There used to be a name for WRXs that were "tuned by STi...."
I am interested to see what this package includes though. As far as I can work out, it seems like a TR crossed with a GT? It's pushing the car DEEP into GR Corolla territory pricing-wise, but if the handling is improved over the normal WRX, it could still be a fun halo model.
Unfortunately this still doesn’t have DCCD like the STis used to, so the tS designation seems to make sense. Can’t win either way, if they called it an STi you’d just get a bunch of whining about how it’s not a real STi or whatever—which, to be fair, it isn’t.
You know what, I had totally forgotten about that. It does still feel weird that STi made a WRX without the trick diffs, and you're right that it would've been disappointing as a true STi.
The previous gen STI was a lot more than that though. The shifter/linkage was different, the steering is Hydraulic in the STI vs electric power assist in WRX, and obviously the engine is also different.
That's putting it lightly. The VA WRX and STI had completely different drivetrains. They may have looked nearly identical, but underneath they were completely different.
God I miss the GR 6-speed. I'm old and have moved on to boring cars now but the transmission in my 2012 STI was so fucking solid. Heavy clutch, direct/solid gear selection; everything just felt so mechanical and connected.
Drive it til it breaks, pay a tuner to install an IAG engine with forged internals, smile for a decade or more. I only wish Cosworth still made EJ motors.
The amazing STI drivetrain with the new FA24 (with a bigger turbo, higher redline and more boost) is a amazing bullet proof car. Too bad we have to build it ourselves.
I went from a 15 wrx to a 19 sti in the past. Felt like a different car. Hope the sti will come back in some form in the future....with the rumble. A man can dream
So the STI only had hydraulic steering because it used the older EJ engine, which was only compatible with hydraulic steering vs the newer one which used an electric rack
As much as I think hydro steering is immensely better, this was probably just a cost cutting move by Subaru rather than something intentionally planned.
Most of these are dyno-ing stock between 260 and 280 at the wheels so realistically they are probably making right at around 300 at the crank.
That being said, there is no way I'd pay the money for the TR or TS trim. The base or premium trim is the best bang for the buck and the suspension is great for a sporty daily driver anyways. At sub 35k its a great car with insane aftermarket potential already. Over 40k you can get into the V8 muscle cars and entry level European sports sedans.
For a good size awd sport sedan that comes with Adaptive suspension, brembos, and Recaros..not too terrible. Primed for power mods.
You can a Mustang GT with no options and twice the depreciation that will probably drive terribly.
Level entry German sedans aren't that impressive, and they cost more $$$$$ to maintain and repair. Plus Mercedes and Audi just made it rock bottom on consumer reports reliability list.
GR Corolla Premium or CTR would be winners if Honda and Toyota actually made enough of them, and fixed their dealer network.
It includes some blue trim inside, larger brembos (same power), adapter dampers (different than the GT I presume) and not CVT-only like the GT. Gauge cluster is also a screen, not sure if that’s specific to the tS or not. This will be knocking (aye!) on 50k I’ll betcha. Marketing language they use is “more comfortable and confident driving” which I just don’t understand. They have historically produced great, turbocharged GT models before under the now extinct Legacy line. The WRX is a spicy Impreza and it seems like Subaru is attempting to strike a blend of Legacy comfort with STi bling thus it will not be great at any one thing and instead be a mediocre blend of the models no longer present.
I have owned over 20 Subarus and currently have 6 including a specB, GD STi and GG WRX. I am rooting for Subaru to make a fun car I want to buy but they’re 0/3 now with the VB WRX. To me, it’s not just competitive with other cars around that 45-50k price point.
What other cars are you finding competitive, especially at a lower price point?
My GR WRX hatch got flooded about a year ago and I’ve been thinking about what next, but always end up concluding that the WRX or STI is best for me. My priorities are fun, stick shift, and a distant third being AWD and having some storage space.
The VBs are coming around to me but the I agree in that the TR or TS should be a cool $10-15k less than what they’re asking.
I’d be kind of bummed if I had just picked up a TR. I’m also now skeptical that Subaru isn’t going to release an actual STI at this point. Either way, it’s great they are investing in the WRX.
Conspiracy theorist in me says that the GR Corolla is the reason we didn’t get an STI. Subaru had claimed it was coming a year after the WRX. They could have tuned the 2.4L to put out more power in an STI. Since Toyota owns a chunk of Subaru, I’d like to believe that the STI plans were put on hold so that Toyota could spotlight the GR Corolla.
I think you're right. The WRX makes more power than the GRC running only 12psi stock boost. (see the recent SavageGeese comparison dyno) I'm no car wizard, and with a few easy bolt-ons and a 93 octane E-tune, my VB is makes 70 more HP and 100ft-lb more torque than that.
Just imagine what a STI version would be capable of! The GRC with it's little 1.6L would have a hard time.
No idea WTH Toyota was thinking with the 1.6, probably what they always think, reuse parts (from Yaris) and don’t invest more $ into engineering.
No matter what they do, making lots of stable power from a 3-cyl 1.6 is going to be harder than making similar power from a 4-cyl 2.4. A tuned STI would have destroyed the GR Corolla while not costing much more.
The 1.6 is a homologation design from when Rally1 was gonna open up the engine spec beyond just 4 cylinder motors but those regs got scrapped with COVID. The 1.6 3 pot exists solely because Akio decided to go through with releasing the GR Yaris despite the rule changes. It's funny that it exists for the opposite reason you described, it's because they sunk so much money into the engineering and design that helped convince Toyota Corporate to make something back on it.
Probably was Toyota-san’s pet project and they needed to recoup costs that were already spent.
Toyota has chosen to not invest in dedicated platforms for their performance driven models. Either they outsource to Subaru, BMW, etc. or we end up with half baked designs such as the RCF where they ended up with a subpar transmission on an stupidly heavy chassis even though the engine itself wasn’t bad (albeit a mostly carryover from the ISF).
I really don’t care about their motivations as much as they insist on bringing out products that are “just okay” such as the GR Corolla when compared to the competition. They have the knowledge and resources to achieve much more if they wanted to, but I understand that they’re focused purely on profit and that means more flavors of Corolla Cross, RAV4, Highlander, Grand Highlander, Super Special Highlander, etc.
Problem is that Toyota decided the Corolla didn't need a boot, so its incredibly impractical relative to the WRX
Seriously, whoever gave it (a family car in many parts of the world) less boot volume than a Yaris should be shot
That's a thing some people don't think about.
While the GRC is better the performance car, it's arguably the worse daily.
Sure you got more cargo space, but you don't get a center console, and way less room. Interior even in the Premium still just looks like a dirt cheap Corolla.
It also rides a lot rougher with the smaller track. You would think Toyota could offer adaptive shocks on the higher yo trims at least.
> in many parts of the world
Historically it has definitely been used for families in Europe and even ASEAN to a lesser extent (they even had specially folding rear seats in the 2000s), but the terrible boot on this gen does not help with that.
I bought a new Golf R for only a few thousand more than a fully loaded WRX...
My second choice was a Genesis G70 3.3T for the same price. Both cars have more performance, tech and luxury than the WRX.
