Making the New Subaru WRX Better With OEM + Parts!

the 2023 Subaru WRX is not the most appealing-looking car in stock form. But with a little bit of love, they can look pretty good (Yes including the rear end of the car). So our boys over at ‪@rallysportdirect‬ Sent over a plethora of goodies for us to toss on the New Subaru WRX to help make it look 100X better.
Quick Jacks: amzn.to/3Xo41jY
Pop Clip Tool set: amzn.to/3JvMp00
Tools For The Garage:
Special Oil Funnel: amzn.to/3oeyiCq
Coolant Burping Tank: amzn.to/3iesMfn
3/8" Socket Seet: amzn.to/3uf2dLT
1/4" Socket Set: amzn.to/2XPEd5K
3/8" Impact Gun: amzn.to/3lYfO6q
3/8" Ratcheting Wrench: amzn.to/3ueQNYu
Batteries for those electric tools: amzn.to/3zQE5A5
Floor Jack: amzn.to/39KdE4y
Jack Stands: amzn.to/2WfVWCT
Gucci Screw Driver Set: amzn.to/3EXGTPN
Hook and Pick Set: amzn.to/3kJdeBJ

[@HeavyMetalWRX]

"I didn't like the looks at first but that opinion has changed" the Subaru community 1 year after the release of every WRX 🤣

[@Smeedia]

Happens every time, I fuckin hated the VAs when they came out lol

[@HeavyMetalWRX]

@@Smeedia I wrote a whole comment and it deleted 😭 Too many people started hating the WRX early and that mob mentality kicked in. Everyone just heard others say it's ugly and jumped in the band wagon. Now that some bigger names (you, Bader, Kevin vo, some big tuners like JR and Mikey) have one people are like "ok it's not so bad". It's like Nickelback. People hate them just to hate them, yet the music they make is no more mediocre than the rest of the drabble out there. (Except the new album is pretty good, fight me). Also I need help with my car so I might dm you later 🤣🤘

[@bretthansen8166]

So true. I remember when I bought my 2007 WRX STI Hawkeye new, people called it “pig nose” and bashed it when mechanically it was the best STI. I feel the in the future the VB WRX will be sought after as the chassis and motor improvements are noticeable. An STI transmission swap is going to be popular for these newer models I believe.

[@stephencain3467]

More like aww look cool it is in Japan not. Here ohh I can buy the jdm parts hmmm maybe I should upgrade

[@Maardvark]

Those DRL fog lights is an underrated mod that I don’t see many people do on their VB. It makes the front look so good and it goes well with the grill since they’re the same color.

[@Smeedia]

IMO, it is a must-have in the VBs. It makes the front end look 100X better 🔥

[@kristian50]

people dont put them on because they are $500 lol

[@xaviermedina1450]

Could someone tell me the RallySportsDirect Part Number for the LED FOG DRLs? Please and thank you

[@michaelochoa5171]

Love the OEM+ look! Also keep the STI badge. Kinda reminds me of back in the day when people would turbo their n/a Imprezas to make a WRX. Now people are taking the VB WRX and moding it to keep the STI alive no matter what the manufacturer does.

[@cogadhturtar8408]

If they won’t give us an STI we’ll make them ourselves!

[@adamant4]

Thank you for what you do Tanner

[@Smeedia]

Just a dude documenting building some cars 🫡

[@foxunfocused]

You've really opened my eyes on just how much modification you can do to a VB before voiding the powertrain warranty

[@Smeedia]

A good amount of stuff ❤😈

[@Laborchet]

All the cosmetic stuff like any other brand new model year car? Someone’s smokin dhat copium

[@SuperMuncher47]

​@@Laborchetnot everyone's a smart ass like you

[@benmorris7276]

The addition of the exhaust shrouds and sti diffuser really helped make the rear bumper look less like a diaper. And the piano black fog light bezels make the front fascia look super clean. 2023 WRX is really coming along I can't Wait to see where this build is going in the future

[@Smeedia]

The small little things are starting to help clean up the look of this thing 🔥🫣

[@paulmarsdensr1095]

I loved that you put that front STI grill on . Hell yeah. STIs forever.

[@Smeedia]

🫡🫡

[@waybach]

Shoulda left STI logo on regardless of swap 😍

[@robertshockey9473]

I think the exhaust finishers would look good painted piano black!

[@bgoutdoors802]

I don’t think you realize how helpful your videos are. I own a 4th gen outback but because Subarus are similar in some ways I learned so much from your videos! Keep up the awesome work bro. Love the vids

[@Smeedia]

Glad to hear that the videos have helped 🥳 one nice thing is that subarus are essentially Legos 😅

[@victorpena6543]

Thanks for your vids! As VB silver owner your vids are really helping me to turn my VB look even more beautiful but max out all its potential!

