2024 Subaru WRX Expert Review
Reviewed by Bob Hernandez
Alongside the BRZ, the 2024 WRX is one of Subaru's two performance compacts and the only AWD sedan in the class. Originally a basis for Subaru's rally efforts, it has continued to be a popular tuner car since the 1990s. Competitors include the Toyota GR Corolla and Honda Civic Si .
What's New
A new generation of the WRX arrived for 2022 with more power, fresh styling, and updated technology. For 2024, Subaru adds the performance-focused TR model to the lineup.
What We Think
The WRX is known for being a driver's car, and Subaru doesn't mess with the formula much for this generation. Quick steering, traction for days, and decent power output equal moderate fun in the canyons or on the road course, although handling characteristics are a bit dull. The model's motorsport lineage adds to its allure.
Disappointingly, almost every WRX over the last decade is slower than the one before it, and that continues with this car. Its narrow powerband and damped clutch each deserve a little credit for increasing times. If the 2024 Subaru WRX was any quicker, though, it'd probably get worse fuel economy than it already does. Safe evolutionary steps in styling don't do the car any favors, either. Ultimately, the WRX isn't what it used to be, and rivals like the Toyota GR Corolla have given enthusiasts the STI model Subaru didn't.
Performance and MPGs
Output from the 2024 WRX's 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine is rated at 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Every WRX is also all-wheel drive and comes with a standard six-speed manual or an available CVT automatic.
Fuel economy for the 2024 automatic is slightly worse than last year. The CVT car gets 18/25 mpg city/highway, a decrease of 1 mpg in city mileage compared to the 2023. With the manual transmission, the WRX is unchanged at 19/26 mpg city/highway.
What Is the 2024 WRX TR?
Back in 2006 and 2007, , Subaru introduced a WRX TR model as the top trim of the Impreza lineup. The letters stand for "Tuner Ready" and the car was appropriately prepped for modification, meaning it ditched the highest model's CD changer, sport seats, foglights, and aero bits that would be replaced by tuners anyway—but kept its powerful 2.5-liter turbo flat-four.
The 2024 TR doesn't get a stronger powertrain, but it does gain stiffer springs and revised dampers, a retuned steering rack, and trim-specific 19-inch wheels shod in Bridgestone Potenza S007 summer tires. Subaru also gives the new TR extensive brake system upgrades, specifically larger rotors and master cylinder as well as Brembo six-piston calipers up front and two-piston calipers in the rear. Inside, the first row is gets Recaro seats upholstered in Ultrasuede.
All the 2024 WRX TR's add-ons are more driver ready than tuner ready. At least Subaru deleted the sunroof to save a few pounds.
How Quick Is the 2024 WRX?
Here's a bummer: Nearly every WRX we've tested since the 2013 model has been slower than the one before it. Among four-cylinder sport compact sedan rivals, the same generation 2022 WRX GT with CVT is quicker to 60 mph than the 228-hp 2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI but not as quick as the 276-hp 2023 Hyundai Elantra N, both of which use FWD. The Subaru makes the sprint in 5.7 seconds, the VW in 6.4 seconds, and the Hyundai in 5.5 seconds.
Safety Ratings and Features
The 2024 WRX scores NHTSA's highest grade, a five-star overall safety rating. Last year's car missed IIHS' highest distinctions only because it didn't undergo the institute's updated tests. In six other crash tests, the WRX earned ratings of Good across the board.
Standard driver assistance features include automatic headlights with automatic high-beams and a rear seat reminder. If you get the 2024 WRX with a CVT (or the range-topping WRX TR with a manual), it comes with adaptive cruise control, lane keeping, and a lane centering feature. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic monitoring are standard on the Limited trim, which unlocks Subaru's automatic emergency steering.
Cargo Space and Interior Room
Front legroom in the WRX compares favorably to the 2023 Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Jetta. The shorter Subaru can't match its rivals' trunk volume, though.
2023 Hyundai Elantra N
42.3/38.0 inches
14.2 cubic feet
2023 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
41.1/37.4 inches
14.1 cubic feet
Technology
Dual 7.0-inch center displays, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and LED headlights are standard on the base model. Move up one trim level for the Premium to unlock standard heated front seats and the 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen.
