Tested: Subaru's 2025 WRX tS Inches Toward the Top- A review


 2025 Subaru WRX tS: Performance Upgrades with Room for More Power


Subaru has introduced the 2025 WRX tS, blending features from the GT and TR trims to create a more track-ready variant of its performance sedan. While enthusiasts continue to wait for a full-fledged WRX STI, the tS—short for “tuned by STI”—offers significant handling improvements and braking upgrades. However, it falls short in terms of outright speed compared to both its predecessor and key rivals.


Performance Enhancements & Features


The WRX tS comes equipped with the Brembo braking system from the TR model, featuring six-piston front calipers and two-piston rear calipers, now finished in gold rather than the TR’s red. These brakes grip cross-drilled rotors (13.4 inches front, 12.8 inches rear), ensuring improved stopping power. The adaptive dampers from the GT trim make their way to the tS, with Subaru fine-tuning them specifically for U.S. roads. These dampers offer three adjustable settings—Comfort, Normal, and Sport—while also delivering a 30% reduction in body roll and 55% reduction in pitch compared to the TR’s passive dampers.


Notably, the tS is only available with a six-speed manual transmission, unlike the GT, which is restricted to a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).


Interior & Exterior Details


Inside, the tS introduces a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with blue accents on the Recaro seats, dashboard, and door panels. STI branding appears on the start button and gauge cluster, reinforcing its performance identity. Interestingly, Subaru has opted to eliminate the sunroof, possibly to improve headroom for helmeted drivers and offset the additional weight of the upgraded braking system.


Externally, the WRX tS can be identified by black mirror caps, a shark-fin antenna, and a subtle lip spoiler. Additionally, pink STI badges distinguish this model from the standard WRX lineup.


On the Track: Solid Handling, but Lacking Power


Tested at Sonoma Raceway, the WRX tS demonstrated commendable handling but felt underpowered compared to its competitors—the Honda Civic Type R, Volkswagen Golf R, Toyota GR Corolla, and Hyundai Elantra N—all of which boast higher horsepower figures.


The 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine retains its standard 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, leaving the tS with identical straight-line performance to the regular WRX. In fact, it recorded a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds and a quarter-mile time of 14.0 seconds at 99 mph, slightly slower than the WRX Limited. The larger wheels and heavier brakes likely contribute to this minor performance dip.


However, the adjustable dampers and brake-based torque vectoring enhance cornering stability. The tS recorded 0.96 g of roadholding on the skidpad, slightly improving on the WRX Limited’s 0.95 g.


While the Brembo brakes perform exceptionally well under sustained track use, testing revealed that in emergency braking situations, the WRX Limited actually had shorter stopping distances—likely due to its lighter weight. The tS required 159 feet to stop from 70 mph and 319 feet from 100 mph, while the WRX Limited stopped in 153 and 317 feet, respectively.


On the Street: Balanced Comfort & Control


Outside of the racetrack, the adaptive dampers shine in Comfort mode, providing a more compliant ride over rough pavement. In Sport mode, the suspension feels stiffer and less forgiving on uneven roads. Meanwhile, the steering in Comfort mode is too light, making Sport mode the preferred setting for spirited driving.


The digital instrument cluster offers multiple display options, including navigation integration with Apple CarPlay. Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist suite is now available on manual-transmission WRX models, further enhancing daily drivability.


Pricing & Final Verdict


The WRX tS starts at $46,875, matching the price of the WRX GT but offering performance-focused upgrades instead of luxury features. While the tS brings enhanced braking, suspension adjustability, and improved handling, it still lacks the extra horsepower that many enthusiasts desire.


🔹 Pros:

✅ Strong Brembo braking system

✅ Adjustable dampers improve handling and ride quality

✅ Supportive Recaro seats


🔹 Cons:

❌ No significant power increase over the standard WRX

❌ Braking distances unexpectedly longer than the WRX Limited

❌ Still not a true WRX STI replacement




Final Verdict: The 2025 WRX tS brings welcome performance refinements, but Subaru enthusiasts know that an extra 50 horsepower would unlock its true potential.

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