2024 Subaru WRX TR Review: An Enthusiast’s Dream or Overhyped Promise?
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR, known as the RS in Canada, has sparked considerable buzz among car enthusiasts. As the highest-equipped manual transmission trim in the WRX lineup, it promises a peak driving experience. But does it deliver on its promises, or is it just an STI in disguise? We delve deep into the features, performance, and overall driving experience of this intriguing vehicle to find out.
Introduction: A New Chapter for the WRX
The WRX has always been a cornerstone for Subaru, particularly among performance car enthusiasts. Over the years, it has garnered a loyal following due to its robust performance, rally heritage, and affordability. The 2024 WRX TR steps in as the latest trim, promising to elevate the driving experience with a host of upgrades. But in an era where performance cars face stiff competition from every angle, can the WRX TR hold its own? This review aims to dissect every aspect of the WRX TR to see if it lives up to the hype and whether it truly deserves the attention it has been getting.
Performance: Engine and Transmission
Engine Specifications
- Engine Type: 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer Engine
- Horsepower: 271 HP
- Redline: 6,000 RPM
The heart of the WRX TR is its 2.4L turbocharged boxer engine, producing a respectable 271 horsepower. This engine, while not unique to the TR, provides a solid foundation for performance. The turbocharged setup ensures that power delivery is punchy, making it a joy to push through the gears. The boxer engine configuration also lowers the car’s center of gravity, contributing to improved handling dynamics. However, enthusiasts might find the 6,000 RPM redline somewhat limiting, especially when compared to competitors that offer higher-revving engines.
Transmission
- Transmission Type: 6-Speed Manual
- Shifting Experience: Crisp and precise
The WRX TR is exclusively available with a manual transmission, underscoring its enthusiast-oriented nature. The 6-speed manual gearbox offers a satisfying and engaging shifting experience. Each shift feels crisp and precise, enhancing the driver’s connection with the car. This transmission setup is ideal for those who relish the tactile feedback and control that only a manual gearbox can provide. However, the low redline necessitates frequent shifts to stay within the powerband, which might not be to everyone’s liking.
Handling and Suspension
Chassis and Suspension Upgrades
- Chassis: Stiffened for improved safety and performance
- Suspension: TR-specific dampers
- Steering: Revised for better response
The WRX TR features a stiffer chassis compared to its predecessors, enhancing both safety and handling. The increased rigidity not only improves crash safety but also contributes to a more responsive and engaging driving experience. The suspension system includes TR-specific dampers, which are tuned to provide a balance between comfort and performance. However, this balance is more apparent at higher speeds, where the car feels planted and controlled. At lower speeds, the ride can feel harsh and jarring, which might deter some potential buyers.
On-Track Performance
Track Capabilities
- Lap Times: Competitive within its class
- Handling: Predictable and balanced
- Torque Vectoring: Subtle assistance in cornering
When it comes to track performance, the WRX TR shines. It delivers a predictable and balanced handling experience, making it easy for drivers to push their limits. The car’s chassis and suspension setup inspire confidence, allowing drivers to explore its limits safely. The subtle torque vectoring helps rotate the car towards the apexes, even with the systems switched off. This makes the WRX TR a joy to drive hard on the track. However, it’s important to note that the WRX TR, while impressive, does not come with the advanced differential systems found in the STI, which might leave some hardcore enthusiasts wanting more.
Interior and Comfort
Interior Features
- Seats: Recaro seats with moderate bolstering
- Infotainment: Standard WRX system
- Gauge Cluster: Analog, with an upcoming digital option in the TS trim
Inside, the WRX TR offers Recaro seats, which provide decent support without being overly aggressive. These seats strike a balance between comfort and support, making them suitable for both spirited driving and daily commutes. The infotainment system is standard for the WRX lineup, and while functional, it doesn’t particularly stand out. It includes all the necessary features but lacks the wow factor of more advanced systems found in competitors. The upcoming TS trim will feature a digital gauge cluster, but early impressions suggest it might be overly complex and cluttered, detracting from the driving experience.
Comfort Levels
- Daily Driving: Stiff ride, particularly at low speeds
- Space: Ample rear seat and trunk space
For daily driving, the WRX TR’s stiff suspension can be a downside. The ride quality suffers on rough roads, and the car feels more at home on smooth, open highways or track surfaces. The suspension tuning that makes it great on the track can be a liability in urban environments with less-than-perfect roads. However, the spacious rear seats and trunk make it a practical choice for those who need a performance car with a dose of everyday usability. The rear seats offer ample legroom, and the trunk space is more than adequate for daily needs, making it a versatile option for those who require practicality alongside performance.
