POV | WHICH IS BETTER? WHY I GOT RID OF THE WRX FOR AN STI | WRX VS STI

[@CarsWithJR]

Thank you for all the support and comments!!! I'm trying to reply to all of you.

[@Jogans]

My WRX Channel how much money do you spend on gasoline? Let’s say almost on a empty tank, because I’m super curious

[@mdshahidaneday8733]

I follow guys have fun with that one time thing or bad I don't know

[@Reed_0024]

here is my take on WRX vs STI. Buddy and I bough our cars (used ~40k miles) at the same dealer at the same time. Both got a limited 2016 in dark gray. I went WRX $25k, buddy went STI $35k. Here is what we discovered. WRX is a way way better street car. For day to day daily driving its a better experience, less harsh and more forgiving. The WRX ride is less stiff (Sti feels like iron bars for suspension), tremendously better on gas and I will say it.. the WRX is faster ( most of the time). Stock for stock it was pretty close tie for the 0-60 and 30/40mph pulls, really just came down to whoever clutched better. Not only is the WRX 200 lbs lighter, it takes better to performance bolt-ons. For bolt-ons, on my WRX I have the Cobb AP with the stage 1 MAPerformance e30 tune (4.5 gals e84 and fill up with 93) Nvidia r400 cat back exhaust and a few other basic mods like shift stopper and shift bushing ect ect. . Buddy has a Grimmspeed airbox, BFG BPV and a Cobb stage 1 ots 93 tune and a cat back Nameless exhaust. When we go to Mexico and do 40mph pulls I win every time. 30mph pull, he wins every time. And by win, its pretty much 1 car length a head but then we both end up catching up then its a very clear tie till we back off. Don't write the WRX off, the faster spool is a nice advantage over the STI and its ancient 2004 platform. Yeah the STI handling is amazing, feels more planed. The STI transmission is dreamy. But the FA20 is a monster with bolt-ons, is not prone to the same failures as the STI. WRX is also way easier to work on. This is only my real life experience opinion =p. I would rock the wrx for the street any day over an STI with an additional $10k price tag. So unless I were to do autocross, I will stick with the WRX. Thanks for your thoughts on switching, also neat to see what others thought. 😀

[@WildDanHibiki]

The 6 speed box and brembos alone are worth the 10k extra imo

[@CarsWithJR]

Yes, the WRX responds very well to mods. A WRX with just a Cobb Flex Fuel kit, Fuel pump and tune will make more than a stage 2 STI. No STI owner will ever admit that you can get more power with just fueling than spending a bunch of money to go stage 2 on an STI. Also, no need to buy injectors for the WRX.

[@Reed_0024]

@@CarsWithJR oh right. Don't need the injectors or fuel kit.

[@RichoG85]

@@WildDanHibiki both models have 6 speed though. I've owned 15 and 17 WRX and soon 2020 STI

[@WildDanHibiki]

@@RichoG85 the wrx 6 speed is basically a 5 speed from the older models with an extra gear. In other words, weak as hell. Like comparing a turd to a bar of gold.

[@stikonrad_]

Had a 15 wrx and traded it in for a brand new 2018 sti. Sti will always be superior. 2 years owning the sti and its just phenomenal

[@junolena]

Agree... I drive 2018 sti too. No regrets~

[@tylerkopnicky3023]

when you traded it in did you leave the mods on it or did you go back to stock

[@stikonrad_]

Tyler Kopnicky i left it modded which i regret. I shouldve took all the mods off and sold it stock

[@Steve-qr2lm]

The only thing stopping me from getting the STI is the EJ25, id never be able to track it confidently without worrying about cracking the ringlands or spinning a bearing, the FA20 is much more reliable under 300whp.

[@arenh2049]

Superior for track use? Maybe. Superior for daily driving? Nope. With my estimated calculations I’d be getting 1000 miles a year less with the sti with same amount of gas used. Adds up.

[@deepydeeps]

I went from a 2016 sti to a 18 wrx. The only thing I can say that I miss is the braking of the sti. Other than that I'm stage 2 with a protune and love the wrx just as much

[@VachOrd]

Well as a 2019 STI owner i would say that you should miss old school steering ,mechanical advantages where STI shine, 6 speed tranny with differentials...not the brakes dude..brakes are the worst upgrade on 2019 STI..overkill 6 pots brembos with more weight where older 4 pots with proper pads does the job just perfect ... Looks like you deserve rexy bro.enjoye !

[@sweatyben1550]

@@VachOrd the big brakes are overkill at stock power levels, but most STI owners plan on adding more boost eventually. The dumbest upgrade was the RA piston, most likely. They increased the piston strength without fixing the ringland issues

[@WRXMAN-ms2mm]

To each their own I say, the cars are brothers, big and little brother and as long as you are happy that’s what counts. Fuel price though is a killer no doubt but respectfully I would never consider a WRX an “econobox”. Econoboxes are basic no fun transportation and zero road feel. The little brother even a base model unmodified is far from that. When you can get over 300 HP with a few mods and still get 35 mpg on pump gas I call that outstanding!.

[@fl4tgamer639]

Agreed 👍

[@DAREDEVIL503]

Ya I recently got a WRX and it on has a carbon fiber trunk grip on it Lol 😂 but that things feels like a nascar when I get on It!!

[@g_p_3431]

When I went from my 16 WRX to my 19 STi I felt the same exact differences you mentioned with the mechanical feel and it’s always a blast driving it, gas sucks ass now but man the brakes and transmission feels night and day better. And for some reason my insurance went down like $40 from WRX to STi lol

[@CarsWithJR]

Yeah, just the feel of the transmission alone is worlds better than the WRX.

