2022+ Subaru WRX: 6 Month Owner Review; Still worth it?

[@HeavyMetalWRX]

For anyone new to Subaru this is the best place to start tbh. You get to have a bit of fun with no real drawbacks. From here you can slowly go backwards if you decide Subarus are your thing, imo.

[@Smeedia]

Tbh really solid platform for new peeps coming into the Subaru world

[@ReefyBmx]

Honestly subaru gets better and better every year with the way the cars drive but on the styling side i cant say to much but what can you say if you dont try it? I just like older subarus and hard to accept the new but i can absolutely say they preform well.

[@pullinstringsarchery]

I’ll be honest, being 40k in for a premium after fees, then another 5-10k in mods to have a car similar to his… not worth imo. Buy a used STI or a CTR stock for that price. Those cars are built to rip off the lot and don’t require the many aftermarket mods, both performance and appearance, that this car needs. Car looks amazing but its not worth that price in my opinion. It needs too much help to have the presence of the aforementioned cars. For the casual daily great car! But the fact that a knowledgeable enthusiast such as Tanner put that much money to make the car livable should say something. Also note, even with a newer Subie, my guy can’t stay away from a GD! Insert clapped out Hawkeye meme here.

[@WarriorsPhoto]

Good point. Subaru makes a great platform. This VB platform is very well engineered. 😊

[@Br0dacious]

@@pullinstringsarchery40k for a premium 😭😭😭 I snagged mine for 32 my guy shit was cheap

[@pharmztko]

It’s an awesome car for a daily driver that you can have some fun with. If you need a track car or you want 500+whp it’s best to just start with a more appropriate vehicle

[@Smeedia]

This 100%

[@Jesussaves33_]

It's just too early as far as aftermarket for that kinda of power with this car you nailed it I own a 2022 as a daily intake exhaust a conservative e85 tune its perfect for daily usage

[@doubleflo7]

Just traded in my VB because I want 500hp awd without a transmission swap. Loved the car otherwise, awesome handles and torque curve.

[@d--om489]

@@doubleflo7what car are you looking to get?

[@doubleflo7]

@@d--om489got a BMW i4 M50 😅

[@kevinstier4953]

Growing up in the GENX era and having kids at an early age with my wife I have always wanted something with 4 doors with a manual transmission.....................I am almost 48 and looking at this WRX like Hell Yes I can do this now!

[@SavageBluetick]

I got my first at 45 and now I'm 46 with a 4 year old and we both love it. The wife likes it but not the suspension so much. Go for it!

[@zibsa843]

I’m 30 drooling over it

[@worldofnateg]

43 here. I hope you bought one. It's worth it. :)

[@northvinelandtropicals]

I'm 47 with a teen that will be driving in a few months. I may be upgrading from a 2016 Focus ST to a WRX GT. I love the new body style.

[@GuyIncognito1]

Great review, no click bait BS wording in the title, no making yourself out to be a victim of any issues, no attention seeking activities in the video. Social media needs more people like this.

[@DrYoloNuggets]

Fellow 23 VB owner, I absolutely love mine. The things you talked about were spot on!

[@jayhaverstock2475]

If it breaks, I can fix it. Best line ever! Love the vids man!

[@Smeedia]

Ayyy appreciate the support Jay 🫡🙌

[@Owl-ge9jl]

I think your VB has really turned out to be a great car. I love your taste in mods.

[@Smeedia]

Thank you 🫡 IMO less is more with them

[@Dbricks72]

I have a 2022 WRX as well. Bought it used, but I'm about 6k miles into it myself and I enjoy it myself. Tbh I learned to love the look of the stock vic. Love this channel! Keep up the great work and give me more ideas on what to do with it!

[@Smeedia]

Glad to hear your enjoying the car 🥳

[@brianortega1637]

I dont want a car where I have to "learn to live with it" or "you get used to it". I want to love my car. I want to walk up to my car and be happy with how it looks.

[@DavidGarcia-oi5nt]

I love my VB! just about to reach the first oil change, I've already tuned it and it's really come alive. I work at Subaru so it may help me keep my warranty in case anything happens. Love your VB Tanner, it's given me inspiration for mine and also even at getting all the STi accessories at cost they're too expensive.

[@Smeedia]

The OeM parts are awesome additions but my god Subaru charges so much for them all 😭

[@fundip8676]

If it's tuned you will not keep your warranty. Tuning it back to stock doesn't work either, Subaru certified techs will be able to tell if it's ever been tuned.

[@christopherrogers8316]

sorry even though u work at subaru that warranty gone

[@ghostfacedc5534]

@@christopherrogers8316 not unless you know what they require for warranty claims: CID's CVN's etc. very easy to warranty if you know you know

[@hellobooom]

Bye warranty

[@jimmyKwrx]

I’ve had quite a few of the different generations of the WRX and STIs and the VB is a great platform. It makes power very easily and is solid all around.

