Meet The New Subaru WRX tS With Performance Upgrades, But Something's Missing

Subaru of America recently introduced the all-new 2025 Subaru WRX tS with new performance upgrades. What is tS? It stands for tuned by STI. While it's true Subaru Tecnica International (STI) Subaru's performance and motorsports partner got their hands on the new WRX tS, they missed one crucial thing: the 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine stays the same. That's disappointing. 

There Are No New Engine Upgrades

The WRX tS features Subaru's legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a fully-synchronized 6-speed manual transmission. So far, so good. It also features a 2.4-liter turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine, delivering 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. That's the problem. 

You can get that engine in any 2024 or 2025 Subaru WRX trim level. I would have liked it if Subaru had let STI bump up the WRX's horsepower and torque to give it legit performance upgrades. I'll cover all the upgrades, but first, where can you see it? 

The new WRX tS will be displayed this Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Wicked Big Meet. 

Subaru announced its new "performance-focused" 2025 Subaru WRX tS will make its first public appearance at Wicked Big Meet, America's largest Subaru enthusiast festival, held at Stafford Motor Speedway in Stafford, Connecticut.

Subaru says, Meet the new 2025 #SubaruWRX tS, designed for comfortable, confident, high-performance driving. ​​For a first look, join us, Bucky Lasek, Travis Pastrana, and Rhianon Gelsomino at Wicked Big Meet on 6/2! Sign up for vehicle updates here. 

The New 2025 WRX tS Does Get New Upgrades Over The Other Trims

Drive Mode Select with electronically controlled STI-tuned dampers.

Subaru says the new 2025 WRX tS trim level offers increased performance, handling capability, and ride comfort thanks to a new STI-tuned suspension featuring electronically controlled dampers and revised suspension tuning. 

Drive Mode Select, previously available only on the WRX GT (with the automatic transmission), features electronically controlled STI-tuned dampers that can tailor the dynamic performance to the driver's preferences with Comfort, Normal, and Sport settings.

Full LCD digital gauge cluster display

New distinctive interior accents and a new fully digital gauge cluster enhance the vehicle's aesthetics. 

On the inside, the WRX tS features an all-new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, which offers improved legibility and the capability to prominently show additional information to the driver, including map display and route guidance information.

Exclusive exterior accents

Subaru says the latest generation WRX has a wide-body design offering an aggressive stance and bold look. At the front, Subaru's signature hexagonal grille is paired with a compact headlight design and broad front hood scoop. Prominent character lines across the vehicle's front, sides, and rear further emphasize the sports sedan's strength and performance capability. 

The exterior foldable mirrors, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, and rear spoiler are now finished in Crystal Black Silica "for a distinctive look." The rear deck lid now wears the tS badge. Rear taillights glow with a look inspired by volcanic magma.

Exclusive interior accents

On the inside, The seat bolsters, steering wheel, door panels, and shifter trim are complemented by blue accents. The iconic STI logo is featured on the ignition start button. The power moonroof has been deleted for weight savings, lower center of gravity, and additional headroom for helmeted drivers.

High-performance Brembo braking system featuring gold-colored calipers

The WRX tS has a high-performance Brembo braking system, including 6-piston front and 2-piston rear calipers in signature gold color and larger pads and rotors. The system provides enhanced stopping power, fade resistance, and pedal feel.

19-inch wheels paired with Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires

The tS also has 245/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires for increased wet and dry grip and improved braking performance. New 19-inch multi-spoke wheels in satin gray finish come standard on the WRX tS.

Standard Recaro Ultrasuede front seats with blue accents

The WRX tS seats are wrapped in black Ultrasuede with contrasting blue accents, and the "WRX tS" logo is embossed on the front headrests and carpeted floormats. The driver's seat includes 8-way power adjustments.

Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

Eyesight Driver Assist Technology safety tech is standard and includes Adaptive Cruise Control, a Pre-Collision Braking System, Lane Departure and Sway Warning, and a Lead Vehicle Start Alert. This is the second WRX to get Subaru's safety system compatible with a standard gearbox; the WRX TR was the first. 

When Can You Purchase The New WRX tS?

You will have to wait for a while. The 2025 Subaru WRX tS will arrive at Subaru retailers in the first quarter of 2025. Pricing for the new WRX tS will be announced later this year. Stay tuned.

I would give the 2025 WRX TS a B+ for its new performance upgrades. It needs STI to give the 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer more power and torque to earn an A grade.

What grade would you give the 2025 WRX tS? Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru USA