WORLD’S GREATEST CVT! 2023 Subaru WRX SPT Review

2023 Subaru WRX SPT review by The Straight Pipes. The 2022 Subaru WRX is putting down 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque from a 2.4L Turbo 4 cylinder boxer engine. At $41,895 CAD, would you take it over the Hyundai Elantra N, VW GTI, VW Jetta GLI, Honda Civic Si?
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[@TheStraightPipes]

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[@jullianhuisken7779]

Comparison of this vs STI?

[@evanleo7633]

The fact Subaru doesn’t even call it CVT is the proof that Subaru know people don’t want CVT in their sports car

[@Tool0GT92]

Its not a sports car

[@gillemar249]

@@Tool0GT92 Subaru calls it a sports car.

[@Porsche4life]

That’s not true at all lol. Plenty of people bough the year before this with the cvt

[@leo65791]

@@Tool0GT92neither is your civic 😂

[@phodacbitch]

@@leo65791 you drive a subaru?

[@redeyedfreaks]

I'm a fan of having a CVT as an option. But I still don't understand fake gears. Either have it set up for best fuel efficiency or best performance. Having "shifts" hurts both those goals.

[@theonlybuster]

100% Agreed. When CVTs were first introduced there were no gears/shifting. Then a year later we had fake gears. WHY?!?!

[@driveonthestraightpath2138]

@@theonlybuster because of people comparing on how it didn’t fell like a “real” car

[@JaySee5]

With a CVT you can have BOTH! You can have it hold low RPM for fuel economy or hold high RPM for performance. The fake shifts not only hurt economy and performance. They also increase wear and tear forcing the CVT to make fast big stupid movements to mimic useless gears.

[@JasonYergin]

I will say they brake extremely well, largely because of the aggressive downshift. Crosstrek's and Impreza's do it too which is why they brake really well even with small brake pads.

[@kirkwagner461]

Why fake shifts: In product testing, CVT's not using fake shift points were consistently rated as feeling slower, even when timed measurements proved they were faster. People have become conditioned to thinking that hard shift points = fast, whereas hanging at a single RPM for a long time seems, to them, that the car has run out of oomph. I crave for CVT's to have a switch to disable fake shift points for those of us who understand how CVTs are meant to work.

[@TZ281]

“Worlds greatest cvt” seems like an oxymoron

[@mattkemp3727]

he did say that

[@jimmyneutron5679]

the best of the worst is still worse than the worst of the best

[@Welcometofacsistube]

You beat me too it

[@Niko88G]

CVT’s were banned from F1 because of how good they are at staying in the powerband without losing time to shifts. Not saying the consumer level ones are good, just the concept is sound.

[@manhoot]

That's because it is

[@paulmcgrath2459]

When I first found you guys, about 4 years ago, the thing that got me was A you were Canadian and B you weren't afraid to criticize a car when it deserved it. Good on you for not towing the corporate line.

[@scuds03]

I bought a Premium with the CVT and it more than exceeded my expectations. Messed my knee up in the military so was forced off of 3 pedals until I do a bunch of physical therapy. I’ve had the car since April and it still hasn’t gotten boring. I think the main drawback of it outside of the typical engagement you lose vs a manual is there’s not much options for tuning more power into these compared to the 6sp.

[@senseicorey9979]

Maybe pushing a clutch would be good physical therapy. Take care if yourself bro, you only get 1 body

[@GunToYoMouth]

@@senseicorey9979 map 2 as in stage 2?

[@katiesamnumber1fan]

​@@bryceb3796that update is crazy bro. Did u get the transmission warrantied?

[@intellectualazzkickins5874]

​@@bryceb3796was it pro tuned or just map 2 settings from Cobb

[@chrislebeast]

⁠@@bryceb3796 crazy, was thinking of Getting JB4, you get a new transmission?

[@crumyy6240]

I rode in one once, I forgot it was a subaru and I almost didn't realize it was cvt, they made it so quick and smooth.

[@jimmyneutron5679]

still gonna snap on you

[@huythai1222]

@@jimmyneutron5679 I mean, I don’t like CVTs either but Subarus CVT has been known to be pretty reliable. People still use them to go off-road and I haven’t heard of any overheating or broken CVTs. This CVT in particular I believe, is the same one they use for the Ascent. It’s a pretty beefy unit for how light the WRX is.

[@AL_145]

All cvts are smooth they dont have gears. It pretends to have gears and sounds horrible like its constantly slipping under acceleration.

[@huythai1222]

@@AL_145 sport mode the WRX pretends it has gears. Quite convincingly so too. When I drove one besides it being in normal mode which it’ll hold revs, if you didn’t tell me it has a CVT I probably wouldn’t be able to tell.

[@dano727]

@@huythai1222 tell that to my buddy whose blew up... and he's not an aggressive driver...