[@dsonyay]

I had a 2015 WRX. It was fantastic. Very reliable. Zero issues for over 100k miles.. sold it for a pickup Truck. The wife had a Crosstrek.. and recently sold it for a new Outback. If the STi returns.. I’ll likely buy it too. :)

[@droptdown]

So, I just bought this as my first Subaru. I am 90% happy with it. I am a Father of two and I can't really afford anything much more like an Audi or BMW. This gives me all the "speed" I need for a 40 Year old dad. With your tips I've been watch the last few days I think I will be doing a lot of the body work before I hit some of the really heavy works in performance. So far this video nails everything, some things I am not happy with. Yet like you said, it's a 35k dollar sports car... that holds my kids and is my daily..... Overall this is a win. Thanks for the head start. It has helped me make this purchase. I almost bought a Mazda 3.

[@akediord]

There a quite a few of these "Six months of VB ownership" vids out there, but I've got to say, it's WAY easier listening to yours and staying focused on the content than some of the others I've had to bail on two minutes in. Well done! Love the constant expose on the VB. I'm still thinking about a TR and the car I own at the moment is superlative in every metric save for passenger volume, but an absolute PITA as a daily where I live due to EVERY single ingress and egress in every parking lot anywhere being a seemingly 45° ramp. LOL.

[@armorofgod1430]

I have 24 TR in red; best decision I have ever made.

[@akediord]

@@armorofgod1430 Congrats! Enjoy it! I ended up landing in a '24 Audi S4 Prestige, moving on from a 718 Cayman T 6MT.

[@Stature17]

I think the better tail lights is trade for the bumper but once you see it it grows on you. I love everything about it!

[@curtisdc312]

I think the color matched flares look great 👌🏼

[@Smeedia]

Definitely helps improve it a bit 🙌

[@megatronssti9677]

I bought a 2020 STi new and I've been waiting to mod it. I thought about getting a new car but My STi has 26k miles and I haven't done anything to it. It's these videos that remind me to put in some work and make an amazing car. Great vid as always!👍🏾

[@Mitsu3kGT]

The sti is hands down better. For instance when he’s mentioning how he runs out of RPM top end, that never happens on the sti. The car doesn’t come alive til 3k+ and it just EATS when it’s at 5,500 compared to the direct injection wrxs. The old school sti just has more power and you can tell. I used to have a 2019 wrx and went to a 2021 sti and I’m so glad I did. The transmission is another thing he can’t really bring up because none of these wrx owners would know how much better the sti trans is. I owned both. The sti is so much better. And the brakes are real brembos and are MASSIVE even compared to some other brands of cars

[@Mitsu3kGT]

Basically the only thing the new 2.4 wrxs have on the old EJs is fuel efficiency

[@theglacier3367]

Have you driven an FA24 WRX? They’re nothing like the outgoing FA20 other than in architecture.

[@Mitsu3kGT]

@@theglacier3367 wouldn’t matter. You get the shitty wrx split case trans. And it’s direct injected. You might get some more power from the engine but I’ll still be going at 200k with new head gaskets and the fa24 will be blown up by 120k lol or so choked so death from carbon it won’t matter

[@Mitsu3kGT]

@@theglacier3367 and normal wrx is still lower in horsepower and turbo size… legitimately just have the drive the sti in the higher rpm’s where the powerband is and I’ll take it anytime, everytime

[@stansuarez]

Since you've been thinking of getting rid of some of your cars. I volunteer this one for the axe. It was fun watching you try to make it "likeable". And admittedly, if it is indeed pushing 400whp with just those mods and a tune, I'd be very impressed. But I can tell that it isn't one of your favorites. However, I can see it's value as a platform for relevant content on your channel considering the growing number of VB owners.

[@Smeedia]

I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t one on the chopping block. It’s on that block lol

[@esoterikk1]

​@@Smeedia what are you considering as a replacement?

[@footballguy8365]

@@Smeedia This is my first time watching one of your videos, I'm curious why this car is on your chopping block? Would you mind elaborating?

[@riley1733]

I got a 2023 WRX about a week and a half ago. Traded in my 2020 Honda Civic Si Coupe for it and no regrets. I love my WRX. It's a fun vehicle with tons of power. I love that there's no rev hang in it (Si had tons of it and it drove me nuts). Makes shifting a lot more fun and a lot smoother. WRX drives a lot better than the Si did. I couldn't be any happier with my decision to get the WRX. I was also having issues with the clutch in the Si since I got the car so as long as I don't have any issues with the WRX (none so far and clutch seems to be great), I'll be keeping it for a long time. It's a blast to drive.