Design and Aesthetics
Exterior Design
- Body Style: Sedan, with a preference for hatchback among some enthusiasts
- Design Elements: Hood scoop, aggressive front end, unique wheels
- Color Options: Various, including the notable ignition red
The design of the WRX TR is aggressive and purposeful, with a prominent hood scoop and sharp lines. The front end is particularly striking, with angular headlights and a bold grille that give the car a menacing look. However, some enthusiasts lament the lack of a hatchback option, which would add practicality and align with Subaru’s rally heritage. The ignition red color option adds a bold statement, though opinions on its appeal vary. Some may find it too flashy, while others might appreciate its attention-grabbing nature. Overall, the WRX TR’s design is a mix of function and form, catering to those who appreciate an aggressive, sporty look.
Wheels and Tires
- Wheels: Unique to the TR trim
- Tires: Performance-oriented, contributing to improved handling
The wheels and tires are specifically chosen for the TR trim, enhancing its performance capabilities. The unique wheel design not only adds to the car’s visual appeal but also aids in cooling the brakes during spirited driving. The tires offer excellent grip, helping the car maintain composure even during aggressive driving. This setup ensures that the WRX TR can handle the demands of both track and street driving, providing confidence to the driver in various conditions.
Safety Features
Safety Enhancements
- Chassis: Stiffened for improved crash safety
- Driver Assistance: Standard Subaru safety features
Safety has not been overlooked in the WRX TR. The stiffer chassis not only improves handling but also enhances crash safety. In the event of a collision, the increased rigidity helps protect occupants by maintaining the structural integrity of the car. Standard Subaru safety features, such as advanced driver assistance systems, provide an added layer of confidence for daily driving. These systems include adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, ensuring that the WRX TR is not just a performance car but also a safe one.
Market Position and Pricing
Pricing Breakdown
- U.S. Price: Approximately $42,000
- Canadian Price: Around CAD 50,577
The WRX TR is competitively priced, especially in the Canadian market where it offers better value. In the U.S., it’s positioned at around $42,000, making it an attractive option for performance enthusiasts looking for a manual, all-wheel-drive sedan. This pricing places it in a unique position, offering a blend of performance and practicality that is hard to find at this price point.
Competitors
- Honda Civic Type R
- Toyota GR Corolla
- Volkswagen Golf R
In its price range, the WRX TR faces stiff competition from the likes of the Honda Civic Type R, Toyota GR Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf R. Each of these rivals offers unique strengths, from the Civic Type R’s high-revving engine to the GR Corolla’s rally-inspired design. The Golf R, with its refined interior and advanced all-wheel-drive system, also presents a formidable challenge. However, the WRX TR’s combination of all-wheel drive, manual transmission, and robust performance make it a compelling choice for those who value driving engagement and versatility.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Engaging Manual Transmission: The 6-speed manual offers a connected driving experience, allowing enthusiasts to feel more in control and engaged with the vehicle.
- Solid Track Performance: Handles well on the track with predictable and balanced dynamics, making it a great choice for those who enjoy track days.
- Safety Enhancements: Stiffer chassis and standard safety features provide added peace of mind for both daily driving and spirited driving.
Cons
- Harsh Ride Quality: The stiff suspension can be jarring on rough roads, which might be a dealbreaker for those looking for a more comfortable daily driver.
- Limited Redline: The 6,000 RPM redline might disappoint those used to higher-revving engines, limiting the car’s appeal to some performance enthusiasts.
- Interior Tech: Standard infotainment and upcoming digital gauge cluster might not meet all expectations, particularly when compared to more advanced systems in rival cars.
Conclusion: A Car for the Enthusiast
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR is undeniably an enthusiast’s car. It offers a thrilling driving experience, especially on the track, where its handling and balance come to the forefront. The car’s performance capabilities, combined with its engaging manual transmission, make it a joy to drive for those who appreciate a connected driving experience. However, its stiff suspension and limited redline might be drawbacks for those seeking a more versatile daily driver.
For those who prioritize performance and driving engagement, the WRX TR is a compelling choice. It stands out in a crowded field of performance cars by offering a unique combination of all-wheel drive, a manual transmission, and a turbocharged engine at a competitive price point. Its track capabilities are impressive, and its safety features ensure that it is a well-rounded package.
Final Thoughts: Is the WRX TR Right for You?
If you’re an enthusiast who values driving engagement over comfort, the WRX TR will not disappoint. Its track capabilities, manual transmission, and Subaru’s legendary all-wheel drive make it a standout option. However, if you’re looking for a more comfortable daily driver with advanced tech features, you might want to explore other options within the same price range. The WRX TR’s harsh ride quality and standard interior tech might not meet the needs of those seeking a more refined driving experience.
In summary, the 2024 Subaru WRX TR is a car that caters to a specific audience—those who live for the thrill of driving. Its strengths lie in its performance and handling, making it a worthy successor in the WRX lineage. But like all performance cars, it comes with compromises that potential buyers should carefully consider. If you’re looking for a performance car that offers an engaging driving experience and are willing to live with some of its rough edges, the WRX TR is definitely worth a closer look.