2025 Subaru WRX tS Spec B Review

Subaru’s WRX has long held a special place in the hearts of driving purists, a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive icon born from rally stages and back-road blasts. But with the legendary STI badge officially off the table, the 2025 WRX tS Spec B steps in to carry the torch.

It doesn’t claim to be a full-blown STI replacement, and it doesn’t try to be. Instead, it leans into what made the WRX great in the first place, a punchy boxer engine, a six-speed manual, and a chassis that begs to be driven hard. What you get is a car that blends old-school charm with just enough modern refinement to feel relevant in 2025.

So the big question is, does the Spec B deliver the true WRX experience, or is it more style than substance?

Pricing & Value: What You Get for $61K

At $61,490 before on-road costs, the WRX tS Spec B is priced as the hero of Subaru’s WRX range, but not so high as to be completely out of reach for die-hard enthusiasts. Compared to the entry-level WRX manual sedan, it asks a $13,300 premium, and what you’re paying for is a sharper, more focused experience rather than raw performance gains.

On paper, you’re getting a well-loaded package: six-piston Brembo brakes, electronically adjustable suspension with multiple drive modes, 19-inch wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007s, Recaro front seats, and both a 12.3-inch digital cluster and 11.6-inch touchscreen. It’s a proper feature set and one that hints at STI aspirations.

The key catch? Some of those previously exclusive features, like the Recaros and digital cluster, have since been made standard across the broader tS range. That waters down some of the Spec B’s uniqueness, especially now that the same ‘Tuned by STI’ badging can be had on CVT-equipped sedans and wagons.

Still, this is the only WRX in the 2025 line-up to combine a six-speed manual with adaptive dampers, giving it a distinct driving character that none of the other variants replicate, especially not the automatic-only Sportswagon.

So while it’s not the quickest WRX for the money, and not quite the unicorn it first appeared to be, the Spec B still earns its keep through its spec balance, chassis finesse, and old-school WRX energy that’s hard to price.

Exterior Design: Rally Hints with a Retro Twist

The WRX tS Spec B doesn’t shout, but it doesn’t exactly whisper either. It walks a line between aggressive nostalgia and modern restraint, a blend that will either win over longtime Subaru fans or leave them wanting more edge.

At first glance, it’s the oversized rear wing that sets the tone. It’s a callback to mid-2000s STIs, evoking memories of gravel stages and gymkhana clips, but whether it looks purposeful or plasticky depends on where you’re standing. It’s certainly more visual theatre than functional aero, but that’s half the point.

Framing the stance are 19-inch alloy wheels, unique to the Spec B, wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres. They fill the guards nicely and help give the WRX a squatter, more planted look compared to base models. Behind them sit the bright Brembo calipers, six-piston up front that signal this isn’t your average WRX.

Otherwise, the design sticks closely to the current-gen WRX template, meaning chunky plastic cladding, sharp creases, and a bonnet scoop that actually works. It’s familiar, and in Galaxy Blue or the new Galaxy Purple Pearl, even a bit grown-up. There’s a touch of blacked-out aggression around the grille and side mirrors, but nothing overdone.

The omission of a sunroof is deliberate, Subaru says it’s in the name of weight savings and performance balance, but it also means a sleeker roofline with fewer visual interruptions.

In a world of overstyled hot hatches and over-chromed performance sedans, the WRX Spec B still feels like a driver’s car just by looking at it. Not flawless, not futuristic, but purposeful and unmistakably Subaru.

Under the Hood: Familiar Power with Smarter Delivery

Beneath the bonnet scoop lies a 2.4-litre turbocharged flat-four engine, the same one found across the WRX range. Outputs sit at 202kW and 350Nm, which won’t blow minds in 2025, but tell only half the story. What matters more here is how that power is delivered and how well it pairs with the rest of the Spec B hardware.

Unlike some older WRXs, this engine offers usable torque from low in the rev range, peaking at just 2000rpm. It’s a welcome departure from the days of laggy off-boost grumbles, making the car feel punchy and alert even in everyday traffic. That tractability is especially noticeable with the short final drive ratio (4.4:1), which gives the Spec B excellent response off the line.

Key highlights include:

• 202kW / 350Nm 2.4L turbo flat-four
• 6-speed manual transmission with tight, mechanical throw
• Short 4.4:1 final drive for quicker acceleration
• Viscous centre limited-slip differential
• Active torque vectoring system
• Electronically adjustable dampers tied to Drive Mode Select

The six-speed manual gearbox delivers a clean, positive shift feel. Clutch action is firm but predictable, giving drivers the confidence to hustle the car without fear of a clunky engagement. It’s not a lightning-fast gearbox, but it feels mechanical, honest, and satisfying, which fits the WRX character perfectly.

It’s worth noting that while the Spec B adds handling hardware, power figures remain unchanged from the regular WRX lineup. There’s:

• No extra power tuning
• No upgraded turbo
• No DCCD system like previous STI models

Still, the pairing of manual gearbox, mechanical differential, and adjustable dampers gives the WRX tS Spec B a much more connected and responsive feel than lower trims or CVT-equipped variants. It’s not about outright speed, it’s about how well the package works as a whole.