[@roninlaw9824]

You're one of the original guys that I followed back before when the new Sti was "Supposed" to come out. Glad to see you enjoying the new platform. It's definitely a different beast than the EJ Motors!

[@jasonmoyer]

I have a '22 Premium WRB and I've kept it completely stock. Love the way it looks, love how it drives. Most of my driving is on tight, twisty/hilly backroads, often on really bad pavement or in bad weather, and it's perfect for that. If it had more power I'd never use it. I thought I'd hate the infotainment, but it will be fine once the full screen Android Auto update comes out. Only thing I wish I had gotten were a few more OEM accessories when I purchased it (mud flaps, engine undertray) but overall it's been great other than being a parking lot dent magnet.

[@jasonmoyer]

Installed the head unit firmware that dropped a few days ago. Full screen Android Auto baby.

[@FejjNagaf]

I love my vb. Stock is still a ton of fun. My only real complaint is the stupid cold start. I've owned a lot of cars, including a Corvette, and not one of them has ever taken as long to come off of high idle. It's super annoying, especially with a manual. Yesterday was cold. I started the car, got it warmed up, and drove off. I got a few miles away and realized I had forgotten something, so I turned around and shut the car off for the minute or so to run in and grab what I forgot. When I got back to the car and started it up, even though the water temp was normal and the oil was up to temp, it still ran through a 30-45 second cold start sequence. It's super annoying. I wouldn't mind it if the cold start/high idle was 15-20 seconds, but every time I turn the car on, it's 30 seconds to a minute or so of pointless high idle. Subaru claims it's to warm the cat for efficiency, but every time? Even when the cat is hot? It's absurd.

[@nathanarcher6764]

When car starts, ECU is in Open Loop mode. This mode ignores input from sensors and trims the fuel based on preset instructions. After a while when engine is warm ECU will switch to Closed Loop mode where it will adjust fueling based on input received from sensors. When you blip the throttle during idle warm up period it will tend to trick it into Closed Loop early because it thinks you’re going to drive away. - Taken from Reddit User (TotalWasteman) My input: I have a 2008 Impreza, so far from these newer cars. I'm looking around trying to decide between a Gen4 or Gen5 WRX. Although, on my car the heat shields on the exhaust rattle because of wear and tear only in about a 100rpm range, usually when cold. Doesn't rattle during normal driving so I dont really care tbh, though during startup whenever im trying to figure out what music to listen to, i always blip the throttle immediately (literally the tiniest blip, like 100-200rpm) so it doesn't go into high idle. I have 0 clue how the new computers act and so idk what kind of checks the engine does, I.e. if it will allow you to do that. From what i've read, you should be able to get it to stop after 30 seconds or so. You gotta remember that every time you cycle the ignition, the computer resets just like your computer does, or phone does when you turn it on and off, so whatever instructions are written/coded into the ECU or the brains is going to re start the entire checking sequence the way it was written. Just leave the car running if you're not going to be gone for 30 minutes. Hurting the earth with emission is a myth. We don't hurt the earth with our cars anymore than we hurt God whenever we talk down to others and kill each other.

[@westonmickey3890]

Putting in some work on this video.. excellent b roll integrated into the story line.. made me feel like Papa Smeedia sat me down like Santa and gave me a wonderful Subaru story.

[@Smeedia]

Appreciate my mans 🥳

[@boosTiMon]

Excellent video!! To me it’s mind boggling on some things that had so much potential but came up short like the head unit Android issue. Maybe there will be an app that will fix that in time or a firmware update on the head unit. Also how aesthetically pleasing fenders and tail lights and rear bumpers were on previous WRX and STI generations is also mind boggling how designers didn’t incorporate that in this generation. It would be awesome if the rear didn’t look like a Civic and the fenders didn’t have corners like a stop sign cut in half. Look at the modern Challenger, it’s modeled after a generation 50 years old. Even the recent Mustangs have lines that you can obviously see where its design ideas came from. Stick with your roots designers! But a very very excellent video my friend!! 🙌🏽

[@boosTiMon]

I have an idea that might sound janky but might be pleasing to the eyes. Smoke the tail lights with either film or smoked light paint and find some wrap that resembles the lower rear bumper black and wrap only the back or the car to blend the lights and the lower bumper. All this isn’t permanent but might completely change the look and focal points on the rear.

[@frankaranda1664]

Thanks for doing this video it answers a few questions I had 🤙🏻

[@phengbun1820]

I really enjoy this. Very informative and it gives me a lot of thought about a plan of going toward the VB.