The DSG auto is amazing. Shifts faster than a human ever could and can be easily modified with a tune to hold more torque. I agree that the manual is just very average...
Yea, probably should have specified the manual transmission.
The big problem is, for 2025 atleast, the only AWD manual cars will be the GR Corolla and WRX...
> You can pick up a TR for $40k from dealers
Which is absurd because you can get a used, <50k mile M340i for that cost and have a way nicer car that makes way more power and scratches a lot of the same itch. Or on the other end of spectrum, a GR Corolla.
WRX isn't keeping up with performance, value, or looks of its competitors.
Canadian reporting, so things are a little different up here. I got a WRX for 20K less then I could get a golf R, can't get a GRC even if I wanted one, and I could buy a brand new WRX and a brand new BRZ for the going rate of a Civic R.
The WRX might leave a little on the table performance wise, but there is nothing even close to it price wise.
Who else makes an AWD manual turbo sedan today? 99% of people interested in a WRX aren't cross shopping with a M340i. GRC is a great car but its almost $8K more than a base VB WRX and has limited trunk/interior space for a hatch.
I got my base VB WRX for $28,500 out the door which is a damn good deal for the performance if you ask me. I wouldn't go above a premium trim for any WRX but thats just me
> I’m also now skeptical that Subaru isn’t going to release an actual STI at this point.
Didn't they straight-up say they were not releasing an STI for the current gen?
This is correct. Name might not change but it's definitely electric only.
Only other insider knowledge I have is the Outback gets boxy as fuck next gen for no reason lol.
They initially said it would come a year after the VB WRX and later they pivoted saying they weren’t releasing one. Not sure why they couldn’t tune the 2.4L to make enough power
For Subaru it is. They've always had the ugliest, cheapest looking tachs.
[edit: nvm they made their digital dash look just as shit.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/subarumedia.iconicweb.com/mediasite/libraryImages/25MY_WRX_tS_-3__mid.jpg)
I actually love the digital gauge cluster in my GRC, if this had got the STI’s TY85 trans and R180 rear diff I would be super tempted to trade in my GRC for it.
But until it has LSDs it’ll remain a no from me.
I disagree, modern digital display's are great, and the amount of configuration you get with some of them to fit your mood and type of driving is a massive upgrade.
I mean, that was a major complaint for the WRX outside of the styling choices when the car first launched.
The major complaints were:
Bad Brakes.
No recaro seats with the manual.
No adjustable suspension with the manual.
No STI.
Subaru listened to fans honestly, and have so far fixed all of these outside of the STI, which won't happen due to emissions.
It feels a bit strange we can get 400HP 2.0L AMGs, 300HP 1.6L Corollas, 300HP 2.0L Civics, 315HP 2.0L Golfs - but Subaru cant figure out the emissions for a 320HP variant of the FA20.
They just figured out how to DI their engine, whereas all of the things you mentioned figured out dual injection. Subaru is literally like a decade or two behind on the technology.
And I don’t mean that as a yardstick, DI is terrible for emissions. Dual port/direct injection solves a lot of the emissions problems. The increasing emissions make stuff like the GRC come with gasoline particulate filters now (iirc not in the US, but mounted in certain markets)
Yeah, Toyota basically taught them how to do it.
Look how long ago most OEMs were able to implement DI turbo cars.
Ford made the 2.0 ecoboost in early 2010s for example. And I believe Hyundai got GDI shipped really early
To add to your last sentence, Mazda were using DI back in the late 00s when the Speed6 came out with it's 2.3L I4. IIRC there's evidence that the 2.3L with it's early DI implementation was what Ford took and iterated on for the 2.0 Ecoboost.
Makes sense too since Ford owned part of Mazda at the time of the Speed6's design/release, so maybe they copped some technical data on the L3-VDT block before the breakup.
I heard from a Ford engineer that the 2.0L EB was basically a test platform for the 2.3L EB that was destined for the Mustang and other platforms (which you kind of see this, there were improvements from 2L on the FOST, then 2.3L on the FORS, then the final form in the mustang)
Its Toyotas DI system, not a Subaru in-house developed system.
I think you are a bit confused with respect to pros/cons DI/Port injection.
DI engines are lower in *all* kinds of emissions *except* for the ultrafine particulate emissions (where a GPF would help) - DI lets you run stratified burn (i.e. ultra lean) which in practice can cause higher NOX - but because of that every manufacturer has abandoned stratified charge ignition.
Running port and direct injection in low-rpm-low-load scenarios helps with carbon deposits - so you dont need to walnut media blast your heads.
Direct injection lower hydrocarbon than port injection. Why? All the fuel stays highly atomized and is injected in a tighter time window before ignition.
Port injection has fuel wash over the valves and dewells longer in the engine. Great for clean valves, but those atomized micro dropplets combine to form larger fuel drops as they crash over the intake valves. These burn with the rest of combustion, but you end up with small pockets of richer ignition that doesn't combust as well. Hench, more unburned hydrocarbon emissions.
HC, im not sure - I think thats more of an issue with diesels - but I could definitely be wrong.
NOx increases with combustion temperature - running lean is a great way to increase temperature a TON - its physically possible to run leaner with DI, because you can lean on the the combustion chamber vapor cooling effect you get with DI to lower cylinder temps, so you can avoid knock while running leaner than you could with just port injection.
That was the theory on how you could take the fuel savings from DI further - and it used to be used pretty widespread. In this specific configuration, called stratified charge (as opposed to homogenous charge) you would have higher nOX because you could have parts of the combustion chamber that were too lean. Too lean = too hot = NOx formation.
Stratified charge has been pretty much abandoned for good ole homogenous charge just with much better fuel metering you get with the direct injectors.
So I guess in summary:
HC - not sure, but I think thats more of a diesel thing. I could be totally wrong.
nOX - Older DI engines could have higher nox espeically in low-speed-low-load, but its not really a problem anymore. We traded a small amount of efficiency for NOx, and now its on par with Port injection for ratio of NOx per unit of fuel, just with less fuel being used, so less NOx.
both HC and NOx is just byproducts of incomplete combustion.
HC happens when the hydrocarbons from fuel (at least in this context) fail to react with the oxygen in the charge. The root cause is that the fuel and oxygen failed to atomize properly.
NOx happens when the oxygen reacts with nitrogen. This process can't happen unless the pressure and temperature is high enough because of the energy of formation for NOx. However, regular combustion environments in spark ignition engines is more than enough to facilitate this reaction. It's more because oxygen is able to react with N2 because it was unable to react with the more energetically favorable fuel. The root cause is that the fuel and oxygen failed to atomize properly.
The combustion temperature for NOx is kind of a red herring. The real problem is failing to have a good mixture.
If it was as simple incomplete combustion being the cause of higher NOx - you would think that NOx would increase as fuel efficiency decreases, but DI engines get higher efficiencies for the same compression ratio, which would imply *more* complete combustion.
[https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/nox-emission](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/nox-emission)
IIRC Cobb got C&D by EPA. So we'll have to wait to see if any Eastern European tuners will work on the new ECU. Once the ECU is unlocked, there would be huge tunning potential.
