Is the 2024 Subaru WRX TR a better AWD performance car than a Toyota GR Corolla?

FIRST DRIVE: The WRX TR is back and Subaru has made some big changes for 2024. On the outside you will notice 19in unique wheels, Bridgestone performance tires, and Brembo brakes. On the inside you will be greeted by Recaro performance seats. Under the hood is a 2.4L turbocharged flat-4 that is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Is the 2024 Subaru WRX TR a better AWD performance car than a Toyota GR Corolla?
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[@karmahunden]

Subaru said the TR no longer means Tuner Ready for this gen. It means Track Ready. Think about: it’s not a base trim and has track adjustments but not power bump.

[@karmahunden]

Follow up note: Subaru realized how stupid they were, and replaced this trim with the tS. They are still stupid for getting rid of the STi.

[@Acs2046]

I’m going to say it, the looks have grown on me

[@soapa4279]

It's always looked decent. The cladding is just what threw it off. Seen some nice setups with paint matched fenders and it looks pretty good.

[@ramennoodlz]

@@soapa4279I agree, the car generally looks fine, the black cladding ruins it (but not as much for me as it did when it first came out, see a good amt of them in my area to the point where I got used to it💀)

[@user-tl7de9dd1p]

No

[@PAX-East]

It took a minute for the BRZ redesign to grow on me, but I still can't get into this one.

[@viktorbryce951]

Looks mean nothing. Transmission is still a ticking hand grenade and the engine is problematic as proven with all prior generation boxer engines. It’s old and problematic. Couldn’t care how good it performs, long term reliability isn’t there.

[@Dapper1948]

I miss my 2016 STi! Totaled it last March, still in the grieving process. Ty for this great video!

[@RaitisRides]

Oh man, I’m so sorry to hear! I hope you were okay from the crash! I’m sure you’ll get another one.

[@jcherestal]

So what did you replace it with??

[@Dapper1948]

@@jcherestal still driving my other car-2015 Outback. Considering a used STi, New M2, BRZ, Supra or the Integra type S. Any suggestions to fill the void?

[@jcherestal]

@@Dapper1948 new m2 is expensive...good used ones are hard to find. a 3.0 supra seems like the closest next best thing

[@airsoftozzie9850]

@@Dapper1948 gr corolla....they are growing on me

[@jermss_]

My 22 premium has been an absolute joy to drive every day. I couldn’t ask for more in a daily. I kinda like how much hate it gets 😂

[@minzhang8036]

No more sti is a minus

[@db-ro6ui]

Ewwww

[@shiftautomotive854]

how's the handling?

[@Ethan_Alexandur]

Hope you enjoy your 90k miles with it until the engine blows

[@jermss_]

@@Ethan_Alexandur well I sure enjoyed your mom before she hit 90 and thankfully she didn’t take that long to blow but thanks for your concern little boy

[@RickMentore]

Nice to see Subaru is not giving up on sedans! Hey Joe, If you still lived in B'klyn you would understand how useful that big flat black bumper is. It saves owners from repainting their bumper every few years or buying Bumper bullies. Tight parking spaces wreck havoc on painted bumpers!

[@PrettyBoyHair]

I drive in the city best way to avoid it is practice parallel parking you won’t need a bumper bully. These things have cameras too. But I do hope they don’t give up on the 6 speed manual gas powered vehicles I really hope they don’t switch to electric it’ll 100% make me switch driving a newer WRX model

[@BigTimeRushFan2112]

Can you even find a GR Corolla? I see new WRX's everywhere.

[@a7x266]

i see them all around me.

[@lions208436]

I've only seen one in the wild.

[@breaks_n_stuff4049]

@@a7x266… sure u do

[@EsenbekAliev_]

they are everywhere, slightly used ones are near $35k now. WRX on the other hand are selling for $30k... only Type R holds its value at $50k, but slightly used ones are around $40k... yes, you can find any car today, it is no longer 2020-2021

[@lions208436]

@@EsenbekAliev_ I'm near Los Angeles, and I haven't found any in a 50 mile radius. Although I haven't looked that hard either

[@KyberKommando]

Them getting rid of the STI was a stupid decision.