On the Road: Balanced, Confident, and Properly Engaging

Drive the WRX tS Spec B for five minutes and one thing becomes clear this is the most cohesive WRX driving experience in years. It doesn’t have the raw edge of an old STI, but it delivers a surprising level of balance, control, and confidence that makes it an absolute joy on back roads.

The chassis feels alive in a way regular WRXs simply don’t. The adjustable dampers, defaulting to Sport mode on startup, give it a firm but usable edge, offering that classic rally-car tautness without punishing you over poor roads. Shift into Comfort mode, and the ride becomes genuinely supple, soaking up bumps better than some modern SUVs.

Key on-road strengths:

• Impressive ride quality across all three damper settings
• Excellent body control during fast directional changes
• Sharp steering feel, especially in Comfort or Normal modes
• Serious grip from Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres
• Responsive, linear brakes from the 6-piston Brembos
• Manual gearbox encourages driver connection and rhythm

There’s a natural flow to how the car behaves, the front end feels keyed-in, the steering is predictable (if a bit heavy in Sport), and the torque vectoring system works subtly to reduce understeer when you push. You’re never overwhelmed by power, but always rewarded for smooth inputs and confident throttle application.

Compared to earlier WRX generations, this version feels more refined but also more sorted, thanks to:

• A smoother power delivery curve
• Better matched gear ratios
• More progressive brake pedal feel
• A cohesive drivetrain-to-chassis connection

However, it does have its limits. Without the STI’s old DCCD and Torsen diffs, there’s no mid-corner magic when grip levels fall away, just safe, predictable AWD behaviour. And while the engine is torquey, it won’t thrill high in the rev range like some rivals do.

But that’s kind of the point. The WRX Spec B isn’t built to chase lap times or light up the spec sheet, it’s built to be driven, and driven hard, in the real world.

Practicality: Everyday Functionality with a Few Flaws

For all its performance upgrades and enthusiast appeal, the WRX tS Spec B still has to function as a daily driver. and it mostly does, though not without compromises.

The four-door sedan layout offers decent accessibility, and rear seat legroom is genuinely good. Adults can comfortably sit in the back without feeling cramped, and the door openings make child seat loading relatively straightforward. However, the absence of a sunroof doesn’t help headroom, which feels tighter than expected despite the sloped roofline.

In the boot, there’s 411 litres of cargo space, enough for a couple of overnight bags or a weekly grocery run, but it’s significantly less than the 492L available in the WRX Sportswagon. And unlike the wagon, there’s no fold-flat convenience or extended loading capacity, which limits its appeal for those who need more versatility.

Inside the cabin, storage is adequate without being overly generous. The door bins are flock-lined, which helps reduce rattles from drink bottles or loose items, and there are USB ports front and rear. But rear-seat passengers miss out on air vents, an odd omission at this price point and particularly noticeable on warmer days.

While the manual transmission and firm Recaro seats hint at a more focused driving experience, they do make stop-start traffic and long commutes slightly less comfortable. Still, for drivers who enjoy the engagement, these trade-offs are likely worth it.

Overall, the WRX tS Spec B is livable enough for everyday duties, but buyers needing maximum practicality will find more flexibility and space in the wagon variant or elsewhere in the Subaru lineup.

Interior: Classic WRX Vibe with a Modern Twist

Step inside the WRX tS Spec B and you’re met with a cabin that blends old-school performance cues with a touch of 2025 tech, though not without a few compromises.

The highlight, and perhaps the most divisive feature, is the Recaro bucket seats. Upholstered in a mix of suede-like material and leatherette, they look the part and offer serious lateral support when you’re pushing the car hard. But they’re not built for everyone, the bolsters are tight, the seat bases are short, and the backrests are firm to the point of fatigue on longer drives. For some, they’ll feel race-ready. For others, they’ll feel like punishment.

Up front, the cabin is laid out in familiar Subaru fashion: function over flair. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster is bright and legible, though its design and customisation options feel a little dated compared to newer rivals. The centre stack is dominated by Subaru’s now-signature 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen, which controls everything from audio and nav to HVAC, thankfully flanked by physical dials and buttons for quick access to key functions.

Key interior features include:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
• Red contrast stitching and faux carbon fibre accents
• Mechanical handbrake for true enthusiast appeal

Tech-wise, smartphone integration is smooth and intuitive, but there’s no wireless charging pad, which feels like a miss in a car of this price. That said, the audio quality from the Harman Kardon system adds an unexpected level of premium feel.

Material quality is a mixed bag. There’s plenty of black plastic, but also nice touches like alcantara-style inserts on the dash and doors. It’s not luxurious, but it’s cohesive and suits the car’s character.

In the back, passengers get USB ports and heated seats, but again, no rear air vents, an odd oversight. Headroom is limited due to the sloping roofline, though legroom is decent enough for most.