[@berkfamily54]

I have a 2015 WRX and I wanted the STI but I commute 110 round trip a day and the gas mileage and price were the 2 biggest things that stood out to me. The new engine also intrigued me so that’s why I went with the WRX. I’ve never owned a turbo car and the only other sports car I’ve ever owned was a 2006 350z so this felt like a big step up. Great video!

[@paulmarsdensr1095]

I'm so gladi upgraded to the STI from a base model 2017 WRX. I loved my wrx, but my 2020 STI is better. It's a totally different car. JR I love your channel brother. Subies forever.

[@kurufal]

The 2.0 litre engine in the WRX is going to get you into more races, also. Bumping up to 2.5 limits you in some places and race types. Also, the twin-scrolled turbo in the FA20 is amazing and hands down the best part about the 15+WRX's as opposed to the STi.

[@NiceGuyYoutube]

Exactly know the feeling. Had a 2018 WRX then upgraded to the 2020 STI and the driving experience was much better. I drive average 15-20 miles a day for work so the MPG wasn't the biggest con, but pro is gas in Texas is $1.99 for 93 lol.

[@maverickwarden]

I had the same experience except it was from a 17 STI to a 18 STI. It held value so good that I could pay the entire loan off and then some to get a better equipped STI. I dont regret it one bit. Yes, there were more changes under the skin than reviewers might tell you. The clutch was revised so I had to adjust to the new clutch. The trunk now doesn't feel flimsy when closing it. Sound dampening was better, it was actually quieter. Adjustments were made to the settings which feel better. And the calendar is actually more useful than I thought.

[@koji_44]

Awesome vid, subscribed! I just, TODAY, switched from my Toyota 86 to a 2020 STI and I LOVE it! As you said in your video, the mechanical feel of all the components is very refreshing and enjoyable even at lower speeds. One main reason I actually chose this STI rather than what’s coming next is because I have always wanted the EJ257 rumble; no doubt what comes next will never sound this good or feel as mechanical overall. 10/10 would recommend and am very happy with mine. I look forward to more vids from you!

[@CarsWithJR]

Congrats man! Yeah, the next version will probably have more hp, but I just hope they don't get rid of the old school feel.

[@Mike604]

My WRX Channel There’s always going to be people complaining about sticking to the “old school” EJ. Then something new comes along people will still complain ie. Supra, NSX

[@djteako]

I went from a 2011 WRX, to a 2018 WRX, and was sooo dissapointed with it, after 1 year I traded it in for a 2019 STI. I am so happy I did. I found the 2018 was an extreme let down. There really wasn't anything I liked about the car, other than I had the upgraded Kicker speaker system in it. The handling, performance, comfort, - basically everything was just a complete dissapointment from the 2011. I've had my STI for almost 1 year now, and re4ally like it !!! - even the wing !!! (I'm almost 50)

[@djteako]

I also find I am getting better fuel millage with the STI over the WRX - due to having much more control over the turbo, and actually being able to use 6th gear. I commute aprox. 30km each way on the highway to work.

[@jorgeginestre331]

One of the reasons why the insurance go down a few dollars its because there are more people (young people mainly when daddy or mommy buy the car) that gets in accidents. There is a study thats say that STI's are bought more on ages around 29-39 meaning people that buy STI's are more mature and responsible. Most 18-37 with WRX's get in car crashes. This is what my best friend told me he works for an auto insurance.

[@aBathingGrape]

I went from a 2013 STI to a 2018 WRX. I really miss the raw feeling I got from the STI from steering feel to the transmission. But I love the way the wrx feels in city driving it feels faster from light to light or coming out of a drive way onto traffic. I definitely don’t miss the gas mileage but when I see an STI I miss it. I love road trips and Drive up to the mountains a lot plus daily driving it to work, the WRX made more sense when I was looking for a newer car in 2018.

[@Holtenstein]

Everything your describing is why I decided to put the STI drivetrain into my WRX. The advantages of the STI and Spiider DCCD with the fuel economy of the WRX.

[@jdm4087]

I have a 2016 WRX base model, and I've thought about upgrading to an STi a few times. The only thing holding me back is that I live in the Bay Area, and it's not cheap living out here. The concept of "STi envy" is true for some. There's pros and cons for each, but the STi is clearly the better car imo. At the end of the day, I think it's kinda sad how both WRX and STi owners often talk trash about each other's cars.

[@CarsWithJR]

I agree about the elitism on both platforms.

[@gilbyglibber]

Did you ever do the "feel" mods on the WRX? I.e., group n mounts, positive shift kit, STI steering u-joint swap?

[@N8morob]

I went from a 2003 wrx. That I had for 15 years then I drove a 2019 wrx and hated it. I liked my bugeye Better. I was planning on buying an STI. But I drove a 2015 EVO X. To try out the competition. I was shocked at how good it drove. I bought it. Amazing car. I love it.

[@TheGeokaiser]

I broke the number one rule i bought my 2017 sti with 10000 miles and 20 grand on bolt ons... mostly Cobb and a stage 3 clutch. Only isue i had was a mising bolt on the intercooler and a broken gasket on the same. Got it retuned and im loving this thing. Im runing e85 and 0w-40 european blend on my car. And yes it is a daily hehehe

[@takeda1648]

I daily my STI E85 to work and i hate it lol, but still love it.. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@DustinB855]

That's just subaru life. Always live hate relationship haha

[@angeloramos355]

What makes you hate it? Bc of the stop and go traffic with the 6-speed? That does it for me.

[@jeffpesos6554]

The most honest comparison I've seen. Others were more bias according to which cars they owned.

[@CarsWithJR]

I gotta keep it real. No fanboyism here. Thanks man.