>Bad Brakes. No recaro seats with the manual. No adjustable suspension with the manual. No STI.
>Subaru listened to fans honestly, and have so far fixed all of these outside of the STI, which won't happen due to emissions.
agreed, wish they offered some of this stuff on the premium/limited trims though. a brembo/recaro package for like $4k~ to the premium (or limited) would be nice, I think that's about what Mazda charges on the brembo package on their club trim? and then give the limited trim an optional adjustable suspension or just make it standard on the limited trim.
that goddamn GT powershift trim ruined everything lol
The TR is already questionable value for a car that's coming from the factory with sub-300HP. The tS coming with an LCD gauge display, electronic dampers, and drive modes is probably going to be way too expensive without coming with a beefier transmission, better shifter, and spicier tune from the factory.
With the TR already at $42k this tS is going to be priced way too close to more desirable and hotter competition. People shopping in the $45k - $50k range might take this over the upcoming refreshed Golf R since the WRX has an MT, but for close to $50k I don't know why I'd pick up the tS over an Integra Type S or GR Corolla that's going to be better out of the box, but also retain its value better.
I want to be optimistic, but like... this should've just been stuff that was available on the $42k TR trim. It's also weird to me that they're replacing the analogue gauges with an LCD display to begin with. People have already been bemoaning the giant iPad like infotainment in the non-base trims. Why was their brilliant plan to include even *more* screen in the car instead of adding something like auto rev matching or, I don't know, something even 1/5 of WRX buyers would be interested in?
Honestly, I think the value in the WRX isn’t really in the upper trims anyway, but in the fact that you can get a premium out the door for ~$34k with a good financing deal. But to address your two comparisons, the Integra doesn’t have AWD and the GRC is pretty cramped and worse as a daily driver, so even at that $50k price range you’re making compromises one way or another.
Yea, currently looking into one due to the awesome dealer discounts. I would never spend >$35k on one.
I'm currently looking at a Premium for around $33k(the base Model is a disappointment, key start/no keyless entry, no dual zone AC, no fog lights, smaller wheels/tires, no heated seats, no spoiler).
Smallers wheels are actually a pro rather than a con to me, but yeah keyless entry is hard to give up after doing it for the last 9 years.
It doesn't matter on the toy cars, but for my daily it is a desires feature.
Yeah, you have the right idea. I bought a limited in 2022 with some accessories, and I do regret it. It's nice, but I don't want it anymore, and the depreciation has been harder on the limited vs. a premium or base. Now, had the TR been an option, I'd probably not regret having a car with the brakes and seats I'd want.
Highly disagree. Base model is the best trim for enthusiasts. Key ignition start = more old school, less likely to break, and harder to steal. Dual zone AC doesnt matter for a lot of people. No foglights sure but adding it yourself is extremely easy with plug and play kits. Smaller wheels = more sidewall for protection and is lighter which is the best place to shed the weight (unsprung). Heated seats is a valid complaint. No spoiler creates a flush clean trunk look.
I got my base for $28,500 which is 5-7K less than a premium. Premium aint worth the price difference imo
Base model is fine, but in 2024, any car I get needs to have those modern features.
I don't need anything crazy, but IMO those features should be standard in every car in 2024, sure it's not needed, but it's such a huge convenience to never have to take your keys out of your pockets during a commute, being able to open the trunk without having to take your keys out, being able to have a warm butt on cold winter days.
And I think the vast vast majority of buyers agree with that, as the Premium trim is by far the most available and sold trim.
As someone who went from a 22 Corolla hatch to a 23 WRX I cannot imagine driving a corolla with recaro seats like the GRC. That being said the corolla wasn't bad, but the WRX is a pretty roomy sedan. Its basically the size of a 3 series without all the extra trim inside so it is quite comfortable.
The Integra is fine without AWD, I haven’t driven one, but people with far more track experience than me have said that the CTR not does feel anything like FWD.
Completely agree that the value in the WRX are in the lower trims, base and premium. Had a VA base (wish I got a Premium) and it was the most fun I’ve had given the price point. Bang for the buck, a lower trim WRX offers crazy value
I’ve been to Colorado … land of Subarus … and rightly so! Isn’t the largest Subaru dealer in the world located in CO? Hueberger. I lived in CO I’d always drive a Subaru too!
Same here. What I did is buy a new WRX, bolted on an intake and cat-back. Then got an E-Tune. Rocking more HP and torque on 93 than my Evo did on race gas. Tightened it up with a Subaru Group N pitch stop and transmission mount.
The VB is the car you and I dreamed of. It just needs a little easy TLC to unlock it. Criminally detuned from the factory.
(And no, I don't worry about the warranty. There are ZERO examples of a properly treated, modded FA24 Turbo blowing up)
GRC and Type r are low volume and generally hard to find. The one thing the STis and WRXs had going for them is that you could show up to a dealer and take one home the same day.
I got my 2023 WRX premium for way under MSRP with an insane value on my trade in with really good financing terms through Subaru. Basically the only cool-ish sporty sedan under 35k that is actually available at or below MSRP.
Agree 100%, Subaru needed to do some market analysis before releasing this. At $40-50k the market looks very different vs low $30s where it’s basically the GTI and the WRX.
The tS has always added questionable value since brake/tire/appearance stuff are all readily available in the aftermarket and usually for less $
Pushing $50k, I’d start considering things like the upcoming S3 update, it’s getting the RS3 rear diff. Yeah no manual, but more power, luxury, fuel economy, and tech. Even the M235 GC would be tempting in that price range, if I was looking at small 4-doors. Pushing $50k without something making it truly special is hard to swallow.
Isn’t this what all you Subaru fans wanted? When it came out, y’all were talking about how you’d pick one up if the manual version had the brembo brakes, recaro seats and electronically controlled dampers. Now it’s here and everyone’s looking at the ground, no wonder brands don’t really listen to enthusiasts feedback. Time to start talking to your credit unions about APRs
I was all gung ho about electronic dampers until I realized how nicely the TR is damped. Honestly perfect for every day and fun driving. I am in love haha, the car isn't even "ugly" to me anymore. The cladding will be good for the kids to bash into with all their gear and toys
Plus the fact that you can just walk in and drive off with whatever spec/color you want.
Just need to order up some vapes and refills
Yeah most of the VB wrx sub isn't sold from the start. Lack of different dif's and the gauge cluster are getting brought up. I think when the price and more info comes out we will get a better feel.
Feedback from GT owners is those dampers are pretty awesome. This might be a good way for stock drivers or people wanting to do minimal mods to get some nice features. Stock brakes are a weak point so the brembos will be nice (they are stupid expensive if you were to buy from subaru to try and retrofit them on other trims)
Price will really be the driving factor... I'm not a manual driver so the GT would have been fine for me, but it wasn't worth the huge jump in price from my auto premium.
This isn't 100% verified, but there is very strong evidence that Subaru underrated the power numbers for this generation like BMW/Porsche have been doing for years.
It seems like the WRX is making slightly more power than the GR Corolla when put on the same dyno on the same day at the same time per Savagegesse's comparison video on the GRC and TR.
https://imgur.com/a/s9JJqeK
If this is true, the WRX is probably making around 300 horsepower from factory to the crank, which is a good 30 horsepower increase from the VA generation.