[@mov744]

8:59 It's ridiculous to hear that some manufacturers are "banning" you from reviewing their vehicles because you choose to remain honest in your reviews. I think in this day in age when a lot of the offerings in the mainstream consumer car market are so similar on paper, the importance of having reviewers like you becomes much more necessary to help shoppers nitpick and differentiate the various models from each other. Especially so in ways that the average buyer may not notice at first.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Thanks very much

[@CACressida]

A list of OEMs who banned them would be fun.

[@ferretkiller9454]

@@CACressida SHAMMMMME!

[@07wrxtr1]

@@TheStraightPipes I'll say it: We simply are now ruled by corporations. Not gov't that used to have to adhear to elections... It's now purely a corporate rulership model. Anyone that disagrees is living in denial. Once you really understand the WEF - all the players, beneficiaries, and flow of money - it's def one of those "bad vibez bro" moments. Overall the problem then becomes: what can people do about it? I don't believe "just" voting will do a thing. It has to become corporate boycotts - but - most people won't do that, because they're still in denial...so! Things will have to get really really bad until people "get it".

[@jz9266]

Tfl moment

[@TheMacroGravity]

"At least it currently still exists in this form" as an owner of the previous gen wrx, this version just seems like a consolation prize. "Be glad you get it at all" isn't exactly the vibe I want from a manufacturer when I'm cross shopping a GR Corolla (although I'll probably never get an allocation lol)

[@sshah2545]

No comparison. I’d buy a GR over any other car on the the market. Shame is I can’t afford one

[@TheMacroGravity]

@S Shah again, if I can get an allocation. They seem to be unobtainium.

[@throwingdartsandbreakinghearts]

An allocation for a Toyota should put you off buying a Toyota. That's insane.

[@DragonKnightX12]

@@TheMacroGravity And that isn’t marked up for almost double the msrp.

[@ianholmquist8492]

I drove a 22 wrx in MT and found it worse in every way than the 21. It's uglier, heavier, slower, softer with more body roll and gets worse gas mileage. I could go on

[@EeyoreHeeHaw]

As someone who has bad knees and has been driving standard for awhile now, this is the review I needed. Thank you kindly gents.

[@preparetobedazled]

WRX wasn't quite unreliable enough, so they gave it a CVT. Smart

[@bandwagon240]

It's where a Subaru can take you. 😂

[@Mansimran24]

Subaru doing subaru things 😂

[@ZZPxFTW]

The WRX has had a CVT as an option since 2015, when it also got the FA20, which has proven to be a solid, reliable motor. The popular internet trope of hating on Subaru reliability is great for highlighting who doesn’t actually know what they’re talking about

[@alpe6228]

@@ZZPxFTW the cvt is garbage,the engine isnt bad tho.

[@ZZPxFTW]

@@alpe6228 as far as CVT's go, they're not bad. MOST wont have issues, but there will be a couple that have the delay and belt slip the earlier CVT's are known for. Anything 2017/18+ seems to have the kinks worked out

[@chrisb9478]

We have a 21 Outback Turbo. Really like it, good balance of power & MPG’s. I don’t mind the CVT at all, nice & smooth. Our 4th Subie with a CVT. You just need to get the fluid changed every 40k miles. Don’t believe it’s “lifetime” if you plan on keeping the car a while.

[@allenignacio9790]

If you want more reliable cvt I reckon you can upgrade oil cooler and follow basic maintenance

[@leviwhittaker2883]

I work for Subaru, and i will agree that the GT in America is so much fun to drive “what your driving” but it’s so much more fun in manual than in automatic! Also me and my man absolutely love watching each and every single one of your videos!! Also im a product specialist for Subaru!

[@viper2131]

Look I hated this car until I saw one and test drove one. The CVT is like nothing else. Previous gen subarus had terrible CVTs, this new generation is actually pretty good. The SPT is actually surprising how decent it is. It’s a step below a DCT. I ended up with a GT after years of manual cars and it’s a good car with compromises. Just wish it had better gas mileage.

[@-nightraider-1169]

Dang I want one now

[@dann1483]

Thought it was just me but the mileage on my gt is horrible too

[@housepianist]

I get why some people may not like CVTs but on the whole, they’re perfectly fine and do exactly what they’re suppose to do. I think much of the hate is unwarranted and a majority of opinions comes across as knee-jerk reactions from fantasy, boy racer fans. They can work for more performance-oriented cars, as we see with this WRX, but they work perfectly well in everyday cars that everyday people drive. I’m sure Subaru knows exactly what they’re doing but seriously, people shouldn’t put it down. It’s fine if CVTs are not their thing but there’s a reason why these transmissions are common. Not liking CVTs does not mean they’re bad. I don’t know why that’s so hard to comprehend.