[@vitreoushumor]

All emissions related unfortunately

[@Xhabit300]

Cry a river

[@Juiceboxguyty]

Ya that's the way it is now unfortunately they did the same to the challenger boys by taking away the V8 and going full electric

[@dannys6871]

noone wants to drive a sexually transmitted infection or say they have one

[@BenTroxell]

Not really. It barely sold.

[@BrominatedVegetableOil]

At least the Subaru won't have a 20% dealer markup if you go to buy one.

[@romariosmith422]

😂😂😂 we'll see

[@owenryan1865]

People are already finding TRs discounted from MSRP, around 41k

[@GR_Papi]

Got mine for 43 it’s a core with performance package

[@sebeastin3830]

I got my blue flame circuit edition for MSRP 🤷‍♂️

[@robertcurtis3807]

True. Though a TOYOTA fan wanting a GR86, for the money and features I’ll go with the BRZ for the SUBARU better pricing.

[@omarcortes5754]

I have mixed feelings; I like this car but I just don't see me paying over 40,000 for it

[@RaitisRides]

I think many people will feel that way!

[@SoulEraser000]

Car market in general is out of control, cars are too expensive for the average person. $40K isn't crazy money for a sports cars anymore, it's a step above in price above entry level.

[@vjdfl5]

​@SoulEraser000 40k is an ask for this car even considering that. The Elantra N is better for way less, the CTR is better for a couple grand more. Same w the GR. It's 8/9 on car and drivers best compact sports cars. Not very impressive and certainly not a looker

[@ranthony2714]

This is the reality for Canadians as this vehicle is pushing 50,000. The civic si is 40,000 Canadian with tax and fees. I wish I could pay us prices for cars.

[@SoulEraser000]

@@vjdfl5Looks are subjective. You also aren't getting a Type R or GR corolla for MSRP. Gr Corolla is not as practical or roomy and feels cheaper, while the reliability of a high strung 3 cylinder is still to be seen. Type R isn't AWD and also has a smaller displacement engine, the WRX has more room for tuning potential which is the point of the TR. Elantra N also isn't awd but it is a good car for the price, but you could also say why not pick the N over your FL5 for easily at least $20k dollars less for most of the performance.

[@Raptorsrscarzy]

Hey Joe, long time fan here. Having your videos to watch over the years has been awesome and given me something small to look forward to. Especially when I’m away from the family which is all too often. Thanks for what you do from an Army dude, y’all are awesome.

[@craftiestbrews5246]

Nice “do it all” car, reliability, performance, space, comfort, good engine for mods. Subaru should listen to the people though, STI baby!

[@lj5190]

The looks have definitely grown on me. Probably my favorite WRX, design-wise, yet.

[@ubroberts5541]

I have a 2023 WRX premium. It’s a sedan now. I really like it. The mid range power is excellent.

[@chozen_juan]

I think its time for you to get some new glasses. Subaru really shit the bed with this car and honestly hasn't made anything good for about 10 years now. VW, Honda, Nissan, etc has been eating their lunch and the numbers show it. Subaru is basically on par with KIAs at this point.

[@lj5190]

@@chozen_juan KIA is super successful now, so that’s a compliment.

[@azca.]

@@chozen_juan lmao what are you yapping about 🤡

[@juanticimo]

You just have to lower them, then they come into their own

[@rwilson3896]

You were hustling that car! It takes a lot of speed to get the tires to lose traction and make some noise. The car seems to be so composed as it gets closer to the limit.

[@StandingUpForBetter]

Joe, your Subaru knowledge never fails to impress. The looks of this car are starting to grow on me as well. Very curious that Subaru added so much black plastic especially when you consider how ugly it looks when it is not maintained and starts to fade. When that happens it just makes the whole car look bad. With that said, this car is starting to look better and better over time. For me, the only problem is that the Toyota GR Corolla exists and if it was a choice between the GR Corolla and this, I would have to take the GR Corolla. I have to say, it is still nice to live in a world where we still have choices in AWD, 6-speed manual cars that are fun, practical and reliable. Again, well done Team Raiti!

