Review: 2003 Subaru WRX Wagon

This car is currently for sale! Link: parkersburg.craigslist.org/ct...
I review the car that made me a Subaru WRX fan! Huge thanks to Ryan (@ryan.schaff) for offering his nearly stock WRX for me to review! Which generation of the WRX was your favorite?
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[@danielchampion2982]

I have a deep obsession for Bugeye wagons. I want one so bad! haha

[@RichardUSMCorp]

i have one that i bough 7 years ago from an old man in virginia. fully stock. i took a couple road trips on it with my wife, my last one was from brooklyn NYC to gardena CA to store it before coming to japan for a few years. i wanted to bring it here but is like buying a ford focus in japan and bringing it to the state lol makes no sense. but i cant wait to go back and drive it :(

[@RichardUSMCorp]

if you go on instagram and search @allstocknation you could see some pics of mine. :D

[@withindistruction54]

Who's had there engine blow up? Am thinking about one. I have a 00 Honda civic hatchback but it gets really hot in the summer and its black.

[@nudehunter8057]

@@withindistruction54 check for oil cap if you're buying check oil cap for no nasty stuff coolant other than that you'll be fine

[@mrjalepenoonastick8981]

Got 3. Best cars in the world. Lmao

[@mikebird5148]

I remember first seeing the 03 WRX's, My buddy and I raced back in HS, I had a 01 Ford Lightning and he had a 03 WRX, needless to say I spun while he launched like a mother fucker, I had never seen a car launch like that, from that point on I have been in love with the WRX, Iv'e had my 2004 for 11yrs now and I still get goose bumps when I take her for a ride, I freaking love Subaru! Great review as always brotha!

[@cieldhanda7469]

still have it?

[@ricerocket_ed6650]

Just bought myself an 02 WRX wagon thanks to this review. Everything you said about it is spot on. It's super comfortable, quick, and unlike modern cars you can see out of it.

[@nohcam22]

I own an 03 silver wrx wagon too and I wanna keep it forever 😍

[@Natedoc808]

Isaac Machon I’m gonna drive my silver 02 wagon until she dies, then I’ll rebuild her and run her for another 268K

[@Texas_Cruiser]

How's the car doing?

[@Jorge-ux2yu]

About time people made more reviews on Subaru WRX Wagons

[@lcameeno1]

you're a subaru wrx wagon

[@Solorah]

+Dat1Nigga ZimDoe LMFAO

[@RedPanda555]

Wagons are lame dude. Its what you get when you have a boring family.

[@Jorge-ux2yu]

if you say so man

[@Viralityoflife]

+RexSpec555 everyone is entitled to their opinions

[@tylercrawford6900]

I've had a World Rally Blue '02 WRX wagon for around 8 months now, and though I've considered ditching it for something newer or perhaps less likely to break down, I keep finding myself repeatedly falling in love with the little bastard. This review perfectly encapsulates just about everything I can say about these cars and what makes them fantastic to drive and live with, and what makes it even better is that I can still say all the same wonderful things about it at 180k.

[@bearbryant6005]

Found 06 wagon. Say they replaced both head gaskets and timing belt for 7k. Has 119,000 miles and body has some scratches. Live in NorCal so expected.

[@Texas_Cruiser]

@@bearbryant6005 did you end up getting it?

[@8yocatt]

You should start doing some test drives in the rain to see how they handle

[@dakotahamilton3616]

i love how happy he gets when he gets on it and the boost kicks in 😂 thats what they made the car for, people to be happy driving them. hes awesome.

[@dannytello25]

When boost kicks in it's the funniest thing ever lol

[@coopsnz1]

cheap thrills . wrx best value on the market . $5000 car 5.6 seconds

[@bearbryant6005]

Looking for 03-09 WRX wagon close to stock as possible!

[@BaseballPRO16]

Vintage subaruwrxfan. I love it. Do older cars again more mustangs and camaros and older stuff!