[@awdspam]

It’s all smiles per gallon for me :)

[@sk8element981]

Is the beginning of this video coming through Tracyton? Nevermind I see it definitely is. That's awesome, watching your videos I try spotting landmarks. Really cool to see someone doing well on KZbin from my hometown. Keep up the awesome work man.

[@GeneralDiggler1]

I got my STI pretty much the same time you did. I love it still. The only regrets I have are: 1. I wish I put money down or had a trade in 2. Not buying used, I'm too worried about voiding the warranty while still making payments on the car and something happening to the drive train.

[@bighitmayfield646]

My wife and I dont regret buying our 2019 sti. We only put 7000 miles on it. We had it for a year already. It's all stock and hoping to send it off to rev works to have them rebuild the motor and push 700whp. We are waiting for the warranty to expire.

[@CarsWithJR]

That's gonna be fun! To be honest, I love mine when it was bone stock. The car is still fun to drive in stock form.

[@MyFavoriteHero99]

Very informative on whether getting a WRX or STi. Can't wait for the 2021 or later model. For me, I would wait a couple years after the new model year to see the improvements on the new Subaru. I'm gonna upgrade to either one someday. I drive a 2018 Impreza and its obviously an economy car but Subaru doesn't seem to disappoint.

[@RichoG85]

Trading my MY17 WRX for the 2020 STI, good to know my decision was a good one, even though the fuel mileage sucks, the increase in sound, performance etc makes it better 😍

[@bikboi8768]

I have an 04 Sti....I swapped that crappy ej257 Usdm Engine with a jdm Ej207 V7....man those Jdm engines are far superior in my Opinion.

[@paulmarsdensr8199]

A great video. Im going to wait for the new STI. I have a 2017 base model WRX. I absolutely love this car. I cant wait to get the STI. Stay safe brother 🙏.

[@bruceholinight7978]

After 2010 or so both are awesome , the older STI is far superior to the early WRX , had both loved both !

[@Wonsdloc]

I had an 04 wrx and I loved it or at least i thought i did. I upgraded to an 07 sti and in stock for it made waving bye bye to the wrx with ease.

[@NoGaragE30]

Pretty much my sentiment. You simply can't upgrade your way to the STI feel. The price difference between the two makes the STI a no brainer for those who appreciate the analog driving experience.

[@CarsWithJR]

💯

[@DAREDEVIL503]

Ya idk man, I’ve never drove the STI’s but my WRX feels Amazing when I’m letting it breathe, glued to the road and giving u whiplash LOL, I love it but I guess I’ll see one day!!

[@DustinB855]

Love my wrx still or should I say my 2nd wrx since traded my 15 premium for a 18 limited for a really good deal you got much better trade on your 15 vs mine but got 18 for over 5k off. I love sti but it's just not worth the extra money imo for what I use the car for. Maybe if I tracked the car but I love the fa motor. Only bad thing is can't put the sti rack in wrx lol

[@2t_mxrider]

Well, you can't complete your bucket list unless you own an STI lol )))))

[@MultiLuispo]

The wrx sti is the worst Choice at the price point.

[@2t_mxrider]

Yet many people still buy them and enjoy driving them.

[@AJ3000_]

I’ve owned the 06 and 07 STI and for the current price on the 2020s, I would go elsewhere for my money. I loved my cars but I can’t imagine paying the current prices.

[@isaacrubiovalerio7601]

Well supposedly they are getting rid of the EJ and sticking the FA for the future. FA24 is what I was told and supposedly going to making good power stock! If im wrong let me know but just what I have heard through some sources

[@JVue-rv4xe]

Crawford Performance already tuned the FA engines on the BRZs. They said it puts out good power. Still waiting on that one company to finish a harness so the FA20 can be dropped into an 99' Outback Sport or even the 06-07 Hawkeyes.

[@awdspam]

My STI Channel

[@tspro8308]

Bought a 17 WRX one week later saw a STI RA with only 595 miles for $40k in Denver immediately take off from Vegas to Denver round trips over 1600 miles in 26hours best decisions I made in my life STI all the way !!! My next one will be the ultimate S209

[@CarsWithJR]

$40k for al almost new RA is a deal!

[@mengdynasty6034]

Went from a 9th gen Si to a 2018 STI. Of course power and handling are improved. The only thing I miss is the screamer K series.

[@louisGauto]

98% of people who own a sti only daily them, stance them or "street race" them anyways..

[@avantnarde2815]

Shift Gears dude no offense to ya but get that bogus ass myth out of here. My guys who tune these cars do it professionally and in the right manners. Also, they don’t beat the shit out of the car. It’s like that with any car. Drive it like you want it to last. Bro’s sti has 487hp and 439 to the wheels, it runs just as reliable as a stock one. Motor wasn’t rebuilt either.

[@luisg.taveras2436]

Agree with AYO B... proper maintenance and buying quality parts helps, have my 2013 Sti for a while now, it all depends on the attention you give it,

[@sluflyer06]

@@moneyparhar Evo? Lol. They're all wrecked and shit boxes by now, it's been 13 years since the IX.

[@sluflyer06]

Your confusing non-sti WRX's. 90+% of stanced Subarus I see are not STi's.

[@avantnarde2815]

casiotechI deepening on your tuner and if you still have other stock components that correspond with the engine. He can drive it hard and it still won’t have an issue. Goes back to what I said previously, it depends on how you overall take care of the car.

