The 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen returns, and while it packs all the obvious functionality, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a decent native navigation system, it still suffers from terribly sluggish response times. The new digital gauge cluster offers multiple display options, including a driver-focused performance view with boost pressure, gear position, and torque distribution.
A new digital gauge cluster can be configured as a typical presentation of dials or a track-oriented cluster with a bar graph tach. Navigation depicts maps crisply, too.
Eyesight needs to tone down the overeager alerts.
Jim Resnick
Jim Resnick
This infotainment is way more sluggish than is acceptable in 2025.
Jim Resnick
Eyesight needs to tone down the overeager alerts.
Jim Resnick
This infotainment is way more sluggish than is acceptable in 2025.
Jim Resnick
But Subaru’s EyeSight, which offers a variety of driver monitoring systems, breaks all known records in nannyism with pervasive, over-the-top reminders about driver attention. The system instructed me to keep my hands on the steering wheel, even though my hands were already on the steering wheel. It told me to keep my eyes on the road, but I was looking straight ahead at the car in front of me. Perhaps it was programmed by a very nervous George Costanza?
The build quality in the WRX TS is up to snuff, and soft-touch materials cover more surfaces than before. The cabin isn’t quite that of a luxury car, nor would anyone really expect it to be. It’s functional, durable, and right in character for the tS and for a Subaru.
The WRX tS retains some quirks, like the raucous engine note, especially under load and when first fired up. Until the fast idle has settled down, the exhaust is very boomy at the rear of the car.
Jim Resnick
Would it be a turbo Subie if it didn’t have a hood scoop?
Jim Resnick
Jim Resnick
It’s not quite pink STI badging.
Jim Resnick
Jim Resnick
But you won’t forget what variant it is.
Jim Resnick
It’s not quite pink STI badging.
Jim Resnick
But you won’t forget what variant it is.
Jim Resnick
And then there’s the price. At $48,875, including the required destination charge, the un-optioned WRX tS gives you almost no change from $50,000. That’s a big heap of money for a WRX with no additional power than others and no STI badge, except on the gauges and shift knob. However, you do get a chassis above reproach, brakes that never give up, and steering that can shame some exotics. And it renders the Roberts in your life mute.
