2022 Subaru WRX Premium (6-Speed Manual) - POV First Impressions

MSRP: $32,105
MPG: 19 city / 26 highway
Horsepower: 271 hp @ 5,600 rpm
Engine: 2.4 L 4-cylinder
Curb weight: 3,320 lbs
Transmission: 6-speed manual
Dimensions: 184″ L x 72″ W x 58″ H
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Thanks for watching!

[@TheTopher]

I just posted a WRX/BRZ comparison here for those interested! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWPZp3uOlMaErpo

[@Anthony_LaRusso_2023]

New car!!!

[@JonTran75]

Watched it, excellent insights. I appreciate both cars more because of your review

[@forza388]

can you please test drive the cvt?

[@PQR5CHE]

When will you drive the CVT version WRX?

[@RJTamm93]

I feel like the only person on earth who thinks this looks substantially better than the last car.

[@onekobe]

nah you’re not 😀

[@Dontgo5]

agreed. she's a beauty

[@natewhite8845]

Nope, I agree as well. Hated the last 15 years of wrx.

[@thepassinglane]

This is the best looking one!

[@FXIIBeaver]

The plastic is a smart move protects the paint. I love it.

[@zaneprice6560]

“Not the most efficient car.. but we get hood struts” lol

[@theconformist2399]

The fact that they fixed the atrocious rev hang from the prior generation is alone to warrant applause. Kudos, Subaru.

[@pantloaded]

@@r.v.9005 tune never fixed mine.

[@andrewdonohue1853]

i have a crosstrek 6 speed, and although i do like the car the rev hang sucks. it's better then a CVT, i really dont like those things. long term out of warranty repair costs on a CVT, YIKES

[@_Muel_]

@@andrewdonohue1853there's a way to get around the rev hang. I figured it out on my Impreza. Just let off the gas a couple seconds before you push in the clutch and shift.

[@aritruths1452]

Nothing like a good 6 AM Toper upload to watch on a Saturday morning!

[@Unknown-vv1td]

Good morning bro

[@aritruths1452]

@@Unknown-vv1td Good morning to you too!

[@Unknown-vv1td]

@@aritruths1452 thanks man, u have a good day bro God bless

[@lubaniskie]

You're telling me its 9 am wherever you are? As someone who doesn't travel, its always funny being confronted by timezones in a non-abstract way. In RSA and its 5 in the evening.

[@barristanselmy2758]

There's nothing like watching a guy drive a car on you tube at 6am? i dont get it lol?

[@rcoupvc]

Of all the wrx videos i've been binging recently, yours has by FAR the best audio for the engine noise. I also appreciate that you pause and let us listen to it.

[@michaelpapastavrou1022]

Throwing this out there, I love sitting in my downtime and watching these reviews. Very in depth, keep ‘em coming!

[@drippsosauceyy7243]

Just got my white 22 wrx yesterday. Absolutely love this car! Everyone saying they hate how it looks will be jumping on the bandwagon guaranteed! Car looks and drives incredible!

[@phxntazm]

I’m getting mine in a nice crystal black silica on Friday, I’m so stoked!

[@postalpancho]

Had a 2015 WRX. Great value, performance and makes a great daily. Last model had really bad rev hang and a lumpy OEM tune. Nice to hear they’ve addressed those complaints. Best part of it is that you don’t feel bad for owning one if you have kids because the back seats aren’t cramped at all.

[@RyGuy1538]

I had to get rid of mine because I couldn’t sit in front of a car seat. We had our daughter’s rear facing car seat behind passenger seat, but we found out we were having our son and I couldn’t fit in front of a front facing car seat so I had to get rid of it. The way the back of the front seats are designed is terrible with the huge angled lump. I miss that car a lot…

[@Morrow_25]

Bro!!! Before I read your comment I was just thinking about my 2021 that I sold after owning it for only 4 months. Loved that car so much but could not fit the two car seats , strollers etc . Thinking about maybe getting my kids bus passes and buying this thing again lol

[@bubbleman2002]

I have covid right now and feel like crap. Thanks for keeping me entertained.

[@EvolutionIX219]

Had it two weeks ago. Hope you feel better

[@multigamer1213]

Get well soon mate

[@Crosina]

same buddy

[@kinosgarage]

Your review is spot on. I picked one up 2 days ago and cannot wait until I’m threw the break in miles. A huge upgrade over the previous model.

