Is the Subaru WRX TR the Return to Rally Roots?

Subaru enthusiasts have been waiting for a true driver-focused model since the brand discontinued the legendary STI. The 2024 Subaru WRX TR steps up to fill that void. By reviewing the specific steering and suspension upgrades on this tuner-ready sedan, we can see if it truly marks a return to Subaru’s rally roots.

What Does “TR” Actually Mean?

If you have followed Subaru for a long time, the “TR” badge might sound familiar. Back in 2006, Subaru released a WRX TR. At that time, TR stood for “Tuner Ready.” It was a stripped-down, bare-bones model meant to be a blank canvas for aftermarket builders. It came with basic seats, a standard stereo, and an unpainted mirror housing to keep the purchase price as low as possible.

The 2024 Subaru WRX TR takes the exact opposite approach. Instead of stripping parts away, Subaru added high-end hardware that is very difficult or expensive to install in your own garage. The modern TR gives you factory-warrantied track equipment, leaving you to focus entirely on engine tuning or aerodynamic modifications if you choose.

Steering and Suspension: The Heart of the TR Upgrade

The most significant changes to the 2024 WRX TR lie underneath the car. Subaru engineers focused heavily on improving handling dynamics and driver feedback.

The standard WRX is known for being a capable daily driver, but it can feel a bit soft when pushed hard on a track. To fix this, the WRX TR features significantly stiffer springs. Subaru increased the spring rates by 5 percent in the front and 5 percent in the rear. To match the stiffer springs, the damping rates on the shock absorbers were entirely revised. This translates to reduced body roll during tight cornering and a much more planted feel over uneven pavement.

Subaru also addressed the steering feel. The standard 2024 WRX steering rack is quick, but some drivers complain that it lacks feedback from the road. The TR model receives a specially retuned steering rack. This updated electronic power steering system offers more resistance and better communication. When you hit a mid-corner bump, the TR transmits that information directly to the steering wheel, giving you the confidence needed for aggressive driving.

Brakes and Grip: Stopping Power for the Track

A faster car needs better brakes. Subaru recognized this and partnered with Brembo to give the WRX TR a massive stopping upgrade.

The TR ditches the standard sliding brake calipers in favor of a heavy-duty Brembo system. The front wheels house six-piston calipers biting down on 13.4-inch cross-drilled rotors. The rear wheels get two-piston calipers paired with 12.8-inch cross-drilled rotors. These calipers are painted bright red and provide incredible bite. More importantly, this setup dramatically increases thermal capacity. If you take the TR to a track day, you will not experience the brake fade that plagues the standard WRX after a few hot laps.

To make sure those brakes actually grip the road, Subaru swapped out the standard Dunlop tires. The WRX TR rides on 19-inch satin gray alloy wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 summer tires (sized at 245/35R19). These tires offer a massive increase in lateral grip and wet weather traction compared to the base rubber.

Inside the Cabin: Built for the Driver

The interior of the WRX TR is designed specifically to support high-performance driving. The most noticeable upgrade is the inclusion of Recaro front seats as standard equipment.

These seats are wrapped in black and gray Ultrasuede with contrasting red stitching. They feature aggressive side bolsters that keep your torso and thighs locked firmly in place during heavy cornering. Furthermore, the driver’s seat includes an eight-way power adjustment, ensuring you can find the perfect driving position.

Subaru also made a very intentional subtraction. The WRX TR does not come with a moonroof. Removing the heavy glass and motor assembly from the roof lowers the car’s center of gravity. It also provides extra headroom, which is essential if you are wearing a helmet at an autocross event or track day.

Powertrain: The Unchanged 2.4-Liter Boxer

While the chassis received major updates, the engine bay remains identical to the rest of the WRX lineup. The WRX TR is powered by the familiar 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four boxer engine. It produces 271 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque, which comes on strong at just 2,000 rpm.

Some fans were disappointed that Subaru did not bump the power up to the 300-horsepower mark. However, keeping the stock engine allows Subaru to keep the price down while meeting strict emissions regulations.

Crucially, the WRX TR is only available with a six-speed manual transmission. Subaru refuses to offer this specific trim with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This decision cements the TR as a car built strictly for driving enthusiasts.

Pricing and Value: Is the TR Worth It?

The base 2024 Subaru WRX starts around $32,735. The upgraded WRX TR carries a starting price of $41,655 (excluding destination and delivery charges).

A nearly $9,000 price jump sounds steep at first glance. However, if you were to buy a base WRX and attempt to add six-piston Brembo brakes, Recaro seats, 19-inch wheels, Bridgestone Potenza tires, and upgraded suspension components yourself, you would spend far more than $9,000 in parts and labor. The TR offers tremendous value for buyers who want a track-capable daily driver right off the dealership lot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the WRX TR have more horsepower than the standard WRX? No. The WRX TR uses the exact same 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine as the rest of the lineup. It produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The upgrades on the TR are focused entirely on handling, braking, and steering.

What is the difference between the 2024 WRX TR and the 2025 WRX tS? Subaru announced the WRX tS for the 2025 model year to replace the TR. The upcoming tS will feature a fully digital gauge cluster and electronically controlled adaptive suspension dampers tuned by STI. The 2024 TR uses a traditional analog gauge cluster and fixed-rate mechanical suspension.

Can you get the WRX TR with an automatic transmission? No. The 2024 Subaru WRX TR is only available with a six-speed manual transmission. If you want a WRX with an automatic transmission, you must look at the GT trim, which features the Subaru Performance Transmission (a tuned CVT).