[@fez3327]

I fell into the CVT with a 2014 Accord when I was shopping for a leftover from 2013... I drove it for the hell of it and said... write it up. Love it, so what no shift points I call it my magic carpet. My 2021 Accord is even better, except its too nice to take on the dirt roads and I have never liked the high-belt-line ganster vibe of the 2020- gen Accords, they look great, but they lack the big green house that Accord once had, my daughter's 2011 is a delight in that respect. I'm getting older, I have the bug for a more fun car that isn't "dainty", this WRX may be it. I'm not going to hammer it all the time, but it will be nice to take out for a brisk early morning drive along the Wabash.

[@robertdebarge276]

"the fake shifts are really quick" 😂

[@ChrisProuse]

I love my 2022 WRX so, so much - world rally blue, manual, factory STI front splitter and strut brace, paint-matched previous gen STI wing, xpel, tinted, on 18' Rotiform FLG's - I can't help myself 😄 Glad to hear the SPT's a hoot too! Hit me up if you'd ever like to borrow the car for a day or two - love the videos and happy 2023!

[@tedbed9786]

It's an impressive feat of engineering to increase the hp/torque by 6/14 respectively, over the 2011 wrx.

[@AGuyJustDriving]

And increasing displacement by a massive 25% over the previous generation and making nothing more 🤣

[@ARCNA442]

Don't forget they made those amazing gains while adding almost half a liter to the displacement!

[@MD-pz3cn]

@@ARCNA442 it's actually a 2.4 liter vs the 2.5 EJ

[@harrybuhse8622]

@@ARCNA442 meanwhile a VB WRX with an OTS will put the stinky on a stage 2 VA STI. it's fun to be smug about factory horsepower numbers but this WRX with flex fuel will match a FBO Mitsubishi Evo lol.

[@g_p_3431]

Man you clearly don’t know what you’re talking about if what you focus on is the numbers. The numbers are actually underrated, makes more than what’s stated and all the way to redline. Check out the gains for just a OTS map or with some E85 compared to any previous model, including the STi

[@scOU812]

Having a CVT in a performance car is like having to wear two condoms. Takes the fun out of it lol.

[@TMM6900]

Crazy how well they program this cvt... Might be fun

[@smoove314]

I used to have a Suzuki kizashi with a cvt. It was surprisingly good. It didn't have any stimulated gear shifts.

[@YaoBrendan]

What’s impressive about the Subaru CVT is the amount of torque it can handle, other manufacturers CVTs can be as quick & smooth but are known to break in that mid to high 200+ torque ballpark

[@mbrown9060]

Got my son a 2022 WRX with the manual and he grins from ear to ear in that car. The CVT just can’t provide the right experience. Great review guys!

[@shaunho6970]

Would you like another son ?😎

[@jamescox1806]

The problem with CVT transmission is that they we're never designed to handle high output which greatly reduces reliability! Will be interesting to see how they hold up after how they hold up after 70 or 80 plus thousand miles?

[@androiduberalles]

Well, that and they treat it like a wearable component when they never have you change the transmission fluid.

[@kaydenehrhardt8062]

Some have been built for high output being banned in f1 but I agree on longevity heavily

[@vuduyd]

My '14 Forester XT I've owned since new with 185k miles running strong on CVT with the FA20DIT engine. Bone stock. Just don't mod it and it's fine, problem is many with a wrx go tuner crazy

[@alamsas2]

A VA WRX has gone over 200k miles modified and is still on its first CVT transmission. It really seems like a QA issue since some stay strong despite the abuse and some break with the slightest abuse.

[@jamescox1806]

@@vuduyd yup!

[@Vlican]

thanks for showing the capabilities of the CVT it's amazing how responsive it is

[@Senvae]

Been a long time sub, and I don't comment often. But I wanted to give TheStraightPipes crew a big thank you for keeping things honest during your reviews! I don't always agree with your opinions, but the important part if that your opinions are real and genuine. This in turn makes your content that much more reliable and why I will continue being a subscriber. I respect you for shouldering the bans, and I think sooner or later you will become too big to fail. Manufacturers will have to wise-up and work with you again if your sub base gets any more massive.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Thanks for your support

[@Xaluber]

Actually impressed with this CVT. Seems very responsive.

[@kirkwagner461]

Thanks for this review. I've not seen anyone go into this transmission option in any real way at all before now. Well done.

[@mkt3000]

I really hope it’s an improvement on the previous generation CVT WRX. Mine had to be replaced twice under warranty in under 30k miles, on a completely stock car.

[@joeyt6547]

Should have gotten the manual transmission you missed out

[@mkt3000]

@@joeyt6547 I trashed my left foot, so driving a manual for longer than a few laps at a track can become painful. As a result, the only manual car left in my fleet is my track toy mini. For my daily driver duty, automatics are mandatory.

[@joeyt6547]

@@mkt3000 driving manual as a daily makes you a better driver tho

[@mkt3000]

@@joeyt6547 I only drove manual cars until 2018, when I shattered my left ankle and injured my foot. It's not that I don't want to, it's that it physically hurts for me to drive a manual transmission car now for longer than a brief track session.