[@hunterneli182]

I’m at 25k miles even after a new trans, center diff, radio, and driveshaft I love it. Yes I wouldn’t mind if someone stole it and wrecked it and bought me something else but tbh I love it.

[@Smeedia]

This is an accurate description of how I feel 😂

[@PsunnProductions]

The hell did you do to grenade your driveline? Lol

[@hunterneli182]

@@PsunnProductions badly machined center diff unaligned bent the shaft, also sent metal shavings into the trans

[@JoeyMontalto]

It's a great wrx out of the box. I agree the ej has had the r&d and can make significantly more power. That being said if you're ever in NC we can hoon around in my VB with the ETS Turbo kit.

[@Smeedia]

Saw you got that! Curious to see what yours does. I’ve debated going down the path of turbo kits, six speed swaps etc and I just can’t justify it. So I’ll be watching yours closely 😅

[@minusmartin]

i knew you would make it look good. im a OEM+ type of person too. glad to see you're killin it man~!

[@minusmartin]

BTW i havent kept up with the channel in a minute due to life and me getting out of the subie game for a bit. I brought back my 97 coupe to finally finish the sti swap lol. time to binge watch smeedia!

[@skip741x3]

Bro, urs looks incredibly Nice with what you have done with it! .. the fender cladding change make all the difference, at least to me..as far as front end and even rear end, I think the ass end looks very cool as is, super attracttive to me.. its all subjective.. exhaust sounds insane, almost like a motorcyle !!! awesome mods overall!

[@Natedoc808]

I just picked up a 23 wrx limited yesterday, and I did the dance with the turn signal a few times! Lol. Now I’m going to start in on a full refresh (and upgrade 😏) of my 02 Bugeye wagon.

[@MegaDarklee]

The 24 doesn’t have that turn stalk problem anymore. I just picked mine up yesterday. It’s a normal turn stalk now.

[@Natedoc808]

@@MegaDarklee hmmm, can I swap it out?

[@dbenz16]

“ learn to live with it’ That should be the VB owner official saying

[@jays8816]

I love mine so far. No issues at all. I only have an ETS cat back on it right now when it comes to performance mods. I do want the paint matched fender flares but I I don’t mind the rest of the black trim. The cars can look real cool with paint match ground skirts and diffusers. As far as the interior stuff you complained about…. I like everything about the interior. I have dogs as well and decided to get a “pet hammock” from Amazon to protect the back seats and it works perfectly. For the rest of the exterior I have a deck lid spoiler, roof spoiler and larger hood scoop. The care looks great. I’m happy so far

[@jays8816]

Oh and I agree. The brakes are not great and it red lines to fast. My wife’s 2023 crosstrek has better brakes

[@zefolantar]

Awesome video! I’m a Subaru owner myself, but being older and needing space, we bought a 2021 Outback XT Limited. Yeah….I know, I know…😂 CVT’s suck, but I have to tell you…that stock 2.4L Turbo is pretty good with those paddle shifters. Plus my two 100lb dogs love the space in the back. BTW….new subscriber here. Great content! 👍👍

[@eskieman3948]

Got a '22 Outback XT Limited..... I've driven just about every type of vehicle/transmission combos in my life, and frankly, this drivetrain combo (turbo/CVT) is a LOT better than many I've driven. Much ado over nuttin from where I'm sitting.

[@jonpaultrossi6011]

Tanner, thank you for the videos, very insightful and entertaining. Happy New Year, here's to a great 24 :)

[@Smeedia]

Happy new year 🎉🥳

[@aynun1647]

I feel like the FA24 sounds more like how I expect a Subaru to sound than the FA20 ever could.

[@jdwilliams4821]

I have a 2018 2 door Jeep wrangler, super modded for off-roading. I absolutely love it and how unique it is, but it is horrible as a daily driver. Lots of maintenance required and poor fuel economy. I have a '23 WRX coming to me in about 6 weeks and I'm very excited. Other than paint matched fenders and a possible lip/coilovers, I'm going to refrain from performance mods for now as I really want it to drive like a daily. I'm super excited. My brother has a '21 VA and I'm jealous I can't find the old body style brand new, but regardless the VB is continuing to grow on me, and once it has some cosmetic work it'll be a dream

[@omialmanza1900]

My complaint about the VB's is its stk form. A couple mods and personalitie and it changes everything. Same was said about all Subaru's. Fam is fam👍🏼 As a homies a homie. Lol + I got the 6spd supra next to my subie🎉 the mustang didn't cut it lol. Awesome start to the new year T!