[@sphinx7473]

I have a 23 in red, great to see the up close comparison to this new TR. Great review, Joe

[@thekoz5158]

It has a manual, then this is the best WRX for the money, period!

[@bjammin187]

Thanks for reviewing this one, Joe. I got a WRX 2023 Premium 6mt. I love it, but am envious of those TR Brembo’s.

[@marcuslee2026]

Hahaa aw man, can’t wait for my moment like the driver at 9:05 to see Mr. Raiti himself!! Another great video. Looking at my first performance car and it’s between the hatches (Type R, GRC, Golf R) as a do-it-all daily or a 2nd RWD coupe to pair with my 6MT Corolla. This looks pretty good as a daily too, but the MPGs kinda zonks it for me.

[@Vinny2390]

Older body styles look much much better IMO

[@realrocktimusprime]

I got a 2023 Base model and I love it. picked it up New for just a little over $29k. The only thing I regret not having is lumbar support in the seats, the heated mirrors and windshield wiper defrosters. Everything else is just fine. The road to my house is dirt and turns to red mud with moisture. The plastic cladding makes me not so worried about throwing mud and rocks. I like the cladding.

[@johnscott2040]

I have a 2022 Base Model. I love it. I have done a mod or 2 on it but it is a great daily drive and fun to just take a jot ride in, on the country streets.

[@Almighty_cornholio]

Actually been waiting for you to cover this!!!

[@shaunpv280]

Dude, i love this guy. Such a great attitude.

[@gramb5611]

I also would like no cladding and see a more circular wheel well. Great point when saying "Tuner Ready" Saw a red one like this at the dealer. Really looked good. Thanks Joe 🤙🏼

[@SuzukiKid400]

The last gen VA looked like a frumpy Corolla. The angular wheel wells and black flares are a nice change.

[@amill1563]

The guys down there at MotoIQ know how to get these fast.

[@tomdrummy4984]

Oh Joe, back on the Porsche 911 highway….oops, I mean the Angeles crest highway. 😎.

[@RaitisRides]

I love what you did there Tom 😂

[@rogergarcia306]

"...I'm feel'in pretty fantastic out here...": Love the colour: reminds me of my old Kingswood HX 1976 in Mandarin Red, very, very close match in colour. Great review Joe, love the cornering, going through the twisties :)

[@brandonevans4142]

Subaru would sell so many more units if they could squeeze 320hp+ out of these engines in a stock setup.

[@donculver8671]

Making me wanna take my red '20 WRX out on the road tonight, of course here in flat FL we have no cool mountains. Great drive video!

[@AntilleanConfederation]

Bro you have the beach and the best weather. Palm trees are best trees.

[@harrydaniels9436]

great review,,,joe,,,,,the brakes are impressive,,,,,thanks joe

[@joshuagregory7808]

Fantastic video!

[@1966DodgeCoronet]

Raiti + Subaru reviews ❤❤❤

[@Mr.MassLifts]

Looks like the WRX TR is indeed Twinkie Ready! Thanks Raiti for the great review. Looking to switch my car here soon and I've had my eye on the TR. Will be my first Subaru!

[@6spd85notch]

Such a nice car. Especially when you add a few aftermarket body parts and some tint. They look awesome when fully hooked up. Turbo, 6 speed AWD killer deal. And very tunable.

[@Mitsu3kGT]

That soiled rear diaper of a back bumper is a no go

[@PascalMaisPresque]

2021 STI owner here. The VB desing really grew in me. Still love my VA for sure, but the VB looks really nice to me now (and that red TR is lovely). About the plastic cladings, it reminds me of classic european hot hatches from the 80s/90s such as Golf GTI (mk1, mk2), Pug 205 GTI, Renault Supercinq GT Turbo, Fiat Rithmo Abarth, Ford Fiesta XR2, etc. Could have a rounder shape maybe, but it gives some kind of retro vibe which I like. Not sure that a paint match is looking any better to my eyes. Just my 2 cents of course.😉 Thanks for the review (this one, and all the others of course !)

[@juanticimo]

I like the cladding, all you have to do is lower the car a couple inches and its great looking.

