The 2024 Subaru WRX is the last survivor of the first performance compacts that debuted in the 1980s. Dubbed “boy racers,” the factory-upgraded Impreza was one of the few with a turbocharged engine and standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, giving it increased traction during cornering and in wet weather. The current version was redesigned in 2022, making it the most refined yet, and available with the most advanced infotainment and safety technologies.
But that doesn’t mean the WRX has been tamed. Far from it. Transmissions include a six-speed manual and is still available with a six-speed manual transmission and special Subaru Performance Transmission CVT, and the new TR version comes with a stiffer transmission, bigger Brembo brakes, and deeply sculptured Recaro seats designed for hard cornering.
TR stands for “Tuner Ready,” which is a little confusing. That suggests it is a low-cost bare bone model that owners can then modify – or tune – with aftermarket performance parts. Instead, the WRX TR comes fully loaded with the best performance choices installed at the factory. But Tuned Already (TA) wouldn’t work because enthusiasts might think it was designed for Trans Am racing.
The base version of the WRX is a bargain at just under $34,000. The top-of-the-line GT version is considerably more at about $45,000, but includes and adaptive suspension, SPT transmission, special trim and more. The TR version starts below that at around $43,000.
I have tested both the GT and, now, the TR versions. Both were fun, with the turbocharged Boxer four-cylinder engine pumping out plenty of power for all situations, from jack rabbit starts to freeway passing. The GT was easier to live with on a daily basis, thanks largely to the adaptive suspension that smooths out the rough roads in my neighborhood. In contrast, the TR’s suspension was uncomfortable much of the time, much like a hard-core sports car. The performance automatic in the GT was surprisingly responsive and easier to drive on neighborhood errands, which otherwise required multiple manual shifts in each block. But the six-speed was a joy on those rare occasions when the road was clear and winding, and would undoubtedly be better for serious racing.
Straight-line access remarkably closed between the two transmissions. Car and Drive found a six-speed version of the 2024 WRX reached 60 in 5.5 seconds. The SPT was a click faster at 5.4, but slower through the quarter-mile
All versions are the redesigned Subaru Impreza, including the RS with the more powerful optional non-turbocharged 2.5-liter engine (compared to the n/a 2.0 base engine) and the WRX, are most sophisticated ever. Interior materials are now on par with other affordable import. The company’s excellent EyeSight driver assistance and safety system is standard. It provides adaptive cruise control as well as automatic emergency braking, emergency steering assistance and more. Subaru has also upgraded the infotainment screen to a large 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trim levels, with leather upholstery, heated seats, and navigation also available.
Not too long ago, it looked like the WRX might be the last of the performance cars based on affordable sedans and hatchbacks. But in recent years, Honda has renewed its commitment with the Si and Type R versions of its new Civic, Volkswagen is continuing the Golf GTI and Golf R, and Hyundai continues rolling out performance N and N-line versions of their affordable cars. But the Gold R is the only other one with AWD, and it costs more than even the WRX GT.
The 2024 Subaru WRX is an affordable, fun to drive compact performance sedan. The new TR version might not be for everyone, but any enthusiast should be able to find a version that meets their budget and needs.
2024 Subaru WRX TR
Base price: $33,855 (Base)
Price as tested: $42,775 (TR)
Type: Compact performance sedan
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (271 hp, 258 lbs-ft)
Transmissions: 6-speed manual (as tested); Subaru Performance Transmission
EPA estimated mileage: 19/26
Overall length: 183.8 inches
Curb weight: 3,390 pounds
Final assembly: Gunma, Japan
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