[@ItsTooRisky]

Downgrade on looks tho it looks like a civic

[@formula-91]

Been looking forward to this 1st impressions video. I just did a 13 hr drive with the 22 WRX premium. Fairly comfortable overall. Butt started to hurt around 11 hours in. Was able to get average 28 to 30 mpg on 93 gas (according to the info screen). Used to daily a 20 STI, and this car is a lot more liveable for daily use with the lighter clutch/shifter. I do miss the heavier steering of the STI tho... I think the front and silhouette of the 22 is definitely better. The rear bumper.... let's just say if i get rear-ended, I'd prolly just shrug... I actually love the fender cladding now (too much copium? Stockholm syndrome? lol). I absolutely love this car.

[@rturner4205]

In photos the Cladding looks too much, But in person it looks tasteful.

[@nate1204]

“Stockholm syndrome” lol I believe you, it’s not an ugly car just very rally car. I bet you stop caring about it once you drive it haha. Gotta try one out sometime.

[@QueTheChaotic]

I’ve been waiting for this one. I’m glad you enjoyed it. There are so many good cars in this range. I appreciate the AWD of the WRX. I drove the last Gen STI and that was a more difficult manual to drive. It rewards you and punishes you for good or bad driving. I felt the gears were too close in the gearbox. I need to test drive this. It’s a great value for the price. Love the orange too

[@thrillhousecycling7260]

Bought one. It's good. And I *swear*, I *promise*n you - it DOES look better in person!

[@tetravx-553]

Finally! I was always wondering when Topher would do it! Thanks man!

[@Sigrafix]

I've never even thought about a Subaru WRX.. but this package at $32k is pretty friggin awesome.. Honestly I rather have this over a Si, Type R, GTI or even a Golf R.. I'm not a fan of Fail-Wheel-Drive and Golfs even if they're good driving cars are so plain and boring looking.. An AWD Turbo Boxer 4 that's practical and convenient but still fun and unique with rally heritage, pretty tempting...

[@zachgoffredo1982]

I have one and I absolutely love it so far.

[@postalpancho]

I probably will never own a WRX ever again but I enjoy my time with it years ago. Looks like Subaru addressed many of the complaints for this model. Get yourself a brass bushing for your shifter. Such a cheap mod and practically transforms the shift feel from that rubbery sensation.

[@robtronic]

That foot clap before you got in the back seat…

[@twocoatsofwax6687]

These are so compelling. The biggest hang up for me is the huge tablet screen. At least the HVAC is always on screen. I may be in the minority, but i like the overall exterior design. Sure, its a bit much plastic. Overall design though is real sharp. Can’t wait for a full review with sound system test.

[@RobinBCG]

The only problem i have with the design is rear end. It just looks a little awkward but overall i like the design more than last gens. Thats just my opinion

[@FriendOxygen625]

The exterior really grew on me the only thing is It really looks like it's in dire need of some slightly bigger tires, maybe a tiny 1" lift.

[@Kyle-ty6mx]

That's why imo I would get the base model with the matte plastics and dual screens instead of the giant glossy iPad.

[@hhaste]

IAG made this new model look far better than stock, even the rear is manageable. Just a shame you almost need to do it from the factory.

[@MuffinMan0521]

The car is a fugly econo peasant car now. The 04-07 body styles were ever so much sexier than the last decade and a half. Real shame.

[@Avoidables123]

Definitely think the interior looks better and the front end looks good but the black fenders and rear of the car is just not doing it for me

[@kevinkraftable]

Think the same thing haha. I was like “this is kind of ugly compared to last gen.”

[@DragonKnightX12]

I just don’t like that bumper cover. It looks out of place in a car.

[@zergilli9719]

The metallic grey color WRX looks the best..

[@Frostblxde]

this car is really starting to grow on me.. That 2.4 sounds really nice.

[@Nadbull49]

Honestly after seeing how IAG made their wrx look much better than stock, dare I say they made it look great. I don't have a problem with the way it looks since it's a relatively easy fix

[@jimmuse546]

Just bought a 2023 Ice Silver, your video gave me confirmation on the daily drive, test drove it at dealership you were spot on. Great channel, keep up the fantastic Pov reviews!

