Subaru WRX 2.4T tS Spec B has arrived in all its manual glory
This $69,990 model also includes electronically adjustable dampers, enabling drivers to customise their driving dynamics.
Among the performance-oriented additions is a large rear spoiler enhancing aerodynamics and styling.
The Spec B name is a tribute to Brembo, signifying the high-performance braking system that sets this variant apart. Uprated brakes deliver improved stopping power and precision for a more connected drive.
The WRX Spec B model comes solely with a six-speed manual transmission, for a purer connection between driver and vehicle. Kym Mellow, General Manager of Inchcape New Zealand, reckons: 'The WRX has always stood for an authentic, driver-focused experience, and the 2025 WRX AWD tS Spec B stays true to that heritage.
'Plus, our performance fans made their requests pretty clear – give us a manual! So, we did. And we made sure it's as fun to drive as you can imagine.
'With exclusive enhancements, this model offers something special for those who love the journey just as much as the destination. It's a perfect example of Subaru's commitment to delivering capability, confidence, and genuine excitement on every road.'
Other WRX Spec B special features include:
Recaro sports bucket front seats
A new 12.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, introducing a fully digital driver display with three selectable display modes for a more immersive and intuitive cockpit experience.
Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS), a further safety addition to Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist technology.
19-inch alloy wheels (matte grey finish) with high-performance Bridgestone Potenza S007 tyres.
Brembo high-performance braking system featuring gold-painted six-piston front and two-piston rear callipers.
Ventilated and drilled front and rear brake discs for optimal stopping power.
Eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat.
Exterior tS badge (tuned by STI).
The WRX AWD tS Spec B will also be available in the new Galaxy Purple Pearl hue. It replaces the Solar Orange Pearl, adding a fresh colour choice to the model.
Also recently arrived in Subaru Authorised Centres are the 2025 All-Wheel Drive WRX 2.4T tS and All-Wheel Drive WRX 2.4T tS Wagon variants.
These two Boxer-engined machines share many of the premium features of the Spec B model, including the Recaro sports bucket front seats, new 12.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS), and the new Galaxy Purple Pearl colour.
Those interested in learning more or placing an order can contact their local Subaru Authorised Centre.
For more details, go here.
The WRX AWD tS Spec B will also be available in the striking new Galaxy Purple Pearl, which replaces the Solar Orange Pearl, adding a fresh colour choice to the model.
Also recently arrived in Subaru Authorised Centres are the 2025 All-Wheel Drive WRX 2.4T tS and All-Wheel Drive WRX 2.4T GT tS Wagon variants. They too go for $69,990.
These two Boxer-engined machines share many of the premium features of the Spec B model. Included are the Recaro sports bucket front seats, new 12.3-inch full LCD instrument cluster, Emergency Driving Stop System (EDSS), and the new Galaxy Purple Pearl colour.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NZ Autocar
a day ago
- NZ Autocar
2008-2016 Subaru Exiga
People movers, MPVs, minivans – whatever you want to call them – remain one of the best ways to shift around a family where the headcount has exceeded that of a traditional five-seat car. But they are, to be blunt, uncool in New Zealand. You know what is cool? Station wagons. So how about a people-moving station wagon? In 2008, Subaru came up with just that. The Subaru Exiga is a unique seven-seat wagon that in principle blends the handling of a car with the practicality of an MPV. Never sold new in New Zealand, it's become a popular used import thanks to its full-time AWD (on most models), strong boxer engines and surprisingly spacious interior. Who is it for? The Exiga suits families or active households who want seven seats without stepping up to a full-size SUV or minivan. It's ideal for people who want the assurance of Subaru's AWD for weekend trips and ski field access but still want to drive a car that handles like a wagon. The second-row seats offer plenty of legroom and the third row is usable even for adults, unlike in many compact seven-seaters. Boot space with all seats up is tight, but fold the third row and you'll get usable cargo capacity. What is it like? Inside, the Exiga is practical rather than plush. Most models have durable cloth interiors, though higher trims get part-leather, push-button start and dual-zone climate control. The panoramic roof (an option on some models) and theatre-style seating mean the cabin feels