’t solely about horsepower—it’s about a visceral connection to the road.

What’s New? A Suspension with Dual Personality

The 2025 WRX tS features an STI-tuned suspension with electronically controlled dampers, allowing drivers to switch between Comfort, Normal, and Sport modes. Whether you’re cruising through city streets or tearing up the track, the WRX tS adjusts to your needs, making it a versatile choice.

Is It a True Performance Car?

Equipped with Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers and 19-inch Bridgestone Potenza tires, the WRX tS delivers on handling and braking power. But with a 0-60 mph time around five seconds, it’s more “balanced” than “brute force.” Active Torque Vectoring helps it carve corners with ease, prioritizing finesse over sheer speed.

Design Choices: Purist’s Delight or Practical Compromise?

In a nod to weight savings, Subaru chose to skip the moonroof, appealing to driving purists. They’ve also retained the classic 6-speed manual transmission, a rarity in today’s market, which is a nostalgic nod for manual enthusiasts.

Tech Meets Tradition

The WRX tS includes a 12.3-inch fully digital gauge cluster and Subaru’s STARLINK® system with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, blending tech with practicality. Safety features like Subaru’s EyeSight® Driver Assist ensure that while the WRX tS feels wild, it hasn’t left safety behind.

Competitive Pricing in a Crowded Market

Priced at around $43,000, the WRX tS is more affordable than many European competitors, but it’s in a price range with some serious contenders. Subaru is betting that its mix of performance, safety, and technology will attract buyers who want a balanced approach to high-performance driving.

The Bottom Line: A Car for the Versatile Enthusiast

The 2025 Subaru WRX tS may not be the fastest or most extreme, but it’s a well-rounded package. For drivers seeking a bit of everything—performance, comfort, and practicality—the WRX tS delivers. Hitting dealerships in early 2025, the WRX tS is ready to straddle both worlds without compromise, a quintessential Subaru choice.