[@user-oe7oe2fl8q]

what year was yours

[@Sheeto_]

If Subaru wants to make an Automatic WRX REALLY SELL, make it a DSG ATLEAST.

[@dannytu0322]

DSG and traditional AT (8 speed and up) doesn’t fit mechanically due to placement/spacing of engine and drivetrain.

[@TassieLorenzo]

​@@dannytu0322 Of course it can be made to fit, Audi quattro models (proper ones: S4, RS4, S5, RS5 etc, not the S3) use the same longitudinal gearbox layout with front diff with either DCTs or 8-speed. It's just that Subaru can't use an off-the-shelf longitudinal DCT or 8-speed as you say, as they don't have the front diff provision (unless it's an Audi gearbox) and would therefore need a custom case. Therefore it's most economic for Subaru to just use the CVTs with a front diff provision which they manufacture in-house already.

[@dannytu0322]

@@TassieLorenzo Audi is not a good comparison as it does not have Symmetrical AWD and no Boxer engine. Maybe Subaru can make it happen , but not at the price point of which they sell their car.

[@TassieLorenzo]

@@dannytu0322 Quattro in the Audi A4 models and up is the same as symmetrical AWD. From the front to back of the car it goes engine (longitudinal), front differential and transmission (all-in-one, longitudinal), tailshaft, rear differential. If anything the Audis are more difficult to package as they have a longer inline-four engine sticking out the front of the car (or even V8, V10 in some cases), than Subaru's flat-four or flat-six engine. That's why the whole front end of the car has to come off to service some Audis, as the engine comes so far forward.

[@LANoir-dy6dc]

Just imagine they put a ZF auto transmission from BMW or a Getrag 7 speed dct … this thing will be literally breathing fire 🤣

[@Deredeo]

i had an early version of this CVT in my 2015 Legacy....it was VERY responsive, and while off the line it was a bit sluggish, passing on the highway and its midrange performance was impressive, the the 'shifts' Subaru engineered were on point....i'm still not sold on the abundance of plastic, especially the rear bumper and fenders, the 11" tablet for a center console, and the Civic tail-lights....i'll keep my '20 Rally Blue WRX Pandemic special LOL....thanks😁🍻

[@Iamnav.]

I swear they’re gonna break a sun visor one day😂

[@TheStraightPipes]

We have sent a few flying into the back seat over the years

[@rwilson3896]

I have the 2023 WRX Sport Tech Limited CVT model. What I am noticing when I drive the car is that the turbo boost hits in 2 stages. The boost comes on fast from 2000 to 5000 RPM but only peaks around 8PSI. To get the car to accelerate using peak boost without falling out of peak boost you’ll need to launch the car in the CVT Launch Control Mode. You can’t accelerate in the manual transmission cars without falling out of boost because every time the transmission shifts to another gear or shift to a stepped ratio in the CVT, the boost drops back down to 8ish PSI and needs to build boost again to get back up to double digit Boost again. The only way to accelerate in full boost without the engine falling out of boost is to launch the car from a dig by turning off traction control fully, holding down the brake and throttle at the same time, building the boost, then releasing the brake pedal. CVT peak boost acceleration runs are noticeably faster than the other manual and automatic shifting modes. Car and Driver: Though the CVT-equipped car needed almost a second longer to reach 30 mph, its 5.4-second 60-mph time is 0.1 second quicker, largely due to the manual needing two shifts to reach that mark. The GT's rolling acceleration from 5 to 60 mph, 30 to 50 mph, and 50 to 70 mph also is significantly quicker. Also, if you drive the CVT in Intelligent Mode you can average 8.7L/100KM or 27 mpg combined city and highway driving. The car in this mode in stop and go traffic with the CVT manages fuel really well.

[@TheCldmstrsn]

Since I hurt my back and had to get rid of my BRZ, I'm very happy they made the CVT good in the WRX. Makes me want to get one for sure. Also wish they would put this on the sport version of the legacy XT.

[@gogutzy]

or outback xt

[@AH-lw2bj]

A Crosstrek XT would be cool as heck

[@AH-lw2bj]

@@gogutzy In 2011 I missed the chance to buy a blacked out 2008 Outback XT Limited 6MT by about six hours, and it still haunts me to this day... It came off a 3 year lease with 50,000 km, I saw it on the lot in the morning on my way to work, and when I stopped it to look at it on my way home from work, it had been bought that day.... I stared at it in the parking lot for about 30 mins lol, it was literally my (affordable) dream car at the time, I had a 2001 Impreza that was dying then... I still get sad thinking about it lol Crazy thing it was only $22,000 CDN because that was just after the car market crashed

[@Tool0GT92]

Elantra N with the DCT

[@DenisDamulira23]

@@Tool0GT92 I'd buy the Elantra as well before buying a CVT from anyone.

