STILL GREAT! 2022 Subaru WRX Review

[@TheStraightPipes]

Get $70 in Visa Prepaid Cards by mail with the purchase of 4 qualifying passenger Continental Tires! Details at www.continentaltire.com/thestraightpipes

[@Flex_WRX]

The thing I hate the most of my 2022 wrx is that In apple Car Play there are sooo many restrictions… you can’t use a dial pad while on a call in car play it says keypad restricted.. but while on Bluetooth phone call you can!? Da fuc Subaru now you’re actively trying to get me to pick up my phone and use it

[@jjeter1]

Oh nooo! The back headlights look just like civic's and the plastic trim going around the WRX not good.. to me that is other that I like it.🤗😎

[@benlecluyse]

😁

[@ben4026]

Hey enjoy watching your reviews do you know if they will make Sti for this new model?

[@richardmichael59]

Back headlights? Is that like front taillights?

[@bluesboytyler]

Subaru has the uncanny talent of making something that looks horrible at first and pretty decent 2 months after you first see it.

[@rapid946]

Ain’t that the truth

[@ZLone93256]

True grew on me too

[@DANNY40379]

still horrible looking

[@interceptingfist5682]

2 months later and it's still ugly

[@Unchainedmaple888]

BRZ's still pretty ugly to me

[@ikkenhisatsu7170]

I got a 2022 WRX a few months ago and I love it. I like the looks, I like the handling (almost zero body roll) and the performance. Solid car. I'm 64 years old and it's my favorite car I've ever owned, and I've owned some iconic cars. The opinions of a few 20-somethings don't mean much to me.

[@Touchgrassdork]

Congrats boomer…

[@gallivantingsprt]

Hope you have fun with your car and it serves you for a very long time. So which one did you pick: the manual or the CVT? and why?

[@ikkenhisatsu7170]

@@gallivantingsprt Thanks. I got the 6 speed. The CVT is supposedlyabout 0.1 sec faster to 60, but I like to shift myself.

[@gallivantingsprt]

@@ikkenhisatsu7170 I completely understand your choice. But so many reviews say that the CVT is also good, so I am a bit on the fence. I think both will find their customer though

[@ikkenhisatsu7170]

@@gallivantingsprt I'm sure the CVT is great. I never drove one, but if it had a dual clutch paddle shifter, I definitely might have gone that way.

[@tjbarke6086]

"It's a crosstrek at that point." Yes. Yes, please, that. I want that. Manual Crosstrek with a turbo gas engine? Yes. Give it to me. Put it directly into my veins.

[@goofyspottzzz]

"Lowered crosstrek"-🤓

[@ChrisEvans-jr4wm]

Yes. That would also be my dream set up. 2.4 Turbo boxer from the WRX in the Crosstrek with the 6MT. I really want to buy another Subaru, however I am disappointed that there's no hatchback version of the WRX for 2022. I'm currently looking at the Impreza 5MT and 2.5 Impreza RS...but the latter doesn't come with a manual transmission. The Crosstrek manual transmission makes the most sense at this point, but yeah if we could get it with the 2.4 Turbo or at least the 2.5 NA engine with manual transmission, I'd be happy.

[@clay180]

I don't mind calling this gen the WRXtrek.

[@TheMitchellito]

I've had mine for a couple months now. The looks took a little getting used to, I'll admit that freely, but I like it now. I fully agree about hitting the redline, it comes up really fast and there isn't any warning other than just getting used to the sounds of the engine. As I've driven it more and more I haven't had any issues with it anymore. Having said all that, it is so much fun to drive. I absolutely love it.

[@joshuawalker7038]

Which version did you go with? Is it comfortable inside? What about fuel and mpg?

[@imnottellinudontwannaknow3188]

@@joshuawalker7038 Since he didnt answer I will. I have a 22' Limited WRX. It is definitely comfy for a performance sedan. My average according to the car is 24, and I get like 30-35 on the highway if it's flat. I will say I wish the gear ratios were shorter, since it would be better for highway cruising since at about 65-70 mph it settles around 2800-3000 rpm. On paper it's about as fast as the last gen, but the torquecurve is much stronger across the power band. There is good torque from 2000-6000 rpm. Also, since it has a larger bore, that means it makes less power from aspiration, meaning less wear on the turbo, and less wear on the headgasket and internals. Good car. Not a fan of the huge screen though, I just wish the climate controls were buttons. The steering feels very good and light and has short ratios. Very fun to throw around corners, and the grip is undeniable. AWD system is top tier, Limited slip diffs front and rear. A bit of understeer when challenging the grip though. EPIC shifting transmission. Good car and im very grateful to have it.

[@gs98999]

pretty sure this car does not have limited slip diffs at all. That was only on the STI. WRX has open diffs front and back.

[@deanknoote114]

Had mine for two weeks, Subi blue Manuel RS ( Australia premium) my third WRX from 06 Hawkeye, to 2015 to this… I love this car, love how it looks, love how it drives - performs. I’ve owned Beemers and Audi, and this thing is the best car I’ve owned. Pure joy !

[@driveonthestraightpath2138]

What audi did u go from?