[@YasssStitch]

My beef with Subaru is not offering performance package with adaptive dampers and recaro seats on 6MT. Crazy decision to offer it only on CVT.

[@lilreyreyatomic]

I bet it comes later on.

[@marcusfieldfield4069]

They're trying to force everyone to the CVT... most people don't even know how to drive a 6-speed anymore😂 and they're lazy😠

[@brandonpaul6186]

It's a valid beef :-)

[@platoonutzeyz88]

I wouldn't even mind if they offer a good auto or dct. A cvt of all things 😂 smh

[@grubguts309]

I agree it's an enthusiast car and leave all the good stuff for cvt. Nope not for me.

[@JoelGarciaJaquez]

I just upgrade from the 21 WRX base and I can’t even lie, it was a huge upgrade! Overall, feels better to drive and it feels good inside too

[@JonTran75]

I watch plenty of reviews and your format is by far the best. Your POV view is far better for the audience. I just can’t understand why some reviewers have the camera on them talking and waving their arms about. May as well sit at your dinner table. Your review process is greatly appreciated well done

[@updogyee1290]

Something they did great on this new body is the exhaust note, sounds nice!

[@surfmorworkless]

I always love the visibility Subaru has in their cars. I’ve had two over the years. Not in the market for one, but even so, I wish they’d do less touch screen stuff and go with more analog knob controls.

[@diallo1347]

At least it's not as bad as the GTI infotainment with all the haptic feedback junk

[@brandonbuckingham3939]

Finally!!! I have been waiting for you to do a video on the new WRX! 💪🏻

[@SarcasticComments23]

This looks better than the last WRX👍🏼

[@cajunotaku3256]

I know I’m in the minority, but I think the car looks amazing.

[@curtfox91]

SOLD!! Im pulling the trigger

[@HadEnough745]

did u get it?

[@windboit994]

Bro orange looks so good on that thing

[@andrew-f8x]

My local Subaru dealership has so many of these on the lot. I think people are having a real tough time getting over the looks lol.

[@docfmf8404]

That's subjective. I think it's more of the gas prices and low mpg on these.

[@CaelstromPC]

@@docfmf8404 nah man it's the looks for sure

[@eggpod4567]

Yeah, this looks super ugly. To me, they definitely ruined these cars. They looked way better 10-20 years ago.

[@tonychau1983]

@@eggpod4567 subaru was always weird looking

[@chriscleveland9203]

I like the design choice. It's unique and I think people will like it with time.

[@santiagosantana3562]

the back looks like a 2013 civic

[@sneakpeekla]

Everything looked good til I saw the back. Like huh? Why?? 🧐

[@thrillhousecycling7260]

Growing on me save for that rear end tbh. I think we’ll look back on these very soon as excellent performance bargains.

[@joshuaforan5939]

@@hashimrahman51 speak for yourself 😂 I always look back on my 2013 wrx, such a nice car to look at

[@ktm125sxbeast]

@Hashim Rahman I love the look of my 2015 sti...

[@benjamincarter3608]

Omg finally. I've been waiting for this one for so long. I love watching Topher drive the wrx.

[@steve8803]

Imagine driving a gti like that in the rain. Wheels spinning for days!

[@yeahohno4417]

Damn I love drive on the rains they're oddly relaxing

[@nicholas6039]

I was hesitant about this first gen model, but your review really convinced me to get one! Thank you.

[@ReyDodo]

Did you get one? If so do you like it

[@nicholas6039]

@@ReyDodo Yessir, its on the way! Can't wait.

[@metalmystic6214]

Any more thoughts about it vs your BRZ? Was surprised to hear you were second guessing your car choice! I have a 23 BRZ on order, but keep second guessing myself for the 22 WRX.

