In the world of Subaru performance, three letters have long stood out: STI — short for Subaru Technica International, the brand’s in-house motorsports division. If that conjures images of BMW’s M series or Mercedes-Benz’s AMG, you’re on the right track. An “STI” badge on the back of a Subaru has always promised an exhilarating drive.
But since the WRX STI was discontinued in 2021, fans have been left wanting more. Now, Subaru brings them a new offering — the 2025 WRX tS. It’s not a full-blown STI, but it might just be the next best thing — or even better in some key ways.
What Does tS Mean?
The “tS” badge stands for “Tuned by STI“, signifying that this WRX variant benefits from performance enhancements developed by the legendary STI team. It’s not as extreme as the STI of old, but the WRX tS is still built to thrill — especially for those who value a mix of capability, comfort, and control.
After a week of testing the WRX tS on some beloved, twisty backroads, it’s clear this car is more than worthy of attention.
Subtle but Smart Upgrades
At first glance, the WRX tS doesn’t scream “performance monster” — and that’s a good thing. It’s a four-door sedan that comfortably seats five, powered by the familiar 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Just like the standard WRX, the tS delivers power to all four wheels via Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring surefooted traction in all conditions.
But it’s the tuning, not the raw power, that makes the tS shine. The highlight? A STI-developed adaptive electronic suspension that adjusts from cushy to corner-carving sharp at the push of a button. This adds a level of agility and refinement that puts the tS in a different league from the base WRX.
And for stopping power, the tS borrows the six-piston front and two-piston rear Brembo brakes from the WRX TR trim — now finished in classic gold, a nod to Subaru’s motorsport roots.
Interior: Sporty Meets Smart
Inside, the WRX tS impresses with Recaro sport seats, designed to hug you through sharp turns while still being comfortable on long drives. Larger drivers may find the aggressive bolsters snug, but if you fit, you’ll appreciate the support.
Unlike the luxury-focused WRX GT trim — which only comes with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) — the tS offers something enthusiasts crave: a six-speed manual gearbox. Even better, it’s paired with Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite, a combination that was previously unavailable.
You’ll also find a brand-new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, which can display classic gauges, trip data, or even Apple Maps if you’re using CarPlay. Sadly, Android Auto users can’t mirror Google Maps in the cluster yet, but both systems work on the car’s 11.6-inch vertical infotainment screen.
While the interface looks a bit dated and can be sluggish, it’s easy to navigate. The built-in voice assistant handles basic commands like finding restaurants or gas stations, though response time could be quicker.
Rounding out the cabin tech is a punchy 504-watt, 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, providing clear sound with enough bass to shake the mirrors.
Driving Experience: Engaging, Every Day
Fire up the WRX tS, and you’re greeted with a throaty growl — a satisfying nod to Subaru’s rally heritage. While it lacks the explosive urgency of the 300-hp STI models of the past, the tS still feels lively. There’s a bit of turbo lag, but it encourages active engagement with the gears to stay in the power band.
The six-speed manual transmission is a joy to use, though the shifter has a slightly rubbery feel. A short-throw shifter kit would be a worthwhile aftermarket addition.
Subaru has also added five customizable drive modes, allowing you to tailor the steering weight, throttle response, suspension damping, and even EyeSight behavior to suit your mood — from relaxed commuting to spirited canyon carving.
In Sport mode, the tS is tight and responsive. In Comfort mode, it absorbs potholes and broken pavement like a luxury cruiser. Add in EyeSight’s adaptive cruise control and lane-centering features, and the WRX tS doubles as a refined daily driver.
The driver monitoring system may nag you if you look away too long, but it’s an added layer of safety that’s welcome for long highway stints.
A Practical Performer
Beyond the excitement, the WRX tS retains all the practicality that Subaru fans love. The rear seats are roomy, there’s 12.5 cubic feet of trunk space, and fuel economy is respectable for a performance sedan. It’s a genuine everyday sports car, built for people who want fun behind the wheel without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
While it may not be quite as wild as the Toyota GR Corolla, which starts around $40,000, the WRX tS offers a more balanced package. Yes, it’s priced a bit higher — around $47,000 — but it comes fully loaded. The only decision you need to make is color. (Pro tip: get it in Subaru’s iconic World Rally Blue.)
Final Thoughts – globanow.com Verdict
The 2025 Subaru WRX tS isn’t just a bridge between the standard WRX and the long-lost STI — it’s a bold step forward for Subaru’s performance legacy. By combining intelligent tuning, advanced tech, and all-weather capability, the tS becomes more than just a sports sedan. It’s a car that makes sense whether you’re commuting through traffic, carving up mountain roads, or doing both in a single day.
For enthusiasts who crave manual shifting thrills, refined ride quality, and genuine versatility, the WRX tS is an easy recommendation.
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Conclusion
The 2025 Subaru WRX tS is a thoughtfully crafted machine that successfully bridges the gap between performance and practicality. While it may not carry the full STI badge, its precision-tuned suspension, manual gearbox, and upgraded interior tech offer an experience that’s thrilling enough for purists yet refined enough for daily driving. Subaru has created a car that’s not just fun on the weekends but also comfortable and capable for everyday use. For enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded sports sedan with true rally DNA, the WRX tS is an exceptional choice — one that proudly wears its “Tuned by STI” badge.
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