I have a great appreciation for the current Subaru WRX. It embodies the essence of a modern sport compact—enjoyable, fairly practical, and still budget-friendly—and boasts enough character to rise above its slightly bland appearance. It’s the type of vehicle you can confidently use for both everyday tasks and your passion projects without fearing it might leave you in a bind. If I were to wake up tomorrow and find myself 15 years younger, I would likely consider purchasing one.
This wasn’t always how I felt, as past models did nothing to excite me. Years ago, a GR STI (the hatchback) and a brand-new 991 Porsche Carrera S overlapped briefly in my test drive schedule. When I shared a photo of my driveway on social media, a neighbor asked me if he was crazy for being “more intrigued” by the STI.
John, brother, I say this with all the affection in the world: Indeed.
My appreciation for Subaru’s sport compact blossomed with the 2022 update. I’ve owned my fair share of sporty vehicles; a 2008 Mazdaspeed3 and a 2016 Fiesta ST being the most notable—but regardless of how many WRXs or STIs I tested, it just didn’t resonate until Subaru added the millennial-bait cladding on the fenders. Just joking.
What truly shifted is that the WRX finally comes across as less of a tractor with a turbo and more like an actual car that’s enjoyable to drive. This is even truer for the 2024-2026 model years. Why? The tS. That’s what this 2025 tester is. Sure, it’s technically a year old and may not be relevant in the “new” car discourse, but the most notable change Subaru made for 2026 was the price tag.
The tS is the nearest equivalent we have to an STI. It’s literally in the name; tS signifies “tuned by STI.” The tS holds onto the stock WRX’s 271-horsepower boxer-four, but you receive the GT model’s adaptive dampers and Recaro seats without losing a clutch pedal. It’s not quite as loaded as the more luxurious GT, admittedly, but the latter comes exclusively with an automatic transmission.
This specific tS was provided with an option not typically found on the window sticker: a set of winter tires that instantly elevates the WRX from a jack of all trades to a master of fun.
I don’t believe I’ve ever driven a car with Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4s before, but Tire Rack appeared to favor them over their Dunlop and Pirelli counterparts. I didn’t encounter a dry road for the entire duration I drove the tS, so I can only comment on their ability to hold snow, which is excellent.
We experienced a snowy midwinter here in Southeast Michigan. After several consecutive blasts of snow and no thawing in between, the Detroit metro area had between 8 and 18 inches of snow on the ground the week I had the Subaru, effectively turning the world into one massive playground. It helps that Wayne County is scattered with abandoned parking lots built for an era when malls and big-box stores were prominent.
Equipping a WRX with snow tires is akin to enabling developer mode in real life; the usual limitations no longer apply. I don’t mean this literally, of course, but a good set of winter tires can feel nearly physics-defying, encouraging you to disable the WRX’s nannies and let the snow fly where it may. This fluffy stuff doesn’t cling to fenders; you need to warm up the tires if you intend to play the part.
Putting aside roundy-round antics, the WRX truly is remarkably approachable. While common belief suggests that all-wheel drive enhances a car’s handling in low-traction situations, that’s more of a myth than a reality. AWD provides another tool to make the most of the grip you already possess (or don’t), and while the WRX might lack the STI’s sophisticated center differential, it still offers plenty of performance on the street. As a result, the WRX’s limits come and go with minimal drama. At times, it even feels a bit too composed—like this platform is just itching for an additional 100 horsepower so you can truly determine where the limits lie.
Now that I’ve finished praising the donut-maker, I must highlight a few glaring drawbacks. Chief among them is the WRX’s outdated infotainment system. There’s little to say about it at this point. It appears old. It functions old. It is old. Additionally, there’s too much restricted behind it. Subaru is aware of this; we’ve witnessed the company’s latest effort in the Outback; it’s a significant upgrade that can’t come to the compact sport model soon enough. I hope it’s set for a mid-cycle refresh shortly.
As a self-proclaimed non-fanboy, I also think this ‘ru sounds like ‘doo. Sorry, but the boxer’s characteristic boxeriness doesn’t resonate with me the way it does with the faithful, and I find the WRX’s sound both muted and lacking any real emotion. STI offers an optional exhaust that gives it a bit more boom, but some find it droning and unappealing. I’m not one of them.
I have other complaints as well. The tS has some accents that brighten up what is otherwise a sea of black (and mostly hard) plastic in the cabin; there’s limited flair. And if you’re the type to get fixated on transmission ratios, the WRX’s almost-performatively short first gear might be a source of some underlying irritation.
While contemplating why I have recently warmed up to the WRX, it dawned on me that I’ve likely been perceiving this all incorrectly. The car didn’t evolve as much as I did over the years, although it did acquire something it previously lacked: composure. Maybe we both have?
It’s a pity about the cladding, though. Perhaps make it in black?
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**The New Subaru WRX: A Revolution with Snow Tires for Enhanced Capabilities**
The Subaru WRX has been recognized for its rally-inspired capabilities, all-wheel-drive features, and exhilarating driving experience. The latest version of this legendary sports sedan continues to expand on its heritage, introducing cutting-edge features and improvements that make it a fierce competitor in diverse driving conditions, particularly during winter. One of the key highlights of the new WRX is its compatibility with high-performance snow tires, which greatly enhance its effectiveness in snowy and icy conditions.
**Performance and Design**
At the core of the new Subaru WRX is an impressive turbocharged engine that provides thrilling performance. The standard 2.4-liter flat-four engine delivers significant horsepower and torque, resulting in quick acceleration and responsive handling. Paired with Subaru’s acclaimed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the WRX offers outstanding traction and stability, making it a dependable choice for drivers who encounter challenging weather.
The suspension of the WRX has also been refined to enhance handling and ride comfort. With a sport-tuned suspension configuration, the vehicle maintains agility on curvy roads while offering a smooth ride on uneven surfaces. This balance between performance and comfort is critical for drivers traversing both urban settings and rural landscapes.
**Snow Tires: A Significant Benefit**
While the WRX is designed to excel in various conditions, fitting it with high-quality snow tires can significantly boost its performance during winter months. Snow tires are specifically constructed with unique tread designs and rubber compositions that enhance traction on snow and ice. This is especially vital for a performance-oriented vehicle like the WRX, where maintaining control and stability is paramount.
The synergy of the WRX’s all-wheel-drive capability and snow tires facilitates improved acceleration, cornering, and braking in slippery conditions. Drivers can feel a greater sense of confidence while navigating through snow-covered roads, transforming the WRX into more than just a summer sports car; it becomes a year-round performer.
**Technology and Safety Features**
The new Subaru WRX comes outfitted with advanced technology and safety features that enhance the driving experience. The Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, offered on select trims, encompasses features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking. These systems function harmoniously with the WRX’s performance capabilities to enrich the overall safety of the driving experience, particularly in adverse weather.
Furthermore, the WRX boasts a contemporary infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, allowing drivers to remain connected while on the move. The user-friendly interface and superior audio system contribute to a pleasurable driving experience, whether for daily commuting or weekend adventures.
**Conclusion**
The new Subaru WRX distinguishes itself as a revolutionary contender in the sports sedan category, especially when paired with snow tires. Its robust performance, advanced engineering, and all-wheel-drive features render it an exceptional choice for drivers who seek an exhilarating ride throughout all seasons. With the added advantage of snow tires, the WRX evolves into a winter champion, ensuring enthusiasts can relish its dynamic performance no matter the weather. As Subaru continues to innovate and enhance the WRX, it remains a leading choice for those who prioritize performance, safety, and versatility in their vehicles.