[@hyemihyemi]

If it helps a bit... So I'll throw it out there that I don't drive stick and this might make my opinion here worthless to you haha. Personally... I bought a White Premium WRX CVT one and it has been the~ best car I've ever had but that's because it fits what I personally looked for and it fits my spirited driving on city roads and highways. CVT imo works better for casual drivers who want fun such as me... otherwise manual is the way to go for hardcore serious drivers as I hear from my car enthusiast friends haha. Anyway~ I also got to test drive an automatic BRZ a while back and imo it comes down to this. In honesty... BRZ was~ more fun. It felt so much lighter and even more responsive... you felt much closer to the road. Handling to me felt more or less the same but WRX has significantly better grip especially when taking tighter turns. BRZ could still hold hard fast turns well but I did feel like it wasn't a firm grip while WRX is so fun on my home from work commute as I have to take windy roads to get to the higher elevation suburb area where I live and have 0 grip or handling concern. Also contrary to people... I liked the piped in engine noise haha. Made me feel like I was playing a video game or something and felt extra cool. Again... I'm a casual spirited driver and am not a car girl type of anything. So why did I get the WRX over it? Personally... it came down to practicality. WRX imo is the best practical yet affordable sports car out there. AWD is needed where I live because of snow and rain... it's a sedan so I can take family and friends on rides... it's still small and easy to maneuver but is bigger enough than the BRZ and that makes me feel safer if an idiot crashes into me. It's still super fast and spec wise is better than the BRZ I believe so I wasn't losing out performance there and the handling felt a lot safer and the grip for sure was there. And as for looks... I'm the few who loves how the new WRX looks but BRZ does slightly win over it imo since it's such a clean sharp yet even cute looking car haha. WRX has a much more aggressive and handsome look while BRZ has a sharp but cute one. But... if it matters to you... car enthusiasts in particular dislike the new WRX look so be wary if you're a part of that community and go to car meets or whatever. For me that doesn't matter but maybe it does to you. In your case... if~ you don't need the AWD and passenger space and cargo... BRZ is definitely really good and fun and it does have better fuel economy. Honestly... try out both if you can. I assume you tried the BRZ already but give the WRX a try if you haven't and then you can really decide for yourself after considering practicality differences. Both are amazing~ cars though and you won't go wrong either way... so it comes down to personal life/driving needs.

[@jboldy7564]

If this also helps at all, i got myself a 22 WRX and just like topher says a lot of the time watching this video, its a blast to drive. I was on the fence between a BRZ and a WRX like you, but ultimately it came down to me thinking about the practicality that the WRX has over the BRZ like the seats, AWD, and also a bit more power over the BRZ but im not sure how that translates over for more fun while driving as I never got to drive a 22 BRZ. Totally enjoy my car way more than I ever even thought I would and everything has been amazing so far.

[@GSTRification]

The biggest difference between the two comes down to this imo, BRZ is a rwd architecture and WRX is a fwd architecture with awd as a standard like other Subaru models. Based on this fact alone, BRZ has a longer dash to axle allowing engine and its components to sit further behind the front axle making BRZ to have a better front to back weight distribution near 50:50. This means better balanced car with neutral, flatter handling/cornering capability. Also the boxer 4 sits lower in the BRZ, if i am not mistaken, allowing lower center of gravity and driving position also lower than WRX. Again allowing better driving dynamics. WRX wins in power, practicality/utility. Design/styling is subjective. WRX is also a better of the two as a only car to live with. I also have 23 BRZ on order.

[@johneldepresso]

The brz is the better sportscar The wrx is the better daily driver kzbin.info/www/bejne/hWPZp3uOlMaErpo

[@jonlapinski5887]

I have a '21 WRX and a '17 BRZ. Love both cars for what they are BUT the BRZ still puts a smile on my face every time I take it out. You made the right choice

[@agnusdeiofficial1266]

Delicious balance, it's not about decibels but rather about pleasant notes and this has got the right amount without getting tiresome after a few miles onboard. Only minor downsides I see, visible sheetmetal paint from the drivers' standpoint and fake directional rim design which can be solved by picking dark gray or black hues instead and other rim options/aftermarket.

[@Kzstackzzz]

it's so satisfying watching your videos i love your videos man

[@maximus9401]

I'd like to drive this to see how it compares to my 2021 WRX. Highlights for the last gen for me was the steering (on summer tires)which felt very communicative, the grip and confidence, oddly enough the shifter because I prefer long throws, the simplicity of the interior, and the sound (with an exhaust). The torque was awesome stock because it hits you and then dies top end but a tune can make it more linear. The looks are growing on me but the question is if it's worth it to upgrade. It doesn't seem like too big of an upgrade to me but I'd have to drive one

[@jonlapinski5887]

I feel the exact same. Love the sound of my 21 and I think the look is a little more classic but the 22 is really growing on me. Hate the giant screen in the middle tho

[@drew1163]

The weather amplified this video by 100000

[@waykool698]

My man. Been waiting on this video for a few months now. 👌

[@LowGMC]

I got my 2022 wrx 6mt July 1st and I’m in absolute love with it!

