If there is one car that sparks conversation while navigating through the streets, Subaru’s WRX is one of the autos at the top of the list. While the carmaker is renowned for reliability and taking on various terrains, this rally-inspired sport sedan is more aggressive in muscular styling and track-capable performance, balanced by everyday practicality. Manufactured in four trims, my tS review car boasts a six-speed manual transmission which attracts automotive traditionalists who want total control regarding performance.
In the eye candy department, I recommend the Crystal White Pearl with black accents complementing its muscular frame that adds to the admiration when on the road. More exterior upgrades include the matte gray 19-inch alloy wheels, LED fog lights, and blacked-out rear lip spoiler, shark-fin antenna, and mirrors. The Brembo performance braking system even gets some visual love featuring gold-painted calipers.
Under the hood, a 2.4-liter turbocharged BOXER engine delivers 271 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft of torque enhanced by the Active Torque Vectoring, pair well with Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, collectively boosting the grip, maneuverability and overall driving experience regardless of the road conditions. The addition of electronically controlled adaptive dampers tuned by Subaru Tecnica International (STI) with multiple drive modes are applauded as well.
The Recaro front seats, clad in Ultrasuede highlighted with lines of gorgeous electric-blue leather, offer both exceptional support and aesthetics. Blue contrast stitching continues through the dashboard, center console, and steering wheel, giving the cabin a customization further justifying the sports sedan designation. The WRX tS also includes practical touches like dual-zone climate control; a rear seat armrest with cupholders; heated mirrors and seats; and a rear seat reminder which is ideal to avoid tempted break-ins.
Infotainment is handled by an 11.6-inch STARLINK touchscreen that supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Bluetooth connectivity, plus a fully digital 12.3-inch gauge cluster. The Harman Kardon audio system, one of my top sound system brands, makes every excursion a traveling concert with 11 speakers and 504-watt amp.
Subaru’s dedication to safety remains intact, with the standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology package boasting features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert to balance out all the racing qualities of the WRX.
All in all, while the gas mileage takes a hit averaging only 22 miles per gallon, the 2025 Subaru WRX tS makes up for it as an all-weather sports sedan that will attract purists who demand a stick shift and total command of the road in thrilling fashion.
Fuel Economy: 19 city/ 26 highway/ 22 combined
Price: The 2025 Subaru WRX tS is $47,705
For more information, visit Subaru.com.