Why I Wanted to Love the New WRX: What Let Me Down

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Welcome to another Episode of Ross Reviews AU on this weeks Video we take out the all new 2022 Subaru WRX.. with no more STI version at the moment does the WRX on its own give enough? in this video we will find out..
Why I Wanted to Love the New WRX: What Let Me Down
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[@mikimenendez]

The new WRX is perfect. Even the cladding, makes it a great daily, you just don’t care where you go, the car will be fine. Not the fastest, not the most luxurious, not the best in something in particular but the best overall in its price range. So much hate on it, coming always from old WRX owners (STI in a great majority) but man… still, this is an amazing car, sporty, aggressive, AWD, suitable for a family, comfortable, and abled to compete with anything. If you need more power, just tune it, if you need more sound, go for what the after market offers, but you cannot really complain, it’s what it is and it is great. And yes, go ahead, I will be waiting for the haters, but no one will change my mind on this car 🫶🏼

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s ok.. just they really could have done a lot more with it

[@Mav646]

Only getting hate from Sti owners because the new wrx owners are trying to compare it to the Sti. There is no comparison. Keep the wrx in its lane that’s all.

[@mikimenendez]

@@RossReviewsau as you said, Subaru didn’t go in the direction of expectations, the car could have changed in other specs as 0-100 time, or the sound. But it still was changed, now more refined, linear, and livable. Those who were waiting for something are now disappointed, those who just look at the car as a new generation with rally heritage are happy with it, me included. But still, there is room for improvement with mods, the car has an under-stressed engine that can be pushed a lot more. Also, as you said, the after market can fix what “should have come like that” from factory.

[@Konformation07]

​@@Mav646 Horseshit you're making shit up to get mad about.

[@Mav646]

@@Konformation07 what are you talking about. I was referring to a lot of other videos of people trying to compare this car to sti’s as mention in this post. And nobody’s mad about anything just keep this wrx in it lane. If you enjoy it that’s fine but it’s a budget car.

[@gardenwaster]

I can sense the disappointment in your voice it's like someone tore the heart out of the WRX

[@RossReviewsau]

It was sad to see

[@HI-pi1er]

Tune , intake , Cobb access port .

[@mvnorsel6354]

Its a sedan and its manuel , rare combination in 2023.

[@RossReviewsau]

It is great to see the manual still

[@darrenramm4874]

Wrx hasn’t used an EJ since 2015. STI yes not the wrx’s though.

[@zaamuro8408]

Ross needs to do some reading up on his knowledge.

[@rcast3763]

@@zaamuro8408 true. He is off! Comparing a Rally car with Anti lag sound to this 😒

[@RossReviewsau]

I was thinking about the STI sorry for the mistake

[@2jztheworld361]

I cant be the only one finding the new giant screens in cars tacky and gimmicky looking?

[@squidstems]

Agreed it looks atrocious

[@RossReviewsau]

Ye I wasn’t a fan of the quality either.. screen was hard to use

[@PurplePunkanetus]

I think it is a step in the right direction. Needs a serious software upgrade tho. It is there just for looks lol

[@chrisweir1097]

Yeh I thought the new screen was a massive improvement over the older style 100 button arrangement.

[@eljefeamericano4308]

You're not alone at all! I hate the look of the giant screens, and I don't like trying to use touchscreens while I'm driving. With physical controls, you have tactile feedback, you can use them without looking, bumps in the road don't matter so much. That isn't the case with touchscreen setups.

[@ApeHarrop]

This car is magnificent to drive luxury mixed with performance

[@oscarkabowski8413]

Subaru and luxury aren't two words you hear in the same sentence often.

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s a nice interior (not luxury tho)

[@ApeHarrop]

@@RossReviewsau to me it is, why what’s wrong with it?

[@Mav646]

@@ApeHarropluxury compared to what? Riding the City bus?

[@ApeHarrop]

@@Mav646 for you maybe

[@fullboost]

Nice video as usual Ross well done. I agree the car is too quiet, however WRX's have never ever really made that much noise from the factory. People tend to compare stock to aftermarket.

