The Impreza gains a new tS trim for 2025 and the EyeSight active safety suite is now compatible with manual transmission.

The WRX is an ultra-sporting spin-off of the platform that underpins the Impreza and Crosstrek. Unlike its platform mates, the WRX is a sedan, not a hatchback. Styling is quite attractive, with some interesting fender blisters to cover the wide tires. The sole engine offered is Subaru’s 2.4L turbo four. The turbo 2.4L is rated at 271 horsepower, 11 more than it does in an Outback but curses the owner with the need to buy premium fuel. Power can reach all four wheels via either a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT.

Driven briefly with a manual transmission, the WRX is a delight. The large capacity revs enthusiastically but is also quite flexible and non-peaky.

The WRX’s clutch is docile and though the gearchange is slightly rubbery, it never fails to find it intended gear.

Braking is impressive, with good brake feel.

Steering is quick and nicely weighted and less vague than in other Subarus.

The cabin of the WRX, is, except for a few trim details and sports seats, essentially the same at that of the related Impreza and Crosstrek. The sports seats of the WRX hold, but don’t pinch occupants. Legroom is good front and rear. The driver faces crisply-marked main dials separated by configurable digital readout. The centre dash is dominated by a large, vertically-oriented touch screen. However, there are physical controls for temperature, front defrost, rear defrost and audio volume and tuning.

Trunk space is reasonable for this type of car.

With L.E.D. headlights, alloy pedals, sports seats and blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, the base Sport manual transmission trim is nicely equipped. A variable torque distribution centre differenctial, reverse auto braking and a sunroof are packaged with the CVT transmission. The SPORT-TECH model brings along navigation, turn signals in the door mirrors, active headlights, ultrasuede seat inserts, heated rear seats and a Harman-Kardon-branded audio system. The GT adds adaptive electronic dampers. The range-topping tS includes Brembo-branded brakes and a number of specific trim accents.

New model, not rated. The 2.4L turbo four has been trouble-free so far but long-term durability is unknown. In the past, with WRX with manual transmissions have suffered from fragile gearboxes and clutches. Expensive routine servicing.