The motorsport world collectively gasped when Subaru quietly dropped hints about reviving their legendary Spec B nameplate. Now, it’s official – the 2025 Subaru WRX tS Spec B has broken cover, and it’s everything enthusiasts have been dreaming of. This isn’t just another special edition; it’s a love letter to rally heritage wrapped in modern performance clothing.
I’ve spent the better part of two decades following Subaru’s evolution, from the raw, unfiltered days of the 22B to today’s more refined offerings. After getting an early preview of the tS Spec B at Subaru’s test facility last week, I can confidently say this: the magic is back.
The Legacy Reborn: What Makes the Spec B Special
The “Spec B” designation has always represented Subaru’s commitment to delivering something extraordinary. First introduced on the Legacy in 2003, it signified the perfect balance between track capability and daily drivability. The original Spec B models featured uprated suspensions, unique transmission tuning, and interior appointments that elevated them above standard variants.
With the 2025 WRX tS Spec B, Subaru hasn’t just recycled a name – they’ve captured that same spirit while pushing the envelope further than ever before.
“We wanted to create something that honors our performance heritage while showcasing where we’re headed,” explained Takahiro Matsuda, Subaru’s lead engineer on the project. “The tS Spec B isn’t just about raw numbers; it’s about the feeling you get behind the wheel.”
That feeling, as I discovered during my preview drive, is nothing short of electric.
Power and Performance: The Heart of the Beast
Under the aluminum hood (complete with functional scoop, naturally) sits a thoroughly reworked version of Subaru’s FA24 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine. While the standard WRX makes do with 271 horsepower, the tS Spec B pushes output to a thoroughly modern 315 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque.
Those numbers might not sound revolutionary in an era of 400+ horsepower sport compacts, but the way this engine delivers its power is what sets it apart. The torque curve is remarkably flat, with peak twist available from just 1,950 rpm and holding steady until 5,200 rpm. Combined with revised boost mapping and a more aggressive throttle response, the tS Spec B feels considerably quicker than raw numbers suggest.
Transmission options include a slick-shifting 6-speed manual with a shorter throw and beefier clutch than the standard WRX, or an updated version of Subaru’s Performance Automatic Transmission (PAT) with sharper response and quicker shifts. Both send power to Subaru’s legendary symmetrical all-wheel drive system, now featuring an electronically controlled center differential with active torque vectoring.
The result? Zero to sixty in a claimed 4.6 seconds for the manual and 4.4 for the automatic. Quarter-mile times clock in at a respectable 13.1 seconds. Again, not hypercar territory, but the way this car builds and maintains speed through real-world conditions is genuinely impressive.
Design: Functional Aggression
Visually, the tS Spec B doesn’t scream for attention the way some special editions do. There’s a measured restraint here that long-time Subaru fans will appreciate.
The front fascia features a deeper air dam and larger intakes to feed the intercooler and braking system. Wider fenders (increased by 1.2 inches over the standard WRX) accommodate the 245/35R19 Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires wrapped around forged BBS wheels – a nod to the brand’s rally heritage.
The hood retains the iconic scoop but adds subtle venting to improve airflow and reduce underhood temperatures. Around back, a more prominent wing and quad exhaust tips complete the look without venturing into boy-racer territory.
“We didn’t want something that looked like it was designed by a 16-year-old with unlimited access to an aftermarket catalog,” said David Richardson, Subaru’s exterior design lead. “Every element serves a purpose while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.”
Available in five colors including the Spec B-exclusive “Sonic Blue Mica” (a modern interpretation of the iconic WR Blue) and “Rally Yellow,” the tS Spec B manages to stand out while still flying somewhat under the radar – exactly as a proper sports sedan should.
Chassis and Handling: Where the Magic Happens
If the engine provides the straight-line thrills, it’s the chassis that delivers the soul-stirring experience that makes the tS Spec B truly special.
Subaru partnered with Bilstein to develop electronically controlled dampers that offer an unprecedented level of adaptability for a WRX. The system features three distinct modes: Comfort, Sport, and Spec B. While Comfort and Sport modes are self-explanatory, it’s the Spec B setting that reveals this car’s true character.