[@SavvyRooster13]

I actually like the flat back skirt and fenders. Paint matching makes it look like everything else. PS: The rear bumper does not actually protrude as the previous gen. It's made to take a beating. It's why it's all flat black.

[@Konformation07]

Wake me up when they put the STI gearbox and DCCD in this car

[@juanticimo]

It can be done for about 6k, and you can make 350whp for 2k... so a base can be had for high 20s, so lets say 28k... add 6k for the STI drivetrain, 2k in power mods to get to 350whp, youre at 36k, and you smoke every STI with bolt ons you come across - reliably... I own an 05 blobeye STI btw as well as VB

[@islanddon865]

I enjoyed selling lmprezas WRX's and WRX/STI'S. The STI was a bit over the top, performance wise. The Integra was too simple and modest. But the WRX was my choice. It's hard to believe that l never bought one. But they were always back ordered, or awaiting dealer trades...and as you know, "The Customer ALWAYS comes first"!!!

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

Yes of course Joe and I consider buying this.

[@franklynlopez7326]

coo car and happen to own a 22 wrx and love it.l but the TR should of least had 300hp for the price this car is. As far as the black clouding I don't mind it at all

[@DaniTheNachoPirate]

28:05 and a squeaking Joe Raiti is a happy Joe Raiti

[@TravelBreakthrough]

I reviewed my first TRX recently and was amazed at how many cars these days don’t have a stick shift. It’s insane and yes I’ll be that guy and say I absolutely don’t downshift lol I neutral drive oh well sue me

[@ranthony2714]

Eye sight in a Subaru manual, FINALLY!

[@SimulatorsStudio]

Which means they could have kept the manual on the Impreza but nooo.

[@AntilleanConfederation]

Ewww. I don’t like eyesight

[@nerbur]

@@AntilleanConfederation Agree. It''s super intrusive and annoying.

[@AntilleanConfederation]

@@nerbur intrusive is the exact word I often describe it as. 👍🏻

[@trapt29]

Going on year 2 with my 2022 and I still look forward to driving it every day.

[@logitram]

The most beautiful headlamps in the whole auto industry

[@NOT.an.STi.]

I wish we had nice windy roads like that here in Manitoba. I have yet to really test out my 23 wrx.

[@michaeljosephs6439]

Excellent review Joe, the only problem and deal breaker for me in this is it only fits 4 “rally twinkies” 😢 I need it to fit at least 6 with extra cream!!!!😅

[@aiitas2601]

Nice video ! Also you should make a review of the GT trim

[@Ezio214]

I believe TR now stands for Track Ready

[@353darkesthour]

Love my black 22 premium. It really checks almost every box a daily driver should have.

[@JBbenanti]

Seems like an awesome upgrade to my Elantra N-Line, which I’ve loved. However, in the winters the FWD isn’t ideal, so I’ve been looking for an AWD 6-speed manual without insane dealer markups. I just wish it was closer to the mid 30,000’s

[@DeathTheCat79]

Bought a black 23 premium and wasn't disappointed.

[@ronniematrix89]

Looks sharp with excellent specs. Great in-depth review.. Subaru reminds me of the iconic Subaru Impreza Rally cars at the World Rally Championship. Great cars.

[@Welkabonz]

Joe I would be curious to know what it’s like to clean the black cladding. Maybe they could color match it with the paint. But that area is where rust tends to develop, and on my STi that area is also where garbage tends to build from the road and scuffs presumably from entering and exiting. It looks ugly, but it seems to have a purpose. Just not aerodynamics.

[@adeelio1]

Joe, I will say your food comparisons make me hungry during Ramadan, but I won’t let that stop me from watching your reviews! 💪🏼

[@ivanlowjones]

Rama-dama-ding-dong.

[@MaverickHeloPilot]

I own a 22 Premium VB WRX painted "Ice Silver Metallic" (silver), I don't like the black plastic cladding (like every other normal person), I ordered Aeroflow Dynamics' factory paint matched fender cladding (obviously in silver), that are additionally wider than the standard black cladding as well. As for the gloss black trunk trim, I swapped the factory trim out with the functional brake light replacement available from JDM Muscle, looks way better.