[@RossReviewsau]

Fair point.. I just miss that unequal length header noise.. but your right about aftermarket exhaust.. only say that since the I30N sounds so good stock

[@tomnewham1269]

I think Subaru are marketing the WRX to the original WRX owners who have grown up and so have been making the WRX grow up with them if you know what I mean. I don't like the black side cladding, it makes the WRX look like an SUV and so in my opinion it would look better being colour coded. Yes I agree the exhaust could have a better note but not too loud but enough to know that the car is revving up. With bi-modal exhausts been around for a few years now surely Subaru could put a system in the WRX.

[@chrisflorian4308]

Hi Ross. What I really like on the Mitsubishi Evo and the Subaru WRX models, that they can be ordered with a 6 speed manual gearbox. Most of the others cars have AWD only with a automatic gearbox. But I really like the older Subaru WRX models much more (sound + emotions + more rawness like a "rally car" should be....). The big touchscreen in the middle of the dash on this new one don't looks right for me for this car. Best wishes Chris

[@RossReviewsau]

Totally agree.. good to see a manual still.. but yeh we miss that emotion with noise

[@The_Candyman86]

@@RossReviewsau hi Ross. i really do think the current model Subaru is absolutely ugly and plastic looking. it sounds crap compared to previous Gen models. Its a shame how cars are looking more ugly, less styled and more quiet. Love ur vids though buddy

[@baoquoc3710]

@@The_Candyman86 what if the WRX is borne to be meant for aftermarket mods? If you don't like stock configs, put in new bodykits and more power by dyno-ing it.

[@AustinSamuelF]

The CVT isn’t the normal CVT in other Subarus, it shifts extremely fast almost like a dual clutch + you do get all of the convenience of remote start, dynamic cruise, lane centering, front auto-emergency braking, etc. The auto is being slept on in this car.

[@RossReviewsau]

I haven’t driven it.. but cvt I’d be shocked if I liked it

[@AustinSamuelF]

@@RossReviewsau it’s really quite good. You also get 3 different modes that will adjust shift points and shift timing even in the non GT.

[@Cooper20228]

great review I agree is to quiet with a exhaust it would be a lot better

[@RossReviewsau]

Needs it!

[@seaniemcp2887]

Keep mixing it up Ross 🤘🏼. I love hearing real people give really opinions.

[@RossReviewsau]

Appreciate it! I only speak my mind

[@baymaxfpv]

This car is perfect. Msrp $30k 400whp/400wtq for $35k Sorry ross

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s 50k here in Australia.. it’s also only 200kw crank not 400whp?? What are you talking about lol

[@baymaxfpv]

@Ross Reviews lmao.... Intake, tmic, jpipe. Tune. $4k 411whp/420wtq . Do some research on the potential of a cars engine before you "review" it.

[@ryanjones7202]

Awesome review! Personally I will say for 50k I will go buy a new CLA 35. 50k is pretty damn pricey to me for a WRX. However, this new platform has crazy potential! Seeing the numbers even with simple mods and tunes looks incredibly promising! May pick one up and trade in my 2015 ✊️

[@RossReviewsau]

I think used it has potential for sure with aftermarket support ✅

[@darrenramm4874]

In what world can you get a new CLA 35 for 50k.

[@DR-te8mc]

I think the haters need to accept that the car is a wrx and not a wrx sti. At some point Subarus strategy was to release the sti at some point after just after the wrx, hence the wrx was a more staid release in terms of sound, feel, looks etc. Stop complaining it's still a beaut, if you want more power etc, the car has sti potential so modify it.

[@RossReviewsau]

I’m telling the people how the car is and what I expect for 50k… regardless of you think it’s complaining or not

[@pete508]

Hey Johnny mate,when I first watched the preview of this car on your Insta page I honestly thought it was an EV because it's so damn quiet lol,I like the look & it goes alright but yep I agree at the end of the day it doesn't compare to earlier versions no way,anyway another top review buddy thanks man.

[@RossReviewsau]

😂 it wasn’t to bad just needed some noise! Like come on Subaru 💀

[@oldfashionedwrx3574]

i have 2 wrx, one wrx sti 06 jdm, another gc8 with ej207 and 6 sp (i built and tuned engine myself) ive owned lots of cars imo after 2015 they are more like a liberty gt than a wrx good video

[@RossReviewsau]

Thanks for the info glad you enjoyed the vid..