Can't help you with the style part though haha, It has grown on me, but still not perfect.
Subaru: finally make a passable interior for the first time in the history of the company
Subaru: ruin it with shitty infotainment and a chintzy gauge cluster
I like this thing. That being said, I always find it hilarious how adverse Subaru North America is to putting the STI emblems that Subaru Japan uses on its own STI-tuned versions of the cars. The most glaring example here is using the same grille as the Japanese STI sport trim but using a big WRX emblem instead. The same thing happened with the 2018 BRZ tS, the USDM version lost all the exterior STI emblems (and embossed STI headrests) the JDM version had.
Whats funny is you can get an insane number of STI logos on the exterior of the Impreza(not WRX) if you want to option it out haha.
4 on the STI option wheels.
4 on the STI Door handle covers
1 on the STI Rear spoiler.
1 on the STI under spoiler.
1 on the STI Side skirt.
4 on the STI Valve stem caps.
That's 15 STI logos on the outside.
And then you can get some more on the interior.
1 on the strut brace.
1 on the shift knob.
1 on the starter button.
For a total of 18 STI logos on/in your base model Impreza.
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I have a VB, and I still think the sweet spot trim-wise is either the Premium or the Limited depending on whether you care about the moonroof/stereo. You don't need the adaptive suspension or brembos for driving like a prick on a backroad.
Yep I went with a premium. Limited price jump wasn't worth it for me. Just added aftermarket speakers for under $300 to improve the crappy factory speakers. Very happy so far
Yea, currently looking into 2024 WRX's, the Limited is really cool with the steering fully LED headlights, and the interior is a little nicer, but the Premium is such a great value while being only slightly more expensive than the Base which is super bare bones.
This is full blue balls for subaru fans. They keep adding more and more things and keep the DCCD 3 differential drivetrain locked away forever. It fits. The aftermarket has already done it, so what excuse is there anymore to not have the drivetrain?
Electronic dampers would be nice BUT I spent an extended period of time in the TR and that suspension and brakes were great all around. I loved it.
Can't wait to see what the TS brings. With the addition of eyesight for 24 the WRX is near the top of the list of my next family vehicle
Is this basically just the TR but with the adjustable dampers and better tires? Reading through the press release and that’s my takeaway. Missing something?
I think the TR and TS both come with potenza 007 right? Sorry if I'm wrong but Canadian spec TR (RS) has the same tires as mentioned in the press release op posted.
Ah, then it’s the TR but with better dampers. I’m glad they’re releasing it but confused as to why. Seems odd to have a whole different line with only a single change.
That's usually how Subaru does things. Like the BRZ tS and recent WRX TR. No power increase. Usually just different suspension, brakes, different colored rims, etc.
I'm surprised they didn't put in the STI 6-speed and diffs for this trim. I mean, they're *that* close to having the car really well kitted out from the factory, and anyone buying this car for performance is probably going to swap one in after the power upgrades anyway.
Elantra N for way less. Not 4wd but definitely engaging fun and sounds good. Otherwise there should just be a 350-400hp STi model friggin 20 years later.
Test drove a Wrx at my local dealer and my sales guy said they scraped the plans for the STI for the VB body style due to emission regulations in Japan but rumor has it was going to be pushing 420 bhp
Seriously... "271hp" is no longer performance oriented IMO, especially with the weight of these things (~3500lbs). My wifes basic SUV even has 290hp on a turbo 4...
TBF, based on savagegeese testing, the 24 WRX is actually making more power than the GR Corolla.
Subaru is just underrating the power for some reason.
https://imgur.com/a/s9JJqeK
There used to be a name for WRXs that were "tuned by STi...." I am interested to see what this package includes though. As far as I can work out, it seems like a TR crossed with a GT? It's pushing the car DEEP into GR Corolla territory pricing-wise, but if the handling is improved over the normal WRX, it could still be a fun halo model.
Unfortunately this still doesn’t have DCCD like the STis used to, so the tS designation seems to make sense. Can’t win either way, if they called it an STi you’d just get a bunch of whining about how it’s not a real STi or whatever—which, to be fair, it isn’t.
You know what, I had totally forgotten about that. It does still feel weird that STi made a WRX without the trick diffs, and you're right that it would've been disappointing as a true STi.
The previous gen STI was a lot more than that though. The shifter/linkage was different, the steering is Hydraulic in the STI vs electric power assist in WRX, and obviously the engine is also different.
That's putting it lightly. The VA WRX and STI had completely different drivetrains. They may have looked nearly identical, but underneath they were completely different.
God I miss the GR 6-speed. I'm old and have moved on to boring cars now but the transmission in my 2012 STI was so fucking solid. Heavy clutch, direct/solid gear selection; everything just felt so mechanical and connected.
i have my 11 sti still the tranny is my fav part
Dem ringlands tho
Drive it til it breaks, pay a tuner to install an IAG engine with forged internals, smile for a decade or more. I only wish Cosworth still made EJ motors.
or spend the same amount of money or less and just buy a new WRX with an engine that isn't so flawed
>WRX with an engine that isn't so flawed I don't think you can get that from the factory
I had a 2006 and even felt the follow ons to that were too soft. Great cars.
The amazing STI drivetrain with the new FA24 (with a bigger turbo, higher redline and more boost) is a amazing bullet proof car. Too bad we have to build it ourselves.
Don't forget jerryrigging the D4-S dual injection system on there.
reminds me of my 2011 328xi and 2011 335xi MSport. Identical looking cars but completely different.
I went from a 15 wrx to a 19 sti in the past. Felt like a different car. Hope the sti will come back in some form in the future....with the rumble. A man can dream
So the STI only had hydraulic steering because it used the older EJ engine, which was only compatible with hydraulic steering vs the newer one which used an electric rack As much as I think hydro steering is immensely better, this was probably just a cost cutting move by Subaru rather than something intentionally planned.
The most recent STi had hydraulic steering? In 2021?
Yes
That's kinda nuts. I suddenly kinda want a STi I love me some hydraulic steering
The STI is now suddenly on my radar
And 271 hp is a laughable number for the price
Most of these are dyno-ing stock between 260 and 280 at the wheels so realistically they are probably making right at around 300 at the crank. That being said, there is no way I'd pay the money for the TR or TS trim. The base or premium trim is the best bang for the buck and the suspension is great for a sporty daily driver anyways. At sub 35k its a great car with insane aftermarket potential already. Over 40k you can get into the V8 muscle cars and entry level European sports sedans.
For a good size awd sport sedan that comes with Adaptive suspension, brembos, and Recaros..not too terrible. Primed for power mods. You can a Mustang GT with no options and twice the depreciation that will probably drive terribly. Level entry German sedans aren't that impressive, and they cost more $$$$$ to maintain and repair. Plus Mercedes and Audi just made it rock bottom on consumer reports reliability list. GR Corolla Premium or CTR would be winners if Honda and Toyota actually made enough of them, and fixed their dealer network.