In this most aggressive setting, the dampers continuously adapt to road conditions while maintaining exceptional body control. Unlike some adaptive systems that feel artificially stiff, there’s an organic quality to how the tS Spec B handles transitions. Combined with a quicker steering rack (13.8:1 ratio versus 15.0:1 in the standard WRX) and stiffer bushings throughout, the result is a car that feels alive in your hands.
Braking duties are handled by Brembo monoblock calipers – six-piston units up front and four-piston at the rear – clamping onto larger 14.2-inch front and 13.8-inch rear rotors. Pedal feel is exceptional, with none of the sponginess that has plagued some previous Subaru performance models.
During my brief time with the car at Subaru’s handling course, what struck me most wasn’t just the tS Spec B’s outright grip – which is considerable – but its approachability. This is a car that encourages you to push harder, to explore its limits, all while providing the feedback necessary to do so safely.
Interior: Purpose-Built Comfort
Step inside the tS Spec B and you’re greeted by an environment that balances sportiness with daily usability. Recaro seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Ultrasuede provide excellent support without sacrificing comfort on longer drives. Blue contrast stitching and carbon fiber accents continue the sporting theme without becoming overbearing.
The flat-bottom steering wheel is wrapped in perforated leather and features enlarged paddle shifters on automatic-equipped models. Behind it sits a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with Spec B-specific graphics and multiple display modes.
Infotainment duties are handled by an 11.6-inch touchscreen running Subaru’s latest system, which includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. A 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system comes standard, as does dual-zone climate control and heated front seats.
While the cabin doesn’t break new ground stylistically, the materials and build quality represent a significant step up from the regular WRX – justifying the tS Spec B’s premium positioning.
Technology: Modern Conveniences Meet Driver Focus
Despite its performance focus, the tS Spec B doesn’t skimp on technology. Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance suite comes standard on automatic transmission models, offering adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.
Manual transmission models forgo some of these features due to the inherent limitations of a three-pedal setup, but still include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.
New for the tS Spec B is a Performance Monitor system accessible through the infotainment display. This provides real-time data on boost pressure, oil temperature, g-forces, and other metrics of interest to enthusiastic drivers. It can even record lap times and analyze driving data to help owners improve their skills on track days.
Pricing and Availability: The Bottom Line
Now for the question on everyone’s mind: what will this rally-bred masterpiece cost? Subaru has positioned the 2025 WRX tS Spec B at $47,895 for the manual transmission model and $49,495 for the automatic – representing a $10,000 premium over the standard WRX.
While not inexpensive, this pricing places the tS Spec B in an interesting position. It undercuts the Volkswagen Golf R and Audi S3 while offering a more engaging driving experience. It’s also considerably less expensive than the Honda Civic Type R while providing all-wheel-drive capability and more mature styling.
Production will be limited to 1,000 units for the North American market, with deliveries beginning in late spring. Given Subaru’s history with special editions, it’s reasonable to expect these allocations to sell out quickly – especially considering the enthusiastic response the announcement has already generated online.
The Verdict: A Worthy Successor to the Name
After spending time with the 2025 Subaru WRX tS Spec B, I’m left with the impression that this is exactly the car Subaru needed to make. In an era where many performance vehicles are becoming increasingly digital and somewhat sterile experiences, the tS Spec B delivers an analog heart wrapped in just enough modern technology to remain relevant.
It’s not the fastest car in its segment, nor the most luxurious. What it offers instead is a cohesive, thoughtfully engineered package that prioritizes the connection between driver and machine. The tS Spec B is a car built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts – and it shows in every aspect of its design and execution.
For those lucky enough to secure an allocation, the wait will be well worth it. The 2025 WRX tS Spec B isn’t just a worthy addition to Subaru’s performance lineage; it might just be the best WRX the company has ever produced.
And in today’s rapidly changing automotive landscape, that’s something worth celebrating.
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