[@redbaru187]

Initially the plan was to buy an STI. I wanted one for such a long time but then I started doing research and comparing the two. Of course I wanted brembos the big wing and that STI sound, but before this I had pretty decent gas cars on 87. I already knew paying for 93 and getting gas more often was going to bother me so that was a big factor. Then I looked at daily driver and as some may say the WRX can be faster than the STI in normal daily driving. I bought a WRX limited so I didn't care about price as much, I really wanted the better car for me. As much as I love the what makes the STI special it didn't make much sense to me to get the STI over the WRX. Close to 2 years later and I still know I bought the perfect car for me. I thought about either buying an older gen STI as my project car or possibly getting a new gen STI with the new engine. One way or another I'll get one when the time is right.

[@CarsWithJR]

I agree. I also do a lot of city driving and the WRX feels easier to manage when driving in busy city streets.

[@bujin5455]

The FA motor is more efficient than the EJ, but a lot of the MPG difference comes down to the drive train. Even the EJ25 WRXs were more efficient than the STi. Those triple helical LSDs, though utterly awesome, add quite a bit of friction to the over all drive train.

[@Jogans]

I love the videos that you make, I don't know if you already made a video you cleaning your engine, because I really want to see it! Keep on the great work !

[@CarsWithJR]

I plan on doing a full detail series as soon as the weather gets better. It won't get many views, but I'm a former detailer and have a lot of info to provide.

[@Jogans]

My WRX Channel Thank you, this would be so helpful to some of us, especially me! And you will never know how the video will do! Well just have to see and wait. 😊

[@michaeldunning2434]

Would love to have a STI over my WRX but with the driving I do it's just not practical. My 17 WRX already has 206,000 km on it lol.

[@JohnD-bs4qi]

I've been thinking about trading my WRX for an STI. The only issue is I would need to buy all new bolt on parts for the STI, or at least mostly new parts. The other issue is, the STI engine is an aged platform. Doesn't make as much power as the FA20 and in a couple of years they will be putting a new engine in the redesigned STI. Some performance shops are pushing 450hp out of the Ascent motor with very minimal mods. At this point in time i'm going to wait until the new STI has been out at least a year or so and then possibly pick it up. I just don't want to buy a car that has an engine that is 30 years old and is essentially dead at this point.

[@stilife1942]

At this point wait for the refresh model STi. I had a wrx for 2 years before I traded to STi, the sti is AMAZING!! Just make sure you can pay a little more, I’d never go back.

[@JohnD-bs4qi]

@@stilife1942 Ohh for sure. I want one without a doubt, but I really don't want to buy into the old platform. I'll wait at this point. I just wish Subaru would give us some information about the redesign. Hopefully it's something big. Glad you enjoy the STI!

[@Mike604]

Came from ‘16CVT WRX to 16’STi Things to note for first buyers: 1. If you’re trading in, just ask and shop around. Different prices/dealership. Offered $24k vs $27k on the same car 2. Change oil every 3 months, no matter how much you drive. They recommend 6mo which is too long, especially if you’re modded, bring it to other local shops. EJs burn oil super fast so better to have new oil than no oil and it’s just $50 rather than a $5000 engine 3. Stage 2 is the most you should do for a daily if you don’t want things blown up. Invidia catted dp has the same design as the cobb one. Don’t use other dp brands if you plan to use cobb OTS maps. Important to get an eTune ex, from Brentunning. ETune on Black Friday is half off if money is a concern. 4. Get a turbosmart by pass valve. OEM bov is known to turbo leak and the valve doesn’t open and close as fast, harming the turbo and engine 5. Everyone should upgrade to a Group N transmission mount and rear shifter bushing. Those two parts make the car feel WAY more responsive and power to the wheels. Imo should come like that from factory. First gear is a dream with my OEM STi short shifter. No need to upgrade the front shifter bushing as it increases NVH noise vibration harshness.

[@CarsWithJR]

I agree 100%!

[@lms1244]

good video/info, will wait, have wrx now hopefully FA in next STI with all good stuff you get now and mentioned

[@CarsWithJR]

I hope it's good. The STI will be gone for the new STI if it's promising.

[@2t_mxrider]

I switched to the STI 2020 from a WRX. The STI is like a totally different car, and it's actually easier to drive than the WRX. I combine Intelligent mode for cruising and Sport mode for ramps and get up to 25-26 mpg on highway and 21,5-22 combined when I try really hard. The best I averaged in the city was 17-18 mpg. The last gen EJ257 which is essentially type RA engine (2019-2020) is more thirsty than the previous model years due to the lower compression ratio (8.1) and retuned ECU and as soon as you hit the boost, the gas mileage goes to hell. But overall, driving the STI is more satisfying than the WRX, hands down - Suspension, shifter, steering, low end torque, engine sound, handling. I had to rethink my whole driving strategy when I switch to the STI to compensate for higher fuel consumption yet enjoy the car. WRX gives people the glimpse of a great AWD turbo car, obstructed by an awful stock ECU tune that you have to fight all the time and other chassis "cheapifications" compared to the STI. When you buy 2020 STI, you are buying a refined, still powerful old school rally car platform, an Icon that is becoming a part of automotive history, just like a Mitsubishi EVO. That's what we are essentially paying for. Unfortunately, low MPG is inevitable part of it. I'm waiting for the next gen STI. All it needs is an FA24DIT. Subaru Ascent gets EPA 21/27 mpg with the CVT. I used to be able to have fun all day on one fuel tank in my WRX with FA20, so yeah we all need a new STI.

[@suchgr8hieghts]

How the hell are you getting 25mpg on the hwy??? My 2019 STI with 15k on the clock barely gets 19 on the hwy and im on 93 pump. Avg 70-75 mph. I actually get slightly better mileage at 80mph. Maybe 20mpg. I really hope I broke in my car well.