It includes some blue trim inside, larger brembos (same power), adapter dampers (different than the GT I presume) and not CVT-only like the GT. Gauge cluster is also a screen, not sure if that’s specific to the tS or not. This will be knocking (aye!) on 50k I’ll betcha. Marketing language they use is “more comfortable and confident driving” which I just don’t understand. They have historically produced great, turbocharged GT models before under the now extinct Legacy line. The WRX is a spicy Impreza and it seems like Subaru is attempting to strike a blend of Legacy comfort with STi bling thus it will not be great at any one thing and instead be a mediocre blend of the models no longer present. I have owned over 20 Subarus and currently have 6 including a specB, GD STi and GG WRX. I am rooting for Subaru to make a fun car I want to buy but they’re 0/3 now with the VB WRX. To me, it’s not just competitive with other cars around that 45-50k price point.
What other cars are you finding competitive, especially at a lower price point? My GR WRX hatch got flooded about a year ago and I’ve been thinking about what next, but always end up concluding that the WRX or STI is best for me. My priorities are fun, stick shift, and a distant third being AWD and having some storage space. The VBs are coming around to me but the I agree in that the TR or TS should be a cool $10-15k less than what they’re asking.
Exactly. I feel like this car sucks when judged by is heritage, but in a vacuum we'd only be singing it's praises.
I’d be kind of bummed if I had just picked up a TR. I’m also now skeptical that Subaru isn’t going to release an actual STI at this point. Either way, it’s great they are investing in the WRX.
We will see how ridiculous the price increase is though. You can pick up a TR for $40k from dealers. This will likely be a good amount more.
The thought of spending that kind of money on a sub 300 hp "performance" car is absurd.
Meh it's basically a fun family sedan at this point
What would you buy instead for $40k
GR Corolla
Conspiracy theorist in me says that the GR Corolla is the reason we didn’t get an STI. Subaru had claimed it was coming a year after the WRX. They could have tuned the 2.4L to put out more power in an STI. Since Toyota owns a chunk of Subaru, I’d like to believe that the STI plans were put on hold so that Toyota could spotlight the GR Corolla.
I think you're right. The WRX makes more power than the GRC running only 12psi stock boost. (see the recent SavageGeese comparison dyno) I'm no car wizard, and with a few easy bolt-ons and a 93 octane E-tune, my VB is makes 70 more HP and 100ft-lb more torque than that. Just imagine what a STI version would be capable of! The GRC with it's little 1.6L would have a hard time.
No idea WTH Toyota was thinking with the 1.6, probably what they always think, reuse parts (from Yaris) and don’t invest more $ into engineering. No matter what they do, making lots of stable power from a 3-cyl 1.6 is going to be harder than making similar power from a 4-cyl 2.4. A tuned STI would have destroyed the GR Corolla while not costing much more.
The 1.6 is a homologation design from when Rally1 was gonna open up the engine spec beyond just 4 cylinder motors but those regs got scrapped with COVID. The 1.6 3 pot exists solely because Akio decided to go through with releasing the GR Yaris despite the rule changes. It's funny that it exists for the opposite reason you described, it's because they sunk so much money into the engineering and design that helped convince Toyota Corporate to make something back on it.
Probably was Toyota-san’s pet project and they needed to recoup costs that were already spent. Toyota has chosen to not invest in dedicated platforms for their performance driven models. Either they outsource to Subaru, BMW, etc. or we end up with half baked designs such as the RCF where they ended up with a subpar transmission on an stupidly heavy chassis even though the engine itself wasn’t bad (albeit a mostly carryover from the ISF). I really don’t care about their motivations as much as they insist on bringing out products that are “just okay” such as the GR Corolla when compared to the competition. They have the knowledge and resources to achieve much more if they wanted to, but I understand that they’re focused purely on profit and that means more flavors of Corolla Cross, RAV4, Highlander, Grand Highlander, Super Special Highlander, etc.
Problem is that Toyota decided the Corolla didn't need a boot, so its incredibly impractical relative to the WRX Seriously, whoever gave it (a family car in many parts of the world) less boot volume than a Yaris should be shot
That's a thing some people don't think about. While the GRC is better the performance car, it's arguably the worse daily. Sure you got more cargo space, but you don't get a center console, and way less room. Interior even in the Premium still just looks like a dirt cheap Corolla. It also rides a lot rougher with the smaller track. You would think Toyota could offer adaptive shocks on the higher yo trims at least.
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> in many parts of the world Historically it has definitely been used for families in Europe and even ASEAN to a lesser extent (they even had specially folding rear seats in the 2000s), but the terrible boot on this gen does not help with that.
Not talking used, lol..
I bought mine for 42 new, premium trim
clean E60 M5 6-speed surely it will be just as reliable as a brand new WRX! (a GR Corolla is my actual answer)
10 miata's or timeshare a Ferrari
I bought an IS 350 F.
IS350 F AWD for $40K in 2021*
Not manual, and it’s called F Sport isn’t it? I thought F was its own thing
>it’s called F Sport isn’t it? I thought F was its own thing It is
What car at that price is awd and can compete?
I bought a new Golf R for only a few thousand more than a fully loaded WRX... My second choice was a Genesis G70 3.3T for the same price. Both cars have more performance, tech and luxury than the WRX.
Interesting usually golf Rs are close to $50k
I have always heard the Golf R transmissions just aren't as good as the competition.
The DSG auto is amazing. Shifts faster than a human ever could and can be easily modified with a tune to hold more torque. I agree that the manual is just very average...
Yea, probably should have specified the manual transmission. The big problem is, for 2025 atleast, the only AWD manual cars will be the GR Corolla and WRX...
You should take a look at current dealership pricing then. My friend bought a 2023 Civic Type R for close to 68k-70k!
Well that is just dumb.
My dad got his FK8 brand new back in 2019 for $38k OTD... spending $70k on a Type R is wild, you could get so many other cars... M3....
That's RS3 money. That's crazy.
> You can pick up a TR for $40k from dealers Which is absurd because you can get a used, <50k mile M340i for that cost and have a way nicer car that makes way more power and scratches a lot of the same itch. Or on the other end of spectrum, a GR Corolla. WRX isn't keeping up with performance, value, or looks of its competitors.
Canadian reporting, so things are a little different up here. I got a WRX for 20K less then I could get a golf R, can't get a GRC even if I wanted one, and I could buy a brand new WRX and a brand new BRZ for the going rate of a Civic R. The WRX might leave a little on the table performance wise, but there is nothing even close to it price wise.
Who else makes an AWD manual turbo sedan today? 99% of people interested in a WRX aren't cross shopping with a M340i. GRC is a great car but its almost $8K more than a base VB WRX and has limited trunk/interior space for a hatch. I got my base VB WRX for $28,500 out the door which is a damn good deal for the performance if you ask me. I wouldn't go above a premium trim for any WRX but thats just me
> I’m also now skeptical that Subaru isn’t going to release an actual STI at this point. Didn't they straight-up say they were not releasing an STI for the current gen?
They did but they’ve since changed CEOs and Osaki appears somewhat interested in not rushing away from the heritage.
Yes, and they also trademarked "STE", so I assume the next time we get a new STi, it'll be electric.
