Subaru Canada has announced it is releasing a sportier version of its WRX sedan in Canada.

Followers of the Subaru brand will remember the WRX nameplate was separated from the Impreza car lineup in recent years. The Impreza WRX was the sportier version of the compact car. The sportiest variant of the model’s range, the WRX STI, was discontinued in 2022.

So, what is the WRX RS?

Subaru calls it a performance-focused trim level of the WRX.

“The new trim level offers enhanced performance and handling capability, thanks to a high-performance Brembo braking system and RS-tuned suspension,” Subaru Canada said in an Oct. 17 news release.

The new suspension tuning and retuned steering rack help reduce roll, minimize sway and enhance steering feel, the company said. Additionally, suspension dampers have been “optimized for the RS-exclusive 19-inch gunmetal alloy wheels.” The car will wear 245/35 R19 Bridgestone Potenza S007 tires.

New high-performance Brembo brakes will feature six-piston calipers up front and two-piston rear calipers with larger pads squeezing cross-drilled rotors. The new brakes are intended to enhance stopping power, resist fade and improve pedal feel. The calipers are painted red.

Other performance-oriented goodies include wide-body design, hood scoop, body-coloured low-profile spoiler, and Recaro sport bucket seats up front. The moonroof is removed to reduce weight and lower the centre of gravity.

The car is powered by a 2.4 litre turbocharged boxer engine with 271 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm, the company says.

The WRX RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission and Subaru symmetrical full-time all-wheel drive.

Beginning in 2024, all WRX models equipped with a manual transmission will feature EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. It is already available to WRX vehicles with Subaru’s Performance Transmission (automatic). This system includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking system, lane departure and sway warning and lead vehicle start alert.

Subaru Canada did not provide a list price for the WRX RS.