[@ak2112]

I like the exterior styling too. Hated it when it was announced but it looks fine in person.

[@DONVITO223]

They’re still ugly. No wonder their sales are on the floor

[@makidiaz3894]

No way, looks like a KIA with a hood scoop. Way to cut corners Subaru!

[@KobeMpthers]

@@makidiaz3894 2.5 stinger baybeh

[@southpaw117]

I was hoping I'd at least somewhat appreciate it in person, but it only made me dislike them more. Everybody harps on the rear end but it's the front that disgusts me more.

[@KobeMpthers]

@@southpaw117 what car are you talking about

[@kenhoward3512]

"Fake shifts, fake shifts, fake shifts..." Those are not *fake* shifts: The transmission is shifting between actual, physical, preset gear ratios, whether or not it contains a bunch of small gears or two, large drums. You know that, right?

[@thebeddoctor4273]

Herniated discs and I can't drive manual anymore. Sucks but this is the one I'd have to get

[@ThatOtherDave]

Getting smoother with those tuxmat transitions 😂

[@TheTyisawesome]

Right that was next level

[@pjkr123]

You either die a hero (EVO) or live long enough to become a villain (WRX)

[@zenandtheartofbmwmaintenan7671]

I still don't get the fake gears. Its a CVT, it can hold the engine in the most efficient RPMs, just let it. People are already used to electric cars. Just watch the old video of Williams testing the CVT F1 car in the 90s, it just held the car at a screaming RPM the whole time. FIA knew it would be to fast and pre banned it.

[@UnleashthePhury]

CVT haters would do well to recall that Williams once tried to put a CVT in an F1 car only for the FIA to immediately ban it for being impossibly fast because the car was always in the heart of its power band.

[@davidnobular9220]

Yeah. Who rebuilds engines/transmissions every time they use the vehicle?....oh that's right, ordinary people...not multi million dollar racing teams.....

[@georgedavidov5250]

My favorite part about getting a new WRX was it’s available **below MSRP and on the lot. $32K for my base. ($1.5k under MSRP) Turbo, AWD and fun. Civic Type R and GR Corolla are not double the car for almost double the price with crazy markups. I know they are a higher tier and compete with the STI (if it still existed)

[@Von_RX]

being honest is the best gift of your channel!

[@robertfennimore1869]

Guys, you need to try the GT. The addition of the adaptive dampers makes this almost a different car. The steering, power, suspension, eyesight sensitivity and climate control sensitivity can be configured 430 different ways! It can be much softer and smoother, and even a little sharper than the WRX without. From a previous owner of a 22 base wrx and current owner of a 22 gt. YOU GUYS ARE THEE BEST. Never stop 🧡

[@dustinr16]

Canada has yet to get the GT trim on the WRX. So no adaptive dampers or Recaros for us. Though we can at least get the manual on all the available trim levels.

[@codyschuff9665]

Had a cvt (profile photo), found metal shavings at 77,xxx miles. Traded it in for a mazda 3 with gears!

[@amzab123]

THANK YOU !!! I’ve been waiting so long to see a proper review of the automatic WRX. When it first came out I had read that the CVT had massive amounts of research behind it to actually make it more engaging, but due to the press run being only manuals I never got an impression of how good the transmission was now. Again, thanks for this !!

[@TheStraightPipes]

Our pleasure!

[@MrTonifumi]

CVT's are shit and cheap. Even a 6speed auto would be better.

[@calebdelfs1491]

I've driven a CVT impreza for 6 years now and despite feeling funny at first I have had zero issues and zero complaints with it.

[@davidnobular9220]

How many miles/km have you done ? If you get to 200,000km (around 124,000mi) I'll believe they are reliable.

[@calebdelfs1491]

@@davidnobular9220 bought it at 60k mikes and I'm just a hair under 130k right now.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@calebdelfs1491 Not too shabby. If the Subaru execs read that, they'll sack a few engineers...

[@ThatWasherNerd]

I test drove one of these for the heck of it and was absolutely blown away. The SPT felt better than the 7AT in my old G37

[@e46m54nissansr20937]

Well the G37 7 AT is quite old but slightly ahead of its time cant compare to fake simulated shifts in a brand new Subaru . You were blown away by the power too? No way

[@FATmenDRIVEtrucks]

So 2023 felt better then 2009 transmission good talk lol. Now go drive the DCT Elantra N and report back

[@DistanTThunder2]

That's an idiotic comparison

[@jacquesc3166]

I call BS lol. The 7AT is fuel efficient AND snappy, not sure what you did to your G... also not sure why guys don't put their cars up in their avatars. Pretending is fun for kids.

[@RD-ni7qe]

@@jacquesc3166 cars in profile pics is such a boomer thing

[@markcoopers1930]

9:02 Is the next video on the Pinto? Because it sounds like some beans need to be spilled.