open and airy. The main drawback is a lack of rear air vents, which can be a pain in summer. On a drive, the Exiga handles better than most seven-seaters thanks to its low centre of gravity and car-based chassis. The steering is light but responsive and body roll is minimal. Ride quality is comfortable and road noise is moderate. AWD models offer excellent grip, especially in poor weather. Engines include a 2.0L (109 kW), a 2.5L (125 kW) and a 2.0L turbo (165 kW) in the GT model. Most models use a CVT, while the GT comes with a five-speed auto. The 2.0L is adequate around town but can feel strained with a full load. By contrast, the 2.5L is more relaxed and suits NZ roads better. The 2.0GT is surprisingly quick, with 0–100 km/h in under eight seconds. Fuel economy ranges from around 8.0L/100 km (2.0L CVT) to over 10L/100 km in the GT. What are the options? Virtually all NZ Exigas are Japanese imports – it was sold new in Australia so a few private units may have crossed the ditch. Common trims include: 2.0i / 2.0i-S: Base and mid-spec. Steel or alloy wheels, manual or auto A/C, FWD or AWD. CVT gearbox from 2009 on. 2.5i / 2.5i-S: AWD-only. Better equipment and smoother performance. Often includes leather trim, climate control, power seating. 2.0GT: Turbo AWD with five-speed auto. Sportier suspension, HID headlights, panoramic roof, and higher-grade interior. Later models may feature Subaru's EyeSight safety tech (AEB, adaptive cruise), and side/curtain airbags became more common after 2010. All models have ISOFIX, but not all have full airbag coverage so check each car individually. Subaru also released a final version called the Exiga Crossover7 in 2015. It featured SUV-style body cladding, a slightly raised ride height and was only available with the 2.5L AWD CVT powertrain. Looking a bit like an Outback, it may appeal to buyers looking for a more rugged, crossover-themed variant. What should I look out for? The Exiga is generally reliable, sharing many parts with the Legacy and Outback. Still, watch for: Timing belt: Most engines need a cambelt change at 100,000 km. Confirm that it's been done. Oil leaks: Boxer engines can develop gasket seepage over time. CVT health: Ensure smooth operation; judder or flare can mean wear. Rust: Rare, but check underbody, especially in former snow-region cars. Tyres: AWD requires matching tyres all around to avoid drivetrain issues. What else should I consider? Alternatives include the Toyota Wish (FWD, more compact, very reliable), Honda Stream (sporty but a tight third row) and Mazda Premacy (with sliding doors). If you want a roomier seven-seater, look at the Honda Odyssey or Toyota Estima. What should I pay? Dealer pricing: 2008–2010: $7,000–$10,000 2011–2014: $10,000–$16,000 2015–2016 (Crossover7): $14,000–$19,000 Private sale pricing: 2008–2010: $5,000–$8,000 2011–2014: $8,000–$13,000 2015–2016 (Crossover7): $12,000–$16,000 The 2.5i-S and GT models attract a premium. EyeSight and leather also add cost. A clean, low-km, NZ-certified import with full airbag coverage and a recent cambelt change is worth seeking out.
Otago Daily Times
a day ago
- Otago Daily Times
Queenstowner claims Wyndham Rally win
Queenstown-based driver Caleb Macdonald and his Australian co-driver Larisa Biggar powered home in their Mitsubishi EVO 6 to win the 2025 Barry Robinson Memorial Wyndham Rally in difficult conditions on Saturday. It was a special day for Macdonald as he notched up his first outright rally victory. Macdonald won the opening stage before Tim Smith, of Christchurch, took the lead in his Subaru Impreza H6 after winning the second. Smith retained the lead after Stage 3 which was the first of three in a row won by James Worker, of Mossburn, in his EVO 6. However, Worker was pushing hard to overcome a time deficit after problems early on, so Macdonald reclaimed the overall lead after finishing third in Stage 3 and second in Stage 4. He took the final Special Stage from Worker to claim the overall rally victory by 39.5 seconds from the impressive Tim Smith/Ben Trevelyan with Worker/Campbell Tannock third, just 3.5 seconds behind Smith. Smith was awarded the Class H win after his performance. Top seed Andrew Graves went out early after finishing fourth in the opening stage with a fogging windscreen and he was off the road and out of the event in Stage 2. "I was a bit frustrated and pushing hard after Stage 1. "We are OK and it is a minor fix, just a shame for my sponsors, family and friends that we were out early on." Second seed, Robbie Stokes, of Canterbury, was fifth going into the final stage but a puncture plummeted him down the order. Carter Strang, of Wallacetown, finished fourth overall and won Class D with David Clearwater, of Christchurch, followed by Deane Buist, of Christchurch, who was sixth as well as the first