The Subaru WRX has a committed and dedicated fan base, however, the current generation is seeing some backlash as Subaru has claimed they will no longer make an STI trim for the WRX. Additionally, many classify the new generation to be “Ugly” with its plastic cladding. However, are we giving the new generation WRX the justice it deserves? And, does the WRX TR carry the legacy of the STI’s of old? Let’s find out.
Specs:
Powertrain: 2.4L Boxer 4-cylinder turbo
Horsepower: 271 @5600 RPM
Torque: 258 lb/ft @2000-5200RPM
MPG (City/Combined/Hwy): 19/22/26
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Weight: 3430lbs
Appearance:
The side profile is my favorite part of the new generation WRX. It has a proportionate sport sedan figure. I like its bulging fenders and rear body line as it follows suit with the previous generation.
Let’s address the elephant in the room with this car: The plastic body cladding and fenders. Personally, I see past the plastic cladding for one reason: Its functionality. I live in the midwest where winter snow, grime, dirt, and salt cover your car 75% of the time you drive in the winter months. The cladding would give me more peace of mind to prevent rust in the wheel wells and fenders whilst owning the car long term. However, the bumper is quite questionable as the plastic is disproportionate in comparison to the rest of the vehicle, but again, its functionality is sound. I am fond of the front end of the car, plus who doesn’t love that functional hood scoop.
Interior
The interior of the WRX TR brings some Alcantara trim along the door panels and dash, in addition to comfortable and supportive Recaro seats. The ergonomics are convenient and the interior overall feels more upscale and solid in comparison to the previous generation. The backseats are spacious and trunk space is very practical, making this car an all-weather ace for errands or picking up the kids from daycare. My only gripe is the infotainment system. The touchscreen and physical buttons are intuitive and easy to use, however, it is slow in comparison to other infotainments on the market.
Driving Dynamics
I was shocked at how refined this WRX felt in comparison to previous generations. The chassis feels more composed and solid when taking this car through a corner. The acceleration is more linear as its torque and power delivery are more consistent throughout the power band. The WRXs of old felt “peaky” in their acceleration with more turbo lag. I felt like the learning curve to driving this car was much less daunting in comparison to the previous generation WRX.
The transmission is fantastic. It’s not “Honda Civic Type R” perfect, but it felt more precise in comparison to the VW GLI and Hyundai N products.
The Brembo brakes in the TR are the true selling point in comparison to the regular WRX. The Brembos make a significant difference in any performance measure, while the other WRX trims with standard brakes leave you with little performance impressions.
Conclusion
Is the TR the answer for the new STI?
I don’t believe the TR truly fills the STI void, however, as a WRX; It is the best one you can buy right now and is the best family-friendly option in the segment.
The driving dynamics are better than the previous STI, which makes me sad that Subaru does not plan to make an STI for the new generation; because, if they did, it would likely be the best choice in the segment. There is a large caveat to the TR and that is the price. The WRX TR starts at $41, 655, while the Honda Civic Type R is not far away at $45,895. Better yet, the Toyota GR Corolla starts at $38,860. You as a car enthusiast will have to look at your lifestyle and needs to determine if the WRX TR is worth the price. However, I firmly believe the WRX TR is a better “all-arounder” enthusiast vehicle that will fit more lifestyles in comparison to the hardcore natures of the Type R and GR Corolla.
Overall, I am very impressed with the WRX TR. So much so, that I may consider buying one.
Special thanks to Schulte Subaru in Sioux Falls, SD for letting me check out their 2024 WRX TR and for their exceptional customer service.