[@Smeedia]

Glad they're helping 🥳🥳

[@Soobas]

sti badge looks sick imo

[@Smeedia]

It does look really good 🫣

[@matthewwain9958]

Yeah, really liking how it looks on the grill. SUCH a shame they never will release an STI version. Even the S4 version would have at least been something.

[@drumbum9963]

OEM+ is definitely the way to go with the VB. Looks awesome!

[@Smeedia]

The subtle changes make such a difference with this thing 🔥🫣

[@SammichtheStout]

I have pretty much the exact same OEM upgrades on my 22 VB. Fog light bezels, sport grill, all of the microsuede interior trim pieces, STI short throw shifter, etc. They do make the entire care way more livable. I would also think that you might want a CC or AOS. I went with the radium Dual CC kit, worth every penny. Also, a shift stop makes an irrationally large difference in the way the car feels.

[@jereo8656]

I agree

[@drkangel1134]

Take the headlights apart and put switch backs in the drls

[@H41STO]

Yes!!!!!! That front end looks soooooooo good now! That extra bit of piano black just looks so good!

[@Antiorthodoxy]

I love the OEM options, especially the grill and LED fogs. Before my VB I had a first gen bagged Lexus IS300 that had a bunch of Altezza parts.

[@snoopyalien24]

This is my favorite build so far. The simplicity, elegance feels mature. Love it 😍

[@Smeedia]

The subtle details make the biggest change 🫣🔥

[@Laborchet]

The “build” is just some dealer option 😅

[@xtrekrex]

Exactly! It’s not overdone!

[@connerrobbins2869]

I love that you're turning this into the STi that Subaru should have made!

[@Smeedia]

We will turn this thing fully into an STI🔥🫣

[@nissan1580sx]

Having STI badging (even though Subaru is currently not making one) helps keep the brand alive (hopefully Subaru realises that they should make an STI version). Currently they are selling a Rally Spec of the WRX in Australia. I looked at a RS version of the WRX and I liked it (has Alcantara interior and sunroof). Hopefully they still sell this by next year when I am ready to buy.

[@darrenderousse4804]

It’s looking a lot better! The quad tip exhaust will really set the back off! I knew you were going to take the sti badge off haha but if Subaru dropped the ball making a new sti you mine as well show them how it should’ve been done! Keep up the great content! 👍

[@Smeedia]

Once we get the STI 6 speed in this thing the badge is going back on 🫣 The exhaust will definitely help 🔥

[@darrenderousse4804]

@@Smeedia the front does look sick with the sti badge 😉 should’ve left it on, F the haters 😂 still love the look of my ‘21 wrx more, but I appreciate the vb now!

[@smillman437]

It’s in Cobb’s hands.

[@jredmartinz]

2 things, super stoked rallysportdirect is helping the channel, I only buy from them because of that. And I know you don't care about views but damn I remember when 2k views was your highs. Super proud of the progress

[@itun1105]

Looking good bro!!! Now if you could do something with that Infotainment Center. Got my shirt btw, love it man!!!

[@Smeedia]

Glad to hear 🥳 I'm sure something will be coming in the after market for it 🫣

[@itun1105]

@@Smeedia you keep doing all these upgrades, you might actually, just maybe, make me feel a little regretful on the 21 WRX.... Maybe.... Probably not.....Maybe....it's definitely growing on me 🤣

[@alexs_wrex]

Love the way this is coming out! I want to get a VB in WRB and these are some mods I 100% want to do. Waiting for the 2024 model to come out before pulling the trigger. Keep up the great work!

[@Smeedia]

Hopefully they drop a performance package for the 2024s!

[@mannik360]

It is interesting to hear a comment about there not being an Access Port for the car yet. Really shows the timeline from record to upload. Looking forward to the HP gains later.

[@waykool698]

Love the new VB series.

[@Smeedia]

Enjoying the VB more and more 🎉

[@waykool698]

@@Smeedia I got a blue premium a few weeks ago. Making it oem+ too. 👍

[@cjbeuro2145]

Your just making the sti Subaru should have built. I like the badge since your literally building one. I hope you end up color matching the fender cladding because that still looks the best IMO. Great job so far man!