[@zackdl]

I used to hate this new wrx when it first came out but man it’s really growing on me. Might have to look into getting my hands on one

[@Kyle-ty6mx]

I've been waiting for this review! I really want a new WRX.

[@jaeminyoon]

I got one and I don't regret it

[@Brandzter96]

Im glad I get to watch his vids whenever Im on youtube

[@milesfathi]

Man I would have loved to have this engine in the GR86. The revs just don't build up nearly as quickly. It even pops!

[@tdel8613]

Engine still suffers from the same issues as the previous gen. We had a 2019 Ascent that blew up at 39k miles which has the same FA24 engine in it. Rip

[@papa_pt]

@@tdel8613 what exactly blows up?

[@tdel8613]

@@papa_pt The engine.

[@papa_pt]

@@tdel8613 ya I got that what part failed

[@thatcher9690]

@@papa_pt guessing its either a rod or head gaskets

[@FreshlyBaked13]

They really don’t look bad in person. Obviously its not the wrx of old, but not bad.

[@steve8803]

Fender flares, hood scoop. Looks like a typical wrx to me.

[@eric9249]

It's that rear bumper that destroys the visual of this car for me. There must be a solution! Color match paint isn't enough, the bumper has to be redesigned.

[@steve8803]

@@eric9249 not like you'd buy it anyway.

[@eric9249]

Maybe, maybe not. If you want AWD with a manual transmission there aren't many options out there. I'd prefer the GR Corolla but what's that MSRP going to look like!?!? WRX may undercut it by many thousands.

[@steve8803]

@@eric9249 WRX will undercut the grc by 5 figures.

[@jimmyglea]

I’m very excited. The dealership called and said my Solar Orange WRX GT will be here in July. Yeah, I know…the CVT…but I’m an old guy with a bad leg who couldn’t relive his STi days if he wanted to.

[@aptkeyboard3173]

No rev hang at all has me almost ready to write them a check

[@5serieslover]

Same

[@TheTopher]

By far the best thing about the new WRX. And frustrating at the same time because why wasn’t this sorted out years ago?! It’s so good to drive now.

[@riley1733]

I have an Si right now and I'm really thinking of trading it in for a WRX and the rev hang being gone in this newer one has almost got me decided on actually doing it. I freaking hated the rev hang in the Si.

[@sheenboywonder]

I like the looks of the entire car!

[@grishman5000]

The body cladding is growing on me. Looks good in this color.

[@ErectileSceptile]

This checks almost every box for me. Except the visuals. By God that thing has more plastic than a Kardashian

[@drewmorg.]

Wish they went with a more exciting exterior and gauges but the price is right and capability is outstanding

[@TechnicallyJustin]

CANNOT wait for my order to come in. 22' WRX Premium WRB

[@Kiss__Kiss]

Well Done, Sir.. Happy early Father's day!!!

[@michaelpan7737]

Given how often Topher is shifting… Take a shot for every shift he makes… 😳

[@tonyzhu403]

Finally. Yes. Only Thing… The Feedback-less Turning Signal Lever.

[@SplinterProd]

you missed the right turn at 7:38 for our entertainment

[@abdullaharif6455]

Finally! New WRX!

[@drew0495]

why u uploading @ 419 am pst & why am i awake watching this 😅

[@vik8743]

cause it's a SUBARU !

[@cjhiggi6018]

Love this car looks great and drives great

[@Tom_Moose]

At 9:50, I don't blame the lil guy for comin on out of the trees to check the car out up close! ;)

[@gryphon123456]

I think the whole looks chatter will die down and people will come to realize this is actually a pretty strong offering. I personally like the purposeful looks. Bit of a military looking reference.

[@DM72513]

Not unless they do a mid cycle refresh and change the rear bumper to color matched.