[@forddriver8827]

Is your opinion based on driving one for a day or after 6 months ownership?

[@RossReviewsau]

1 week of having it

[@ameraboukoura6091]

Biggest downside of the this new subie is no sti version, but still, it deserves to be in the same league as the gr Corolla, civic type r, and Nissan Z.

[@RossReviewsau]

Spot on.. I would have forgiven so much if there was an STI variant

[@rwd323]

Unusual to see analogue gauges and a manual handbrake in 2023, good to see

[@RossReviewsau]

Very refreshing to see that.. just needs noise

[@petermanuel7128]

Hello Ross, I think it’s a nice looking car. Seems to handle well. I thought it’s 0-100 could have been a bit quicker for what it is. You are right, it is too quiet. It doesn’t even sound like a sports car should. I think there needs to be a few adjustments done to the car to justify the price tag for what you would expect for a car like this. Great review again.

[@RossReviewsau]

Appreciate the support peter

[@mikimenendez]

I have a Limited 2022, and I do 5.4 seconds from 0 to 60. So, it can vary. With some mods, I have seen 3.5 seconds!

[@Bondmaster007]

Aftermarket this car could be something, Depends how much $$$ you are prepaired to drop. I like the WRX logo/letters in the headrests.

[@jasoncee666]

Decent tuners base like the boost is 12psi stock, easy enough to near double 👍

[@RossReviewsau]

Definitely has potential but would need a big budget

[@xtrekrex]

People are already making 400whp/wtq with an intake, fmic, and a tune. The FA24DIT is better than the FA20 in every way.

[@itachi2079]

With just a cold air intake and a tune and you can get 320hp. That's a big leap for what 1k or less.

[@gallivantingsprt]

If you're thinking about buying one of these, I suggest you don't listen to those "MT purists" s*itting on the CVT. Go drive one instead and see for yourself. I came to the dealership searching for a MT 6 speed, and left ordering a CVT. If you are not planning to race in this car on the track, and just want a normal car thats fun to drive, the CVT will not disappoint you.

[@RossReviewsau]

I haven’t driven the cvt but I usually hate them

[@gallivantingsprt]

@@RossReviewsau I hated every CVT I've seen before this one. Whats interesting is that CVT WRX has a 45/55 torque split towards rear wheels, which makes it fun to drive in the show. The MT split is 50/50. I haven't driven the MT in the snow, so a bit curious if this makes any difference.

[@Kiwi_Dave]

Enjoy while it lasts, hopefully the updated version will include adaptive suspension. One thing for sure, depreciation is going to be low.

[@RossReviewsau]

I think so! Maybe once they are half the price it would be worth buying and modifying

[@111Aardvark]

It's criminal that they never gave it that rex sound we all know and love

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s sad.. we miss the noise

[@joiryde1328]

they removed unequal length headers for more reliability and power, doesn't sound as good but the pros outweigh the cons.

[@johneldridge1345]

Hi Ross, a little bit of respectful criticism here. Please research more before you do a video panning a car like this. Recaro are only available in the US market, seats for the top trim are the same here. Also the cvt in this wrx is miles ahead of last gen and I seriously doubt you've even tried one before saying it is no good. Engineering Explained does a great video showing just how good it is. Personally I think you just said the typical manual journalist talking points to get clicks. Finally the sound, I've owned 2 previous gen rexes and this car has a very nice engine note, if you want theatrics get a Hyundai n or aftermarket exhaust, but as it stands this car has a very burble and some nice induction noises. Tbh your video seemed really poorly researched and you were more focused on getting those clicks than digging a little deeper and seeing how good this car is under the surface.