[@H-RutherfordHill]

*Bimmer

[@driveonthestraightpath2138]

@@H-RutherfordHill it’s beamers not bimmers

[@H-RutherfordHill]

@@driveonthestraightpath2138 Not it’s not. Beamers are BMW motorcycles. Bimmers are the cars.

[@driveonthestraightpath2138]

@@H-RutherfordHill never heard that one

[@Masonianjar]

I’m ready for the refresh of this model already 😂

[@cgreenfield6655]

Yep

[@grahamstefaan]

Right! With a big wing, a manual, wrb, gold wheels and 400hp.

[@stefan_4508]

The version we get in New Zealand has less of the black plastic shit and we get a wagon/hatchback version as well

[@westsacramentowastetrucks]

@@stefan_4508 WHATTTTT luckyyyyy

[@william2glaser227]

Idk I kinda like it

[@adriaanvanderzee9325]

The absolute Joy this vehicle bring to Jakub is hilarious and really makes the video a fun watch

[@TheStraightPipes]

I had fun

[@djsmithe]

Too much coffee.

[@colechapman6976]

What I like about a WRX is that it is a fun driving car but it has four doors, a practical boot, a comfortable interior, and good safety tech. It doesn't make you compromise between practicality and having fun. The AWD system is another major plus

[@quinnthompson]

The look has grown on me, I don't love it, but I don't mind it either. The new 2.4L engine running lower boost sounds great to me, it's perfect for a tune.

[@ericlucci2829]

tune it and void your warranty! very smart

[@anaccount7923]

@@ericlucci2829 who cares about a warranty lmao, or just wait a few years for the warranty to expire so you can mod it

[@Holmesson]

​@@anaccount7923 Tell me you've never purchased a new car without telling me you've never purchased a new car.

[@anaccount7923]

@@Holmesson im 18, of course I haven’t purchased a brand new car

[@Holmesson]

@@anaccount7923 Which is precisely why you don't care about warranties. You've got some growing up to do yet. Don't worry about it, we've all been there. Cheers bud.

[@simplyquest9821]

I was really mad about how the car looks but the more I see it. The more I can appreciate it

[@Kurt-LoMein]

I saw one irl the other day and honestly the back and sides look really good imo but the front really does look like a cross trek with a hood scoop

[@issavibez394]

Old better

[@vroooom]

You've done it. This is the perfect Straight Pipes video title.

[@senseicorey9979]

Went to see them in person yesterday. Video and pics don't do justice. It looks great in person

[@TheStraightPipes]

See you all on Friday at Toronto Motorsports Park!!! JET TRUCK!!!

[@BlueDan_RDev]

Sadly, the ocean sets us apart :(

[@threedog694]

I feel like im the only one who prefers the new look? It looks badass, rugged and stands out against every other boring one tone sedan

[@SeanRosairo]

I actually really like the plastic cladding. Perfect for the snow and grit on winter since wheel-wells are where I always get rust. I do wish they brought the hatchback option as well, and hopefully you can mod the steering to be more responsive. Also great intro track!

[@stevebuscemi3622]

35k for a 4 cylinder with a cvt....

[@SeanRosairo]

@@stevebuscemi3622 The manual is the one you should be getting. If you're getting an automatic anything, you might as well go electric.

[@TALYJIMMY]

same and prevents rusting the paint

[@crumyy6240]

@@stevebuscemi3622 but the CVT isn't that bad, they didn't go down the horrible path of simulating gears but just made the paddle shifters tweak the torque band, and the adaptive dampers are really helpful

[@richeyrich2203]

@@SeanRosairothere is still metal under the plastic. It will rust just the same

[@robtronic]

Wanted a WRX since the late 90s. Finally could justify buying one and then the looks killed it for me. Was pretty sure I was gonna wait for the GR Corolla but with the market being what it is I was unsure if I would get either at sticker anytime soon. Found a bunch to choose from at a local dealer and the looks were not as bad in person. Test drove one and fell in love! As someone with a family This is probably the best All around Daily driver you can get if you enjoy driving and live anywhere it snows.

[@raiderfan367]

Same. Except I never cared for the Wrx until a few years ago. Test drove one, drives like a dream so I bought one in Sapphire Blue. Lovin how capable it is.

[@bujin5455]

Solution, buy a WRX from the 90s! ;)

[@robtronic]

@@bujin5455 the 2.5RS that we had available in the US is still my favorite body style. But sadly no turbo. So pretty slow. 2nd favorite is the 2011 STI hatch. But used prices are insane. So went with the 2022 since I had the luck of walking up to the deal and getting one at sticker price. No regrets. Best car I’ve ever owned. Only complaints are it’s way too quiet and clutch catch point is super high from all the other cars I’ve ever driven. Both are easy mods

[@bujin5455]

@@robtronic yeah, I have one of those (2.5RS), with an STi drivetrain and an EZ30R. Pretty fun. Subarus are like Legos, if you want an RS with a Turbo in it, it can happen. My favorite is actually the 2006 STi in WRB. I feel like that was peak STi. My buddy recently bought a really sweet 04 blob eye WRX for $6k, it had 60k miles on the clock, and 16k miles on a fresh short block installed by the dealer. Seems like you found something you like, so congrats on that! :)

[@StopWars420]

Don't go smaller than a 2.0 trust me.