[@clayton8or]

Ive never driven one but the combination of the sound, look, and interior still make it feel like home, im very likely to get a early model WRX sedan as my first car. (because i can only get something AWD and that is by far my best option for my circumstances) Contrary to many people i actually prefer simple interiors and cloth seats, they are lighter, aswell as more raw feeling, (especially for the WRX and STi) and cloth seats dont wear nearly as much as leather. I cannot describe it very well but it seems more "realistic" and not too new and pristine, it gives it alot of character, especially in these examples how its a cheap interior but a bloody quick car. I just feel alot more comfortable in cars with similar interiors, the 90's and early 2000's cars are of my favorite era in all of their features and characteristics.

[@Rumblefan]

This comment was from 2 years ago, did you end up buying a Subie?? I wanted an AWD daily driver too before I bought mine, because it snows where I live.

[@scott-wright]

Ah back in the days of SubaruWRXFan - the glory days. Nice review. I sold a 2006 WRX Wagon in 2015 and have managed to just buy it back in 2021. Still love it!

[@HEMi1995]

"Whatsupguyssubadubexfanhere"

[@bofa-zi4fj]

Myles Hejmanowski God i love his intro 😂

[@gigatron2008]

like the new addition of adding the front dash camera to the review. feels like I'm riding shotgun

[@77714anthony]

CL be like, 13000 firm no low ballers

[@bofa-zi4fj]

77714anthony 13,000*

[@coleehoskins]

"I know what I have here" 180k miles is low for these if u know subarus

[@spaniardsrk5108]

@@coleehoskins people seriously post that?

[@neilsaidsomethingfunny4001]

@@spaniardsrk5108 oh ya. People think that just because they have a half decent WRX that's its super rare and magically worth 10k+

[@nickardecky7404]

I got mine 2002 wagon for 2500. Paint is shit because it was water based that year? But she's drives great. If they have good paint I'd pay 5-8 for one.

[@dannukesem]

I think this will be my next car. Newer cars don't necessarily give you anything more.

[@bunnygetspancake6916]

Ya the only thing newer cars give you is depreciation and unnecessary complications.

[@offdutybooty]

I was literally scouring your channel for a review of a bugeye yesterday, and here you are fulfilling my wish.

[@michaeldiaz4827]

I've been watching the video time after time again, the best video that covers the WRX wagon!

[@Reksir]

This is my fav review on your channel now lol 💯

[@Ayolouie97]

L

[@ShakIshHungry]

SAME!

[@mjg3267]

classic wrx, my favorite bug eye car

[@DanH4U]

I love your review. I own a 03 WRX Wagon as my daily drive, and you nailed everything about it!

[@hodlmonkey]

Got myself a 2002 subaru wrx wagon In April. I've done skylines for 10+ years and never done a Subaru.. and I bloody love it. I know it's not the newer 6 speed 2.5 but it's got an uprated turbo and a tune and makes about 280 ish so it's plenty fast.. upset a few newer cars already. The seats are super comfy and it handles so nice. The best bit.. you can cart so much crap it's awesome! Yep.. totally sold.. need to do a video myself for it

[@Texas_Cruiser]

How's the car doing? Looking at an 02 wagon myself.

[@LAZYCREW]

Love The older Subarus They are so Iconic. Great review Matt!

[@adamtimmsen1362]

yes I love this review it's my dream car and I love seeing it in it's stock form bringing a smile to the face of a guy that's driven supercars

[@organicsounds2018]

What a great spirit man, keep up the videos 🤟🏽

[@dakotajegels927]

Awesome review and video. haven't seen a wrx wagon review before this, so this a cool surprise. Also really enjoyed the split screen, two camera angle on that curvy road. Keep up the good work man.

[@staggeredhorizons3657]

Let's get Matt to 300K before the end of the year guys!! We need another awesome Reaction Compilation :D

[@SpencerHogg]

Great video man! Subaru love! 👌🏻 Subbed!! Keep up the good work!! 👌🏻👌🏻

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Thank you!!

[@Andrew-tz1cc]

Great review! I've been looking forward to seeing you drive a bugeye. Everything you said about the car is spot on. I have owned a 2002 wrx sedan for about 3 years.

[@guitardude3605]

Fantastic video and review as always dude!

[@Y3pes]

A little late, but LOVE THIS VIDEO!! Awesome job man! You got my sub!

[@franciscomonterrosa7889]

Mate 15:28 just brought tears to my eyes. You spoke to my soul directly. Amazing review. Great work keep it coming.

[@tannerhines6455]

Love Ryan's subie great video man!