[@RossReviewsau]

I had the car for over a week.. as a appreciate your criticism I do disagree.. no one wants a CVT in a sports car.. and seriously you could see in this video it really does have 0 sound.. you shouldn’t have to pay extra to get some noise. My reviews are less technical I try to do minimal research and just get in and drive

[@3DMT8KOV3R]

Agreed same rhetoric gets to be annoying

[@johneldridge1345]

@@RossReviewsau completely understand im sure you're busy reviewing multiple cars. Its just your b roll even made a point of showing recaro seats. Just seemed like another review with the same talking points.... the cvt is crap, the car doesn't have an active exhaust etc. Please watch the engineering explained video mate where he talks in depth about the cvt in this car, it may change your mind somewhat. Thanks for the content.

[@Fight4MyCountry]

I have a feeling this new gen will be like the G80 gen. Looks fugly at first glance esp considering what we are used to, but it eventually grows on us

[@RossReviewsau]

I don’t mind the look.. just miss the noise

[@actuallyrealcover]

I've seen people already color matching the cladding on this new gen WRX. It looks pretty good color matched.

[@RossReviewsau]

I think it would look good colour matched

[@zacharydellamano7199]

So he talked about unequal length exhaust manifold runners making a Subaru what it is, but then he showed a video of a modded STI with an equal length header... The FA sounds like garbage on the exterior. You don't want it to make much noise.

[@McRooster]

Seems like they have tailored this to the North American market.

[@RossReviewsau]

Possibly as it’s a huge market to them

[@eljefeamericano4308]

I really don't like the look of this car. The cladding looks cheap, the headlights look a bit too small, and the whole rear end is a mess. Those taillights look like they belong on a Honda Civic, and the rest of the features back there all look like they're stretched vertically. Instead of looking low and wide, like you'd want from a performance car, it looks tall, narrow, and the plastic comes up so far! Now, I understand these cars have a rally background. But, at least in the U.S., I don't think most people who are drawn to the WRX necessarily care. They want the performance they get out of it on pavement. They also want the fun of a manual transmission, so I agree it's ridiculous this car doesn't offer its highest trim level with a stick! My take is that this car has just ensured the resale value of the previous generation of WRXs and STIs will remain high.

[@StephenPHall]

This engine with its current output should be an option across the 2023 Crosstrek range, and the WRX spec should have at least another 50kw and 50nm. That’s my thoughts on the matter anyway.

[@RossReviewsau]

It should be faster 100% it feels restrictive

[@Magoo-li9pp]

Unless your going to track a car, large brakes in normal driving are no better, it's a myth that you need large expensive brakes a daily driver. modern ABS brakes Standard on cars are more than adequate.

[@RossReviewsau]

After one good hill run I could smell the brakes and they had noticeable fade

[@AustinSamuelF]

Pro tip - The fact factory optionable sports exhaust helps for more sound

[@RossReviewsau]

Well Considering this was a press vehicle with all the fruit.. I would guess that was fitted.. no sound was heard 🥲

[@AustinSamuelF]

Unfortunately this one wasn’t equipped with the sports exhaust. You can tell because the exhaust tips on the OEM sports exhaust are a different shape than the quiet normal exhaust.

[@TheBloodyRavage]

So the 2015-2021 Wrx FA20 is some type of EJ variant?

[@RossReviewsau]

I was referring to STI ( my mistake )

[@gavinlamp]

With where subaru is going with the WRX and the STI variants. I don't think I'll go out of my way to try and buy one. I have been a die hard subaru boi since 2002 and just like most car companies, the brand evolves and I don't think that's bad. But it feels like (and I have driven the new WRX so this is from my experience) they decided to move away from the "racer boi" attitude of their sports cars and make as refined as possible versions of their vehicles. And I get it.... but when I owned my first wrx I got it because the car demanded respect when you drove it and it had a TON of excitement. The newer models, just all seem to not have any of that feeling I'm talking about unless you drop like 10k into mods and a tune, and proper calibration and set up of the car to make it reliable after removing like 90% of what the car had. Again I love the brand, I wish they made the car more exciting. It was more boring than my 1.4l manual 2017 jetta. That little motor at least makes cool turbo noises and engine growl from the factory and gets better mpg. Add a stage 1 tune to clean up the torq curve and honstly it feels better than the 2021 WRX STI my friend let me borrow for a day to look cool for a chick I tried to get with.

