At the rate the Subaru WRX has been getting special edition models, the automaker from Gunma should really give us a full-on, true STI version by now. No, we’re not talking about the S210 that’s (sadly) saddled with CVT. We want the real deal.
But, for reasons only Subaru will know, it’s not happening any time soon. Instead, here’s yet another WRX variant with STI parts but isn’t quite an STI. Dubbed the tS Spec B, it promises a sharper, more engaging drive, just like literally all the special edition WRX’s that have come and gone since.
Full specs of the car will be revealed soon, but at least the company has mentioned a couple of goodies that will make it to the sports sedan.
OTHER STORIES YOU MIGHT HAVE MISSED:
PH fuel price update: Another P0.70/L increase for gasoline effective February 25
CALAX Governer’s Drive is scheduled to open in H2 2025
For starters, we think it’s already better than the limited-run S210 thanks to its six-speed manual. We’re not saying the CVT in the WRX is terrible, but three pedals and a stick shift in a Subaru is a combination that gets any enthusiast more excited.
That said, we’re not expecting any extra power out of it. But is Subaru will add a few horses under the hood, that would be greatly appreciated. Currently, the WRX uses a 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine that makes 271hp and 350Nm. Output like that means it’s more a competitor of the (capable) Hyundai Elantra N than, say, a Civic Type R.
Traditionally, Spec B meant suspension upgrades, and this version of the WRX is no different. Again, there’s no specific mention of what the new parts are, but we’re bound to see uprated springs and dampers, and likely stiffer bushings along the way. It also gains 19-inch matte grey alloys, along with more robust brakes care of Brembo. Lastly, it wouldn’t be a proper rally-ready Subaru sedan if it doesn’t have a massive wing on the trunklid.
Full specs of the Subaru WRX tS Spec B will be released soon. As for the STI version, the folks from Gunma still wouldn’t commit to one. One can say that the demand is there, given the Toyota is practically running away with the title of top Japanese all-wheel drive compact car with both the GR Yaris and GR Corolla. Please, Subaru, just give the S210 a proper manual and a little more power. It’ll make the motoring community leap with joy, for sure.
