Packed with performance: 2024 Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX has been around for more than three decades.

Originally a spin-off of the Impreza, it became its own model in the Subaru lineup for the 2015 model year. The 2024 WRX is part of the fifth generation, which debuted for 2022. It consists of five trim levels. We drove the mid-level RS.

That position in the lineup is misleading. At $44,508 it slots in between the $36,308 entry-level and $47,508 GT versions.

But the Subaru WRX in RS trim stands apart in one major aspect – it is the hot rod of the family.

While it has the same engine and power as the others, it is packed with performance enhancing upgrades.

The most significant of these lies inside the four unique 19-in alloy wheels – big ventilated and cross-drilled discs. Those up front are clamped by red-painted six-piston calipers containing larger pads. The rears utilize dual-piston units. A larger master cylinder is part of the package.

Vehicle designers refer to wheels as jewelry – a way to spice up the looks. They have grown over the years from 14 and 15-inches in diameter to 21 – 23 inches. It is common to see seemingly tiny little brake rotors inside these giant wheels.

The first thing I noticed when walking up to the 2024 Subaru WRX RS was that the rotors almost filled the 19-inch wheels.

Those unique calipers and rotors are only part of the upgrade. They are controlled by a Brembo High Performance brake system that ensures maximum stopping action from each individual patch of rubber. The rubber itself is also upgraded.

The wheels are wrapped in sticky summer performance tires. Ensuring they stay planted on the surface under severe (fast) conditions are a quartet of electronic, adaptive shock absorbers.

The standard Drive Mode Select system comes with four pre-set and one individual mode. The RS also gets a unique centre differential, and a cooler for the transmission.

The engineers did a good job of retaining much of Subaru’s renown ride quality, despite the stiffer suspension and low-profile tires.

The turbocharged engine is, frankly, a bit disappointing. There is plenty of power once the revs build, but the upgraded suspension and brakes deserve more. With maximum torque not appearing until 2,000 rpm and horsepower not peaking until a lofty 5,600 rpm, patience can be a virtue.

This same engine appears through the Subaru lineup. In this application, Subaru suggests you use premium fuel. The result is 271 horsepower compared to 260 with lesser grade fuel.

Who doesn’t love a six-speed manual transmission?

On the plus side? The engine now has a different exhaust system which eliminates the characteristic sound of the boxer engine. Some will miss that warble.

Another plus is the standard six-speed manual transmission with its clearly defined gates and progressive clutch action.

I know that the new generation of automatic transmissions provide superior performance and fuel economy. But there is something purely enjoyable about the interface between your left leg, right arm and vehicle when rowing a manual box.

Another result of this emphasis on performance is remarkably responsive steering.

Finishing the nod to performance driving is a pair of Recaro sport seats with ultrasuede inserts. These form-hugging units are meant to keep you in place during spirited motoring. But they proved uncomfortable for my wider-than-normal frame.

Obviously anyone interested in the Subaru WRX in this RS trim is not expecting a quiet drive.

They won’t get one thanks to the combination of a loud exhaust, the wind rushing past the mirrors and door seals and road noise from those sticky tires.

Like all Subaru vehicles, exceptional all-season, all-weather traction and safety are given. The standard EyeSight system provides a full array of active and passive features to help keep you out of trouble sand protect you should it occur.

The big, tablet-oriented infotainment screen is a delight to use with crisp, clear graphics, and immediate response to inputs. I had to fiddle with it for a while to learn how to control the HVAC system.

The Subaru WRX has a well-earned reputation for performance at a reasonable price. The RS version with its array of upgrades, builds on that.

FACTS & FIGURES – 2024 Subaru WRX RS

PRICE

As tested: $44,508 including freight

SAFETY

Steering-responsive LED headlights with automatic high beams, EyeSight driver assist system

INFOTAINMENT

30-cm tablet-oriented infotainment screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality, Starlin connected services, USB A & C ports

STANDARD EQUIPMENT

Heated Recaro sport seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, auto-dimming mirror with Homelink and compass, eight-way power driver’s seat, 19-in alloy wheels

SIGNIFICANT OPTIONS

None

MECHANICAL

Turbocharged and intercooled 2.4-litre four-cylinder, 271- horsepower, 258 lb.-ft. of torque, premium fuel, close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel-drive. NRCan rating (litres/100km city/highway): 12.3/9.0

DIMENSIONS

Length, 4,670; mm; width, 1,825 mm; wheelbase, 2,670 mm; weight, 1,548 kg

COMPETITION

Hyundai Kona N