[@shreckm6470]

That's not much quicker than my wife's Cerato GT and it has a good exhaust note from stock. Love Subaru engineering but the plastic guard's are a no go for me.

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s not quick..

[@avagadroa4065]

I’m ok with the looks and the transmission. The engine has enough but feels very vanilla. I think the manual should have adaptive dampers, pre-collision and adaptive cruise. The infotainment…is absolutely terrible! Shifting with a touch screen for climate and heated seats is simply a bad idea.

[@stephenw2992]

Sounds like only old men who just retired from the public service buy their top of the line model

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh it’s lost the spark

[@fatihyucel6534]

from the bck it looks a bnit like my subaru Legacy 3.0R sedan in black buut it rly looks similiar imo but i love it

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s ok I think.. each their own

[@creaseoner]

You’re driving on the wrong side Get a left hand drive it’s much better trust me🤣

[@RossReviewsau]

Right side of the car actually 👀

[@jamescarr9821]

The new fa24 motors are way Fuckung deeper then the older models stock.

[@My3lilmonsters]

I like mine, the RTV issue is a bummer, aftermarket exhaust is on the list along with a stereo upgrade. But otherwise isn't too bad, I like the driving so far, but another couple issues I have is locking the car while running, with manual why the fuck isn't there a remote start. Why can't my key fob lock the car while running, I'm from the U.S. and because of work I carry my handgun and it makes a security risk when the car unlocks itself while running with keys outside of it ,Just doesn't make sense. But otherwise it runs nice.

[@RossReviewsau]

Thanks for the feedback yeh I noticed that issue too with locking.. very annoying, the car is decent just need some aftermarket support to be great

[@mitchellbarlow8783]

Almost as slow as a standard XR6 or S Commodore from 15 years ago... and not much more economical despite the smaller size...

[@RossReviewsau]

🤣💀 you are not wrongb

[@richieduck67]

Beats a GR Yaris around the track engine is a let down though

[@jasoncee666]

@Christopher Holden he must believe that recent match up where some idiots preferred the WRX at the track. They got nothing on a GR Yaris 🤣

[@geoffreybanditt4355]

The unpainted trend does kill the looks of modern cars for me. It just gives them that ugly over styled look to them. Still wouldn't look that bad if the plastic trims were painted the same colour as the rest of the car though. If I was going to get an WRX I would prefer to get one from around the 2005 models over those new ones.

[@RossReviewsau]

yeh they are all cheaping out a bit it seems sadly

[@bigfairy321]

here i thought that doing 105 in second was too short in my vz, as my previuos ls1's could pull 115 or so, but having to shift into 3rd at ~85 in the wrx is laughable... and yes i did own a wrx once... for a short time as i just didnt like it (05 model)

[@RossReviewsau]

🤣🤣🤣

[@badbeatking80]

Most motors are quiet stock. Like a Harley Davidson motorcycle it sounds nothing like it should without an aftermarket exhaust

[@RossReviewsau]

Lot of cars sound good from factory it shouldn’t be an excuse for them

[@yannmarkovich7399]

Some cars still can make fun noises, but because of good sound deadening they make such noises for everyone around except driver, and that's absolutely weird. You open windows and your car sounds nice - there are engine roar and turbo whistles, you close windows and it becomes dead boring. Seems like new WRX became one of such cars.

[@philiphutton9422]

So it’s slower 0-100 than the RS Turbo Liberty from 30 years ago…

[@RossReviewsau]

🤣 pretty much

[@philiphutton9422]

@@RossReviewsau 🤦‍♂️

[@P2DAPIPE]

Is it a sedan or a lift back? 🤔

[@RossReviewsau]

Sedan

[@Alanst1xx]

When you (don't really) !! need to keep your eyes on the road something flashes on the dash and tells you !!! Sort of defeats the purpose. Ha ha

[@nemesis_zl1180]

Black or gun metal grey looks killer in the new wrx. The arches and trim suit the body colour... put an aftermarket exhaust and some te37's with coilovers and would look sweet and sound nice

[@RossReviewsau]

If you spend the money they could be done well!

[@Mi2Lethal]

Look how they massacred my boy 😭

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s sad

[@NicheEscape]

3:18 it's bloody ugly mate, absolutely terrible.