[@Mike.W.Dasher]

10:41 I suppose having the parking sensors above the cladding would make it easier to replace the cladding portion without having to deal with the sensors.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Yeah but the sensing part

[@spencermain6686]

But Subaru bumper covers are all one piece. You still have to replace the entire bumper cover and paint the upper portion if the cladding gets damaged. Idk why the parking sensors are so high. I've wondered that on my Crosstrek. It probably is something to do with the Reverse Auto Braking feature and wanting to better detect taller objects.

[@Beemn633]

Looking forward to getting one. New to considering the brand and this model, but I love the looks - much better than previous versions. Love the large infotainment screen. All the controversial stuff - I’m a fan of. Love the price, sport seats and 6 speed. Happy to see the torque curve is improved along with symmetrical awd for the curvy roads that lack guard rails.

[@pjkr123]

At least it exist. Evo we missed you

[@MihaiRece]

Yeah, but it looks like a generic traffic car from Underground 2

[@manoz6194]

Saw an Evo just an hour ago with Ralliart livery, it was immense!

[@Tunnelsnakes]

When it turns into an EV: “At least it still has its moniker…right?…”

[@alexanderfpv6655]

It's especially easy to ping the limiter in a Subaru because the boxer is so smooth all the way up - it's hard to gauge where you're at. Forces equalizing and all that.

[@andybobandyyy1648]

Thought the same on the dark colors hiding the cladding but when I went to look at one in person, a black one and a red one, I thought the red looked really good and that's what I drove home in. Definitely check them out in person the cladding isn't that bad and at the end of the day it's a fun car which is more important than looks to me. I have small feet, size 8.5, able to heel toe with the right shoes. Highway the computer says I'm getting 27/28. Average 24.5 Can disable traction/stability and get nice little slides trail braking on dirt roads. I'm happy with it. Also can fit my 29" mountain bike in the back, I just take a pedal off and the front wheel.

[@matthewloya9339]

What are your monthly payments

[@joelgriffin9915]

I can't wait we ordered this car and now waiting for our blue wagon to come can't wait. My mum bought this as we had a liberty but then were upgrading it to this and she dosen't know that its a sports carGreat Vid!!

[@ethenjordan2010]

Really hurting their customer base making the best edition and only offering recaros in the highest trim that only has the CVT. Funny since they even said the majority of owners buy manual.

[@RobWormaldPlus]

this is why i'm convinced the STi cancellation was last minute. I suspect the Recaros would have been standard in the STi, and then the limitation makes "sense".

[@the1reef.243]

@@RobWormaldPlus Considering that Subaru is apart of the Toyota Motor Corp, the reason I think the STI is gone and maybe why the WRX was watered down was to make cement the Gr Corolla into the hot hatch market with basically the Golf R as it’s only competition.

[@ordinarysuperstar3721]

The top CVT trim for Canada doesn't even include the Recaros

[@dphellner]

@@ordinarysuperstar3721 if you're not going to buy a sport transmission you dont need sport seating.

[@matthewdonovan8346]

@@the1reef.243 they are part of Toyota group not Toyota motor group but probably lol

[@ConLLee]

I saw one of these the other day next to me at a stop light. Styling is always subjective but this car looks great to me. I’ve always kinda liked the styling but in real life it definitely looks better

[@subeyguy66]

My review after 2 months. I've had mine since April. After 2k miles, it's a good daily driver with enough power to keep me awake. I needed an all-weather car and wanted a manual. I didn't want a used WRX because I know how I treated my last one. It feels more grown up than the last ones, for better and worse. I'm 30 with 2 kids now and a busy 24 hour call schedule, so I needed a different car than when I was 22. I got mine in white like my last one, the cladding is hideous. The FA has shown itself reliable enough in stock form. I didn't want a Golf R for reliability reasons and I didn't want a car payment. Also, I paid under MSRP.

[@robertness6041]

Would you consider the GR Corolla?. Might be a little more but a bit more practical, but probably less grown up than the wrx

[@BigNate5545]

Should've waited for the Corolla my guy

[@subeyguy66]

@@robertness6041 I think the Corolla will suffer the dealer markups like crazy, but the deal breaker for me is the lack of rear legroom in the hatchback Corolla for car seats. It's something like 5-6 inches less than the sedan Corolla. My wife doesn't work but even my daily needs to be comfy enough to fit them in a pinch. The Corolla looks like a blast though.

[@mr.typical3169]

@@BigNate5545 waited for big time markups, gonna start at 50k if Toyota doesn't put their hands in to stop it. I love everything about it but it's going to be another Type R but worse in this market.

[@raiderfan367]

@@robertness6041 No offense but the Corolla hatchback is probably one of the ugliest hatches there is. People say the Wrx is ugly, but what they mean to say is they don’t like the plastic cladding. The actual shape and lines of the Wrx are really good looking, because people are loving the 2022 Wrx’s that have gotten the cladding with color matched the paint.