[@Smeedia]

Real talk how do you like the 6speed Supra? It’s been on my watch list for the cars 👀

[@omialmanza1900]

@@Smeedia 100% honest here, It was not what I had in mind. The 6 speed is great no doubt. But the interior, and over use of plastic under the hood, reminds me of my coworkers 2015 BMW 535i gt or Xdrive. We even compared the 2 together. Modding it will be a challenge as I expect alot of bolt to strip givin the weird places thier located. But Its a really quick fun car I've had it for 8 days now still getting used to and to know it better. Though our only choice was to finance it given the price of over 60k Honestly its to me, its my 1st real car due to their limited production. Something of a humbling feeling. I now understand why old timers never let go of their old classics. Tho getting tuned is gonna be a b#%#@! Thats my 2cents.

[@ChrisJones-yh2os]

This video was so substantive! Thank you. Think for now it convinced me to stick with a BRZ.

[@johnyoon5399]

"too toned down" and "too tame" - i totally feel this, it seems like this is the trend modern cars are going towards. kind of interesting how the same trend exists in the bike industry - i recently built up a modern road bike w/ all custom parts, and i found myself thinking the same thing. the older bikes from the 2000's and 2010's were sharper and more performance-oriented.

[@michaelochoa5171]

Loved the OEM+ look and followed your example. I stuck with the cladding.

[@Smeedia]

Tbh I kinda miss the cladding 😅

[@LAAO369]

Same, bought all the OEM aero from Subaru and kept the cladding stock. It works for me while doing autocross. I hit a cone every now and then and the cladding helps not peel or chip paint.

[@vincentmoore9891]

@@SmeediaI knew it 😂

[@upnorteeh]

Solid review of this newer gen wrx and great video. It took me some time to like the exterior mainly from my love of hatchbacks, I'm biased.

[@traviswatson4986]

the best place to start is a stock 04-07 sti. but those days are over. I enjoy my vb but I miss my stock 06 sti every day. would trade that back in an instant for my vb.

[@dg7438]

I actually like the looks of it.. it's brawny, masculine, strong edges and the cladding's not too bad.

[@Hyperion292]

Why did you buy this car? Sounds like you just sort of tolerate it. Everything is “not that bad.” I think your car looks great.

[@UOIGET]

I just bought a 2023 premium with an automatic love it

[@addisonmaples7714]

Great analysis! Love my 22 WRX. I hate the interior door panels the most. Went the OEM+ route too. I like the exterior styling. It has grown on me a lot. Definitely the best daily I have had since my old Honda days. Around 400 hp is plenty for street driving IMO. I miss the unequal header sound though and brakes are def garbage from the dealer. The 2024 TR trim looks spot on though. Will try and style mine somewhat similar.

[@gabriellytle9309]

i love the lil welcomes lights! I have them on my 2018 forester xt and the honestly put out!! great lil feature

[@stevetorres818]

Love your content bro. I occasionally run into you on the streets and do the subie wave 😎 keep it up bro hopefully this 2024 is a great year for ya.

[@MotoMadness66]

I bought my 22 VB limited brand new and I love it. The styling doesn't bother me at all. I've been sticking with the OEM+ look as I add to it. Major mods were, Oil pressure gauge, tint, dual catch cans, drivetrain mounts, ETS intake with sleeve, Remark catback muffler delete system, 18x9.5 +35's. Next up will be suspension, and BBK. I daily this, so im looking for around 400hp when it comes time to tune. I love it, I get lots of compliments in my area where there arent many drivin around. She's fun, yet reliable, and I've had zero issues. I track bikes so I dont expect anything crazy from it from a performance to dollar ratio. I tell people to give it a chance and appreciate it for what it is.

[@Smeedia]

I definitely think they have their place and overall as a good fun daily it definitely fills that spot well. The styling is subjective but using the car everyday it has not let me down yet

[@MotoMadness66]

@Smeedia For sure, and I 100% agree with it being pricy to really change the aesthetics. That's my only complaint buying a brand new gen. It's gonna take some time for us to get a variety of options. I love what you've done with yours. Diversity in taste is what makes the community.

[@atmosphere2001]

Did those 9.5s fit with out having to roll anything?

[@MotoMadness66]

@atmosphere2001 zero fitment issues. I mounted the OEM Dunlops on them. Still on stock suspension.

[@atmosphere2001]

@@MotoMadness66thanks for the info sorry for another question what size are those dunlops you are running as well?

[@blueridge8992]

Nice review. I think the most important thing about this car is how much of a performance bargain it is. My ‘22 Premium was $31,500, and with less than $1500 in mods I can do 0-60 in 3.4s on the Dragy, and I literally gapped a ‘21 Mustang GT 10A (from a dig to 100mph) without using LC. I’m at 380/415 wheel with e60/21psi. At 23.5psi/e85 you should be making well over 400/400wheel. That’s 3s 0-60 and sub 12s 1/4 on street tires territory. It’s very hard to hit that performance without spending a lot more on an STI. It’s also important to note that a >700hp STI is going to cost well over $20k in mods. No one has dropped a built motor/big turbo/big fuel system/STI trans setup into a VB yet, but the parts exist now and I bet it will hit comparable numbers for the same price as a big boy STI build. The future is bright for the platform. You should stick with it and be one of the first to push the envelope. It has the potential to turn into an STI killer.