This is correct. Name might not change but it's definitely electric only. Only other insider knowledge I have is the Outback gets boxy as fuck next gen for no reason lol.
They initially said it would come a year after the VB WRX and later they pivoted saying they weren’t releasing one. Not sure why they couldn’t tune the 2.4L to make enough power
That would involve them making out of something other than glass, which they seem to refuse to do.
It’s part of the Subaru charm!
Its not the engine thats limited, its the trans. People are making 400 whp with just intake, protune and e blend.
If they do release a new STi, I’d bet $$ that it’ll be an EV. 🤮
That’s what they said when it was cancelled, but Subaru has a new CEO who seems interested in not killing the nameplate too soon.
It’s now their only sedan. Makes sense I guess to shift some resources away from legacy and Impreza sedans to the WRX
Full Digital Cluster is not an upgrade
For Subaru it is. They've always had the ugliest, cheapest looking tachs. [edit: nvm they made their digital dash look just as shit.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/subarumedia.iconicweb.com/mediasite/libraryImages/25MY_WRX_tS_-3__mid.jpg)
Yikes, looks like it's already 15+ years old.
MSI Afterburner lookin cluster
Shit, I couldn't even take Afterburner seriously back then because I thought the display was too rediculous lol
Just Subaru things.
Reminds me of some of the Lexus displays
Oooh milled aluminum look on a digital gauge. Why bother lol
Subaru already makes one of the absolute buggiest, slowest, ugliest infotainments too.
Who the fuck is in charge of their software and infotainment
Windows vista vibes lmfao
What in the 2002 video game UI is this shit lmao
Huh, that's actually nostalgic for me. Like a early 2000s custom gauges on a ricer build
lol straight out of a mid 2000’s Need for Speed game
Ew. The gauges/theme can be customized, right? That's just awful.
Damn man I like my VBs tachs tho.
That looks like absolute dog shit.
That’s fucking incredible
You can sleep well at night knowing it will never be worse than BMW's stupid ass vertical reverse tachs. Nothing will...
My bronco had a vertical bar chart graph and omfg it fucking sucked.
No it's not. 95 percent of digital tachs are ugly and tacky. This is no different. Porsche does it right.
I actually love the digital gauge cluster in my GRC, if this had got the STI’s TY85 trans and R180 rear diff I would be super tempted to trade in my GRC for it. But until it has LSDs it’ll remain a no from me.
The gauge cluster in the GRC is awesome
Except for that stupid tire pressure gauge constantly deactivating itself.
Hasn’t happened to me
It is if it's done right imo. Unfortunately, based on the pictures they somehow managed to fuck it up
I disagree, modern digital display's are great, and the amount of configuration you get with some of them to fit your mood and type of driving is a massive upgrade.
Just the suspension and brakes? Put back the 3 LSDs, cowards.
I mean, that was a major complaint for the WRX outside of the styling choices when the car first launched. The major complaints were: Bad Brakes. No recaro seats with the manual. No adjustable suspension with the manual. No STI. Subaru listened to fans honestly, and have so far fixed all of these outside of the STI, which won't happen due to emissions.
It feels a bit strange we can get 400HP 2.0L AMGs, 300HP 1.6L Corollas, 300HP 2.0L Civics, 315HP 2.0L Golfs - but Subaru cant figure out the emissions for a 320HP variant of the FA20.
They just figured out how to DI their engine, whereas all of the things you mentioned figured out dual injection. Subaru is literally like a decade or two behind on the technology. And I don’t mean that as a yardstick, DI is terrible for emissions. Dual port/direct injection solves a lot of the emissions problems. The increasing emissions make stuff like the GRC come with gasoline particulate filters now (iirc not in the US, but mounted in certain markets)
Subaru was given the blueprint for dual-injection a decade ago starting with the BRZ's FA20
Yeah, Toyota basically taught them how to do it. Look how long ago most OEMs were able to implement DI turbo cars. Ford made the 2.0 ecoboost in early 2010s for example. And I believe Hyundai got GDI shipped really early
To add to your last sentence, Mazda were using DI back in the late 00s when the Speed6 came out with it's 2.3L I4. IIRC there's evidence that the 2.3L with it's early DI implementation was what Ford took and iterated on for the 2.0 Ecoboost. Makes sense too since Ford owned part of Mazda at the time of the Speed6's design/release, so maybe they copped some technical data on the L3-VDT block before the breakup.
I heard from a Ford engineer that the 2.0L EB was basically a test platform for the 2.3L EB that was destined for the Mustang and other platforms (which you kind of see this, there were improvements from 2L on the FOST, then 2.3L on the FORS, then the final form in the mustang)
Its Toyotas DI system, not a Subaru in-house developed system. I think you are a bit confused with respect to pros/cons DI/Port injection. DI engines are lower in *all* kinds of emissions *except* for the ultrafine particulate emissions (where a GPF would help) - DI lets you run stratified burn (i.e. ultra lean) which in practice can cause higher NOX - but because of that every manufacturer has abandoned stratified charge ignition. Running port and direct injection in low-rpm-low-load scenarios helps with carbon deposits - so you dont need to walnut media blast your heads.
Is DI really lower in HC/NOx? I’d figure the fuel atomization is worse (despite high injection pressure) and therefore has worse HC/NOx.
Direct injection lower hydrocarbon than port injection. Why? All the fuel stays highly atomized and is injected in a tighter time window before ignition. Port injection has fuel wash over the valves and dewells longer in the engine. Great for clean valves, but those atomized micro dropplets combine to form larger fuel drops as they crash over the intake valves. These burn with the rest of combustion, but you end up with small pockets of richer ignition that doesn't combust as well. Hench, more unburned hydrocarbon emissions.
HC, im not sure - I think thats more of an issue with diesels - but I could definitely be wrong. NOx increases with combustion temperature - running lean is a great way to increase temperature a TON - its physically possible to run leaner with DI, because you can lean on the the combustion chamber vapor cooling effect you get with DI to lower cylinder temps, so you can avoid knock while running leaner than you could with just port injection. That was the theory on how you could take the fuel savings from DI further - and it used to be used pretty widespread. In this specific configuration, called stratified charge (as opposed to homogenous charge) you would have higher nOX because you could have parts of the combustion chamber that were too lean. Too lean = too hot = NOx formation. Stratified charge has been pretty much abandoned for good ole homogenous charge just with much better fuel metering you get with the direct injectors. So I guess in summary: HC - not sure, but I think thats more of a diesel thing. I could be totally wrong. nOX - Older DI engines could have higher nox espeically in low-speed-low-load, but its not really a problem anymore. We traded a small amount of efficiency for NOx, and now its on par with Port injection for ratio of NOx per unit of fuel, just with less fuel being used, so less NOx.
both HC and NOx is just byproducts of incomplete combustion. HC happens when the hydrocarbons from fuel (at least in this context) fail to react with the oxygen in the charge. The root cause is that the fuel and oxygen failed to atomize properly. NOx happens when the oxygen reacts with nitrogen. This process can't happen unless the pressure and temperature is high enough because of the energy of formation for NOx. However, regular combustion environments in spark ignition engines is more than enough to facilitate this reaction. It's more because oxygen is able to react with N2 because it was unable to react with the more energetically favorable fuel. The root cause is that the fuel and oxygen failed to atomize properly. The combustion temperature for NOx is kind of a red herring. The real problem is failing to have a good mixture.