[@CarsWithJR]

I also had to change the way I drive. After the first 3 full tanks of gas, I quickly realized that I need to lay off the throttle more. I was still used to the WRX, but I was still in the break-in period so I wasn't driving it hard either. I'm getting about 22-21 if I drive it really conservative. On E85, it's well in the teens.

[@2t_mxrider]

@@CarsWithJR I commute in my STI to work, about 40 miles a day. I fill up 93 at costco at $2.6 per gallon, drive conservative but not lugging the engine, staying between 2K-3.5K rpm in the city. My commute plus some errands in town makes about 80% highway/20% city, just going with the speed of the traffic 60-65 mph. With 200 mi I average Monday through Friday, used 9 gallons of gas, it was warm this week in Virginia, I averaged 22.5 mpg and surprisingly, at 55-60F almost no wind I was able to get 26 mpg on a 17 mile highway stretch at 62 mph. So today, I went for a drive and did some pulls in "S" mode, mostly staying in "I" and averaged 21 mpg in suburban area. Still enjoyed the experience. I drove 37 miles, used about 2 gal of gas, which would cost me about $6. Not that I don't have money to fill up my car, but for me it's a reasonable compromise. Back when I used to have WRX, I didn't even think about gas mileage. But I do remember ongoing months of frustrations with the WRX heat soaking, ECU pulling timing, my wife totally stopped going for rides with me because of the neck snapping boost on the WRX that she hated. It's all better now on the STI though, just gotta pay a bit more at the pump lol

[@2t_mxrider]

@@suchgr8hieghts Well, I go with the flow. 60-65 mph (no need to worry about speeding issue), using intelligent mode which I really like - I didn't expect so much low end torque on the new updated EJ257. My commute is about 20 mi one way, uphill I can get up to 22 mpg, downhill up to 26 but that's kinda stressful and boring. I look at the ECO gauge, staying only in the 6th gear, using only impulse acceleration method, then I keep the ECO in the lower 1/3 and sometimes 1/2 of the green zone. Still, end up going a bit faster than most of the cars on that road. Now, I averaged 21 mpg uphill and 24 downhill on highway steady daily when it's not cold or too windy or not wet. Plus, I'm on all season tires which have higher rolling resistance. My car is approaching 1500 mi. This whole thing with STI gas mileage perception is also in part, psychological. When I used to have WRX, I had up to 34 mpg on highway, 22 city, 24 average and filled it up at Shell with 10 gallons at $3.3, now I will up at COSTCO and pay $2.6 per gallon but can fill up more - because STI is not as sensitive to the quality of the 93 fuel. My all time ODO was 23.4 mpg on WRX. Now, on my STI I'm nearing 19.8 MPG all time ODO. If I keep reasonably hypermiling, avoiding luging, I hope will reach over 20 mpg pretty soon. I rarely go to S mode because Intelligent mode is sufficient for me and I can always toggle to S when I'm on a ramp or there's some douche on the road, but otherwise, heavy STI likes to coast. But, I totally enjoy the ride, shifting, rumble, peppy acceleration from stand still, looks. When I go to burn fuel, I deliberately fill up the car for that. Then, when I'm done, I fill her up and commute. Things aren't that bad...

[@suchgr8hieghts]

@@2t_mxrider Ah, okay that'll do it. I deff get mpg like that around 60mph. But the hwy i commute on has a 70mph limit which i keep forgetting is not very common in some areas. Im also on winter tires.. but they're not noticeably worse than my summers. Who knows!

[@way2faded]

All good, you rocked the WRX for longtime...and still making content WRX & STI owners can appreciate! Past 5 years with the '15 WRX last month here :)

[@Jdm2005sti]

All great points about wrx vs sti. Well said about the sti feeling more mechanical feel. Totally agree about the wrx being an economy car. Sti a diff feel for sure. Love the channel and information shared. also from a wrx to sti owner.

[@coyotebuttons]

Thanks for this vid. My commute is 5 mins, sti may be the choice for me after all

[@zachk7268]

Are you in Washington by chance? Just curious as I live in WA and it looks like you are driving around WA lol.

[@cyclonefanatic5450]

1. yes, mileage sucks in the STI, but e-85 is like $1.45 right now so who gives af 2. with all automotive delays due to COVID-19, all 2021 models could get delayed immensely

[@phenomdevon1846]

Nice video, dope to see a different perspective. I have an STi myself and I’ve always wondered the difference

[@dannytello25]

I can speak on behalf of the wrx performance pack. I have a 2018 performance package and I took it to the track. Traction control off, new tires, didn’t even change the brake pads and it performed so good!! Stock everything aside from power mods but it doesn’t really matter on track but man the suspension and brakes where really good! The stock brake pads on 26k of daily driving and they did not fade at all. Tracked it my first time on Buttonwillow and did a 2:17. I’m sure the tired had a lot to do with the handling since I got the continental ExtremeContact which are far FAAAAR better than the stock Dunlop’s. Idk how the new 2019’s with the brembos are but I fell in love with my 2018 performance package.

[@dannytello25]

Also I forgot to add that I was breaking really early so I could’ve gotten a better time essentially

[@ACCAW11]

@My WRX Channel I went from a 2012 WRX to my 2018 STi Type RA. All it took was a 1 mile long test drive to convince me to trade up and at the time they gave me $17K for my WRX which had 49K miles on it. The cars hold their value well depending on what part of the country you live in along with condition and mileage and like you it was while I was at the dealer for a service when I made the jump. Aside from the poor MPGs I don't regret a thing. Only wish the Ultrasuede steering wheel wasn't such a pain to keep clean.

[@CarsWithJR]

Yeah, you can instantly feel the different if you drive them back to back. Some dealers will try to be sneaky and put it in sport sharp for the test drive.