[@hhaste]

Perfect daily driver. Great in every season, with the appropriate tires. Interior is decent, IMO, for a WRX.. IAG has managed to make the exterior look *waaaay* better, so that's also a bonus, if you hate it.... I'm excited to see what they do with the STI, eventually.

[@animated8623]

Right! Just sand and paint match the flares/part of the bumper and it honestly looks quite good.

[@papa_pt]

STi is dead

[@hhaste]

@@papa_pt Only temporarily.. the name is going to continue on, with the new hybrid.. which is why I'm curious to see what they do with the name.

[@leventdost6169]

Sabahın 5 inde kedinin ciğere baktığı gibi bu muhteşem makineye bakıyorum

[@gio_.1]

why nobody noticed this lovely weather?please make more videos like that its so relaxing for watch...fantastic weather & high quality video ♥️ GL!

[@igoresque]

that color is very nice

[@LoveMyZJ]

Wouldn't mind going for a spin in one, I had a yellow '03 WRX wagon back in the day and it was the best car I ever had. The cladding doesn't bother me much, I'm on dirt roads all the time so I'd rather see the plastic take the hits instead of the paint. Too bad Subaru dropped the wagon a few years ago, but the trunk looks reasonably roomy. I've seen a couple of these on the road now, they look pretty good to me.

[@inevahdie]

I had a wrb peanut eye, and even though now I drive german cars that costs 3~4 times more, Subbie was the best I had.

[@doctorrobert60]

Nice driving review as usual. For now hanging on to my 2019 STI. Noticed you did not waste any time reviewing the notoriously poor Subaru sound system!

[@oliverroo59]

Been waiting for you to do this review. Thank you. Sounds like this is still a WRX, which is a good thing. I just wish that rear end looked better and that there were still physical controls for the HVAC.

[@rob0079]

Even with less power and less doors, I still prefer the BRZ

[@anthonycoffey6565]

At least the infotainment screen is integrated into the dash, I can't stand how almost every manufacturer puts the screen up on top like they glued an ipad to the dash

[@davidcasas3862]

I like Subarus. Those cars are made for their drivers....It sounds rare but it's not usual nowadays....good video!! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@nozopoke1782]

I hate that big ass screen but love the analog dials

[@ciriusn]

I was a proud Subaru driver once, with the 2003 "bug eye", I really loved that car... now days the late models don't tell me nothing, they look like Shoeboxes with no presence and no Charisma. Makes me sad 😔

[@MrRedsi]

Im a huge Subaru fan and this WRX is awesome! I dont understand the hate and I hope to get one soon.

[@marksphotoperry356]

Nice test drive ! Good driving !

[@thiccnick277]

I saw one on the highway and thought it was a civic or Prius until I saw the badge. If they didn’t make the exterior so ugly and unappealing these would be everywhere and everyone would want one.

[@Forrest_94]

man these things are beyond underpowered.

[@desertdriver7056]

Thanks for another solid review. I do love the cornering on the new WRX especially, though the steering felt a bit light to me. Wondering what your thoughts are versus the GTI from a driving experience, infotainment systems aside. I drove both, as well as the Elantra N and and the Acura Integra, and ended up buying the GTI, which for me was the most comfortable/fun/efficient combo of the group. But mostly overall fun.

[@mr.typical3169]

I just couldn't pull the trigger due to those touch controls plus I want the awd. Rather have a tablet with physical controls than all touch, it's obnoxious no matter how could it performs.

[@desertdriver7056]

@@mr.typical3169 Other than volume and temperature, and the GTI has temperature and volume buttons, too, I’m not sure in truth that the WRX with that large tablet has any more buttons and knobs to control the infotainment system. It’s quite touch-oriented too, though at least the climate control is always showing. In truth, neither is ideal. At least not compared to say the Elantra N or Civic SI/Acura Integra. But again, I have gotten used to it on the GTI and have no problem with it. Plus the digital dash is really awesome compared to the static analog dash of the WRX. But of course, to each their own!

[@surferbone82]

I was crosshopping the same cars, plus the Kona N and the Civic SI. I ended up in the GTI S 6MT. It truly is the everyday hero - great balance of practicality, power, handling and mpg (and a bonus that it gets the reported performance numbers on 87 octane). The touchscreen is annoying at first but you can get used to it after a day of ownership.