[@Kiwi_Dave]

I thought that as well, but a trip to dealer and seeing them in person and different colours changed that.

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s ok.. that’s all I’d say

[@BananaSizzle]

Imagine what the hater's are going to be saying year's from now when Subi's go full electric ect...ohhh i can't hear the engine...ohhh i can't hear the exhaust..learn to adapt now coz it's gonna really hurt later on

[@RossReviewsau]

I’m quite happy with not adapting.. I’ll call a spade a spade thanks

[@BananaSizzle]

@@RossReviewsau respect 👍

[@markblackwell7927]

Sound is lacking big time...dont understand why car makers dont put decent brakes on there cars...not bad looking car...each to there own....

[@RossReviewsau]

Yup needs noise and better breaks

[@dipastick]

It’s really funny how most of the people talking crap about the new cvt have never driven it.

[@RossReviewsau]

Ok so you can scroll down and see owners complaining about there purchase of the cvt wrx.. also why does it need to be a cvt what benefits will that give a sports car

[@andrewzuiderduyn3159]

Definitely could be a little bit louder I reckon

[@RossReviewsau]

Needs to be

[@andrewzuiderduyn3159]

@@RossReviewsau yeah definitely

[@TinkeringTom91]

2.5 ej was in Wrx before the FA 2.0 people always forget. Idk why People think 2.4 is something impressive...

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s not really impressive at all 😂

[@TinkeringTom91]

@Ross Reviews Sad to hear I was goin to Test Drive one and see for myself

[@ham_Yai]

I loved the 90s early 2000s Subies (and owned a couple) but after that, Subaru lost me.

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s not the same eh

[@mrxss1]

Great review as always mate. I find with each generation of Subaru from mid 2000’s they just seem to be getting more lifeless and bland. Disappointing power and slower than a new Camry(technically different class of vehicle)I guess the only reason you would buy one is for the handling and the manual. Very sad indeed.

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s sad what’s happened to it.. still has potential but they just really cheaped out on it

[@dann1483]

Check if my dislike button went through

[@frankwren8215]

I absolutely brutalised one of these in my G8 last week at the lights. I was shocked.

[@RossReviewsau]

You would

[@Cruelaid]

Plastic is cheaper than steel, that black plastic crap is a con on all cars

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh I’d say it’s a cost cutting issue

[@jasonlewis2990]

The SPT sucks, like I mean really SUCKS. Yes I own one. Worst car decision in 25 years

[@RossReviewsau]

Damn.. yeh CVT

[@datwistyman]

Almost fantastic 🙂 50/50 split on dirt sucks ass big time. But hey it's a new car so it unlikely you are going to take it out the bush and flog the f out it. I'd like to have a drive and see what it's like. 🙂👍

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s ok to drive just lacks that emotion with no noise

[@GTS300Coupe]

Very disappointing car. At least the after market scene has already been adding quite a few nice options

[@RossReviewsau]

I think if you spent 20k in mods it would be really fun! But that ain’t cheap

[@johnsbackwithcommonsense7628]

The Asians will do wonders with it by putting extras from Ebay on it😂

[@RossReviewsau]

EBay special 😂💀

[@myusernames1967]

7 seconds, wow, that is laughable. lol

[@RossReviewsau]

It’s very dull low down

[@victorpeirce4753]

@@RossReviewsau Yeah true... can't believe 2nd gear only goes to 85kmh. 1st gear looked like a waste of time changing into 2nd at like 45kmh.😢😢

[@icebear1935]

what a dog's breakfast. Looks tacky on the exterior with all the plastic.

[@RossReviewsau]

They should offer colour matched

[@paulsmith3416]

rear end looks horrible, lost its tough look

[@RossReviewsau]

Sadly your right

[@MartinJones123]

The new WRX is a real disappointment and it's almost like Subaru has given up on this model entirely... Miss the glory days of Subaru, this just isn't a WRX 😔

[@RossReviewsau]

They basically have given up it seems.. 🥲

[@MartinJones123]

@@RossReviewsau Yep, it's a crying shame... Especially when you see what the WRX once was...