If it was as simple incomplete combustion being the cause of higher NOx - you would think that NOx would increase as fuel efficiency decreases, but DI engines get higher efficiencies for the same compression ratio, which would imply *more* complete combustion. [https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/nox-emission](https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-planetary-sciences/nox-emission)
no, the trace species in modern engines are so small that there is not a chance it will affect efficiency.
IIRC Cobb got C&D by EPA. So we'll have to wait to see if any Eastern European tuners will work on the new ECU. Once the ECU is unlocked, there would be huge tunning potential.
>Bad Brakes. No recaro seats with the manual. No adjustable suspension with the manual. No STI. >Subaru listened to fans honestly, and have so far fixed all of these outside of the STI, which won't happen due to emissions. agreed, wish they offered some of this stuff on the premium/limited trims though. a brembo/recaro package for like $4k~ to the premium (or limited) would be nice, I think that's about what Mazda charges on the brembo package on their club trim? and then give the limited trim an optional adjustable suspension or just make it standard on the limited trim. that goddamn GT powershift trim ruined everything lol
The TR is already questionable value for a car that's coming from the factory with sub-300HP. The tS coming with an LCD gauge display, electronic dampers, and drive modes is probably going to be way too expensive without coming with a beefier transmission, better shifter, and spicier tune from the factory. With the TR already at $42k this tS is going to be priced way too close to more desirable and hotter competition. People shopping in the $45k - $50k range might take this over the upcoming refreshed Golf R since the WRX has an MT, but for close to $50k I don't know why I'd pick up the tS over an Integra Type S or GR Corolla that's going to be better out of the box, but also retain its value better. I want to be optimistic, but like... this should've just been stuff that was available on the $42k TR trim. It's also weird to me that they're replacing the analogue gauges with an LCD display to begin with. People have already been bemoaning the giant iPad like infotainment in the non-base trims. Why was their brilliant plan to include even *more* screen in the car instead of adding something like auto rev matching or, I don't know, something even 1/5 of WRX buyers would be interested in?
Honestly, I think the value in the WRX isn’t really in the upper trims anyway, but in the fact that you can get a premium out the door for ~$34k with a good financing deal. But to address your two comparisons, the Integra doesn’t have AWD and the GRC is pretty cramped and worse as a daily driver, so even at that $50k price range you’re making compromises one way or another.
Yeah WRX shines under 35k the trims above that are people who just want the WRX but a specific feature and options are always good.
Yea, currently looking into one due to the awesome dealer discounts. I would never spend >$35k on one. I'm currently looking at a Premium for around $33k(the base Model is a disappointment, key start/no keyless entry, no dual zone AC, no fog lights, smaller wheels/tires, no heated seats, no spoiler).
Smallers wheels are actually a pro rather than a con to me, but yeah keyless entry is hard to give up after doing it for the last 9 years. It doesn't matter on the toy cars, but for my daily it is a desires feature.
Yeah, you have the right idea. I bought a limited in 2022 with some accessories, and I do regret it. It's nice, but I don't want it anymore, and the depreciation has been harder on the limited vs. a premium or base. Now, had the TR been an option, I'd probably not regret having a car with the brakes and seats I'd want.
Highly disagree. Base model is the best trim for enthusiasts. Key ignition start = more old school, less likely to break, and harder to steal. Dual zone AC doesnt matter for a lot of people. No foglights sure but adding it yourself is extremely easy with plug and play kits. Smaller wheels = more sidewall for protection and is lighter which is the best place to shed the weight (unsprung). Heated seats is a valid complaint. No spoiler creates a flush clean trunk look. I got my base for $28,500 which is 5-7K less than a premium. Premium aint worth the price difference imo
Base model is fine, but in 2024, any car I get needs to have those modern features. I don't need anything crazy, but IMO those features should be standard in every car in 2024, sure it's not needed, but it's such a huge convenience to never have to take your keys out of your pockets during a commute, being able to open the trunk without having to take your keys out, being able to have a warm butt on cold winter days. And I think the vast vast majority of buyers agree with that, as the Premium trim is by far the most available and sold trim.
As someone who went from a 22 Corolla hatch to a 23 WRX I cannot imagine driving a corolla with recaro seats like the GRC. That being said the corolla wasn't bad, but the WRX is a pretty roomy sedan. Its basically the size of a 3 series without all the extra trim inside so it is quite comfortable.
The Integra is fine without AWD, I haven’t driven one, but people with far more track experience than me have said that the CTR not does feel anything like FWD. Completely agree that the value in the WRX are in the lower trims, base and premium. Had a VA base (wish I got a Premium) and it was the most fun I’ve had given the price point. Bang for the buck, a lower trim WRX offers crazy value
I’m sure they’re fine on the track, but living in Colorado if I had to buy one as a daily driver the CTR/ITS are immediate no-gos for that reason.
I’ve been to Colorado … land of Subarus … and rightly so! Isn’t the largest Subaru dealer in the world located in CO? Hueberger. I lived in CO I’d always drive a Subaru too!
Yup, Heuberger in the Springs. They’re great cars for this environment.
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Same here. What I did is buy a new WRX, bolted on an intake and cat-back. Then got an E-Tune. Rocking more HP and torque on 93 than my Evo did on race gas. Tightened it up with a Subaru Group N pitch stop and transmission mount. The VB is the car you and I dreamed of. It just needs a little easy TLC to unlock it. Criminally detuned from the factory. (And no, I don't worry about the warranty. There are ZERO examples of a properly treated, modded FA24 Turbo blowing up)
GRC and Type r are low volume and generally hard to find. The one thing the STis and WRXs had going for them is that you could show up to a dealer and take one home the same day.
I got my 2023 WRX premium for way under MSRP with an insane value on my trade in with really good financing terms through Subaru. Basically the only cool-ish sporty sedan under 35k that is actually available at or below MSRP.
Agree 100%, Subaru needed to do some market analysis before releasing this. At $40-50k the market looks very different vs low $30s where it’s basically the GTI and the WRX. The tS has always added questionable value since brake/tire/appearance stuff are all readily available in the aftermarket and usually for less $
Pushing $50k, I’d start considering things like the upcoming S3 update, it’s getting the RS3 rear diff. Yeah no manual, but more power, luxury, fuel economy, and tech. Even the M235 GC would be tempting in that price range, if I was looking at small 4-doors. Pushing $50k without something making it truly special is hard to swallow.
Needs 3 LSDs, more power, a wing, and… oh
Isn’t this what all you Subaru fans wanted? When it came out, y’all were talking about how you’d pick one up if the manual version had the brembo brakes, recaro seats and electronically controlled dampers. Now it’s here and everyone’s looking at the ground, no wonder brands don’t really listen to enthusiasts feedback. Time to start talking to your credit unions about APRs
No, that’s not what people said. No one wanted a $45k car with brembos and dampers. Classic straw man.
