Manual Transmissions, Road Trip Arguments, and Japanese SUVs: This Week in Cars

Performance enthusiasts and luxury SUV shoppers have two compelling new options to consider in the automotive landscape. We take a deep dive into the track-focused 2025 Subaru WRX TS and the premium 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV, exploring what makes each vehicle unique in today's market.

The WRX TS emerges as Subaru's answer to drivers seeking track-day thrills in a practical sedan package. With its aluminum hood and fenders, gold Brembo brakes, and moonroof delete, this performance-oriented trim delivers the genuine WRX experience with enhanced capabilities. The 271-horsepower turbocharged boxer engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission offers an increasingly rare connection between driver and machine. Inside, Recaro seats hold you firmly through corners while the new 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster displays performance data to satisfy data-hungry enthusiasts. At $45,750, the TS positions itself competitively against rivals like the Golf R and GR Corolla.

Shifting gears completely, the 2025 Mazda CX-70 showcases a different automotive philosophy—luxury, efficiency, and distinctive styling. This two-row SUV borrows the platform of its CX-90 sibling but eliminates the third row for enhanced cargo capacity. The PHEV model combines a 2.5-liter engine with electric components to deliver 323 horsepower and exceptional fuel economy (up to 56 mpg when fully charged). The copper exterior paired with red Nappa leather interior creates a bold aesthetic statement, while quilted seats and high-quality materials elevate the cabin experience. Starting at $57,450 for PHEV models, this premium crossover delivers luxury-adjacent features at a competitive price point.

We also explore the phenomenon of "carguments"—those inevitable disagreements that occur during road trips. Research shows nearly half of American drivers admit to arguing behind the wheel, most commonly about directions. Whether you're seeking performance thrills or luxury comfort, these new vehicles offer

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Chapters

• 0:00 Subaru WRX TS Review
• 4:03 Road Trip Arguments Survey
• 6:52 2025 Mazda CX-70 PHEV Review