[@isaacherrera6425]

“ we’re not gonna read instructions because I can’t read Japanese anyways so we’ll figure it out” 😂

[@eknapp70]

I'm sure there's other places but i know TPG tuning near pittsburgh has been tuning these cars for a little while now to great success

[@Smeedia]

Unfortunately Cobb does not have supporting software for the 2023s yet and I don't want to use a JB4 😅

[@eknapp70]

@@Smeedia ahhh I see

[@sawyercrosby3710]

Dude let me know when youre in Utah! We have some great canyons to cruise!

[@Smeedia]

End of August 🫡

[@joemeyers4125]

Ebay sells some chrome delete emblems for the subaru badges and they make them in carbon fiber aswell that would look good on your wrx I got them on my outback Gloss Black Front Rear Emblem Badge Logo Trim 2PCS For Subaru

[@stephngibson5517]

This video is basically how my year is going lmao I appreciate this video ❤

[@ELCID612]

Im loving these videos, im inspired at this point that after im done leasing my 24 Crosstrek im getting a WRX

[@Smeedia]

Ohhhhh you'll love the uograde!

[@Fackler91]

The end of the video was fire with those shots!

[@Smeedia]

I'll try and incorporate some more like that into the videos 😅

[@supplemtb7167]

If they made a gloss black wheel arch that bulged out a bit more it would look perfect

[@jturcios]

Since you're going the OEM+ route, I'd recommend installing an STI ducktail rear spoiler. It would round off the rear in a nice & agressive way.

[@theburritodaddy9384]

I agree, these VBs with the spoiler look NICE

[@trnql_noir]

Munching on a burrito while watching Smeedia do classic step by step installs. Life is good

[@edgerat]

dandy upgrades fella, really making it look better

[@Smeedia]

🫡🫡🫡

[@jptothetree]

I'm honestly shocked at how good this baby is coming together! It's already looking so good, and with stock wheels / tires no less.

[@Smeedia]

Very excited to see how the wheels tie everything together with the VB. These subtle changes have helped a ton!

[@bk3540]

You are a magician man! The 23 is looking amazing! Can't wait to blu hanging with it!

[@BamBoosted]

Man I appreciate everything you do. Lol I’ve spent so much money on my 2019 Sti because of your videos 😅

[@Smeedia]

Haha I'm here to help 😅🫡

[@Fackler91]

You are hilarious. Talks about doing other mods before performance. Immediately after says under your breath " i can't wait for the cobb access port" 😂😂 great video per usual

[@Smeedia]

WE WANT MO POWA 😈

[@Fackler91]

@Smeedia same. I've never owned a subi by coming from the 90s honda scene. I can relate!

[@matthewwain9958]

Gotta admit though, the FA24 is a little tame in the WRX in stock form. I will say it is much more refined than an EJ though, and no weird pulling of timing.

[@GageBallard-w8j]

Been liking the VB more and more lately, and you're partly to thank for that! Only thing that'd really hold me back is the lack of the subie rumble from the unequal length headers. Would you ever consider that something you'd want to do to your VB?

[@Smeedia]

I would not, I've never been a huge fan of UEL headers 😅 even on all of my EJs I swap them out for ELH. Better reliability, power snd I prefer elh sound 😅

[@atumanov55]

UEL headers don't go well with a twin scroll turbo, which the VB has. You will hurt your cars performance and take life off of the turbo

[@HugoHardinge]

Really loving the new VBs

[@Smeedia]

They've definitely grown on me 🔥🥳

[@connori2391]

This car can be saved as a whole once an aftermarket bumper comes out that isnt 90% black plastic

[@ghosthunner9269]

You have made this car look great! Really hoping you add a wing eventually 😉

[@Tree_Cruiser]

The WRX is comin along man. Lookin good.

[@Blake_Drago]

I’m really a huge fan of the new S4 grill. Anything oem jdm is a must. I’m the same way with my VA I’ve almost got everything I can find that’s been on Rallysportdirect or SMY. it’s such an addiction

[@Smeedia]

The OEM+ parts are so nice, they add a good touch to the cars with literal perfect fitment 🔥🫣

[@damonsara6499]

Please look up aeroflow dynamics to fix those plastic trims! They replace all the trim from bumper to bumper! Makes it look so much better proportionally ❤

[@670cars8]

If you ever buy another GD there’s a company called zealous interiors that makes a suede armrest, I have a gd with it and a gr sti with a factory one to compare it to, pretty good quality👍

[@Smeedia]

Will definitely keep that in mind 🫣🫡

[@SLiX-thatguy11m-]

18:02 the fence and lamp in those two back to back shots look like it has a wing already.

[@djsir901]

Looks amazing. I'm getting a VB WRX real soon and I intend to use as much STi branding as I can. It's on us to keep the STi alive for this generation. I plan to build my take on what the VB STi could've been. Any real fan will understand that.