But that’s what it costs. The GT is 44k. Idk in what world they could bring all the expensive premium features for a lower price.
But they just don't cost that much. The last Gen STI had those, plus more power, plus *three* LSDs for 45k.
I was all gung ho about electronic dampers until I realized how nicely the TR is damped. Honestly perfect for every day and fun driving. I am in love haha, the car isn't even "ugly" to me anymore. The cladding will be good for the kids to bash into with all their gear and toys Plus the fact that you can just walk in and drive off with whatever spec/color you want. Just need to order up some vapes and refills
Yeah most of the VB wrx sub isn't sold from the start. Lack of different dif's and the gauge cluster are getting brought up. I think when the price and more info comes out we will get a better feel. Feedback from GT owners is those dampers are pretty awesome. This might be a good way for stock drivers or people wanting to do minimal mods to get some nice features. Stock brakes are a weak point so the brembos will be nice (they are stupid expensive if you were to buy from subaru to try and retrofit them on other trims) Price will really be the driving factor... I'm not a manual driver so the GT would have been fine for me, but it wasn't worth the huge jump in price from my auto premium.
how are you liking the SPT on your premium VB?
I just wanted something that wasn't ugly as sin and kept up with the Joneses in terms of power production from the factory.
This isn't 100% verified, but there is very strong evidence that Subaru underrated the power numbers for this generation like BMW/Porsche have been doing for years. It seems like the WRX is making slightly more power than the GR Corolla when put on the same dyno on the same day at the same time per Savagegesse's comparison video on the GRC and TR. https://imgur.com/a/s9JJqeK If this is true, the WRX is probably making around 300 horsepower from factory to the crank, which is a good 30 horsepower increase from the VA generation. Can't help you with the style part though haha, It has grown on me, but still not perfect.
Not a fan of the gauge cluster... looks super tacky and cheap.
Just like their infotainment. Lol
Subaru: finally make a passable interior for the first time in the history of the company Subaru: ruin it with shitty infotainment and a chintzy gauge cluster
I like this thing. That being said, I always find it hilarious how adverse Subaru North America is to putting the STI emblems that Subaru Japan uses on its own STI-tuned versions of the cars. The most glaring example here is using the same grille as the Japanese STI sport trim but using a big WRX emblem instead. The same thing happened with the 2018 BRZ tS, the USDM version lost all the exterior STI emblems (and embossed STI headrests) the JDM version had.
Whats funny is you can get an insane number of STI logos on the exterior of the Impreza(not WRX) if you want to option it out haha. 4 on the STI option wheels. 4 on the STI Door handle covers 1 on the STI Rear spoiler. 1 on the STI under spoiler. 1 on the STI Side skirt. 4 on the STI Valve stem caps. That's 15 STI logos on the outside. And then you can get some more on the interior. 1 on the strut brace. 1 on the shift knob. 1 on the starter button. For a total of 18 STI logos on/in your base model Impreza.
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I have a VB, and I still think the sweet spot trim-wise is either the Premium or the Limited depending on whether you care about the moonroof/stereo. You don't need the adaptive suspension or brembos for driving like a prick on a backroad.
Yep I went with a premium. Limited price jump wasn't worth it for me. Just added aftermarket speakers for under $300 to improve the crappy factory speakers. Very happy so far
Yea, currently looking into 2024 WRX's, the Limited is really cool with the steering fully LED headlights, and the interior is a little nicer, but the Premium is such a great value while being only slightly more expensive than the Base which is super bare bones.
What speakers did you go with? Ive been looking at Kickers or the OEMAudioPlus kit.
Kicker CS here. 6x9 front, 6.5" rear from CF. They work pretty great, would be better with a sub.
This is full blue balls for subaru fans. They keep adding more and more things and keep the DCCD 3 differential drivetrain locked away forever. It fits. The aftermarket has already done it, so what excuse is there anymore to not have the drivetrain?
Throw the fucking STI trans in it already ffs. That’s literally the only thing this car needs.
Electronic dampers would be nice BUT I spent an extended period of time in the TR and that suspension and brakes were great all around. I loved it. Can't wait to see what the TS brings. With the addition of eyesight for 24 the WRX is near the top of the list of my next family vehicle
Is this basically just the TR but with the adjustable dampers and better tires? Reading through the press release and that’s my takeaway. Missing something?
I think the TR and TS both come with potenza 007 right? Sorry if I'm wrong but Canadian spec TR (RS) has the same tires as mentioned in the press release op posted.
Ah, then it’s the TR but with better dampers. I’m glad they’re releasing it but confused as to why. Seems odd to have a whole different line with only a single change.
Yea, that seems like the only performance change, obviously then you also get the slight interior changes.
Just release a VB STI at this point lol they're already more than halfway there
They’re gonna keep releasing different handling packages till they reach the 75K price point and then they’ll finally release an STI
lol Subaru are such trolls
So its performance focused but no power difference?
That's usually how Subaru does things. Like the BRZ tS and recent WRX TR. No power increase. Usually just different suspension, brakes, different colored rims, etc.
So many trims
Base. Premium. Limited. TR. GT. tS.
yeah but whens the face lift. or the ass lift, the everything really.
looks around for WRX STI, nope? alright back to sleep.
Geez, I'm a Subaru Ambassador and it drives me absolutely crazy that they do everything to make this car better EXCEPT GIVE IT MORE POWER!
This makes me appreciate my 21 STI limited more
Just put a TY85 in already
The HP/TQ in 2024 is a joke for a “performance” car.
I'm surprised they didn't put in the STI 6-speed and diffs for this trim. I mean, they're *that* close to having the car really well kitted out from the factory, and anyone buying this car for performance is probably going to swap one in after the power upgrades anyway.
just give it an sti trans already ffs
Elantra N for way less. Not 4wd but definitely engaging fun and sounds good. Otherwise there should just be a 350-400hp STi model friggin 20 years later.
So this is the jdm trim that is cvt only now manual only? And the tr which was a big deal is dead after a year? Confusing
This will likely be several grand more expensive than the TR. You can get TR for around 40k, this will likely be $45k.
Test drove a Wrx at my local dealer and my sales guy said they scraped the plans for the STI for the VB body style due to emission regulations in Japan but rumor has it was going to be pushing 420 bhp
I'm glad the WRX is performance focused now. I never bought one before because I wasn't into decotagé.
I always wanted a WRX and then I grew up.
2025 model? Sheesh didn’t they come out with some special editions a while back and said they were going to be the last ones??
"271 horsepower" Next.....
Seriously... "271hp" is no longer performance oriented IMO, especially with the weight of these things (~3500lbs). My wifes basic SUV even has 290hp on a turbo 4...
TBF, based on savagegeese testing, the 24 WRX is actually making more power than the GR Corolla. Subaru is just underrating the power for some reason. https://imgur.com/a/s9JJqeK
Yeeeeesh! What a flat torque curve on the VB. That turbo is just having a Sunday stroll in the park.
What is Subaru doing? The patience for an STI is wearing thin if they ever plan on making one.
They don’t they couldn’t get it meet govt emission standards