[@tinshlong]

The looks have grown on me except for the rear end and bumper. Was contemplating buying it again... but just couldn’t do it with that rear bumper

[@KO-iw3vu]

After seeing one in person, that rear end is a straight up deal breaker

[@jdyeetyaww]

@@KO-iw3vucan't you get an aftermarket back bumper that is paint matched? If not now is that something that will be made in the future?

[@KO-iw3vu]

@@jdyeetyaww yes, but a year later I now think they are other issues with it aesthetically. You probably need to replace or paint the bumper, lower it, get larger tires, paint the plastic cladding, etc. Most new car looks grow on you, but I dislike the new wrx more and more every time I see it.

[@vicau6906]

been waiting for this review for ages! finally! great job you two!

[@paulakirkland4085]

I think it's being referred to as the "Squint Eye". I'm loving mine so far. Absolutely no regrets!

[@Thomas-cityd5_gixitxs]

If you purchase the car you could always wrap the plastic in the same color as your car. Always an option. Without ruining your warranty. Also the lighter steering is likely for the rally sport suspension tune they put on it.

[@justincollins7928]

You can’t wrap the cladding they have a texture on them you have to sand to wrap or paint them

[@jdyeetyaww]

Can you not just buy replacement fenders that are paint matched? I can't see how that would mess with the warranty. I won't buy this car tbh unless I can do some cosmetic mods to make it look like an actual WRX while still maintaining warranty. I would definitely tune it once the warranty is up though

[@ttis3701]

Saw one in person, looks good but I personally would never spend 35k on a base wrx when you can get a previous gen used STI with low mileage for the same price.

[@s_________b]

One of the few newer cars I've seen that actually looks worse in person.

[@441meatloaf]

@@s_________b Its really the rear-end. I saw few in my area and the rear-end looks like a civic but fucked up. Its just doesnt look very good. The front end looks fine personally. But i dont really like the fact this car is wider and fatter than the previous 2021 platform. Thats why it doesnt handle well and understeers bad. Someone did a test with an Elantra N and lets just say WRX is extremely disappointing as a new generation when other manufacturers have consistently improved. WRX looks more like it hasnt improved at all whether its fuel mileage or in general.

[@cseymour97]

It's actually just under 30k for the base model which isn't terrible for a new car but it's quite a bit more expensive than the previous model which started at 23k straight from the factory. After seeing what IAG has been doing to theirs I think the car has a ton of potential and I'm excited to see how it responds to performance parts and tuning.

[@jaybosher6144]

idk if that's true. sti being discontinued the prices have shot up

[@ttis3701]

@@jaybosher6144 only a handful of super low mileage 2021s have gone upwards of 40s, but 2015-2020 you can find them all day long at $35k

[@John-vh1fk]

When Subaru first launched this vehicle, I didn’t like it but after seeing it in person, it grew on me. I ended up buying one and so far I love it but Jakub is right, the steering is too light and numb. If there is one think I could change about the driving dynamics, it would be the steering. It is very direct and quick but too light, especially on center.

[@anoopko]

So how would you change it to get more feel? Lowering coils? A bit more negative camber?

[@ciello___8307]

@@anoopko if its EPS, theres' not much you can do. Maybe suspension bushings, tires. But you won't drastically improve it

[@launderedentertainment]

Purchase a Perrin Steering Dampener Lockdown ($90- easy install) and it will tighten the steering by 20%. It’s a must have with the last gen and this gen.

[@gotrice5]

@@launderedentertainment Will that fit into the CVT one as well?

[@loomspace]

@@gotrice5 Yes.

[@XxUltimateGodzXx]

Even with the plastic, it would look so much better if the lines were smoothed, better proportioned. The rear is SO mis-proportioned and the wheel arches could have been more rounded. Plus with a 6k rpm redline is a deal breaker. When you flashed the last gen, I was relieved. And if you like this car/design, more power to you, literally and figuratively. The above is my opinion.

[@YYZ-SRQ]

like the audi allroad or MB E class all terrain or Golf Sportwagen Alltrac

[@ftgjt21]

4:01 couldn't have said it better, yuri

[@TheStraightPipes]

I’m a one take wonder

[@CoachKenny845]

I come straight to this channel for the first time in months to see if you guys have done a review for this car and here we are 👏

[@Kyle-ty6mx]

NGL part of the reason I don't mind the black plastic is because my current Subaru has scratches and other small damages all in the exact areas they put cladding, I would get it in black or metallic grey though so it's not too contrasted.

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

Real question, what do you do when the cladding gets scratched up and looking trashy? Can you order up new fender panels to snap in place yourself? If so, I'm all for it. But if you still have to take to a pro to do some kind of sand/paint/replace option, then I'm not sure that cladding is any kind of advantage for the consumer?

[@Krauser1226]

@@ragweedmakesmesneeze agreed. Making cladding with the argument that it's for beating it up and ruggedness loses its appeal if it's not an easy swappable separate replacement panel.

[@bfife22]

@@ragweedmakesmesneeze People have already removed them to be painted, and it looks like they are just separate pieces

[@raiderfan367]

@@ragweedmakesmesneeze the cladding is super simple to replace. It literally takes 10minutes.

[@deej628]

@@raiderfan367 i don’t think it when takes that long.