two-wheel-drive car home and the winner of Class C. Derek Ayson, of Gore, was seventh taking out Class G in his Opel Manta while Josh Keighley, of Christchurch, in a Subaru H6 was eighth. Jeff Judd in another H6 Subaru and his son Taylor Judd (Toyota Corolla) rounded out the top ten. Other class winners were Paul Preston, of Te Anau, who won Class E after finishing 12th and Ian Warren, of Dunedin, who took 15th place to win Class B. Warren also claimed the Glen Shirlaw Memorial Trophy for the first Otago Sports Car Club driver home. Paul Cross, of Gore, who finished 18th overall won Class F and Josh Silcock of Rangiora took out Class A in 27th place. Macdonald said winning the event, "was a very special moment. To win the Barry Robinson Memorial Trophy on the occasion of the Eastern Southland Car Club's 50th Anniversary with family watching was very special". Macdonald has ties to the area, having previously come from Gore. He also thanked co-driver Larisa, the club and his service crew. "We struggled early, there was torrential rain in Stage 1 and we pirouetted down the road backwards at 120kmh in Stage 2. I gave myself a stern talking to after that!" Anna Robinson won the Barry Robinson Memorial Challenge Trophy for the first Central Otago Motorsport Club member home in 26th place as co-driver to Chris Lange in a Ford Escort MK2. Robinson is a daughter of the late Barry Robinson after whom the trophy was named. Stage 2 also claimed Craig Abernethy, of Gore, with mechanical troubles and both Tony Aimers, of Wellington, and Harri Silcock, of Rangiora, with broken axles. In Stage 3. Australian Richard Galley went off the road and out of the rally, while Rhys Dunsmuire, of Christchurch, retired with overheating. Winton's Steve Gill went out with mechanical troubles one stage later. Brody Cattermole, of Temuka, had mechanical problems in Stage 1 and rejoined only to fall afoul of more problems and retire in Stage 6. Cattermole won the Zestino Tyres NZ Special Award as it was his first rally. Lauren Mackersy, of Dunedin, won the Gore Flooring Xtra Colourplus Novice Driver Challenge while Anton Montgomerie, Paul Garlick and Konrad Ward took the novice co-driver awards. Craig Jessop, clerk of the course for the event, said his team would have preferred sunshine but "you have to play the hand you are dealt. The marshalls and set-up crews did a fantastic job in atrocious conditions. Every stage went on time. "The competitors loved the stages and the new combination of roads." By Lindsay Beer
NZ Autocar
17-06-2025
- NZ Autocar
New models continue Subaru's unblemished safety record
The Subaru Crosstrek and closely-related Subaru Impreza have both received five-star ANCAP safety ratings following their MY25 safety updates. These scores apply to Crosstrek and Impreza vehicles built from April 2025 and on sale from June 2025. Because this pair is so similar under the skin, shared test results were used to determine the safety ratings for these models. Collision avoidance performance tests were conducted on the Subaru Crosstrek together with the full-width frontal, oblique pole and side impact tests. Meantime, frontal offset (MPDB) testings was conducted on the Subaru Impreza. The Impreza also underwent its own side impact and pedestrian tests to confirm comparable performance. Read out review of Subaru Crosstrek here. For Adult Occupant Protection both models achieved an 83 per cent result. They offered Good levels of protection for the driver in the full width frontal, side impact and oblique tests. Here, full points were scored. Front passenger protection in the frontal offset test was also deemed Good. A centre airbag between the front seats resulted in mixed performance following side impact crashes. Both models achieved 91 per cent crash test results for Child Occupant Protection. They scored maximum points in the two crash tests that featured the six- and ten-year-old child dummies. Similar results were recorded for Vulnerable Road User Protection (Crosstrek 85%; Impreza 84%). In physical impact tests, the bonnet and windscreen of both models provided Good protection to the head of a struck pedestrian. But Poor results were noted on the stiff windscreen pillars. Both models have the ability to detect and automatically avoid or reduce the severity of a crash with pedestrians and cyclists. Safety Assist systems garnered a 73 per cent result for both models. Each is fitted with Subaru's EyeSight technology. So they offer AEB, lane keep assist, emergency lane keeping, speed assistance systems, and a direct driver monitoring system. The Impreza offered slightly better head and lower leg protection for pedestrians than the Crosstrek. But femur protection provided by the Crosstrek was superior to that of the Impreza, giving it a slightly higher Vulnerable Road User Protection score.