[@Smeedia]

Unfortunately I foresee the VB following suit of the Va WRX. I think R&D will hit a point where there will be no large growth in the platform. I hope im wrong either way that but that’s where I see it headed. The bang for the buck is there in the car. It definitely had a lot of potential in it 🔥

[@d--om489]

What mods do you have for under $1500 that can give that big of a performance boost? Genuinely curious :0

[@blueridge8992]

@@d--om489 intake, intercooler and an e60 tune. You can hit 330whp with just an e30 tune on a stock ‘22 WRX, and 360whp with just an intake and e60. It’s very cheap and easy to make safe power with the FA24 if you have access to e85, which is good because the car has a lot of other shortcomings that you need to spend money on (brakes, catch cans, shifter, mounts/bushings, winter capable tires since it only comes with summer tires, etc.)

[@alvaroperez7879]

Good point. Now a fun car with reliability is an mk8 R. With just software tune and e85 they hit high 10s in 1/4 mile. Lol

[@FreshlyBaked13]

If you keep getting the itch to find something else look for a July 2017 + manufactured Focus RS with low miles. I just picked up a 2018 in blue this past summer with 13k on it via carmax. I've had a stage 2 wrx gr hatch, then got into a 6 speed mk7r, then a brz ts, and now have the RS. The RS is the complete package if you want a raw track ready car. The seats are incredible, the turn in is sharp and quick, the suspension is stiff with very little body roll and plenty of feedback, and it has plenty of character with the factory tune.

[@da9pauly]

I like your VB but in stock trim it does leave you wanting it to be different. It’s very cool to what can be done tastefully to the car. I’d love a newer steering wheel for the Fozzy…

[@Smeedia]

In stock form they are incredibly meh but with some love they’re not bad 🔥

[@tylershimek6167]

How is this channel seriously still under 500k?

[@Sean-wi6hm]

Am I the only one who really likes the plastic cladding?

[@RichardDurishin]

Sad that people don't know the "3rd brake light" is, in EU and Japan, a rear fog light. Sadder still, that North American cars aren't wired to use them that way.

[@chrishayes2672]

I’ve had a 22 and a 23. I’m enamored by the looks. I think sapphire blue is the best color. Amazing little cars

[@rickgraham7641]

This was my first WRX and while I got used to the cladding I hated how everything including the heated seats used touchscreen menus and ultimately didn't think AWD was worth the mileage tradeoffs and ended up trading in the WRX for a BRZ. To each their own.

[@ScotianBlooded]

just applied for one excited is an understatement

[@jerseattle0722]

It’s funny how we’re all so different. I love keeping my car oem and couldn’t imagine making mods especially the engine.

[@shauncampbell969]

It's a Great looking auto!! All the best Shaun 🦉 of NYC 🗽 P.S Dogs Rule. I keep adding comments, sorry. This video, Great cinematography, Great Auto. Great product knowledge! Love the BRZ, never really looked at the WRX, but Wow!! I'm seriously looking at the WRX, it's turbo, the throws seem hot. No rev matching, but that's okay. Great video. 🎉

[@ImpalaSS08]

I love how he grounded the fascia into the driveway while putting a new lip on it. 😂😂😂

[@Dan-dx9qu]

I love them, loads of potential! Too many haters out there!

[@conradaleshire4428]

The WRX Has never been a looker. I think this one is fine.

[@DanielFlores-kr5br]

Dude this car is so sick props🔥

[@jp23x]

Removing all the cladding would completely transform this car. I’d buy it.

[@speedogomer]

Controversial opinion... the black cladding looks so much better than painted. Painted takes away so much character and makes it another anonymous blob. Subarus always have been ugly, and that's what makes them special and cool. You buy a Subaru FOR the quirks, don't hide them.

[@R1Armadill0]

It continues to be the rear lights for me... Love the oil filter position, but meh...

[@Smeedia]

Personally I really don’t think it’s all that bad. Could just be because I see it everyday

[@naldovaz9157]

owner of 2023 WRX 6 speed. For what it is l love the car and l am 62, learned on manual as a young teenager. This car is old school, solid stiff chassis matched well with engine and tranny. Love the short gearing makes it a great everyday driver in city and backroads, and off road and snow. l am getting 2nd vehicle 4X4 truck automatic with comfort and touring capabilities... Know What l Mean?Loving this robust 6 speed rally car but not as everyday for me... Keeping the car no doubt, Fun Fun Fun and grip for days. Did upgrade STI and intake.. Changed the car from stock, WOW.. Loud with attitude, My Nephews are eying mt car. And one day when they build these old school cars no more,,,, l will give one of my nephews my car

[@Corn.jr23]

That’s cool bro, lucky nephews!

