Subaru Teases STI-Inspired WRX for Australia – Is a Manual tS Coming?

Subaru fans in Sydney and the Illawarra, get ready—Subaru Australia has just teased an exciting new version of the WRX, hinting at an STI-inspired model with high-performance enhancements. While it may not be a full-fledged WRX STI, it could be the next best thing.

A New Flagship WRX with STI DNA

In a teaser video uploaded to social media, Subaru showcased a WRX sports sedan featuring:✔ Recaro front seats✔ Gold Brembo six-piston brake calipers✔ Black alloy wheels✔ STI-branded exhaust tips✔ A large STI-style rear wing

These classic STI design cues suggest a more aggressive and track-focused WRX is on the way. Even more exciting for enthusiasts—the WRX in the teaser sounds like it may have a manual transmission, though Subaru has yet to confirm.

Badging Hints at WRX tS ‘Tuned by STI’

The teaser video also confirms that this new variant will wear the WRX tS badge, standing for “Tuned by STI.” While not a full WRX STI comeback, this model could serve as a worthy alternative for performance fans who have long awaited a more hardcore version of the WRX.

The current WRX lineup in Australia includes:

• Base Manual WRX – From $47,490 before on-road costs
• CVT Automatic WRX – From $49,990 before on-road costs
• WRX RS Manual (Highest-Spec Manual Model Currently) – From $52,990 before on-road costs

The tS trim has historically only been available with a CVT transmission in Australia. However, with the new teaser, Subaru might be preparing to finally introduce a manual WRX tS, similar to the Japan-only WRX S4 STI Sport R-Black Limited.

A Return of the Club Spec?

The features in the teaser also closely resemble last year’s WRX Club Spec, a manual-only limited edition of just 150 units in Australia. The Club Spec included:✅ Matte grey 19-inch wheels✅ Brembo brakes✅ Tuned steering and suspension✅ STI rear wing✅ Recaro front seats

Could Subaru be bringing back the Club Spec as a permanent tS model? Many enthusiasts would welcome this move, as it would provide a higher-performance WRX variant with a manual transmission—something fans have been missing since the full WRX STI was discontinued.

What to Expect from the New WRX tS

Although details are yet to be confirmed, the teased model is expected to:🏁 Keep the 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine (202kW/350Nm)🏁 Feature significant handling and braking upgrades🏁 Possibly offer a manual transmission (a major change for the tS)🏁 Compete with Japan’s WRX S4 STI Sport R-Black Limited

Subaru Australia Confirms More Info is Coming Soon

Subaru Australia has stated that more details will be revealed very soon. Whether it’s a full-fledged return of a manual tS variant or a new flagship model for the WRX lineup, one thing is clear—Subaru still has something special in store for Aussie WRX fans.

For Subaru enthusiasts in Sydney and the Illawarra, keep an eye out for this exciting new WRX variant at Tynan Subaru. This could be the best opportunity in years to get behind the wheel of an STI-inspired WRX!

Ensure you search the Tynan stock through our link here.

Credit: CarExpert.com.au