In an era where automatic transmissions and hybrid systems dominate the performance landscape, one sports sedan stands defiantly apart in 2025. It’s the only model on the market that combines all-wheel drive with a manual transmission, a rare pairing that driving purists will truly appreciate.
This car delivers more than just a nostalgic nod to the past. With sharp handling, turbocharged power, and a six-speed manual, it offers a level of engagement that’s becoming harder to find. The added traction from its AWD system means it’s just as capable in bad weather as it is on twisty roads.
For enthusiasts who crave control and connection behind the wheel, without giving up year-round drivability. This sedan is the last of its kind. Here’s why it stands alone in 2025 as the ultimate choice for manual lovers who still need all-weather performance.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including TopSpeed and the EPA.
Subaru’s WRX Is Still An Incredibly Enticing Sports Sedan In 2025
The WRX nameplate is one that hearkens back to the domination of Japanese sports cars back in the 90s. As time has gone by, the sedan may have lost some of its edge, but it still remains a great value performance car. It is sleeker and more grown up than WRX’s of the past and it is no longer closely related to the Impreza, but there is still plenty to love, includingthe standard six-speed manual.
$37,750
$42,130
$47,705
tS
Pricing wise, the WRX sits smack in the middle of the sports compact segment. There are some cheaper options, such as the Hyundai Elantra N and Volkswagen Jetta GLI, and some much more expensive options, like the Civic Type R. It may not be the outright fastest car among the bunch, but it is the easiest car to live with as a daily driver.
In terms of which trim is the best value for money, we’d stick with the Premium. It costs thousands less than the comfortable GT or the stripped-back tS, yet still comes with a ton of desirable features. Things like heated front seats and keyless entry make living with this model more comfortable.
Changes For 2025
Last year, Subaru added a TR model to the lineup. Traditionally, a TR has been a more stripped-back model that allowed people to tune to their heart’s desires. However, in the 2024 model year it was a performance variant that came fully kitted out of the box. For 2025, the Japanese brand has ditched the TR in place of a brand-new tS model. They have also gotten rid of the Base trim.
If you’re wondering, tS stands for “Tuned by STI”, which is something that should excite any enthusiast, especially those with a love for Subaru. This model has had some comfort features stripped away, such as the moonroof, and instead features upgraded brakes, a unique suspension tune, and a ton of aesthetic elements.
Warranties and Maintenance
Subaru offers a pretty average and unimpressive warranty plan. However, there are a number of players in this segment that do much better. Hyundai in particular smashes the powertrain warranty on offer here with a ten-year, 100,000-mile plan. Subaru also comes short when it comes to complimentary maintenance.
The WRX Is a Rare Breed in 2025, With a Standard Manual Transmission
A lot of things have changed about the WRX over the years, with it getting softer and more grown up in a lot of ways. One way in which it has remained a driver-focused car is bykeeping the manual transmissioneven while all of its rivals switch to automatic only. Pair this with its standard all-wheel drive system, and you have a setup that you can’t find anywhere else.
6-Speed Manual or CVT
271 HP
258 LB-FT
0-60 MPH
Top Speed
145 MPH
Regardless of which trim level you go for, you’ll find the same horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine under the hood. All-wheel drive and a six-speed manual are standard kit, with a continuously variable automatic being offered as an option in every trim but the top-spec tS. The GT only comes with the automatic transmission.
The WRX has become a better daily driver than ever before, with a more compliant ride and a more refined attitude when cruising. Put your foot down, and you’ll find it can still be plenty racuous, tackling corners with enthusiasm. For those wanting only the best, the tS comes with a unique suspension tune, adaptive dampers, and upgraded Brembo brakes.
19 MPG
26 MPG
22 MPG
18 MPG
25 MPG
21 MPG
In today’s world, automatic transmissions are often the more economical option, outperforming manuals when it comes to efficiency. However, opting for the CVT means that your WRX loses a mile per gallon. This is the price you pay for slightly perkier acceleration.
Overall, the WRX falls behind a lot of its core rivals when it comes to fuel economy, with many of the other options in the compact sports sedan segment coming closer to 25 miles per gallon. If your pockets are deep enough to consider a BMW 3-Series instead, you can even achieve 31 miles per gallon combined.
Key Safety and Driver Assist Features
The WRX comes loaded with standard safety features. As well as collision detection and avoidance systems, the Subaru also comes with advanced adaptive cruise control. The NHTSA has awarded the WRX five stars out of five for safety, based on its exceptional crash test results.
The 2025 Subaru WRX Features a Rustic But Comfortable Interior
As mentioned a couple of times, the WRX has grown up a lot over the years. This means that it is more comfortable than it used to be. The Japanese brand has alsoincorporated a ton of standard techinto the cabin, making it an easy car to live with if you’re someone who values connectivity.
Cargo Capacity
12.5 Cubic Feet
An area where the WRX scores a lot of points is passenger space. Compared to other compact sporting sedans, the WRX is pretty roomy. Those in the front seats get some of the best legroom in the class and those relegated to the back shouldn’t have too much to complain about either. The only place there could be some improvement is in the trunk, where room is somewhat limited.
Subaru has instilled the WRX with their brand-wide design ideology. This means that function is valued over form. While it isn’t the flashiest, everything is easy to navigate and there are plenty of standard comfort features. Upgrade to the tS, and you’ll also get unique eight-way black synthetic suede Recaro bucket seats, a ton of blue trimming, and tS logos everywhere.
Infotainment and Technology
Enter the cabin and the first thing that you’ll likely notice is the 11.6-inch infotainment screen, which is in portrait orientation as opposed to the more traditional landscape setup. This system is smooth and easy to navigate, also being compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto from the word go. A second 12.3-inch screen sits in front of the driver in the tS, acting as a digital gauge display. A heads-up display is also available.
Along with a number of USB and USB-C ports, you can also charge your phone with the standard wireless smartphone charging pad in the WRX. A six-Speaker sound system is standard kit, with the option of upgrading to a 12-speaker Harman Kardon system instead, which has been specifically tuned for the WRX’s cabin.
