Without that trick damper setup, Subaru’s even stiffer standard tune on the TR was a wake-up call on the highway. Michigan’s road surfaces aren’t exactly known for their smoothness or refinement, and 120 miles of bumps and jostles weren’t helping build a glowing first impression. At least the turbo-four engine is reasonably discreet at highway speeds.
Off the interstate, though, the WRX’s charms became more obvious. Subaru’s engaging six-speed manual plays a not-inconsiderable role, there, with a charmingly mechanical quality to its action that stops just short of demanding arduous levels of precision. Handy, since you’ll be shifting a fair amount in order to keep the sedan simmering at its most potent.
Grip was never in question, though it’s worth mentioning that the TR’s standard Bridgestone Potenza summer tires had been swapped for a set of Michelin Pilot Alpin PA4 winter rubber. Still, you know what you’re getting with a rally-inspired Subaru, and flickable dynamics with nary a concern for traction mean it’s more than up to the challenge of public roads.
Chris Davies/SlashGear
That leaves you to focus on nailing that combination of line, gear change, and getting power down again: torque more than anything else characterizes the WRX TR spirit, though the brake upgrade means its memorable proficiency at shedding speed comes a close second. Six piston calipers clamping 13.4-inch discs at the front, and two-piston versions on 12.8-inch discs at the rear, are a marked improvement over the regular WRX’s anchors.