Overall, the WRX tS Spec B’s cabin won’t wow you with luxury or cutting-edge design, but it delivers on what matters: driver focus, honest ergonomics, and just enough modern tech to feel up to date.

Fuel Efficiency: Punchy Performance, Premium Appetite

Performance has never been the WRX’s strong suit when it comes to sipping fuel, and the 2025 tS Spec B doesn’t rewrite that story. Official figures quote a combined consumption of 10.4L/100km, which places it firmly on the thirstier side of the sports sedan spectrum, especially in an era of mild-hybrids and downsized turbos.

Urban driving is where the Spec B’s appetite really shows, with Subaru claiming 14.2L/100km in stop-start conditions. On the highway, it fares better at 8.2L/100km, but you’ll still want to plan your servo visits ahead of a long trip.

In our testing, real-world figures hovered around 11.0 to 11.5L/100km during mixed driving, not wildly off the claimed numbers, but certainly not lean.

Important to note:

• 95 RON premium fuel is required, no E10 or 91 here
• The 63-litre tank gives a theoretical range of around 600km, though spirited driving will bring that down fast
• Manual models use more fuel than their CVT counterparts, which is slightly unusual in today’s market

Compared to other performance sedans or hot hatches, the WRX Spec B isn’t drastically worse, but it’s clear Subaru hasn’t chased efficiency with this model, the focus here is on engagement, not economy. And in that sense, the thirst might be worth it for those who enjoy the drive.

Safety & Driver Aids: Good, But Incomplete

Subaru has built a solid reputation for safety across its range, and the WRX tS Spec B carries forward many of the brand’s trusted driver assistance systems. But there are a few strange gaps in coverage, especially if you opt for the manual.

The tS Spec B includes Subaru’s latest EyeSight driver monitoring system, complete with Emergency Driving Stop, which can bring the car to a halt if it detects the driver has become unresponsive. It also features a wide suite of active safety aids like forward collision warning, lane departure alerts, and blind-spot monitoring.

Key features include:

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Lane centring and lane keep assist
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Side view monitor
• Driver attention monitoring system
• Eight airbags including front, side, curtain, and driver’s knee airbag

However, there are some head-scratchers. Manual WRX variants do not get rear AEB or parking sensors, which feels like a major oversight in a car that otherwise caters to enthusiasts who may still drive in dense city traffic or park in tight spots. You do get a decent reverse camera, but it doesn’t fully make up for the missing hardware.

Also worth noting, the current WRX generation is not yet ANCAP rated, though past Subaru models, including the Outback, Forester, and Crosstrek, have historically performed well.

Despite the omissions, the overall tech suite is competitive, and most of the high-end driver aids are present. But for buyers wanting full peace of mind in all driving conditions, the missing elements may cause pause.

Maintenance and Warranty: The Cost of Keeping It

Subaru keeps things fairly straightforward when it comes to ownership, with the WRX tS Spec B covered by a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, now the industry standard in Australia. There’s also 12 months of roadside assistance included, with the option to extend it as long as you service through a Subaru dealer.

Servicing intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km, which aligns with most rivals in this segment. Subaru offers capped-price servicing plans, and they’re not exactly bargain-bin:

• Three-year plan: $1370
• Five-year plan: $2692

While it’s not outrageous, it’s slightly higher than what you might pay for a Hyundai i30 N or even a GR Corolla. That said, you’re not paying purely for oil and filters, Subaru’s network is known for quality support and consistent pricing nationwide, which adds peace of mind.

Also worth noting:

• The WRX tS Spec B requires 95 RON premium fuel
• It’s thirstier than most manual rivals, especially around town
• No hybrid or electrified option means no EV rebates or tax breaks for urban buyers

The WRX has never been the cheapest performance car to own, and the Spec B continues that trend. But for those who value a mechanical, enthusiast-focused package with few compromises to engagement, the running costs feel justifiable, even if they’re not particularly low.

Verdict: A WRX for the True Believers

The 2025 WRX tS Spec B isn’t the fastest or most cutting-edge performance sedan on the market, but it doesn’t need to be. Its charm lies in its honesty, a turbocharged boxer engine, a proper six-speed manual, and a chassis that rewards spirited driving. In a world shifting rapidly toward electrification and automation, the Spec B stands firm as a driver’s car built for people who still love the feel of mechanical engagement.

No, it’s not a true STI replacement. There’s no additional power, no trick differentials, and no motorsport-grade tweaks to set it apart from the ground up. And yet, it manages to deliver a driving experience that feels more focused, more connected, and more cohesive than any WRX has in years.

It’s not perfect. The fuel consumption is high, the Recaro seats won’t suit everyone, and some omissions in the safety department raise eyebrows at this price point. But it’s also the only WRX in the range that combines a manual transmission with adaptive suspension and that combination alone gives it a unique appeal that no other variant can match.

What Subaru has created here is a performance sedan for the traditionalist. The WRX tS Spec B is a celebration of grip, gear changes, and gravel-road energy. It may not carry the STI badge, but in many ways, it captures the soul that made those cars special in the first place. For the right buyer, that will be more than enough.

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