New driver-focused WRX features manual transmission, Brembo brakes, stiffer springs and standard Recaro seats
by Chris Chilton
October 6, 2023 at 10:04
Subaru has remembered that not all of its customers lust after an SUV and whipped up a hotter version of its WRX sedan to keep die-hard rally fans and speed enthusiasts happy. It’s called the WRX TR, and while it doesn’t gain any power over a stock WRX, it does come with some important upgrades that should ensure it’s even better to drive.
The WRX TR has been teased a couple of times lately, but it’s been revealed in full today ahead of its public debut at Subiefest in Florida this weekend. Most of the key changes are under the skin, where the TR is equipped with a Brembo brake setup including red-colored, six-piston calipers at the front, two-piston versions at the back, again in red, larger pads and rotors and a bigger master cylinder. Subaru claims the result isn’t only improved stopping power, but reduced fade in hard use and a superior pedal feel.
The suspension has come in for some work, too. There are stiffer springs, new dampers, and a modified steering rack, plus 245/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires that together promise more grip in all conditions, tighter body control, and improved steering response, all without ruining the ride quality.
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Related: Manual-Only 2024 Subaru WRX TR Leaked With Massive STI-Style Wing
Those Bridgestones are wrapped around new satin gray 19-inch wheels and the TR also benefits from 8-way power-adjustable Recaro buckets that use red stitching to add some vibrancy to the otherwise muted gray and black Ultrasuede upholstery. And to make sure you can still wear a helmet while sitting in those seats during track days, and also to reduce the center of gravity and save a few pounds from the curb weight, the TR does without a sunroof.
The American version of the WRX TR also sadly misses out on the big rear wing visible in leaked images of the Australian-market car. What it does get though, is Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist package. Eyesight combines features like adaptive cruise and lane departure and was previously only available on CVT-equipped WRXs, but the TR, along with every other manual WRX, now enjoys the same benefits.
Did we say manual? Yes, we did. While Nissan opted to make its new Nismo Z only available with an automatic transmission, WRX TR buyers get to shift their own gears. Unfortunately, the 2.4-liter, turbocharged boxer motor is rated at the same 271 hp (275 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) as it is in every other WRX, but at least the chassis mods will help you make more of those horses.
TR prices will be announced later this year and the model will go on sale early in 2024.
