Cargazing
By Derek Price
The 2024 Subaru WRX TR is a testament to the brand’s commitment to performance, offering a more refined take on the rally-inspired sedan that has captivated enthusiasts for decades.
After a week behind the wheel, it’s clear that while the WRX may have matured, it hasn’t forgotten how to thrill.
At the heart of the WRX is a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with a smooth-revving inline layout, that produces a robust 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
This powerplant shines in real-world driving with strong low-end grunt that makes for effortless acceleration in daily traffic. Paired with a slick-shifting six-speed manual transmission, the WRX TR delivers an engaging driving experience that’s becoming increasingly rare in today’s market.
Where the WRX TR truly excels is in its handling. Subaru has hit a sweet spot with the suspension tuning, offering exceptional grip and body control without sacrificing everyday comfort.
The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides seemingly limitless traction in corners, instilling confidence even in challenging conditions.
The WRX’s aggressive stance and bold styling cues hint at its performance potential, while maintaining a somewhat understated presence.
The new high-performance Brembo braking system, featuring 6-piston front and 2-piston rear calipers, delivers impressive stopping power and pedal feel.
For 2024, Subaru has made some notable improvements to enhance the WRX’s performance credentials. The TR trim introduces stiffer springs, revised damping rates and a retuned steering rack, resulting in sharper responses and better body control. The addition of 19-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires further improves grip and braking performance.
Inside, the WRX strikes a balance between sportiness and comfort. The standard Recaro seats, upholstered in black and gray Ultrasuede, provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining somewhat comfortable for longer journeys.
The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system offers modern connectivity features, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Safety hasn’t been overlooked, with Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology now standard even on manual transmission models — a first for the WRX. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and lane departure warning, among other features.
Supportive Recaro seats and a large touchscreen infotainment system blend sportiness with modern convenience in the WRX’s driver-focused cabin.
While the latest WRX may not have the raw, uncompromising edge of the discontinued STI model, it compensates by offering a more well-rounded package.
The ride quality and noise levels have been improved, making the WRX a more palatable daily driver without sacrificing its performance DNA.
At $42,907 as tested, the WRX TR offers capabilities that rival more expensive European sports sedans, wrapped in a practical four-door package with Subaru’s renowned reliability.
For longtime WRX fans, this latest iteration might seem a bit more grown-up than its predecessors. However, the core attributes that have made the WRX a performance icon — turbocharged power, all-wheel-drive grip, and an engaging driving experience — remain firmly intact.
The 2024 WRX TR proves that maturity and excitement need not be mutually exclusive, delivering a compelling blend of everyday usability and thrilling performance.
At A Glance
WHAT WAS TESTED?
2024 Subaru WRX TR ($41,655). Options: All-weather floor liners ($132). Price as tested (including $1,120 destination charge): $42,907
BY THE NUMBERS
Wheelbase: 105.1 in.
Length: 183.8 in.
Width: 79.3 in.
Height: 57.8 in.
Engine: 2.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder (271 hp, 258 ft. lbs.)
Transmission: Six-speed manual
MPG: 19 city, 26 highway
RATINGS
Style: 9
Performance: 9
Price: 8
Handling: 9
Ride: 4
Comfort: 5
Quality: 8
Overall: 8
WHY BUY IT?
It offers an exhilarating driving experience with good everyday comfort, advanced safety features and all-weather capability.