2025 Subaru WRX tS Overview
When the 2024 Subaru BRZ tS was revealed at the tail end of 2023, we initially asked the same question we’ve posed with every new variant of the BRZ: “Where is the turbo?” Every factory BRZ has, and continues to be naturally aspirated, even though we believe the chassis could support more power. After driving the BRZ tS, we had to admit that, even without boost, it’s a better handler than the already good regular model—however, there’s one tS that will be turbocharged: The new 2025 WRX tS.
tS? What’s That?
The tS part of this new WRX variant’s name stands for “Tuned by STI,” which is Subaru’s in-house performance sub-brand. Thus, like the BRZ by the same name, the WRX tS enjoys a largely suspension-focused makeover by STI, including electronically controlled dampers. If this setup sounds familiar, that’s because the 2025 WRX tS’ changes resemble those of the 2024 WRX TR, which also represents a suspension, brake, and tire upgrade over other WRXs. Subaru confirmed that the brake upgrade in the TR is identical to the tS—with the exception of the gold-painted calipers. Furthermore, where the tS has electronically controlled dampers, the TR uses conventional dampers.
Moreover, the WRX tS has a Drive Mode Select feature that was previously exclusive to the WRX GT. Drivers can choose between “Comfort,” “Normal,” and “Sport” settings—which, of course, also affect the suspension.
Stopping Power Levels Up
While the STI-tuned suspension is the major selling point of the 2025 Subaru WRX tS, that’s not the only enhancement this trim boasts. It’s also fitted with an upgraded Brembo brake system with six-piston calipers upfront and two-piston calipers in the rear. The calipers utilize larger brake pads to clamp down on larger rotors, providing increased stopping power over lesser trims. Naturally, the Brembo calipers are adorned in Subaru’s signature gold color.
The upgraded brakes reside within a set of trim-exclusive 19-inch wheels, wrapped with 245/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires for improved grip on wet surfaces and enhanced stopping power.
The Visuals
Exterior changes are subtle, yet hardcore Subaru fans will notice them immediately. For starters, the tS model features a “WRX” badge on the front grille in the same “tS” red shade as the emblem on the BRZ. Also, like the BRZ tS, the rear decklid spoiler, side mirrors, and shark fin antenna on the 2025 WRX tS are finished in glossy Crystal Black.
The 2025 WRX tS comes with a trim-exclusive set of Ultrasuede black Recaro seats with blue accents and the “WRX tS” logo embroidered into the front headrests. The steering wheel, door panels, and shifter trim also receive the same blue accents found on the seats. The driver’s seat features power eight-way adjustability.
When it comes to technology, the 2025 WRX tS comes standard with Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system, equipped with an 11.6-inch touchscreen display. Starlink is compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay, wireless Android Auto, and other essential features such as Bluetooth connectivity and SiriusXM radio. The driver is presented with a new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster.
Subaru’s Eyesight Driver Assist technology suite comes standard on the WRX tS and includes safety features such as pre-collision braking, lane departure, and sway warning. Additionally, it offers quality of life features like adaptive cruise control and lead vehicle start alert.
Turbo, But No Engine Upgrades
As we have briefly touched on, the 2025 WRX tS features the same 271-hp 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine found in other WRX trims. The wick hasn’t been turned up for this trim, though this is less of a disappointment considering the stock engine is quite impressive (and, of course, already turbocharged).
If only the BRZ tS had the same engine. We understand that the BRZ is focused on lightweight accessibility and the democratization of the sports car market, but we doubt that a limited run boosted version would detract from that image.
2025 Subaru WRX tS Release Date and Pricing
The 2025 Subaru WRX tS will make its first public appearance at the Wicked Big Meet held at Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford, Connecticut. If you’re interested in purchasing the new WRX tS, Subaru has yet to announce its price, but we anticipate it to land somewhere in the mid-$40,000 range.
Subaru states that the 2025 WRX tS will reach dealerships starting in the first quarter of 2025. If you want to secure one for yourself, start visiting your local dealer now. Alternatively, you can wait until we get our hands on one and provide our impressions following our first drive.