[@brycesponsler662]

Me and Ryan have been waiting for this review to be posted, great video man he introduced me to your channel and we really like the videos!

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Thanks man!

[@user-tq7eu6nq1o]

​@@MattMaranMotoringbruh wazup like your Subaru on your KZbin videos 🏆💯

[@megz8793]

love you so much man keep the great work :)

[@TheAndrewMARGOLIN]

My first new car bought was a 2002 Wrx sedan, aspen white. Loved it.

[@bulatyunusov2350]

smoked tail lights +10 to horsepower

[@SoundJackson]

Love your videos keep it up

[@jageroce7596]

Never been this early :D love your stuff man keep it up ! :)

[@TheNova64000]

My friend bought one brand new in 2002 when they first came out! Initially, I didn't think much of it, but when I went for a ride in it, I was pleasantly surprised at how quick and smooth it was...

[@rolandomanzaneda538]

I'm a first time SUBARU owner (bug eye wagon) and I got to say I am in love with this ride... heal and toe is a breeze thanks to the amazing pedal position, I look forward to the next ramp as I spirited drive commute to work...

[@joshvaz00]

great review! This is another car I'd consider for my first car

[@2Aqua1]

Great Job, Matt ... & enthusiasm 🇺🇸

[@darksoul165]

I had a bugeye WRX wagon that I sold 4 months ago and regret it every single day. Watching this video made it feel like I was in one again for some reason. The sound, the interior, the fun, i miss it all. I even had the same exact head unit as that one.

[@staywoke2198]

@subaruwrxfan I was 12 when the 2002 wrx came out. My next door neighbors parents got him one for his 16th birthday and kept it on our garage a week prior to his birthday for a suprise. Eitherway, like you I have loved them ever since.

[@justaddafan]

Thanks for the review. I bought a completely stock '02 wagon in the same color about eight years ago and immediately fell in love with the chassis, steering feel, the engine, and the seats. The chassis is extremely stiff and as you noted, makes no creaks or rattles. The steering feel surpasses most AWD and FWD platforms. The seats are extremely comfortable and supportive. This WRX has my favorite seats of any Subaru model of any generation. As you noted, the 02 has a noticeably more raw and mechanical feel than later Imprezas. If you haven't driven a 98-2000 2.5RS, you should, it provides an even better driver-car connection. After about a year of living with the incessant understeer, I finally had to replace the sway bars. Hotchkiss makes a reasonably priced set of hollow bars that are compatible with the wagon (not all of the bars work on the wagon). The improvement is truly impressive. Now the car rotates beautifully and controllably. As communicative as the chassis was while it was understeering, it's even better at communicating yaw and rear end grip. It's a great platform that results in an honest, pure, fun car that's also very practical and capable. Oh, and that road... I'm really jealous.

[@uNkLeRaRa4]

Found a super clean 02 last year and I love it!

[@tpolerex7282]

Still rockin’ my bought new in late ‘01, 2002 silver bug-eyes wagon, never modded and with 73k original miles. Looks brand new compared to this beast. Love that car and will drive it to the ground!

[@williambittner3731]

something is up with the tune on that one Matt, the td04 turbo spools up nice and quick in those ej20s, should have been boosting strong by 3-3500k. When they switched to the vf52 the lag got worse but the punch got better.

[@maimunrahman9635]

Watching this makes me really want one of these cars! You seem to be more into this car than the Blobeye STI that you also reviewed from what I can tell by the feedback you've given on both cars.

[@Grumpycat95]

I saw a few reviews for subarus and a lot of cars with diff prices..nothing seemed so special, but when someone who lives by bought a black estate with golded rims..dude, looks so nice

[@flat4778]

Hi from Australia! Great review Matt. Bugeyes are the best!

[@zexii1052]

I love that intro!!

[@KornKrlz2]

I LOVE THIS. Great car and great review. I drive a 2005 blobeye wagon but wish I could find a bugeye in decent condition. Minimal mods are definitely a unicorn.

[@TheBruceWang]

Looking for my first wrx, love them all so much! Can't wait to finally get my hand on one that hasn't been abused.

[@ZX-wy1tw]

great review

[@zombielover4eva]

Legend says that if you reply early, Subarwrxfan replies to comments!