[@KungfufightU]

Hey man, im rocking the 2018 wrx sti limited. It looked like you had apple car play/ android auto on your head unit. How did you get that? I want to have that feature without swapping head units.

[@plzgtfo]

I have a 17 WRX because I drive about 250 miles per week.

[@dylanbagona4031]

I used to just watched your video all the time repeatedly lol and now I'm buying my STI on Monday.

[@madmaxblaster]

Went from 2016 WRX to 2017 STi. Never looking back. STi is still superior to WRX. I drive over 100 miles everyday, too, so gas is not the best but the smiles per gallon is definitely worth it. Just for the change of cars, I'm going to sub.

[@CarsWithJR]

Thanks man! It's def worth the switch. I just love the raw feel!

[@smokescreen399]

I currently own a 2016 STI and I too, said SOLD! after driving it 1 km. However I thought about trading it in for a 2022 WRX GT but idk after watching this video

[@97ElectroDancer]

ayee i saw the subie wave lol and that is the biggest thing for me about the wrx and sti, i stay with the wrx for now due to financial reasons, my wrx is still stock but i know once i start modding it i will probably end up staying with it

[@CarsWithJR]

Nothing wrong with the WRX. I had fun with mine and it's a great car regardless.

[@TheGeokaiser]

What oil You using on your sti? 5w-30? And what bolt on u have?

[@CarsWithJR]

Currently using Motul 5W-40.

[@瞻高-b9q]

wrx has weak gearbox which is not cheap to upgrade. It is not always about power. Having owned and modified an 16 sti and looking back on the journey, I should have got one with a blown motor and rebuild from ground up.

[@YungDevo9]

I can definitely attest to gas mileage being huge. I didnt realize how far my commute is , but when it's all said and done the tank is pretty much gone by the time I get back home Friday. I can only imagine with the STI it'd be gone by Wednesday/Thursday. If my commute was shorter or I just made more money I'd make the move. Thankfully the WRX has all the creature comforts I'd want that I wouldn't have been able to afford to get in the STI at a comparable trim level, definitely another big thing to consider if this is going to be a daily for someone.

[@CarsWithJR]

Yeah, it sucks...My commute is further now. The WRX was great on gas when I had it even on E85.

[@sweatyben1550]

The STI comes stock with all the creature comforts btw!

[@mct6902]

Great to know! QQ, how do you get E85 in Seattle area other than driving 50 miles to places like Marysville and snoqualmie to fill up every 200 miles?

[@CarsWithJR]

JBLM has E85 if you have access.

[@mct6902]

My WRX Channel unfortunately I don’t have access and that place is farther away than snoqualmie. Hahaha. I guess I will only do flex fuel when I get another daily driver.

[@g0ne___590]

That Subie wave @ 5:04

[@joony17]

"I loved that car the only thing that bothered me was... uhh mustang" hahaha no hate towards mustangs but that reasoning was spot on. I was never really into american muscle either. They're slowly growing on me, but I'd never buy one. On a different note I actually got a wrx over a year ago and your channel helped me visualize what I wanted, what I didn't want. But unfortunately it was totalled 5 days later by a drunk driver, I park on the street cause I live in Chicago. 5 days... had my dream car for 5 days and that whole experience fucking sucked lol but I look at it as the world telling me I should wait and become more financially stable and then buy an sti haha. Looking back I was definitely pushing my budget.. but thank God the driver left his insurance so i actually got paid out more than what I paid which I feel isn't too common. Anyways thanks for these vids. It just motivates me more to keep on grinding so one day I can get the sti. I'm curious about the 2021 sti with the new specs. Maybe I'll jump on that when it's out depending on what's changed/improved.

[@CarsWithJR]

Sorry to hear about that. Things happen for a reason but it still does suck. At this point, I would wait to see what the next remodel has to offer. If you want the old school feel, get the 2020. I'm be afraid that the next Subaru might not have the same mechanical, old school feel as the current model. Thats what gives it it's charm but, I also feel like it needs a serious update/upgrade as far as the engine goes to keep up with competitors.

[@joony17]

@@CarsWithJR yeah I look at it as a learning experience. Honestly, it was the best outcome possible from a terrible event. No one was hurt, I got fully reimbursed so it's all good. But yeah I agree. I'm gonna wait and compare the 2020 and 2021. I'd have to really like the 2021 to get it, because I'm not a fan of getting a first gen anything. Gotta give the company time to work out the small overlooked issues. Edit: not saying this is a first gen wrx or sti obviously, but same idea applies. There will likely be minor things that need to be reworked with engine/ecu with the new reworked sti.

[@EulogizingSleep]

Bought a 2020 wrx base love it, of course i want an sti. I can only afford a used sti and i would never go that route (already did that greatly regretted it car was a lemon). The base wrx was 26k new before tax. Love that price for all the car i got. I do get what you mean by the economy car feel. My 2011 base even felt sportier. But regardless i love the car and the warranty 😂. I think once my warranty runs out(5 years) ill see what the new sti looks like and trade mine in like you did. The ej is classic and i wish i could afford a new sti now before the makeover, but it just is too expensive atm. Someday tho!

[@Mikey6048]

Because the STI is just better. Better Drivetrain, steering and braking, suspension etc, and despite the hate I'll get. The EJ257 is better. Plus the addition of the SI Drive and the DCCS system is great.

