Tuner Ready; that’s what the abbreviation at the end of this Subaru’s model name means; the 2024 Subaru WRX TR. A nod to ‘tuner’ culture, which to this day remains the dedicated fan base of the brand.
The new model has some good stuff like a 6-speed manual gearbox, but there’s no extra horsepower or DCCD differential control. So, it’s like an STI … almost. Still, the Subaru WRX TR is an improvement as it adds options that were only available in the just too-soft GT model; it’s got go-fast goodies for track-day enthusiasts without luxury options.
The WRX TR has six-piston front / two-piston rear Brembo brakes, with larger rotors and calipers. There’s a bigger brake master cylinder for improved heat dissipation at the track. Springs, shocks / struts have been stiffened without sacrificing ride quality too much. The steering rack has been modified to reduce body roll and improve steering response. The model comes standard with upgraded Bridgestone Potenza S007 summer tires on 19-inch wheels, no wider than the regular WRX’s 18″ Dunlops, but with better feedback to the driver thanks to the thinner sidewalls. Subaru included the GT’s eight-way power adjustable Recaro seats, with better bolstering over the standard buckets.
And unlike the GT, the TR makes no attempt at being fancy. No heavy moonroof, no adaptive suspension and a basic car radio. Tuners won’t miss these items as coilovers and Clarions are common customizations by WRX owners. Interestingly, Subaru is offering its full “EyeSight” safety system (including forward emergency braking) on manual-transmissions models for the first time. Tuners should remember to turn the system off before taking the the WRX TR out on track.
Still, the ’24 WRX TR isn’t a replacement for the discontinued WRX STI. That ‘halo car’ offered more horsepower and the ability altering vehicular dynamics through the adjustable center differential. It could be tuned to meet the driver’s preference, and desired driving behavior.
At least this is a step in a more tuner-friendly direction like the old Bugeye that first captivated the public’s attention 20 years ago.