[@relaxivegotthis]

I know it would sound weird but I can’t help wondering how much faster it would be without the fake shifts 😂

[@Porsche4life]

It doesn’t always have fake shifts. Only when you put it in manual mode. If you have a cvt with a turbo engine keeping the throttle at 80% is faster than flooring it. The boost builds better

[@facundonu]

we cvt users needed a hero! now i want a subaru spt cvt on my 2010 renault koleos, hehe.

[@angus9558]

manual would still be my choice. only auto id ever get is DCT or ZF8

[@anmolgandhi]

pdk’s are up there as well

[@sebastianhasbun3846]

@@anmolgandhi that falls into dct category

[@phodacbitch]

@@anmolgandhi fkn noob.

[@LANoir-dy6dc]

ZF and Getrag DCT and porsche PDK are the best sport automatics in the world.

[@richieduck67]

Meant to be a performance car not an economy car at least put a DCT in it

[@TassieLorenzo]

Just get the manual and pester Subaru to offer the fully loaded car in manual!

[@3DPrintingNerd]

That looks like a fun ride. I love the manual side of the WRX, all of mine were manual. Would be willing to give this a shot.

[@DanBuilds]

This seems like you're trying really hard to make it seem okay. But we all know it's really not okay.

[@zergilli9719]

Have you driven a Subaru with a CVT? It's fine..

[@msrr1303]

Honestly, I’d probably buy this with a manual over everything in the segment. Elantra N is arguably better, GLI is better rounded and the SI is always worth a look. But there’s just something about the WRX.

[@billymays7210]

The way it looks? 😂

[@YasumotoUS]

This new WRX certainly has a different look... The AWD could be a really important factor for some customers. I know it was for me when I was shopping around a few years back and still commuting year round in the Mid-Altantic US region.

[@billymays7210]

@@YasumotoUS I agree, it is def important to me, which is why I bought a 2016 WRX when they were new. I'm getting a new Golf R for about the same price as the new WRX GT... Different leagues of performance. Stock or tuned. I'm personally getting a manual, however, there is really no debate on a DSG being better than a CVT in a car like this.

[@YasumotoUS]

@@billymays7210 Yes, the R and a used S3 are some very interesting options around that price point. I wish that VW hadn't gone full-touch with their interior controls on the GTI and R, but that's the current thing, isn't it.

[@billymays7210]

@@YasumotoUS agreed

[@sergest-pierre6160]

Snowmobile and jetski all have CVT and nobody complain about their performance. In car, they just program cvt to be fuel efficient. The cvt in this subaru is not program to sip fuel and you get something decent. I still would get the manual.

[@mOOOp42]

Here's my two cents. Yes, a manual is more fun and engaging especially in a car like this. I own a 2019 WRX with the CVT. I know the CVT got a bunch of bad reviews when it was introduced back in 2016. I got mine at a huge discount since my local dealer only had 1 WRX CVT and they forced everyone to test drive the CVT model so my "new" CVT WRX had 500 miles but I got it for almost $10K below its expected value. Honestly now that I drive the CVT, I love it because I do most of my driving in the city and its extremely responsive for what I want it to do. I also do like the Subaru Eyesite for long road trips but that's pretty much the only use it gets.

[@phodacbitch]

LOL you know for a fact that that car was abused so bad by the employees and customers. Good luck with the longevity of it.

[@LanceLumbanPHI]

The only reason I did not buy one is we do not have a manual option in our country. Yes the CVT might be good, but it is a bit weird. If I want a CVT I will get an ordinary car.

[@guitaradam2000]

The previous generation CVT was also 'alright'...as far as CVTs go (because they are actually the same TR690 transmission with different programming). Doesn't make them are reliable or durable though

[@rw9495]

Sport sharp is how I would read that too lmao good job Yuri

[@albert328]

Thanks for covering this! I have the 2021 CVT and its doing quite well already, and I also have the TuxMat, they look so good and they are much better than other mats!

[@jeffreyxing7177]

i’ve got the same car and although it feels lonely in the hardcore manual crowd, i still love daily driving it and with my stage 1+ tuning with an intake it feels amazing

[@xcreeseseater38]

I was so lost when you didn't convert the price to American for my lazy ass. I had to open a new tab and actually do something. shame the way the channel going these days... lol keep up the great work lads.

[@Crono454]

Was there a mode where the CVT just ran with the launch without fake shifts? Fake shifts are slower than holding power in the right spot. It seemed like in the launch it did that better? Was that right?

[@gtlegacy8]

Here in Japan the WRX only comes with CVT like the Levorg.

[@davidnobular9220]

My condolences. The lack of choice makes me want to toss my cookies.