[@joony17]

Everything you say is true, but to some enthusiasts, those pros don't outweigh the cons of harsher ride, worse fuel economy, etc. So to each their own. I honestly see good reasons of owning either one, it just comes down to the driver. That being said.. I want an STI so fucking bad lol

[@Mikey6048]

@@joony17 You are absolutely right. I am that driver that wants to feel every bit of the car. If I wanted a nicer riding daily with better MPG, I would have gotten the WRX. But even with all my current mods. I'm getting 25mpg. Which yes, isn't great. But I'm coming from a lifted Jeep Wrangler on 33"s that got 18mpg on a great day. So the STI is nothing but a huge step up. Lol

[@MachuPichuu]

The EJ is better for part availability and if you want to dump a lot of cash for 700whp goals. Not sure about suspension especially on the 2015 wrx its nearly identical to a STI. When i did the STI brembo Swap on my WRX, yeah they are nicer and feel a bit better but not sure if it was really worth it unless you track the car. The drivetrain is for sure better.

[@tjlovesrachel]

Matt Earle ohhh the Brembos are nice to have when you need em... I’ve never tracked mine but with the driving I do I’ve never felt under braked....and I felt that in normal driving with cars that have conventional floating calipers and 1-2 pistons

[@necromancer___3054]

The only thing stopping me from upgrading is MPGs, I drive a lot it’s my only car

[@jpd3070]

Hey did a quick scroll and didn't see it asked, so what if anything did you have to do to your Rex before handing it over to the dealer?? Thx

[@CarsWithJR]

It was returned back to stock.

[@jpd3070]

@@CarsWithJR How much of a pain was that? Video? And thx for the response. 👍

[@joshua.2865]

Love your wiring management. May you make a video on that?

[@Steve-qr2lm]

STI is better in every way EXCEPT for the motor, wait until you spin a bearing or crack the ringlands and you'll be missing that FA20!

[@ilysmwyhm]

This is a great video. Thank you for making this!

[@ronynyoda4567]

Did you return the WRX back to stock before trading it in?

[@CarsWithJR]

Yes. 99.9% back to stock.

[@ronynyoda4567]

@@CarsWithJR Dang! Been through a lot of pain and suffering installing aftermarket upgrades on my 2018 WRX. I don't think I would have the patience to return it back to stock. Kudos to you!

[@blueboilover22]

What you say it's true, everyone is different. But will remains the same for those who owns an sti will struggle with is commuting the car (mpg). My question is for those who own an sti is do still daily it or mod the car for tracking and on a weekly basis estimate how much u spent on gas, oil change and possibly unknown mechanical issues?

[@2t_mxrider]

STI embraces everything you want to have in a WRX. My base STI has all the mechanical stuff (brakes, dccd, engine mode knob etc) plus proximity entry, push button start, swivel LED lights, awesome leather suede seats, wing. EJ257 pleasantly rumble and roars at high rpm. No mods needed ;)

[@hotsaucebone]

I bought a 2019 WRX with 18k miles on it for $21k. The dealership really gave u a good deal

[@timmyi1030]

I have a “19 STI. I’ve been thinking about trading it in for the Tesla model 3 dual motors. What do you guys opinion about it?

[@deej628]

I’m getting a tessy after my 18 wrx too. They’re sooo nice.

[@CarsWithJR]

Not gonna lie, I would LOVE a Tesla.

[@paulmarsdensr8199]

Thats exactly why I will be getting the STI next.

[@CarsWithJR]

Right on brother. It's soo worth it. The WRX is great, but the STI is just a great feeling car right out of the box.

[@paulmarsdensr8199]

@@CarsWithJR I can only imagine. Im glad you did all of the mods to STI as well. Once you get your new fuel system I cant wait for that video. Great videos as always. Subies forever.

[@canteenpapi3040]

i get 23.1 MPG on my 16 WRX. How do you get 30?!?!?

[@typer600rr]

xRaviing highway and city??

[@theblackmanarmedwithacamera]

I don't see close to 30 mpg on my 19 wrx. I average 18-19 mpg every week!

[@rotenkiwi]

My 18 wrx use to get like 35mpg highway but now its down to about 30-31 average. I assume that's due to carbon build up

[@holyshiizzz455]

Which car was faster? Your wrx or sti?

[@jaybosher6144]

Depends on your drive n terrain. Do you drive mostly flat or hilly roads? Highway or local? Lots of stops on your local commute? How's your tire pressure. Mpg can fluctuate massively just based on that before you even begin to address your driving style

[@gend21]

Currently own a 2017 WRX Premium. Having thoughts trading it in for the all new STI.

[@BigfootUnibrowMan]

I'm waiting to see the new 2022 STI coming out next October. The 2.4 with 400hp and 360 ftlbs sounds pretty sweet. If it's not I'll probably just get a c6 Z06 or Camaro SS.🤷‍♂️ Currently own a stage 1 2016 wrx premium.

[@schwagerin]

im gonna buying car but cant decide sti, 370z or mx5 what you recommend?

[@AJ3000_]

Mx5 or wait till the next gen Subaru

[@schwagerin]

@@AJ3000_ Thanks for the answer, I see that many do not stress 370z is it for something?

[@AJ3000_]

schwagerin Im not a Nissan fan, my father sold them back in the day and my wife had one when we first met, was never really a fan. I can’t recommend the 370 Bc I haven’t had any experience with it.

[@karlitron45]

Wich broke the most the wrx or the sti????

[@dulagaferhatovic1426]

How and where did you run the wire for your radar detector? Mine hangs down and is in the way

[@Wolfwood0011]

if you could afford it would you have bought the S209? what are your thoughts on the S209?

[@CarsWithJR]

I would. There are things on the S209 they should have done but didn't. They market it as a capable car you can take on the track but did NOTHING as far as oil cooling/baffling and addressing the age old oil pick-up thas prone to cracking. Plus, if you take your S209 to the track and have mechanical issues, Subaru of America may deny your claim.

