When the current Subaru WRX came out in 2022, one of the first things on many minds were if an STi version would be available. Sadly, the answer was no. But since then, Subaru has added STi bits and pieces to the WRX. Last year we saw the TR model debut, which added an upgraded suspension and brakes. Now, for 2025, the WRX gets more STi
goodies in the way of the tS. While the WRX tS still isn’t an STi, it’s a step in that
direction.
The Subaru WRX follows the successful recipe of a sport compact sedan – a powerful engine, a tight suspension and a fun driving experience all wrapped around four doors. In the case of the WRX, that engine is a punchy turbocharged flat-four that powers all four wheels.
There are four other trim levels besides the new tS, but if you want the closest thing to the original WRX STi, the tS is what you’re after. The tS, which stands for “tuned by STi”, fits the WRX with STi tuned adaptive suspension dampers as well as STi tuned
steering and driving modes. Gold-colored Brembo brakes hide behind unique 19-inch
wheels and tires. Inside, there are Recaro seats, blue accents and finally, an STi start button.
Under the hood of the WRX tS is the same engine used on all other WRXs – a turbocharged 2.4-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that makes 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While a far cry from the STi’s 341 hp, one thing that the tS carries over is the sole use of a six-speed manual transmission. So, for those that
don’t know how to operate three pedals, the tS is not for you.
Inside, the WRX tS sports a clean, simple interior with nothing fancy about it. The gauges are easy to read thanks to being lit up in red and the front Recaro seats are very
snug and supportive – maybe even too supportive, as getting out of them can be challenging. An 11.6-inch center screen dominates the middle of the dash.
The WRX tS shows its stuff on the road. Its sophisticated STi-tuned suspension keeps the Subie planted to the road very well. Body roll is non-existent, and the steering is tight and precise. This along with a fantastic all-wheel drive system makes the WRX driver feel very confident when behind the wheel. The Drive Mode Select system allows you to choose between Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+ and a customizable Individual mode.
To ensure quick acceleration away from corners, the boosted flat four provides quick and responsive power, with no hint of turbo lag. Power comes on strong starting at around 3,000 RPM with the turbo kicking in full stride, lasting nearly all the way up to the engine’s 6,000-RPM redline. For us turbo junkies, maximum boost from the twin-scroll turbo is set at 12.0 psi – which can be monitored via the boost gauge inside the instrument cluster.
Uniting the sure-footed suspension and capable power is a fun-to-use six-speed manual.
It’s not the best shifter (it feels too plasticky), but it is still a treat, with a solid action. The clutch pedal is also incredibly light, so itís easy to work with, especially when traffic becomes an issue.
Performance and fun driving aside, at the end of the day, the WRX tS makes for a nice compact sedan. It’s easy to get in and out of, visibility out is great and there is decent
trunk space, with the ability to fold down the rear seats to accommodate larger items.
Pricing for the WRX tS starts at around $47,000. For that, you get a cool performance sedan with a fun engine, a manual gearbox, and all-wheel drive. Thatís a rarity these
days, but thankfully it exists. So, is the 2025 Subaru WRX tS a viable STi alternative?
Maybe, maybe not. But one thing is for sure – it is currently the closest thing to a new STi that you can get today.
– Christopher A. Randazzo
By The Numbers:
2025 Subaru WRX tS
Base Price: $45,705.00
Price as Tested: $46,875.00
Layout: front-engine / all-wheel drive
Engine: 2.4 liter flat four-cylinder turbocharged
Horsepower: 271 hp
Torque: 258 ft-lbs torque
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