[@kig2055]

I recently acquired a 23’ premium in WR pearl blue, of course. Let me tell ya the way I ran to grab my keys to clip em to my belt and try out the lock/unlock by grabbing the handle, that rocks, thank you.

[@joshuawilliams639]

Some of the new tech is great but for me you cant beat it he older subies. They are very light with the ej we all love.

[@Smeedia]

I love me some older Subarus. But for a lot of people who are not super mechanically inclined a used EJ car can be a huge gamble

[@danieloboechevarria1783]

Btw, one of the best Subaru’s ever made (talking about the engine) more reliable than ever, despite everyone likes on the aesthetics of the car, its a very well and fun drive experience. Btw Imo for a daily driver I think its more than enough 275hp I think tuning for power here a daily its a mess that you’ll regret later on, if you plan keeping the car leave it stock, most of the people out there can’t use the full potential of a Subaru (its not for straight roads)

[@tylernorthrup5471]

Great vid Tanner - lol shes only feeling a little lacking cause its not the Blubaru with 1000+ whp... but yeah - really wish we could've seen a new gen STi...

[@memphisraines8118]

Man I guess I'm one of the few.... I actually dig the way the VB looks. Especially when you start to modify them. A guy that works near me has a white one. Looks good IMO. Reminds me of the hate the Evo X styling had in the beginning. Including myself haha (based on pics online). Needless to say I ended up buying one after seeing it in person and driving it.

[@mdkflip7231]

I had 2 WRX models (2012 and 2017), and while I enjoyed my time with them I can't help but feel Subaru barely changes these things. I personally can't get past the cladding, and I don't want to buy a new car and then have to drop another few grand to "fix" the issues. I already did that twice with the past models I had, and don't have the time and money to dedicate to upgrading everything. When I was looking at my next car this was only on the list because of the AWD. Deal breakers for me was that massive screen and the exterior looks. Ended up going with an Elantra N. Similar price, great power and handling. Also has better legroom and trunk space along with a solid exhaust all stock.

[@gustavogo2915]

🤡

[@matthewwain9958]

Android Auto Full screen : Buy the AAWireless adapter. Gives you wireless AA/CP and critically, full screen android auto by running it over car play (setting in the app for the adapter.). Works extremely well. (Do not even bother with the "foreign" adapters.. just get the AAWireless one and be done with it).

[@Smeedia]

I have seen these and glad they’re out. But on Subarus end it seems lazy that they just did not incorporate it in 🥲

[@kaokao9k]

@@Smeedia someone on reddit mentioned fullscreen android auto should be coming out this quarter. fingers crossed

[@matthewwain9958]

@@Smeedia absolutely agree! I'm a software developer, so this bugs the hell out of me that fullscreen AA wasn't on the minimum viable product list. (It is on the new Impreza RS btw)

[@matthewwain9958]

Your subtle changes were one of the cars that made.me.get a VB from a higher miles VA. I like the OEM+ look.

[@Smeedia]

The OEM+ look on these is where it’s at 🔥

[@gallivantingsprt]

Just ordered one today, partly thanks to this review. Been walking around looking at WRX in different trims. So this video came out just in time for me. Decided to go for a CVT, it looks more all-rounded, perfect for our family, and for my wife to be able to drive it too. Only modification I want now is this colored stripe on the steering wheel. Any tips on how to do it with minimal effort are very appreciated 👍 looking forward to getting my hands on it now. Hopefully it all goes well

[@Smeedia]

Congrats on the order! Tbh I’d suggest the Faction Fab replacement steering wheel as it already comes with it. And you can get it an any material you like 🫡

[@gallivantingsprt]

@@Smeedia thanks a lot for the pro tip. I am looking at their website now. They have some great designs 👍 Keep up the great work! Will be following your channel now

[@LongLiveJapan87]

So, I was wondering what the pros are of getting a CVT WRX over the Legacy XT 🤔. I have an Outback right now and was debating on getting a WRX or not. I would think that the Legacy would be more usable if not having a manual transmission wasn’t a dealbreaker.

[@gallivantingsprt]

@@LongLiveJapan87 I'd say that WRX and Legacy are totally different animals. While WRX is a more individualist car with family capabilities, the Outback is mostly family car which provides the driver with all necessary features. I wouldn't have picked a WRX if I didn't have a decent size family car already. Overall an Outback is a much more versatile family car solution.

