Subaru Introduces WRX TR: No Longer a Stripped Base Trim
Set to be shown in person at tomorrow’s Subiefest in Florida, the new Subaru WRX TR adds a yaffle of performance-grade components to this boxer-engined all-wheel drive package.
What Does TR Stand For?
Whilst the word appears exactly zero times in the bumf, we do feel that TR actually stands for ‘Track Ready’ this time around, instead of the old designation of ‘Tuner Ready’ on the last WRX to wear this badge. As you may recall from our post about this rig’s teaser shots last week. When last seen about 15 years ago, the TR stood for ‘tuner ready’ – essentially a base WRX with a few deleted features and a lower price tag.
Performance Upgrades
For 2024, the TR trim is ‘enthusiast-focused’ and layers on gear such as a high-performance Brembo braking system which surprisingly has six-piston front calipers. Two-piston loaves hang out in the rear. Pads, rotors, and the master cylinder are also larger than stock. This should help anyone who takes their WRX to track days or autocross events. Stiffer springs, revised damping rates, and retuned steering round out other suspension tweaks.
Safety First
Notably, the brand’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is offered here for the first time on a WRX equipped with a manual transmission. This safety tech includes safety tools like adaptive cruise control, a pre-collision braking system, and lane departure warnings. In fact, Subaru says all 2024 WRX models equipped with a stick will include this variant of EyeSight as standard equipment. That’s great news for those of us hoping the Exploding Galaxy continues – at least for a spell – as one of the last bastions of manual transmission. After all, it would have been a lot easier (and cheaper) for Subie to leave well enough alone instead of adapting EyeSight for dance duty with a manual transmission.
Comfort and Style
Other TR tricks include a set of Recaro seats as standard equipment, offering the driver and front passenger increased support (or at least the chance to brag). They are wrapped in black and gray Ultrasuede with red stitching and have 8-way power adjustments for the driver. Harkening back to the original stripper TR, this new one deletes the sunroof in search of weight savings and a better center of gravity, not to mention extra headroom for a helmet. Good.
Powerful Performance
Under the hood is that familiar boxer engine, displacing 2.4L and belting out 271 turbocharged horsepower. Torque settles at 258 lb.-ft and is completely available at just 2,000 rpm. Pricing will be announced later this year.
Conclusion
The new Subaru WRX TR is a thrilling addition to the WRX lineup, offering performance enthusiasts a track-ready package with a range of upgrades. With its high-performance Brembo braking system, stiffer suspension, and retuned steering, the WRX TR is designed to excel on track days and autocross events. The inclusion of Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology on manual transmission models showcases the brand’s commitment to safety. The Recaro seats and weight-saving measures further enhance the driving experience. Under the hood, the 2.4L boxer engine delivers impressive power and torque. Overall, the WRX TR is set to impress performance enthusiasts with its combination of power, handling, and safety features. Stay tuned for pricing announcements later this year.
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