[@MonkellD]

You have GOT to check out aeroflow dynamics VB and their tail light delete thingy and how much better it looks!

[@Smeedia]

I've seen! I'm making a trip down there this summer 🫣🔥

[@vbwrx]

So useful to get videos coming from you, I thought id basically done everything pre warranty void aside from suspension but these last few videos have shown me that theres a lot left to do lol!

[@madpacket]

Front greatly improved!

[@Smeedia]

Looks WAY better with the OEM goodies 😍

[@devinmartin3673]

I love all these bits except for the rain guards. I don't know why, but I associate rain guards with smokers for some reason.

[@Rick4345]

Thanks for the discount code!! 😃👍🏻My grille is on the way. I hope to get it installed this week.

[@Holtenstein]

I noticed the OEM grill has a spot for a front-facing camera too. After having a Wilderness model for almost a year, it really does change how I park the car. It would be a cool mod to do. Also, I think a Digital mirror with a rearview and dash camera would help with the blindspots too.

[@Holtenstein]

Another cool mod, getting a 5th Wheel and ditching the inflation BS that it comes with

[@o0oCircleso0o]

Great video! Wish I had the same luck with my fog light bezel install.😢

[@K-Zoo_Angler]

That front end looks so much more aggressive! Absolutely 10/10 overall! That ETS will fill it up tastefully in the backside.

[@Smeedia]

The front end looks appealing now 😅🔥

[@Soobas]

i love a good cobb knob

[@Smeedia]

Who dosent like holding a good Cobb knob 🫣

[@reeladventures3196]

If you didn’t already know, VB headlights are sealed together with permaseal. You’ll need to use a dremel or even better (less messy), an ultrasonic cutter. They’re not the same as VA headlights, which use a form of butyl. Circuit Demon on YT have a video mentioning this when they modified their old VB shop car headlights. Search for the vid.

[@Smeedia]

Normally I use chemical for permatex with pretty decent results. I haven't tried an ultra sonic cutter but might be an excuse to get one 😅

[@jimvalerio6647]

Made my day Tanner love the little details 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@JasonNugent]

In Japan the STI badge is a trim level, and STI is a performance division of Subaru. We have this hang up about putting the STI logo on WRX cars but you're big in Japan so go for it 😂

[@jacobstephens8447]

Feathers were ruffled xD its looking betterish. Can't wait for the EG bro

[@Smeedia]

Dude for real 😂

[@rustymunns2397]

VB is looking good man! It's the little things that add up. I'm slowly starting to like them, though that back end is another story. Hope you are able to bring the FD in August!

[@Smeedia]

Got some ideas for the back, but she's getting there 😅 hoping I'll be able to Bring down the FD 🫣🔥

[@joshanderson1122]

Still not a fan of the fender cladding but you have it looking like a car worth buying. Keep up the changes. Curious about what your wheel choice will be

[@Smeedia]

The wheels we have coming will really set it off. 🔥

[@matthewmaki1853]

You need to put the rear spats back on to really complete the look. Also the exhaust finishers should be piano black!

[@drewmiller3447]

Man you should have left the STI BADGE ON they did not make a STI VB so your building your own Your car your money Do as you want man I am not a huge fan of the VBS but I love the FA 24 I have a VA WRX with a complete STI DRIVETRAIN SWAP brembos rear diff everything and I thought about putting the STI badge on mine since i pretty much converted it into an STI only difference is it has the FA 20 making over 400 WHP but man put it back on I think it made the VB stand out and look different!!

[@Smeedia]

Once I get some power mods on and an STI 6 speed it'll be gling back on 🔥🫡 which shoukdent be too far down the road for us 😅 looks really good with the badge though 🔥

[@4bvenom733]

I like how this gen is more bulky wider body than the current onw

[@svv_brunorcs1557]

The front of the car is incredible, the rear with some worl can look good, like the IAG car, i think it looks sweet af

[@joshuawilliams639]

You need a GTR symbol next. I’m sure people would love that

[@Smeedia]

Don't tempt me lol

[@joshuawilliams639]

@@Smeedia JUST DO IT!!!!

[@stefanvanbraam4378]

Need to stop and have a meet and greet in Las Vegas on your trip to Utah.

[@isaacherrera6425]

Alcantera ultraswade arm rest looks clean asf wayyy better then leather in my opinion for some parts 🌶️🌶️

[@streamingvideo6654]

Beautiful setup!

