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2024 Subaru WRX TR Review: Is This the STI Replacement You've Been Waiting For?"
2024 Subaru WRX: Introducing the All-New TR Trim
The Subaru WRX has been a symbol of performance, offering rally-inspired thrills and practical design for decades. For 2024, Subaru introduces the TR trim, bringing a refreshing take on what fans of the brand have been waiting for. This detailed review breaks down everything you need to know about the new WRX, from its bold design updates to its advanced features.
What's New for the 2024 Subaru WRX
The 2024 Subaru WRX lineup has been expanded to include the new TR trim. The "Tuner-Ready" (TR) model caters to enthusiasts who want a blend of enhanced performance features without opting for the now-discontinued STI version. This move marks Subaru's efforts to keep the WRX relevant to its loyal fanbase while appealing to those looking for better handling and performance upgrades from the base version.
Design: Aggressive and Purposeful
The 2024 WRX maintains its aggressive styling with some noticeable changes. Prominent black plastic cladding runs along the lower body, creating a robust, adventurous look. While this design element has stirred mixed feelings among fans, it undoubtedly lends a more rugged aesthetic. The TR trim brings exclusive upgrades, such as 19-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza tires, enhancing the car's sporty persona. Red brake calipers and a functional hood scoop emphasize its racing heritage, while Subaru opts to remove the sunroof for the TR trim to save weight and improve handling. This stripped-down approach stays true to the essence of performance-focused driving.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the 2024 Subaru WRX continues to feature the turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering an exhilarating 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Subaru enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the TR trim retains the coveted six-speed manual transmission, enhancing the driving connection that fans cherish. The manual transmission also represents Subaru's dedication to keeping the WRX an engaging car in a world increasingly dominated by automatics and CVTs. The advanced Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system remains standard, providing excellent traction and stability, which has always been the backbone of the WRX's rallying prowess.
Driving Dynamics: Tuner-Ready Upgrades
The "Tuner-Ready" TR trim lives up to its name with modifications aimed at providing sharper handling and a more responsive driving experience. The addition of Brembo brakes on all four corners significantly improves stopping power, ensuring drivers can push the WRX to its limits with confidence. The upgraded suspension tuning delivers better feedback, reducing body roll during aggressive cornering while maintaining a comfortable ride for daily driving. The larger wheels and sticky Bridgestone Potenza tires enhance grip, making the TR trim a compelling choice for those who enjoy spirited driving.
Interior: Sporty Comfort and Technology
Inside the 2024 WRX TR, Subaru has focused on creating a driver-centric environment that reflects its sporty nature. The seats are wrapped in black and gray Ultrasuede, featuring Recaro stitching that adds a premium touch. The TR trim also features red accent stitching throughout the cabin, including on the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, providing a cohesive and performance-oriented look. The driver’s seat is power-adjustable, ensuring optimal driving comfort. The five-seat configuration remains intact, making the WRX a practical choice for those who want performance without compromising on everyday usability.
Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR comes equipped with Subaru's latest Starlink infotainment system, displayed on an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. This system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration without the clutter of cables. Bluetooth, SiriusXM, HD Radio, and SiriusXM Travel Link come standard, providing plenty of entertainment options on the go. Subaru has also included front and rear USB ports, making it convenient for all passengers to keep their devices charged. The dual-zone climate control and intuitive infotainment interface further add to the comfort and convenience the WRX offers.
Safety Features: Subaru EyeSight and More
Safety has always been a priority for Subaru, and the 2024 WRX is no exception. The Subaru EyeSight suite of driver assistance technologies is standard across the WRX lineup, including the new TR trim. This system now integrates with the manual transmission, a first for the WRX. Key features include automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure alerts. The TR trim also adds advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts, ensuring that drivers have the latest technology to keep them safe on the road.
Pricing and Value
As of now, Subaru has not released full pricing details for the 2024 WRX lineup. However, it's anticipated that the TR trim will be positioned above the current GT model, which starts at approximately $44,000. With the additional performance features and exclusive trim enhancements, the WRX TR is likely to carry a starting price closer to $50,000. Despite this, Subaru has a reputation for offering high value with minimal extra costs for upgrades, making the TR an attractive proposition for enthusiasts seeking a balanced performance car.
Should You Consider the 2024 Subaru WRX TR?
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR is ideal for those who want a performance-oriented car that’s equally adept on winding roads and in daily driving scenarios. With its upgraded brakes, sportier suspension, and exclusive design features, the TR trim bridges the gap between the standard WRX and the former STI, providing a tuner-ready platform that doesn’t sacrifice practicality. Its price point, while higher than previous trims, offers good value considering the extensive performance upgrades and features included.
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Last Updated On Oct, 31-2024