[@jansunjmcb]

Great video and review. I am definitely contemplating buying this vehicle. I still own my relic, 6 speed manual 2006 Mitsubishi Eclipse, which has been my pure joy to drive. But she isn't getting any younger. Thanks guys!! ❤

[@emmelieschultheis5675]

My family recently bought a 2022 WRX and we love it. It’s a fun little car!

[@kamalkumarduvvi4918]

3rd time now, the manual and cvt exhaust sound comparison is the best 👍🏻.

[@ItsTheSidJ]

The color reveal at the end was pretty sweet 😅😋. Great review guys!!

[@ak2112]

The looks have grown on me. I like the red too.

[@DodgeTheSupernaut]

I've had mine for just under 2 months, zero options base model manual in sapphire blue. I absolutely love this thing, I never thought it looked terrible (which is why I ordered one) and the looks have grown on me since getting mine. I love the way it drives, it's a great daily other than the poor MPGs. I'm wishing I had gotten the sport grille, with that option I think the front end looks killer. Also eyeing a mild resonated catback for a bit more grunt, because it is a bit quiet and gets to redline fast without you really knowing it. Also, I think the base infotainment 2 section screen is wonderful, I think I'd prefer it to the big iPad from what I've seen. Great video, highly recommend the car to people on the fence, although waiting a year or two for the inevitable less cladded refresh might be the move.

[@pedrozuniga5581]

How much did you end up paying?

[@vicau6906]

I have also placed my order of the base model in gun metal grey and I think it looks fabulous. the 2 section screen plus no sunroof(save a lot more weight and body strength) is the way to go. (in Canada) it comes with 17" wheels with the same brakes as the more premium trim. I am going to keep the 17" and just putting on the RE71r and Endless brake pads. perfectly transformed.

[@fatoni698]

Basically the same MPG as a full size truck...

[@yanniobkirk5744]

@@fatoni698 full size truck is around 16mpg.

[@fatoni698]

@@yanniobkirk5744 "The WRX has been rated at 19/25/21 mpg on city/highway/combined with the CVT transmission, while Ford's much larger, heavier, and larger-engined truck delivers 19/24/21 mpg-just 1 mpg short of the Subaru on the highway"

[@munirmohamednur3815]

FINNALLY YALL REVIEW THIS CAR IVE BEEN WAITING A MILLENNIA

[@tylercaras4488]

Just bought one a week ago. Coming from a bugeye I will say I quite like it so far. The car looks a lot better in person. Do really wish they gave you the option to have the fenders painted from the factory, but so far really enjoying it. I also got mine in red. Definitely looks better in the brighter colors. The 2.4 has so much potential too because yes its only making 3 more HP than the last gen but its also running almost 6PSI of boost less. Can't wait to see the power mods come out.

[@senseicorey9979]

I'm thinking of getting one. Been in my bugeye for 16 years. You still have it? How's it holding up?

[@pandafriend9224]

LETS GOOOOOOOO!! I'VE BEEN WAITING FOR YOU GUYS TO REVIEW THIS CAR

[@madnjpn]

Never seen a Civic drive so fast on gravel lol

[@madnjpn]

@@JJJ.98 you could have checked my profile before replying like that 🤌

[@tacom0nsta658]

idk man... the new civic type R looks much better lol

[@madnjpn]

@@tacom0nsta658 can't argue with that 🤌

[@regieds]

I bought a 22' WRX in WR Blue and I think it looks really good with the black cladding.

[@bradcomis1066]

I test drove one of these a while ago and I really liked everything but for ONE critical flaw: ZERO steering feedback from the road. The wheel gives you nothing at all. Nice size, nice price, good interior, and a HUGE trunk. Definitely really practical, but the complete and utter lack of steering feedback totally kills it for me. I'll stick to buying an old BMW that will be in the shop all the time, but it's worth the cost.

[@Hexsyn]

Just saw one in the wild for the first time today and I must say I actually really liked how it looked...

[@whesley1028]

That was my thought. I test drove a CVT a month ago and will likely test drive a manual today. They look a LOT better in person. Cameras seem to make the cladding look larger than it is but it proportional to the rest of the car. It does FEEL like a large car though. It's thicc in person.

[@areebr.7612]

Tbh in a couple of months people won't be complaining about the looks. Same thing happened with the new M3/M4 and even those cars look good in certain colours (you can't tell me the M3 doesn't look good in whatever that green paint BMW has with black wheels)

[@k1ryu522]

I was waiting for y’all to review this car for soo long!

[@joeschmoe5009]

Worlds fastest shifting cvt? I thought cvts didnt shift and have gears?

[@TheStraightPipes]

That's the joke lol

[@joeschmoe5009]

@@TheStraightPipes woosh! I missed it!

[@impatrickt]

spent some time with this car a few weeks ago. it's a blast but it's no PT cruiser.

[@Sickwitit18]

That plastic cladding is very unfortunate for their sportiest "sportscar". At least it doesn't look as bad in that dark grey

[@crabhab]

I think the BRZ is their sportiest sports car. This is more of a rally car/sedan

[@thomasmatewe]

Well it's a Subaru , it will be cheaper to fix after a weekend of rally cross . Plus I believe the plastic cladding will offer more protection from debris from aggressive rally cross activity.