[@Biotired]

Such enjoyable VB content! Thank you🙏 I’ve ordered coil overs for my VB, I’m a little nervous to install, but I’m going to go for it!

[@Smeedia]

Which brand did you end up getting? Super easy install, nothing to stress 🫡

[@Biotired]

BC Racing Br Coilovers🙌

[@ShocksBocks]

Ngl, still not sure of the VB's design (kinda looks like a sqished carolla with a hoodscoop) but youre really starting to convince me on it. The rear end especially is starting to look a lot better, with that weird but cool over the top sports look the wrx is kinda known for. Super excited to see how it comes put and what its capible of

[@Smeedia]

In stock form these things DO NOT look good. But with some subtle changes I feel like its getting there 😈

[@sl0w.st1]

"Love the feeling of the Cobb Knob" that will never leave my mind XD. Love you Tanner make me strive for my dreams.

[@gaivoron]

Amber drl looks so sick imo.

[@jasonschuster5956]

Well I'm mad that you took off the sti emblem I think it made the grill pop out more who cares what people think it's your car keep what you want on it

[@d3lan011]

STI is a trim level in Japan. That's the reason for the STI logo on the grille. I feel w/ them killing the STI model in the states, they're going to go this route here moving forward.

[@asherschartel627]

Nice to switch things up to the new wrx even though it’s not my favorite one yet I still leaned towards wanting to see what people do with them. And btw your basically Subaru Jesus tanner fr. Ps I hope Blue comes back

[@patrickgarvin2570]

You have done more modifications before getting your tags, than some owners do the whole time of ownership. Crazy boy. 👍🤘

[@isaacherrera6425]

Regamaster wheels from an Rx7 would be dope. 🔥

[@chrisschuster6451]

Upon further inspection it appears I got the '07 6MT with the oil pump. Also after 3 months finally installed the JDM style 3D carbon fiber grill for the GC from a friend in Brazil. Definitely w 19:27 ant to see the GC build

[@Smeedia]

It'll be coming up once I get the STI sorted 🔥 07 trans is one of the most desirable one for gearing 🫣

[@RobertBrown-xr5wk]

Those fog light bezels are 🔥

[@Smeedia]

Significantly helps the front end 🔥

[@andrewstubbs9951]

Guilty confession, i was definitely part of the hating crowd when these first came out, but between seeing the Aeroflow guys completely overhauling theirs, and you keeping it clean and simple, I very well may end up trading in my 05 for this 😍

[@NeverB_Gameover]

I think if those metal exhaust shrouds were painted gloss black they would look even better and bring some symmetry to the car as the front fog light area is now gloss black too.

[@brannudes]

Coming along beautifully!

[@lukasgray8955]

Are you going to do a mini car meet in UT? I'll show up

[@Smeedia]

Yessir 🫡

[@joshwrx357]

Really starting to like the look of the big grille on the VBs

[@Smeedia]

Gotta have the right grill on em 🔥

[@autoalchemist911]

I have no problem with any legit STI part on any Subaru. Wear those badges proudly.

[@kutoji]

My take on the VB grille, bare with STi/WRX badge and a finer mesh would be my go. Still looks a little bare but better I reckon, seen a few OEM style without badges and front brace/support bars peaking out just behind which is 10/10 for the VB to my eye

[@ear3800]

You should do the clutch line, shift bushing and stopper with The clutch sprint from mtec

[@Smeedia]

Got a good assortment route 🔥

[@HaoToRaze]

This build inspires me to actually buy a VB

[@gtlyearsley_84]

Hell ya… aesthetics goes a loooong way! One of the best looking VB’s now.

[@Smeedia]

The little details are what sets things apart 🫣🔥

[@gtlyearsley_84]

@@Smeediayes and I’m also from Utah, live about 45 min away from RallySport. I’ll more than likely will roll to the event 👍🏼

[@ryanthibault5144]

I hope Subaru has makes it look slightly better looking if they do a facelift life like they did with the 18+ wrx and sti cause I’m starting to like the vb

[@Smeedia]

Knowing subaru they will do 2-3 face lifts 😅

[@ryanthibault5144]

@@Smeediathey like to change it up nothing wrong there😂

[@RaceCarFriends]

I actually really like the front grill with the STI logo in it, awesome video brother.

[@c2st403]

Never liked VB wrx from the beginning but that freakin looks awesome. ❤

[@spacedmellow5031]

A great upgrade I’d consider would be installing the Cusco handling upgrades. I didn’t install my parts separately so when I combined my collection of them together I felt a bigger difference in handling.

[@ep_140]

Getting rid of the FA24 BRZ for this is crazy... still interesting to see though.