[@mr.typical3169]

@@surferbone82 each their own, more physical controls and AWD. Plus they hold value more than any other brand

[@surferbone82]

@@mr.typical3169 I've owned two WRXs and a VA STI so am familiar with subies, but AWD is not necessary here in socal where I live. I've gotten used to the infotainment on the GTI and its fine. The mpg on the new WRX is 19/26 on 91, and the GTI is 24/34 on 87 (I got 42 mpg hwy today). The STI sounded better, and steering feedback and shift linkage was superior to the GTI, but the GTI is a better sporty daily in pretty much every other aspect.

[@CrytteraXD]

I own a 2020 WRX with the performance package, and I don't think the slight power increase in the VB is enough to feel better about the negatives. People are dropping an extra $5k-$10k just to get it to LOOK more like the older ones. Too bad Subaru isn't making the STI anymore.

[@postalpancho]

2022 is better in every way but those plastic fenders. Someone at Subaru needs to get fired. The black side skirts actually look good but the fenders and bumpers give it such a cheap look.

[@postalpancho]

Then again the WRX has always been cheap.

[@EvolutionIX219]

Agreed. The VB is a vast improvement to last gen in almost every way.

[@mikedaleiden7725]

I get the feeling the side cladding that "improves aerodynamics" is really just marketing talk/damage control for trying not to admit that they F'd up bad. I don't mind the cheaper interior and WRX's have never been an attractive car, but that doesn't mean they need to be ugly. At least with current Elantra N front end and entire last generation Civic Type R, WRX is not alone in the awkward ugly club.

[@turtceri4190]

@@EvolutionIX219 Except for visually, the fuel economy, package options (only CVT with the best options) and terrible infotainment screens, and at the expense of the STI. It does seem like a car that would be fun for rallycross though, and visually it fits that bill.

[@frankwc0o]

My 2005 WRX was super car. I'm sure the 2022 rocks.

[@shaggyman8564]

BUT that cyclops infotainment screen is atrocious. I would hate to look at day after day. NO DEAL FOR ME.

[@peejread2309]

I'm looking forward for the video with the winter tires in the winter! Highly considering buying this, specially the Alberta winter that we have here.

[@Jrmint568]

See the nice thing about the civic si is the fuel economy is like 38 on the high way

[@HadEnough745]

But the Si is full of rev hang, no heated seats, popup screen, looks boring..

[@rampagedingo]

Manual definitely wins in the fun category!

[@YasumotoUS]

That sounds pretty good! My references are an '01 Integra GS-R and '20 STI. The plastic cladding really doesn't do that car any favors, but it is what it is. What's your take on the seat comfort and the audio system quality in the premium line? I am glad to see that Subaru didn't take the VW route and cheap out with the removal of the engine hood struts. The auto up / down windows are super nice and the heated seats really are a natural for the brand and the WRX. Yes, Subaru, please give Mr. Topher a WRX with winter shoes for cold weather testing.

[@riley1733]

I have a 2020 Honda Civic Si Coupe and I'm thinking of trading it in for a WRX and the one thing I'll be looking forward to the most if I do it is no rev hang. Si has terrible rev hang (I have it disabled with Hondata but the rpm's still drop pretty slow) and it completely killed the driving experience for me. I legit hated driving the car because of it. Drove me up the goddamn wall. And Honda hasn't fixed it in the newer Si's from what I heard so the fact Subaru went ahead and fixed it in the newer WRX makes me respect them more than Honda and makes me want to buy this over another Honda because driving this will be a much more enjoyable experience than driving another Si. Whether I get it within a couple weeks or in the next few years, I'll be getting a WRX for my next car. Either this newer generation or an STI.

[@jrizzyjoe]

Aside from from the diff splits or whatever, it is torque vectoring, which is phenomenal.

[@static_Tricolor_camry]

Car manufacturers need to keep making those screens bigger, until it's covering the entire center of the Front windshield.

[@operationgetthugs232]

Don't forget the front quarter window and non-auto folding side mirrors.

[@Croptopolis]

This is almost the spec I just ordered. Added the STI short throw shifter, def felt solid and got rid of a little bit of the wrx sloppiness of the shifts.

[@jhonespinosa8487]

The day they sale an electric STI is the day it’s no longer one 🥴😗

[@elliotserrano7333]

perfect weather for that test.