[@LongLiveJapan87]

@@gallivantingsprt definitely 👍. I would for sure keep my Outback. The other vehicle would be a 2nd vehicle.

[@Gligz]

Stop making me like the new WRX, I'm trying to buy an sti over here.

[@bloffs3352]

Nice review.Thinking seriously about buying the WRX Ts wagon soon.CVT but hey.As far as aircon controls go,isnt there manual knobs next to the screen as well? Cheers.

[@devonsk8s4]

Love my 23 premium! I opted for the 7 year warranty, don’t plan on any engine mods but it’s very temping. I think I’ll only add an axle back to get a better subi sound!

[@Thankyou_3]

Have Subaru fixed the oil leaks, coolant leaks and head gasket issues. That is the only thing holding me back from buying a WRX.

[@unusual_zee]

I couldn't find anyone with a video of all sti accessories i just got a 24 tr with all dealer accessories and sti kit had to sub looks dope

[@hanhanhanhan7692]

Your WRX is beautiful.

[@FurkanCemTurfanda]

I like the factory cladding, but I've owned multiple MINIs so it's basically the same.

[@StevieDee73]

The cars basically an off-road rally car, so that plastic shit isn’t supposed to be painted. That’s the point so it doesn’t get all Stone chipped and shit. 🤷‍♂️

[@andypierce2758]

I felt that when you said you kinda want something else. I love my VB, it's an ideal daily and it's a blast to drive. But it does leave me wanting more sometimes, and I'm not sure if I wan't to spend the money to mod it to try and get that extra out of it or just get something else sooner rather than later

[@steve8803]

@andypierce2758 everything will leave you wanting more. That always means more money.

[@foxtayle446]

Unless you're dead set on getting a WRX, the 86 or the BRZ is probably a better option. You can get all those mods you want with the money you save on the cost of the car.

[@fixflickss]

Thanks bro, Wish you make a DIY video for a full STI trans, driveshaft, axle swap and cost….

[@Smeedia]

Would be 100% same same as the one I did on my 2014 WRX. Those videos would be applicable for this

[@fixflickss]

@Smeedia true but would be cool to see on the Vb as well, you could be the first one to push the vb to it's limits with the sti trans, I think the record today is around 500 whp on the VB

[@WasenshiDo]

I'm an 02-07 subie guy. The 2023 wrx is my fav style outside 02-07 tho.

[@Deetroiter]

I have a Crosstrek and one of the things I like about most all of the modern Subarus is how easy it is to reach everything in the engine bay (aside from plugs lol). Compared to many other brands that shoehorn everything into the engine bay, Subaru fully exposes the front struts, headlights, battery, etc…it’s ALL right there and easy access. On these new WRX vehicles, is Rotella T6 still a thing, or nobody’s really using it much anymore?

[@Borp56]

Having my 2011 and my wife's 2022 I'll say the 2022 is an excellent daily driver.

[@Smeedia]

They make for excellent every day cars 🤌

[@Borp56]

@@Smeedia the wife has wanted a BRZ for a while, thinking about getting her a BRZ and just driving her WRX for my daily 😅

[@kaokao9k]

The autodimming side mirrors with lights are an option, but its a cheap upgrade and super easy to install.

[@Smeedia]

Even as an option totally worth it. I did not even know mine had it until they dimmed 😅

[@blackedout5.0fan39]

Hello! I really love the vid! The only thing is that I prefer a twisting key ignition (I have had nothing but problems with them from my past 3 vehicles). As a result, I think I would go for a base model instead

[@thereal-ghost]

I'm just not sure where this car fits in the market though. Stock 5.0 mustang, 2SS Camaro, Scat Packs, etc are all more power for right at the same $ spent. I don't see this WRX competing with anything even with 400WHP unless you're running hondas or something I guess. What's the big draw / reason to go with a WRX over an already higher performing car?

[@dreambiggarage]

The rear kills it for me but that cause the tails lights and the strip in The middle other than that I’d cut all the bottom black trim off and replace it with a rear diffuser that would put all other to shame lmao

[@NewSunGambit]

Looks really good all black

[@PatriotSteve]

Are Subaru’s as bad as I’m hearing all over the internet? Leaky gaskets, transmission problems, it makes me wonder why so many people own them. Even people admitting at 100k miles there’s a good chance there’s gonna be expensive repairs but they admit they’d still stay with Subaru. I want to get one but why have the headache…. Why??

[@ninjaknight-jn9ky]

The turn signal stock would be the first thing I would try to retrofit.

[@Lonefaction360]

RS3 yourself. I went from an STI swapped fozzy to my 19’ RS3 and haven’t looked back.