[@fordfan0351]

In my eyes, it looks worse than an AU, and im a ford guy

[@RossReviewsau]

😅 love an AU

[@fordfan0351]

@@RossReviewsau same here but without some form of modding, a stock au looks questionable

[@panda2650]

What a wet car!

[@TheFordMan888]

The cluster continually flashing would be enough to turn me away from buying one.

[@MrFister84]

It's to do with the shutter speed of the camera, you know like some tail lights flicker in videos.

[@craigsampson3386]

@@MrFister84 It's time to kick ass and chew bubble gum. And I'm all out of gum.

[@TheFordMan888]

@@MrFister84 Ohhh right

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh kinda dumb that

[@shaun1900]

NO WRX sounded that great until there was an aftermarket exhaust stuck on it. Top spec in Australia doesn't get Recaro's or brakes upgraded. This model is literally faster than the previous Gen STI and ultimately people aren't buying 1990s WRXs in 2023 - buying tastes have moved on.

[@RossReviewsau]

I disagree.. and regardless Australia should get those features.. yes ad an exhaust maybe but the rest.. unacceptable really.. I appreciate the manual but was a bit of a letdown

[@shaun1900]

@@RossReviewsau Subaru's own market research and product planning team would disagree. The great thing is you do not have to buy one and Subaru isn't chasing you as a customer, clearly.

[@craigdavid6519]

so pretty soleless ...no thanks

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh unfortunately

[@chumskins8564]

So bulky. Almost looks like a suv 😂

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh they really going for that crossover look

[@w_stanky]

The WRX is dead.

[@zaamuro8408]

Its better than the last one in every single way. You can say the 'WRX STI' is dead, because it is...

[@RossReviewsau]

Sadly

[@DeeMac91]

Good review Ross. I bought a wrx sportswagon TS (essentially a Levorg)last year brand new. It’s really punchy but it’s clear Subarus gone for a more refined approach. I guess their reasoning is they want to compete with bmw 1 series and Audi a3. I got an aftermarket cat back exhaust and it has a nice growl but nothing like the EJs. I would have bought an i30 N but it was an 18 month wait. It just feels like they are winding up the ICE Subarus and investing into electric and hydrogen.

[@RossReviewsau]

Yes I do like the i30n.. it’s good you got an exhaust 👌 but yeh they seem to be playing it very safe lately

[@DeeMac91]

@@RossReviewsau Also controversial opinion but the CVT isn't so bad, makes it fun to drive around corners and let's you hit the redline through the gears

[@audriusbaranauskas6227]

6.5-7s to 100 is slow for this kind of power awd car. Anyway, good review.

[@RossReviewsau]

It should be faster

[@mikimenendez]

I have a Limited 2022, and I do 5.4 seconds from 0 to 60. So, it can vary. With some mods, I have seen 3.5 seconds!

[@richardbrimble1319]

CVT 🤢🤮🤮

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh no good

[@deltaforceshuttles3749]

What the hell did they do to the focus st / ugh I don’t like it at all!

[@muntedmonk3884]

Next it will be an EV 🙄

[@RossReviewsau]

I think so 🥲

[@scottysencounters]

The front looks ok, but the rear is hideous.

[@RossReviewsau]

Yeh Honda civic vibes

[@curtfox91]

Alot of points you point out about this car are more aftermarket areas. Your driving a Bone stock WRX and expect a UEL header sound???? Dont make no sense. None of the WRX came like that Bone stock. This car has and is getting good aftermarket support like all the other cars before.

[@RossReviewsau]

I am comparing it to an I30N and or other cars that compete with it.. they sound great from factory

[@onegraham]

Drove one and the steering felt so dull and disconnected, like a video game

[@RossReviewsau]

Really.. I liked the handling but lack of noise was disconnected

[@onegraham]

@@RossReviewsau oh yeah it handled well, I just didn't feel like there was any feedback from the wheel. Maybe i'm too used to older cars

[@_wallnutz_]

I thought it was aimed more for Northern Hemisphere with the plastic for the snow and salt in Winter. Australia should have got Colour coded body.

[@RossReviewsau]

Yes needs to be optional