[@JasonYergin]

In a world dominated by cute-utes and giant overpriced monstrosities, I'm really glad Subaru makes this. I get why people don't like it, I drive a manual myself, but sadly these days there are a LOT of people who cannot row their own gears, and wouldn't buy a WRX if it weren't for the CVT model. Kudos to Subaru

[@billymays7210]

But plenty of people who can’t row their own gears can still get a dual clutch in other cars

[@PotatosPotatoes]

@@billymays7210 same. Audi boy here. No CVT, but I still have paddles and fun. The CVT sounds like a dying car. IT IS DISGUSTING.

[@imkirbo3094]

But automatic transmisions exist... With real gears...

[@JasonYergin]

@@imkirbo3094 very true. Subaru even used torque converter automatics in the 2nd gen WRX's so I don't know why they went away from them. I assume because CVT's are more efficient on paper but of course they can get bad mileage if/when driven hard.

[@MJT-DA]

@@JasonYerginand less reliable than planetary gear sets.

[@Sir.VicsMasher]

With the popularity of Crossovers Subaru should reintroduce a performance based turbocharged Forster. Been looking at the Mazda CX-50 Turbo because Subaru doesn't offer something similar.

[@dvsn23]

Gonna have to change that trans fluid often if you drive this car at all hard (e.g. regularly rev above 3k rpm). Otherwise these transmissions will have major problems. I don't understand why subaru went to a CVT. the cost of maintaining them properly is more expensive than a torque converter auto, thus negating any fuel savings. they are much less reliable, less fun, etc.

[@ManateeMentality]

Because better fuel mileage is the name of the game when it comes to government regulations.

[@ARCNA442]

The vast majority of Subaru owners probably never rev their car over 3k and Subaru can't afford to develop a new transmission just for the WRX.

[@davidnobular9220]

@@ManateeMentality And popularity with the technically ignorant masses.

[@jeffdonnelly7428]

I've been hearing about this plastic face thing all over the message boards and been wondering who came up with that. HILARIOUS!!! You're a super clever trendsetter and the world is lucky to have you. Plastic face is everywhere man!

[@Its.melvin]

wish they would've tested a GT model to see their reaction to the Recaros and especially to get a review of the drive modes.

[@bradevans1661]

There is no GT trim in Canada.

[@CTR_Dan]

I'll keep saving up for my CTR allocation. Thanks subaru for making the choice easy

[@revelare_xvii6269]

If Subaru isn’t gonna give us a new STI, they should consider giving us a proper dual clutch in the WRX (considering the “SPT” feels near identical to a dct).

[@marcymcsheehan3579]

The STI was never offered in an Automatic..

[@phodacbitch]

@@marcymcsheehan3579 They did offer the STI in auto bro. Just remove your comment because you embarrassed yourself.

[@marcymcsheehan3579]

@@phodacbitch Hilarious, okay I will when you tell me the year they did...

[@russell3436]

2010 model WRX STI G3 had a 5 speed Auto

[@revelare_xvii6269]

@@marcymcsheehan3579 I didn’t say an auto STI, I meant a dct for the normal WRX.

[@ohmycar5304]

One of the transmissions ever

[@phodacbitch]

not by a long shot

[@kujiko88]

I know the 2018 Impreza that I had really impressed me with its CVT. I went in really wary of it, but in a few months I just had fun driving a "pseudo-manual" car after driving my manual Outback Sport for a few years. It "shifted" fast enough but on typical highway driving, it was a great car. I miss it.

[@brendonlaswiss4882]

Years ago when the WRX come out was a 2 door coupe

[@MrCarpediem6]

I've said this for a while, sure, most CVTs drone on.. but the CVTs on a Subaru, they spring the car forward with a lot of torque and I'll take that over any fidgety automatics in most modern vehicles

[@davidnobular9220]

And they HATE reversing up steep driveways.

[@jazzculllen001]

As someone who is sporty in the outdoors way as well as the car way, I appreciate that the WRX can fit both. Fold seats down and easy, unencumbered snowboard storage. AWD for getting up and down the mountain. Tow hitch availability for a bike rack. Cross bar availability for kayak racks. Unless I can find something else that can do all that, it looks like WRX is really my only option.

[@sasquachjl1228]

Exactly why I have one. Throw bikes and kayaks up top, with and three kids in the car, head out for fun and not be punished with driving an SUV (had an outback wilderness before this and just hated the way it drove)

[@atracin]

"They're going the way of Mitsubishi." 😭😭😭😭 The truth hurts

[@AutoXStang]

I had a 2020 WRX stage 2+ and a 2021 STI. I have some hip, back, and shoulder issues get worse where it started to hurt to drive. Traded in for a 2022 WRX GT Panda. I love the car!

[@Yerrrrrrrrrr]

This is definitely one of the CVT’s of all time

[@ItsNotAProblem]

Ikr, it's such a transmission!

[@veritechzero]

We'll see how long they last. My wife's 2018 impreza has a CVT, and no where in the manual does it suggest ever changing the CVT fluid, which I think is a huge mistake. With how much metal flakes they can tear off the chain over time, never changing it is a recipe for disaster. I'd love to see a tear down of this particular one, Toyota went with a full first gear since those from zero launches produce the most wear on a CVT.

