2025 Subaru WRX tS Review: STI Technology & Sharp Handling

The 2025 Subaru WRX tS takes the core rally-bred sedan and elevates its precision and driver engagement with a suite of STI-derived hardware and software calibrations. While peak horsepower remains at 271 hp, the real gains lie in suspension tuning, braking performance, and advanced control systems that sharpen handling and feedback. In this expanded review, we unpack the technical upgrades, engineering strategies, and competitive landscape, incorporating the latest industry insights for a comprehensive look.

Key Upgrades and Technical Specifications

• Engine & Powertrain: FA24 2.4 L direct-injection turbocharged BOXER-4, 271 hp @ 5,600 rpm, 258 lb-ft torque @ 2,000–5,600 rpm, 12 psi boost pressure
• Transmission: 6-speed manual (MTM-tuned gear ratios), optional 8-speed CVT with simulated shifts
• Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with active centre differential, torque vectoring by brake-based yaw control
• Suspension: Electronically Controlled Dampers (DCCD-inspired 4-mode logic), reinforced front & rear sway bars, 30% reduced roll rate vs WRX TR
• Brakes: Brembo six-piston monoblock fronts / two-piston rears, 330 mm vented rotors, high‐friction Sport brake pads
• Wheels & Tires: 19×8.5″ forged alloy, 245/40R19 ultra-grip summer tires (Michelin Pilot Sport 4S)
• Chassis & Body: High-rigidity reinforced underbody braces, bespoke tS strut tower bars, lightened aluminum hood with functional vent
• Weight & Dimensions: Curb weight 3,330 lb (1,510 kg), wheelbase 107.5″, overall length 182.7″

1. Powertrain and Thermal Management

The 2.4 L FA24 engine remains unchanged in output, but Subaru’s engineers optimized thermal flow by revising the intercooler core to a more efficient bar-and-plate design. A 20% increase in coolant flow through the block and head passages lowers peak intake temperatures by up to 15 °F under track use, according to Subaru’s lead powertrain engineer, Hiroshi Okano. This refinement helps maintain consistent torque delivery during back-to-back sprint laps.

“We focused on sustaining torque in real-world conditions – heat soak kills performance,” says Okano. “The new intercooler and ducting ensure the tS stays punchy from the first corner to the last.”

2. Chassis Dynamics and Tuning

At the heart of the tS is its adaptive damper system, co-developed with Subaru Tecnica International (STI). Compared to the base WRX, spring rates are up 20% front and 15% rear, and rebound damping is 25% firmer in Sport mode. The multi-mode system allows toggling between Comfort, Normal, Sport, and a fully Individual profile where suspension, throttle map, steering weight, and AWD torque split can be customized via the center console.

Electronic steering gain has been increased by 10% to sharpen response. Engineers also recalibrated the electric power steering unit to deliver a more linear torque-vs-angle curve, aiding in mid-corner adjustments. The net result is what Subaru calls “scalpel-sharp” feedback: subtle road imperfections transmit through the wheel, yet high-speed stability remains rock solid.

3. Braking System and Heat Dissipation

Borrowed from the WRX TR model, the Brembo braking package on the tS features monoblock calipers forged from aluminum-lithium alloy for reduced unsprung mass. Combined with high-thermal-capacity 330 mm rotors and multi-piston layout (6-piston front, 2-piston rear), the system provides fade-resistance for extended track sessions. Brake fluid is upgraded to DOT 4 + spec for consistent pedal feel above 500 °F.

4. Aerodynamics and Cooling

Beyond the functional hood scoop and vented aluminum bonnet, the tS adds underbody air dams and a discrete rear diffuser that improve airflow management. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) studies conducted at Subaru’s Gunma R&D Center show a 12% lift reduction at 100 mph and 8% drag penalty over the base WRX, helping the sedan remain planted without compromising top-end stability.

5. Interior, Infotainment, and Driver Aids

The cabin receives Recaro sport seats trimmed in Alcantara-suede with integrated headrests. While their aggressive bolstering ensures occupant retention during high-G cornering, some testers found the lateral pads too constraining for broader frames. Rear legroom remains at 36.5″, and trunk volume holds 12.5 cu ft.

• 11.6″ portrait touchscreen with Snappy UI (still laggy relative to rivals; Subaru plans a software update in Q1 2026)
• 12.3″ fully reconfigurable digital gauge cluster with performance overlays (boost gauge, torque split, gear indicator)
• Subaru EyeSight safety suite: adaptive cruise, lane-keep assist; overly sensitive alerts are being dialed back in the upcoming 2025.5 firmware refresh

6. Market Position & Competitors

Priced at $48,875 destination included, the WRX tS sits between the standard WRX ($31,000–$35,000) and the rumored 2026 STI Type RA (projected $60,000+). Its closest rivals include:

1. Honda Civic Type R: 315 hp, FWD, sharper engine response but less AWD grip
2. Volkswagen Golf R: 315 hp, 4MOTION AWD, DSG dual-clutch, more refined hatch packaging
3. Hyundai Elantra N: 280 hp, high-revving turbo, N Corner Carving Diff but narrower torque band

The WRX tS’s rally-heritage AWD and custom-tuned damper logic give it an edge on loose surfaces and mixed-condition roads, while competitors may outgun it in outright horsepower or cockpit modernity.

7. Expert Opinions and Recent Developments

Engineering journalist Emma Tan from Auto Tech Review notes, “Subaru’s incremental refinements make the tS feel significantly sharper without sacrificing usability. It’s proof that chassis tuning can rival straight-line power in driver enjoyment.”

In June 2025, Subaru announced a limited-run “tS Carbon Edition” featuring full-carbon roof panels and forged magnesium wheels—further reducing weight by 15 lb and boosting chassis stiffness by 5%. Production is capped at 300 units globally.

8. Conclusion

The 2025 WRX tS is a masterclass in suspension and chassis calibration. It doesn’t chase headline horsepower figures but teaches us that balanced dynamics and driver-focused engineering deliver a more rewarding experience. While the price edges close to $50K without an STI badge or additional power, the tS’s scalpel-sharp turn-in, robust braking, and advanced cooling systems validate its place as a top performer in the compact performance segment.