[@Sickwitit18]

@@thomasmatewe this is all true, but that implies the car is made for rally cross. Which it probably is! In other words it is no longer a street race type of car, though. It's more rally focused than previous WRX models

[@Sickwitit18]

@@crabhab now, you're definitely right. But in the days of the WRX STI, that was the sportiest car they offered. They are turning the WRX into more of a rally focused car and letting the BRZ be the only sporty car for the street now

[@dylanfarris7647]

I have never had any desire to own a Saburu vehicle, and this just continues that trend.

[@mistergoodcitizen9914]

It’s funny because not only can they not make a good looking car. They’re also the only Japanese car maker who is not known for their reliability.

[@everydaybodybuilding2282]

as a gti owner i felt like jakub was reading my mind

[@TheStraightPipes]

😂

[@mondo_stunts27]

The name for these is shark eye. Smaller headlights wide set apart🤷‍♂️ I didn’t make it up but it fits and so far sticks.

[@Starch1b2c3d4a]

Its bamboo butt. Embrace it

[@malcrew0980]

I think the new WRX looks fantastic! Perfect evolution. I don't know why there was a big fuss. Subaru did a great job on the styling. The plastic fender cladding looks great and are functional. Interior looks good too. The phone/tablet infotainment system and vents look very modern. Every time I see this car I want to run out and buy it.

[@salzerilli4789]

The more it's seen, the better it looks. I see one here and there and it looks fine. I'd buy one. I'd go for Blue, Grey, or Black.

[@noonenoesbutme]

I don't know why everyone hates the look. I think these looks absolutely great.

[@markcoopers1930]

Whenever a new gen comes out folks always says its ugly. But they'll all give a different answer on which one they think is the best looking, and also say all of the others are trash. I don't even log into the forums anymore

[@TheStraightPipes]

I owned a blob eye. It's the best one

[@gallivantingsprt]

you guys are so lucky, getting it for like 32K CAD, I am in the market for one, and the CVT trim costs 55K USD in my country after all the tariffs. The thing is I am still considering it. It looks like a balanced, perfect second family car. A car that I can drive to work daily, and have some fun at the parking lot when no one is around. Plus I think in 5 or 10 years we are all going to miss the ICE cars so much, this car willl still hold its value decently.

[@ruffneck_asian3688]

The rear of the car reminds me of the last gen civic

[@steezyg9746]

I didn’t like it at first but the look is growing on me.

[@vangelis7]

Its called the “cross-eye” gen (crosstrek)

[@TheStraightPipes]

Plastic face

[@massluca0078]

woah the intro made me realize how similar classical music and technical death metal are, so thanks for that!

[@TheStraightPipes]

Trans Siberian Orchestra

[@massluca0078]

@@TheStraightPipes lmfao that's funny, I've never heard of them... Prog Classical Christmas metal 😂

[@isaacfalvey]

The only change they need to make to this car is to make it a hatch or a wagon.

[@erwark]

There is a wagon variant. And it has painted cladding!

[@TermlessHGW]

Estate would be sick.

[@Flex_WRX]

Honestly I was with you on that but after having it for some time it does really well for a sedan! I have much more room than in my GTI

[@jonlosito2004]

They already have the Levorg STI wagon which is a different name for a WRX, but its not sold in North America unfortunately :(

[@stevem1362]

3:38 🤣😂 LMAO! You guys totally caught me off guard there!!

[@Qubnomil]

The top trim auto with Recaros was pretty comfortable, though driving the manual was way more fun. What did you guys think about the brakes? They felt really firm for some reason.

[@joby602]

Are firm brakes a bad thing?

[@Qubnomil]

@@joby602 I had to mash the brake pedal down to stop the car. Happened with both auto and manual.

[@joby602]

@@Qubnomil Ah ok. Usually a 'firm' pedal is something you want as opposed to a spongy pedal with a lot of travel. If it felt the same on 2 cars, chances are you are coming from a car with very high servo assist on the brakes. Many other new cars are like this as it gives the impression of 'good' brakes on a quick test drive. I suspect you'd adjust to a less over assisted pedal very quickly.

[@intradibles]

That had just been launched in our country. Greetings from the Philippines! 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

[@Seybre]

You guys forgot to talk about the REV HANG! There's almost none now! I drove the '22 WRX immediately after an Elantra N and I was sold. I liked the old WRX but the stock tune was so ass I wasn't buying one just to void my warranty to fix it.... The Elantra N was cool but on the street not really any more fun. Especially when trying to justify paying 2 grand more for the manual N vs the WRX Sport and loosing the AWD and ride height for winter driving on a car I'm not going to track. For a year-round daily that you can get into for less than a Civic Si here in Canada (base model) the '22 WRX is a no-brainer IMO, mine's due to arrive late July!

[@TheStraightPipes]

Oh yeah you're right. Been a while since we drove the previous wrx forgot about the Rev hang

[@brandonurban5215]

Fun fact my dad built and raced that Jet Truck. He passed away from cancer in 2015 and the truck was sold to Russ up in Canada.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Whoa that's crazy. RIP ❤‍🔥

[@brandonurban5215]

@@TheStraightPipes It was the Xtreme Machine Jet truck. It's now been wrapped. Russ has been doing an awesome job running it. Man I would have loved to come up for the event. Have to get up there for another one if you do it again.

