Subaru of America has teased a “sharper and more enthusiast-focused” WRX, though it isn’t a sought-after STI variant.
The Subaru WRX TR is set to debut at Subiefest Florida “enthusiast festival” at Daytona International Speedway on October 7.
Ahead of its reveal, Subaru has published a single teaser image of the WRX TR showing off its alloy wheel design and a peek at the Brembo brake calipers.
This isn’t the first time Subaru has used the TR moniker on a WRX; it was last seen in 2006, with TR standing for “Tuner Ready”.
The last WRX TR was a stripped-out variant intended for buyers who wanted to modify the car their way with aftermarket equipment. It came with unpainted mirror caps, regular seats, a plastic steering wheel, and a less sophisticated sound system.
It’s unclear if this forthcoming WRX TR will follow a similar formula to the previous example, or if it will be a more hardcore version.
The previous Subaru WRX TR was never offered in Australia and it’s unclear if this new model will be either.
The current-generation Subaru WRX was first revealed in 2021 has been on sale locally since last year. It’s available in sedan and Sportswagon (known as the Levorg in other markets) forms locally.
Current Subaru WRX
As previously detailed, Subaru won’t offer a new-generation WRX STI using the current car’s architecture.
“Subaru Corporation will fast-track their investment in future performance technologies, today confirming there will be no STI variant for the new generation Subaru WRX,” said Subaru Australia.
“This announcement paves the way forward for an exciting new era of performance exhilaration; with Subaru Tecnica International (STI) focusing on bringing forward new technologies for future Subaru models.”
Subaru STI E-RA concept
The Japanese carmaker did, however, suggest the nameplate might return on something electrified.
“Subaru Corporation is exploring opportunities for the next generation Subaru WRX STI, including electrification,” it said.
Subaru revealed the STI E-RA concept in 2022, which is an 800kW quad-motor racer with proprietary four-wheel torque vectoring system.
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