[@MattMaranMotoring]

Haha thanks for stopping by!

[@_NoDrinkTheBleach]

The 2002-05 years were my favorite years for the WRX. Bug eyes or blob, it was a great little car. I almost bought one back then, but it wasn't in the cards financially. In spite of my sadness, I'm smiling from ear to ear often in my 2016.

[@Djyova1018]

I like how you put the road view at the bottom

[@AndresGarcia-wr1ep]

my favorite quote from mat is when he says "lets turn here in this back road" before he takes off fast on the car lol

[@crackalope]

7:26 mattsgirl: you almost there?? Matt:waiting waiting BOOOOM there it is........aaaahhhh

[@pedrofernandez3893]

Overuse of electronics make some new cars suck

[@mynamefrank6567]

Agree!

[@zhongxina2793]

ive always thought the studder when giving it gas was from the turbo not being hot enough and/or too low of an rpm. It is a pretty good idea in these USDM versions not to go WOT under 3.5-4k because of the ringland issues in these. besides that going with a few simple bolt-ons and a stage 2 tune you can keep up with STi's for very cheap. I actually drive a 99 forester with a USDM 02 EJ205 stage 2 tune, so its the same weight and handling as the WRX wagon and I love it!

[@JonHowes1]

My favorite review...just because of the car :)

[@BboyMobster]

I bet this this with a 6 speed would be perfect. I've always loved the bugeye wrx look. I'd love to drive one soon.

[@Grimace_Integ420]

I am 15 right now... and I was shocked when I heard that people my age back then hated the bug eyed look, I LOVE IT

[@AUDITHISWORLD69]

nice i just made a review a week ago of a 1jz corolla these guys inspired me to try it out

[@Ledface117]

I have an 02 2.5ts which is a bugeye wagon. I love it but I do wish it was the wrx obviously. Absolutely love these cars, they have SO much character and personality. One day when I sell it and upgrade to a WRX, it's either going to be a bugeye wrx wagon or 08-14 wrx wagon.

[@czza2949]

that intro tho ⚡️

[@jordanmorgan3440]

love your videos and my favorite WRX is 2003

[@Andernol]

Visibility is good like every other subaru this was how i knew this video was before the ascent, without checking the date

[@mark52111]

I bought a 2002 silver wrx wagon brand new in august 2001 and sold it in 2008. Wish I'd kept it. The wagon was definitely more of a sleeper. Note that it weighs 80 lbs more than the sedan, slight offset on 0-60 and 1/4 mile times. I modded the car with a "stage 2" turboxs turbo back exhaust and unichip and pulled 292 at the wheels. Fun car for sure and extremely practical. It pulled a 9x5 trailer with ease. Gear box was definitely not STI spec. First gear broke on these cars frequently at the drag strip in the early years. Geez, I miss that boxer rumble. Sniff sniff.

[@Natedoc808]

Sweet spot is 2700-5400 w/ stock TD04 turbo. Max HP is at 4500rpm so keep her in the power band and get after it. Better front sway bar and end links couple with upgraded rear sway bar end links eliminates understeer on the 02 bugeye wagon... or use the hand brake ;-) I found my silver 02 wagon completely bone stock three years ago, have down a few suspension upgrades but that was to rid the understeer as I replaced worn parts. Cannot beat the reliable solid power that EJ20T puts out and given the weight you can get that car moving. With the factory short shift and a decent map you can definitely launch the car with stock hardware to a better 0-60 time than you described ;-)

[@anthonymcgrath]

can confirm - 6ft2 (186cm) and 18st chap here - perfectly comfy to sit in :) interesting note about the little judder pulling away - i know a few ppl confirm that and my own does it. Must be a character of the bugeye model I fitted 356mm grooved discs all round with D2 6 pot on the front and D2 4 pot on the rear. BC coilovers. The thing drives and stops so good now lol - the stopping especially... with my weight and the cars weight thats like 2000kg on the road so the extra stopping really does help.

[@demianreith8719]

First time reviewing a WRX wagon. Congrats. 🙂👍🏼👏🏼 BTW, if you have the chance to review a normal Impreza, like the new 2017s, as a press car, great. Otherwise, congrats again. You're my WRX hero.