[@John-bt3fo]

Impressive review 😀

[@SupremePaulie]

Great stuff Joe! Of course, we’re both Mopar family 😏😎

[@jGRite]

I was at the Subaru Festival in Daytona last year, and when they unveiled this vehicle I believe they said it was track ready. I don't know, it doesn't matter, I recorded it it's on my channel, and I barely have the time to comment this let alone look and hear what was said. 😂

[@dustytanco6917]

Originally i was going to change the plastic cladding but .. honestly i really kinda like it now on my sapphire blue wrx 😊

[@sakebombyum]

You should come out to Phoenix, AZ and drive along the Apache Trail towards Canyon Lake. That is a lot more curvy than Angeles Crest Highway.

[@michaeldennis3028]

TR actually stands for Too Red 😂

[@cabbagehead8082]

Love this box 😂

[@RaceCarFriends]

This makes me miss my 2021 Lapiz Blue STI.

[@vincentjoyce5100]

Looks really sharp

[@bbaarraann92]

I just got mine 2 weeks ago, best car you can get for New England tough winter.

[@brandon9491]

it doesnt even have lsd though 🤷‍♂️

[@wardellward]

They have totally reinvented the Subaru, WRX & also TR I’m diggin it ps I’m not feelin the flat black it should had been body colored

[@RaitisRides]

I’m so glad that you like this one!

[@wardellward]

@@RaitisRides yes sir

[@SKATEcReW1223]

I personally think that based on price and packaging, TR for this model would mean Track Ready, more than Tuner Ready... Great video Joe!

[@molethan6138]

The TR is cool if you want an AWD car for the track, especially considering the GRC has major issues on the track with its AWD system overheating. Still, the base model at 30k is by far the most appealing WRX imo.

[@1031ent]

Premium IMHO is the best trim/bang for buck. The split screen on the base is annoying, plus you get bigger rims on the premium.

[@mattjingles5758]

It's true I gained a whole 1.5 seconds on my 0-60 time with new wheels and tires.

[@JenniLudes]

Thanks for the great vid. I generally like what Subaru's done with the TR but I think I'll hang on to my 2019 STI.

[@Mitsu3kGT]

Hold onto it for dear life. I’m so glad I got my 2021 STi. The sti trans is everything

[@JenniLudes]

@@Mitsu3kGT 100%!

[@PureBlood777]

That bumper is horrendous

[@sir.confident]

Ikr! I'd rather have the GR Corolla.

[@krasnaludek298]

Agree … they should hire some Italians to execute a nice exterior design. This car exposes the horrid notchy Japanese design philosophy that has taken hold in the past decade.

[@LyricsKill300]

You're gonna modify it anyway

[@thesheriff720]

I used to think so as well but it's grown on me a lot

[@sir.confident]

​​@krasnaludek298 LOL! It already looks like they were working with the Italians. That's where the problem lies. This looks like something that Fillipo Perini would do. I'd stick with Lamborghini if I were him.

[@ZZZRaven65]

I'm sure this is a very fun, capable car, and honestly, I've warmed up to the looks... but in my mind, where it loses out to the CTR and GRC (for very similar money) are: - no true limited-slip diffs (brake-controlled diffs are not as good - and eat brake pads/rotors) - less power - more weight - worse MPG That said, they are very tunable, so if you aren't concerned about your warranty, you can overcome that power deficit fairly easily, but that still doesn't fix the diffs. I'm sure it would be a quieter/more comfortable daily driver than either of those two too though, so it just depends on where your priorities are. There is also the Elantra N though - which is crazy good for significantly less money than all of these. Choice is good!

[@cluelesslewis8730]

Rumor has it you can get VB WRX at invoice price and not MSRP

[@suzanneflowers2230]

I loved the wheels, but can't compliment that unusual shape of wheel well. I'd need a more pronounced exhaust, too. But overall it looks like lots of driving fun!

[@panderalexander]

I understand you mainly focus on regular driving and not performance driving, but cars like the STI, GR Corolla, and Type R have option for LSD and new WRX only uses the open front diff and open rear diff from Crosstrek. For example STI has front LSD, center active DCCD diff, and rear LSD. But since you dont push your cars then havinf LSD or not wouldnt matter to you, it would matter only for those looking for performance.

