Why This Four-Cylinder Sports Car Should Be on Your Radar
Cover Image: Exploring the Four-Cylinder Sports Car
Regarding sports cars, legends have evolved out of a need to satisfy those who yearn for adrenaline without having to pay outrageous costs associated with exotic supercars. From the venerable Toyota Supra and Nissan GT-R of the 1990s to today’s adored Toyota GR86 and Mazda Miata, these vehicles have become icons. Among these contemporary heroes, the Subaru WRX is a shockingly underappreciated gem in 2024.
The WRX: Competitive Edge Affordable Thrills
Though its rivals often eclipse the Subaru WRX, it provides a special combination of performance and economy. For those looking for a sports sedan without breaking the budget, the WRX offers a convincing substitute for competitors like the Toyota GR Corolla and Honda Civic Type R, which have larger price tags. Its reasonable price makes it a desirable choice in the sports compact car market since it provides great value.
Trim Choices and Price Range
With its range of trim options, which let you pick depending on your tastes and money, the WRX distinguishes itself. The base model’s price differential from the top-tier variant can be over $10,000. Equipped with Brembo brakes, a specially tuned suspension, Bridgestone performance tires, and Recaro seats, the new TR model seems to be the most capable variation for 2024. Those looking for a higher degree of sportiness should find this model ideal.
Best Value for Your Money
The TR model might not provide the best value for every buyer even if it is designed for the best driving experience. The Premium model offers a good blend of features without raising the cost, so balancing comfort and performance. Conversely, even if the GT trim is well-equipped, its higher cost and lack of a manual transmission option might make it a less wise pick.
Performance
The WRX stands out mostly for its 271-horsepower engine, which comes standard on all trim levels. Though not the most strong engine available, it offers competitive acceleration and performance. Renowned for its horizontally opposed cylinders, the 2.4-liter boxer engine of the WRX helps to provide outstanding balance, crisp handling, and smooth acceleration.
Transmission and Driving Force
Differentiating the WRX as the only all-wheel-drive sedan with a manual transmission accessible today is its standard six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive. Subaru offers a continuously variable gearbox (CVT) with manual shifting options for individuals who want an automatic option. But the only model with the CVT is the GT one.
Image: The Sports Car That Defies Expectations
Fuel economy
The WRX’s fuel efficiency suffers even with its four-cylinder engine. In terms of efficiency, it more nearly matches a midsize SUV than a small car. Fascinatingly, models with the CVT have worse fuel economy than those with the manual transmission. Though the manual transmission is often more efficient, both transmission choices have comparable fuel economy.
Interior
The Subaru WRX honors its rally past with an inside that blends modern luxury with nostalgia. Sporty features such as red stitching and carbon trimming give the utilitarian and strong design great strength. Higher models have leather-covered steering wheels and gear levers as well as ultra suede upholstery. Recaro seats for the TR and GT grades improve the athletic impression.
Infotainment and Technology
Modern and user-friendly is the infotainment system of the WRX. Higher trims have an 11.6-inch vertically mounted screen; base models feature a seven-inch touchscreen. Both systems let Apple CarPlay and Android Autorun. The WRX also features dual-zone climate control; heated seats are accessible via the all-weather package. Although its inside is not very opulent, it offers the necessary conveniences and comfort.
The Next 2025 WRX tS
With the WRX tS, or “Tuned by STI,” Subaru is getting ready to offer a new trim level for 2025. Expected to be a performance-oriented variant of the WRX, this model has Recaro seating, high-performance Brembo brakes, and STI-tuned dampers. Maintaining the manual-only transmission choice, the WRX tS will appeal to aficionados seeking a more interesting driving experience.
Expectations and Cost
Although the 2025 WRX tS price has not yet been revealed, it should be positioned like the present TR model. This new trim is much awaited in the lineup since it promises to improve the driving dynamics and performance of the WRX.
Conclusion
Out of all the four-cylinder sports vehicles of 2024, the Subaru WRX is among the least appreciated ones. For sports car aficionados, it presents a convincing option because it provides a special mix of cost, performance, and utility. The WRX offers an interesting driving experience hard to beat in its price bracket with its base 271-horsepower engine, all-wheel drive, and manual transmission option. Enthusiasts have even more to look forward to as Subaru gets ready to unveil the WRX tS for 2025). For those looking for a fun and useful sports sedan, the WRX stays a strong candidate whether your search is for a new or used car.