[@izzbomb23]

cool feature showing off the road your on

[@ItsThoseVideos]

i have the same radio deck! it looks so nice in the subaru impreza interior

[@kieran1780]

You should do something with the dash and wheel. Maybe add an aftermarket wheel or touchscreen radio. Not a fan of the stock ones

[@sxeeverardo]

"Let's turn onto this back road and seeee. How she goes!" Love that lol

[@warfighter8936]

Didn't know you went to Virginia Tech! Heading there this fall!

[@Jadester]

My 2003 WRX wagons only got 60k miles :D loving it always

[@GJKPzcsw]

I just bought one for these cars! 52000 miles and it's a one owner car! Car is absolutely perfect! I am a very lucky and very happy man!

[@coopsnz1]

10k

[@siko510]

Can't wait to get my bugeye! There just doing the final touches on it!

[@largeboseheadphone6494]

I've driven a '03 modified sonic yellow WRX! First time I ever drove manual!

[@rachelthresher5577]

All of them! WRX s are awesome! :D

[@somanymods]

I had a 2011 wrx hatch, then a 2015 wrx, traded that in for a 2016 fxt and picked up an 02 bugeye as a backup car and I have to say I'm pretty impressed with it, I expected it to be way worse than the newer ones but in a lot of ways I like it better. Probably has the best seats of the three cars and I think the interior materials are better than in the 2011. It's definitely lacking low end though lol, dp and tune helps but it's stills pretty dead under 3k. The sound is amazing especially compared to my two fa20 cars lol. The ride is pretty soft but it seems to go around corners just fine.

[@swizzlebanana]

Bugeye gang! Love mine & all other older subies

[@Davmeed]

Will you ever review a bugeye sedan?

[@romeotran]

I have an '04 Impreza Outback Sport! No turbo but I'm a Subaru guy and I love it. Just got an axleback straight pipe (muffler delete). Next is UEL headers! Subie Life rules!

[@mateomorizio2777]

I had a 2003 wrx wagon myself at one point that and a 1996 subaru 2.5rs but that was non turbo I loved the wagon though I miss that car so bad I want another one for sure and hopefully will have one at some point here as I cross my fingers lol

[@derekarechavala5501]

Just bought one today except it has STI intercooler and injectors, I’m obsessed with it 😂

[@SubSonicEDM]

Love the WRX wagons :O!

[@bikboi8768]

Yes !!! thank you :) i have the 2003 wrx sedan but close enough :D

[@snowfreak551]

I loved watching this video because i own one, it was great seeing your reaction on the back road, older car stills got balls hhaha

[@rodneywk1]

soooo want one of these!

[@FerpiliciousProducts]

Always liked the V5/V6 STI's and Type RA's.

[@Copedawg_340]

Gotta love a clean bugeye! I have to say my favorite year was 04-05, the blobeyes are life haha

[@lcameeno1]

you're a blobeye

[@lcameeno1]

:v

[@layesse1]

am i stupid to own a 07 sti and do a bug eye front end conversion? :s

[@JakesWhips]

I wouldn't say it's stupid it's just unique which is cool. although my favorites are the 06-07 hawkeye, and my least would would be would be the bug. but that's just my opinion

[@Copedawg_340]

layesse1 go with whatever floats your boat bro. It's your car so I say do it!

[@deadeyesolo]

Found a decent one for 3800, looks almost exactly the same as the one in the review but without black plastidipped bits. It's got some rust needs a few repairs but has a couple bolt on bits in the engine bay

[@kelseywinter-troutwine1928]

Would be so cool if you could review an old 96-97 outback in the snow that's slightly modified! I remember my 96' outback & trying to get it stuck in Michigan winters. I miss the Subaru confidence in driving! Great video sir!

[@MattMaranMotoring]

My first car was a 97 Outback Sport. I'd love to drive one again sometime!

[@kelseywinter-troutwine1928]

I hear ya! Love your channel more & more! I'm glad you & your lady are okay after the accident! Keep up the good reviews! Kind Regards, Kelsey W.-T.

[@suff528]

Would love to see you review a highly modified wrx!

[@kurtsnow8182]

Trying to get my bugeye started! missing it

[@michaelgomez5392]

I love my 02 wrx wagon. If you find one that is is stock I highly recommend buying it