[@kevinb8887]

Dollar for dollar, still would take the N. Adaptive suspension, more versatility, better brakes….given no one is really going to push this on gravel, I would prefer my cars inputs and drive to be pavement ready

[@keyshawncampbell5431]

The only downside to the N is no AWD. I would love if my N had AWD.

[@DylanCarGuy]

Another thing ill add is the legroom is the wrx is wayyy better. Having been in both the wrx is more comfortable.

[@ericlucci2829]

there’s no reason to buy a wrx over competition really lol. fa24’s leak like crazy on the outback xt. i found one with 6000 km on it with a leaking oil pan. i’m nervous for owners who purchased this car.

[@DylanCarGuy]

@@ericlucci2829 only time will tell I've got 3000 miles on mine so far

[@NGMonocrom]

Replace the brake pads and go with better brake fluid if your going to track it. Seriously, everything else can keep up with the turbo-charged four banger. Also, screw lane-keep assist! My lane-keep assist is looking out the windshield and paying attention while I drive! Best part is, *IT'S FREE!!*

[@mrnrfan182]

Dead steering, an inexcusable rear bumper design, enthusiast preferred features locked behind a transmission enthusiasts hate, and mediocre performance. Way to go Subaru! Saying, “at least this exists” and making excuses for the shortcomings confuses me. This car has one thing going for it…cheap(ish) AWD. Outside of that, nearly every competitor for this car offers better looks, handling, power, tech, and options at similar price points.

[@CheckeredFlagPodcast]

Straight up disagree on many of your points. Have you even driven the new car? The steering is many miles ahead previous gens. The bumper is hideous yes. The transmission isn’t amazing but not nearly as bad as you’re putting it. The biggest issue with your statement is the competition. What other mid 30s car beats this with flying colors? The Honda Civic SI? Nope. The Golf GTI? Nope. They all have shortcomings as does the WRX.

[@mrnrfan182]

@@CheckeredFlagPodcast not sure how you can disagree with MY points..the guys literally show you that the steering is dead. Even stated, “I don’t know what’s going on with the wheels” and “feels like Crosstrek steering”. Your qualm is with them on that one. As for the tranny, I didn’t make mention of that in terms of quality, I stated that the features enthusiasts want (Recaros / adjustable suspension) are locked to the CVT, or transmission enthusiasts hate. BUT I have owned a couple of WRX’s and I can assure you their trans fall under the category of “meh”. As most reviewers of this car state, it’s “fine”. When compared to other transmissions on the market, such as the one in the Si, Subaru lacks. That’s not opinion, that’s a well known fact. WRX trans are not great and when you add power they need more support. The STI trans is superior but that’s not on offer here. Regarding price: this car, decently optioned, will hit high 30’s. The highest non-CVT trim will get you at 37-38k. And if you want adjustable suspension and better seats you’ll pay even more. Of course you can argue all day that buying the base trim WRX gets you the car cheaper but then you have a Nintendo DS as a head unit. If it were really a DS I could see that as a selling point. I’m not a Subaru enthusiast, I’m a car enthusiast. I’ve owned plenty of Subies to know what you get with them. Subaru is notoriously behind the times with what’s on offer on most of their cars. Hell you can’t get LED headlights in their plebeian cars without getting the top trim. Their competition is stiff and although they may not have AWD, I’ll argue that most people truly only need a decent set of winter tires to handle what they’ll actually use the car for. How would I know? I have an AWD, FWD and RWD car in my garage and although my Subie kicks ass in the snow, the others have been problem free in just the same. But I digress. This WRX is half baked. It’s the scraps of what would have been a better car. A cheap STI without the promise of an STI…

[@TheTortuga58]

​@@CheckeredFlagPodcast biased answer here but Veloster N or Elantra N

[@CheckeredFlagPodcast]

@@TheTortuga58 that is apples to oranges. The Elantra N isn't AWD nor is the Veloster. The N also starts at a higher price before market adjustment right now and the Veloster isn't sold New anymore.

[@TheTortuga58]

@@CheckeredFlagPodcast I know it's apples to oranges, but you mention civic and gti, so you didn't think FWD was out of the question either.

[@ian2372]

Too bad they gave it a cvt instead of a dct. I wanted this for a daily commuter but the cvt is a non starter.

[@igorruch]

I have mine for 3 weeks now, 6MT. My previous car was GLI 19 also 6MT. The AWD is awesome, compared to GLI is a night and day. No spinning wheels even on a wet surface, huge difference and confidence. Clutch operation is easier. Although the steering is not the best, still it is better than that on the GLI. I totally love the car it is a lively daily and I don't mind the looks.

[@ryant3814]

Hold the heck on - gotta say, LOVE the t-shirts tucked in to jean shorts! You guys are so awesome in how you don't take yourselves too seriously haha! Also, a nod is required for the "fanny" pack being sported fellas! I am (sort of) a fan of the '22 WRX, but still prefer my '18 WRX Premium package, exterior and interior looks better so far. Thx for the video guys, always the best content!