[@bobgong7832]

Hi Joe, thank you for your reviews with Lori and/or Steven, as always. In your professional opinion, which Subaru was more fun to drive on the Angeles Crest Highway: this WRX TR or the BRZ ts? And which is a better daily driver? I'm still coming to grips with the $42k + MSRP for the WRX.... 😲

[@truth4reel]

Imagine "Right off the bat"

[@PistNRods]

Dude actually knows the details of the earlier GD WRX/STIs.

[@LuisUrbieta]

I like the Subaru WRX TR I do love the way it looks & I love the fake vents & I think the fake vents give it style as to a plain & bland red bumper.

[@richardwalther6229]

Thought it was track ready…the pricing suggests it anyway. The 2004 STi was awesome. I test drove one in black, but upon close look, it had gold flecks in it. Anyone remember that color?

[@mfmf100]

They tuned out a lot of the distinctive Subaru sound, but it still does not sound bad. Value’s not bad imo, not many comparably complete packages at the price and with better aftermarket support than most if you need more power. Nice review of an interesting car.

[@JarmelSingsKaraoke]

Love The Channel 🔥

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Jarmel!

[@braveheart9658]

Looks has grown on me and it looks better in person. Only thing is the back… Black or magnetic grey blends the back very good, but this red it a bit to much. Might be my next car!!

[@mitchharnett5835]

Great review. seriously considering the TR trim level. Real question for EyeSight experts: If you start adding HP, will EyeSight still work? Thank you in advance!

[@edwins.9609]

I only want the new WRX or new Civic SI they just seem like great reliable rides and best bang for your buck right now. Great review thank you for sharing and Subaru has been doing awesome in my opinion

[@bbehzadi413]

As an owner of a 20 STI, I like the new WRX the fa24 has a lot of tuning potential and the looks have grown on me besides the rear bumper.

[@hamzarivera1399]

Love ur videos Joe 👌

[@paulbarnhart3238]

TR = tuner ready but will void your warranty the moment you change anything. Just bring back the sti. It had enough HP and looks that many people didn’t need to modify other than exhaust/intake. Subaru really screwed the pooch getting rid of the wrx sti

[@momoknows]

As always Joe and as a car enthusiast thank you for 32:57 of Pure Car Review

[@haroldcastle]

Thanks Joe, great content, like the car!!! Big zonggggg!!!! no back seat air vents, whyyyyyy!!!!!

[@RomeoATB]

Subaru messed up on the design of this generation and no sti too, they had so much potential 🥹

[@EtienneMendez]

Oh, for a road like that, and a car like that in 🇹🇹 Trinidad and Tobago . . .

[@Basicshape4242]

Welcome to California. Try Hwy 39 north of East Fork. Great switchbacks, a long straightaway and w long sweeping curve. Grab a burger at the Crystal Lake Cafe.

[@cajunotaku3256]

I think the car looks great. The TR might be my next car. I’m getting this or a Civic Type R. I’m leaning towards the WRX TR at the moment just for the all wheel drive. I like the GR Corolla too.

[@DerrickChainey]

If you take this for a test drive, you'll be buying this. I have a 22 and the handling is out of this effin world.

[@MattN03]

Joe, have you been able to set in a WRX Limited? I'm curious what you think about the Limited seats vs the Recaro's? Would the Recaro's be too snug for daily driving or long road trips and is missing lumbar adjustment an issue?

[@TheSibster86]

Tr in the 2006 wrx was the best to get back then when it came to price. It’s not supposed to be a top tier trim level. SUBARU listen we do not want this. We want a lower trim level and an actual 6speed that can handle power for the new 2.4

[@gordonmills2748]

Plastic cladding around the wheels is a huge Zonk for me. That could easily be a mod if you want it.

[@beachboy0505]

Excellent video 📹 Excellent car 🚗 Modern and contemporary

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you are liking the WRX TR!

[@Ded9822]

Hello Joe Raiti from Hong Kong!!!