[@hkstreetracerx7]

@@CarsWithJR Agreed. There's so much that they could have done. An ELH and ball bearing turbo for starters (maybe even twin scroll). Then there's the fact that they pulled the forged pistons and stuck with the standard STI short block. We also didn't get the real Recaro Sportster CS seats (with more aggressive bolstering for the track) from the other S series. We didn't get the Bilstein DampMatic II adjustable suspension from the S208. No additional cooling for a track car (oil, diff, brake ducts, etc.). They kept the UELH and gave us a larger, laggier journal bearing turbo shifting the powerband to the right, but keeping the same 6,700 rpm redline :( On a positive note, all the reviews have raved about the S209's handling capabilities. I just don't think they delivered a true S series package.. especially for the price. I've even seen dealers asking upwards of $120k with ADM. I'll keep my '19 STI for now and wait to see what the next gen, FA powered STI has to offer :) I made the same switch as you, from a flex fuel '16 WRX to a '19 STI. No regrets other than fuel economy. I got better mpg on E50 in the WRX than I do in the STI on 91. Still debating on whether it's worth the money to flex fuel the STI.

[@PAlang-dr7kv]

I just hope the fa24 sti will not have electronic e brake. We need to stick with the traditional e brake hopefully subaru will learn and understand that

[@SergiRodas]

Interesting. My cv boost also began to leak on my wrx

[@everardoorozco3247]

haha my insurance actually dropped $20

[@Haylem]

Mine is labelled as a wrx 👀 Even though it's an STi

[@mychannelforfun5523]

I will get the STI when it gets a new engine. That is one of reasons I got the WRX. Let's see how good the fa24 is or they might just put a different engine 😲

[@joshuarojas9658]

when I was shopping for a Subaru I wanted the sit but didn't want to spend that much but when I saw the price of the WRX I told myself I would rather pay the few extra thousands on a car that I would love, not like.

[@joshuarojas9658]

my insurance went up by $100 and I only get 16 mpg but its all worth It when behind the wheel of such a beautiful and fun car to drive

[@dysin_9689]

I recommend getting lightly used sti. Got my 2017 with 26k miles for $30k

[@onetime6449]

No problems with the car?

[@dysin_9689]

@@onetime6449 none whatsoever. Came subaru certified with bumper to bumper warranty. Working on modding it out now. Will be making alot of non performance upgrades by spring. Actually take that back, right front speaker was blown. Didnt notice until I turned up the radio. First couple days I just wanted to feel and hear it. Replaced for free under warranty.

[@chico4738]

Dysin _ I’m looking into either buying an STI now or waiting on the 2021. But also getting a used one with bumper to bumper wouldn’t be a bad idea

[@dysin_9689]

@@chico4738 I was going to wait for the 2021 to see what it looks like and what engine they will use. Couldnt pass up this car once I took a test drive and saw the price.

[@chico4738]

Dysin _ not a bad deal. I have a 2018 Civic sport and thinking about trading it in but also have someone interested in a private sale

[@muhib443]

Q. If you keep the STI stock , will it last for 200k miles ?

[@pjhill1741]

Good question, depends on how you drive it like any other car. I have two friends with a 2010 and 2013 sti and they are both between 150-170k miles on the original stock motor, but they drive the car maturely.

[@garycrumrine9538]

My only comment is that I can get a Stingray for a few dollars more these days. Granted it is a 2 seater, but hey, it is a Corvette, and it gets 25MPG.

[@toymachine188]

Did you trade in your WRX with mods on it?

[@doodlebob282]

I bought my 2013 sti limited with 35k miles last June a week after graduating high school and at first I regretted it because I wasn’t used to driving a stick daily and I was annoyed of it at first and I had an Altima before which got 32 mpg and the sti gets 18.9 so that was annoying also but 2 months after I bought a 2016 Kia Optima as a daily and I’ve loved the sti and don’t regret the only thing that crosses my mind is if I should have gotten a newer one because I love the 2018+ with the recaros but I’m happy with the decision I never considered a wrx because for me it was never going to be a sti

[@CarsWithJR]

HOly crap! That's a big reduction in gas mileage. I feel your pain. I also daily mine and hate the gas mileage but I love driving it. I also have a Miata that I drive to work.

[@Reviewerguy1228]

The ONLY thing that turned me off from the sti is the engine horror stories....

[@israelreynoso2263]

Then an sti is not for you, simply as that.

[@gt500.]

I have a 18 wrx I get 18 mpg only few mods I'm planning in trading it for a 2020 sti

[@Benjaminvalko]

At 18 i owned 2002 wrx. I’m 19 now with a full v7 jdm sti swap with lots of mods. Sti over wrx anyday. Going from automatic wrx to sti with stage 3 clutch & 6 speed made me a man

[@zlfugate]

I was lucky enough to drive two different WRX's for a few months each when I sold cars. I switched jobs and had to buy a vehicle and there was no doubt it was a WRX. The first time I test drove an STI (Thankful I did) the difference was substantial and tangible at every moment. I could not believe how much more solid, refined and engaging the STI was. I have an 18 in the driveway. Love the channel!!

[@CarsWithJR]

I hear ya. When you drive them back to back, the difference is huge.

[@kylchn6002]

I remember you looking at that white type R in Bremerton but those bastards wouldn't budge on the 50k haha. I got lucky and found a 2019 champ white type R for MSRP so I ended up getting rid of my 2015 wrx for it. No regrets, but might consider an sti if they ever come out with a refreshed motor.

[@CarsWithJR]

Yeah! 50k bro! I also looked at one there at that dealership. No negotiation at all. I offered full sticker price for it.