[@TheStraightPipes]

We're serious about being not serious

[@everydaybodybuilding2282]

It's really hard to imagine an electric STI getting people excited

[@dominiclussier8810]

I think it is gonna be a crossover electric sti.... saddly

[@MrBonderd]

Honestly I think it will be electric rear wheel drive component. I worked for Subaru for nearly 10 years. They are always a decade behind the competition usually because they want to be reliable. I think a new STI with 30+ mpg and 350hp with electric rear diff would be slick!

[@everydaybodybuilding2282]

@@MrBonderd aren’t like 80% of wrx sales and 95% of sti in manual though? Stick shift is like part of the DNA of the WRX

[@everydaybodybuilding2282]

@@dominiclussier8810 I think so, it makes sense

[@stuntmonkey00]

Tell me you haven't been in a Model3 performance without telling me you haven't been in a Model3 performance.

[@harrismi7]

I'm starting to come around on the looks. I like that the body lines are sharper and the contrast between the red paint and black cladding works for me.

[@davevan9150]

Yuri likes the looks cause it reminds him of his Honda Element

[@jonlosito2004]

or a Pontiac Aztek

[@mugensamurai]

In order to keep the price reasonable. Subaru decided that their customers should learn to customize their cars by having an independent body shop paint 20% of the panels in the color the customer wants.

[@mbrown9060]

Great review guys… as always.

[@ramennoodlz]

Your expectations for a review seem severely low if you think this is great

[@mbrown9060]

@@ramennoodlz you need to get a life man.

[@sshhddoo9892]

seen some pics of people body color painting the cladding and it doesn't look half bad

[@SkyyMi]

With painted clading and a sti inspired wing I think it actually looks quite good as a sedan but still not a wrx to me. I hope will get atleast one more all out subaru before they are done but it sounds like that won't be happening

[@pherron7471]

It does. A few KZbinrs have already done it. It looks good and sounds much better with the right exhaust.

[@SkyyMi]

@@pherron7471 definitely

[@RealSpaghetti13]

Fade to white intro was elite

[@OpenMikeTV88]

The looks grew on me…how did Subaru do that 😮

[@dknight211]

"thanks a lot Nissan" ... I had a good chuckle on that

[@sjia5568]

I owned one 14 years ago. Awesome fun for the dollar. My problem has always been the exterior. Why does it always look like a Corolla or a Fusion? It’s lost so much personality yet the capability is there. Let’s go design team !!

[@senseicorey9979]

Saw an old review of a bugeye a long time ago. Remember they looked kinda like a neon? The TV presenter said "it will take the cops a little while to notice....this..is the fast one!"

[@chicagojason773]

I liked the video just because Yuri is rocking ‘80s white Reeboks 😂💯

[@eriveragt]

I’m not a fan of the tablet. I still can’t get over the rear bumper. And I don’t want to have to buy an automatic to get the nice seats and adaptive suspension. I don’t understand the purpose behind the GT model. Why make a model specifically for 20% of the buyers, and make it the most expensive trim.

[@44actual]

You summed up all the problems right here, except that a hatchback would be nice again.

[@joshli6974]

already ordered one last week

[@Sebastian-dm5gq]

Was looking forward to that one. Really excited for the new WRX...

[@davi3070]

I've been loving your reviews forever! Hearing you say there's going to be a Macan Safari trim....that's my dream!!!

[@TheStraightPipes]

911 safari

[@drtyboy]

The looks have kinda grown on me a bit, however I'm disappointed to see that Brembos aren't available this gen, and seeing as there's no STI coming it'd be nice if Subaru would at least give the WRX real LSDs. Torque vectoring is a poor simulation of an actual LSD.

[@DS-nw4eq]

Unfortunately, it's not photogenic. I just saw a red one in person today, and I'd say it looks like what it is and I had a hard time walking away from the dealership (my car was in service) without buying it. I think of it as an off-road capable vehicle... so I actually think the plastic body panels add functionality that didn't exist previously. I associate 'utility' with Suburu, so I actually think the new design is a good balance of what the WRX is and what it could be used for.

[@johnconnor2402]

Hey, CVTs are cool man. My Nissan Sentra CVT went out 2x before 50k miles and Nissan new ones in for me every time. Feels like a new car!

[@MBaDog-hn6ot]

Been waiting for this!

[@motormusique]

The cladding has grown on me; it gives the back kind of an interesting 90s look. And appreciate Straight Pipes for being fair with this car and not hating on it...the SPT sounds like a good transmission

[@Zancb]

'Your opinion is wrong.

[@cloudyview]

Wish they were going to STI that thing. The back really needs some sort of spoiler to make it look finished

[@DonaldHendleyBklynvexRecords]

I believe they left the safety features out the manual due to chip shortages so higher ends got prioritized

[@rturner4205]

Also, the eyesight system doesn't work with a manual transmission. So that removes your Auto braking, and radar cruise control, plus your lane departure. But I'd take the manual regardless because... engagement. Plus it's going to be the only actual Subaru that can be a manual in North America. I'm really inclined to actually shop for an older Forester 6MT then get a new one for that reason.

[@DonaldHendleyBklynvexRecords]

@@rturner4205 that definitely makes sense to me