[@frankENZC]

Great video guys. Would you have any idea how the CVT in the WRX would handle an increase HP, via engine mods, or a tune, etc.? By the way, I've had WRX's in the past but am driving a 2021 Veloster n with the DCT. Very fun car.

[@TheStraightPipes]

I just checked Cobb and they don’t offer a tune for the WRX SPT yet because it requires additional transmission tuning. So assume that it won’t handle it well lol

[@frankENZC]

@@TheStraightPipes Thanks much!

[@audiwankenobi361]

The first Impreza that I actually haven't thought about owning.

[@somerandomfella]

I'd buy a Subaru when i'm almost blind.

[@palebeachbum]

Hyundai/Kia call their CVT an IVT (Intelligent Variable Transmission) because it's chain-driven rather than belt-driven like a regular CVT. So what makes Subaru's CVT different to call it an SPT?

[@smuve740]

I have a VA (17 WRX Limited 6MT) and a VB (22 WRX GT). The GT is impressive for a CVT. I have the Recaros and they hold me in well. The 17 gets better mileage. I'm still in the break-in period in the 22. I haven't layed into it yet.

[@Wafflelover344]

I wanna tip my hats off to the guy who does the music on your videos or at least picks them. You sir have good taste. I shazam a lot of your opening music. Kuddos.

[@luidg2k1]

Thanks guys for a new video. This channel has lots of content

[@moneymik3y]

God that's come a long way. I bought a '13 Impreza Hatch w/CVT. At first I liked the mileage, security and looks. But that CVT made it the most gutless POS on earth. My buddy has a '15 hatch that's manual and it's fuckin fun.

[@totkamacedonia1337]

Subaru is a shadow of what it used to be. I see them almost gone, just like mitsubishi, in a few years. They literally have worse engines and transmisions than what they had 25 years ago. A skoda excites me more :)

[@alib8396]

Yeah I just wish someone would do a documentary about those companies, interviews their executives and engineers and document what they say about the decline in sales and reputation.

[@snakeeyes9246]

There is no Skoda here in North America.

[@curtismckay9182]

Great hat Jakub! 🦌

[@robervin9107]

4:00 go jake. You should win everything lol your talent is phenomenal. I’m proud of you bud Keep it going

[@TheStraightPipes]

Thank you rob

[@robervin9107]

@@TheStraightPipes anything for my bestie

[@cra_55]

Alternate universe where WIlliams succeeded with their 1993 CVT F1 car and CVTs become common in performance cars

[@mattferguson6631]

“If you’re old and have been driving manuals for like 30 years… you’ve contributed to …” Um… I don’t agree because driving manuals for 30 years isn’t nearly long enough. Brother and I both driving manuals well over that and I won’t be giving up driving my manuals for another 30! Manuals are all we own! I’d rather have my knees replaced or legs amputated before I succumb to giving up driving an auto or cvt… or even worse… electric. DRIVE your car… never give up any control.

[@TheStraightPipes]

Ooookkkkkk 👍

[@mattferguson6631]

Just read what I wrote. I sound old!! Daily… that’s what I meant. For track times, fine, DCT and such are faster, admittedly. Yuri, your comment about not using rush hour as an excuse! Love it!! You guys are great, keep up the content.

[@dieseldizzy]

You'd never know it was a CVT only for you mentioned it about 20 times in the video. I'm confused about the "fake shifts" though. When Yuri floored it, it sat on the red line. But when Jacob did it, it was like it actually shifted gears.

[@ks-vq5er]

Are you joking? 0:34 we can see it’s a CVT in 3 seconds

[@TheStraightPipes]

Brake boost makes it not fake shift. Gas stomp makes it shift

[@dieseldizzy]

@@ks-vq5er yes it was a bit of sarcasm. CVTs are very recognisable by sound.

[@tungnguyen4074]

I believe Subaru took the ascent steering rack over and called it a day. Shout out to you guys, I got a 2020 wrx as my first car and I'm on my way to 2 year anniversary with her. I love her even tho I should have bought an STI

[@YasumotoUS]

'20 STI owner here: it is an incredibly fun car that's raw and conveys perfect road feel. I did not test the regular WRX, so I can't comment on how they differ. I've never had a car that handles so well through the twisties. And it is a monster in the snow with winter tires. Cheers to 2020 car purchases before the shortages and high pricing really kicked in!

[@tungnguyen4074]

@@YasumotoUS it is slow, 1st is quick, 2nd is dead gear (barely to no boost), 3rd,4th,5th are power. Boost is between 3k to 4.5k after that the power band is flat. But in term of handling, it is decent for a daily and weekender.

[@shad3128]

Seems good for an econobox commuter type of car but for that price a firm no. Would have been fine at like 26-30k

[@Kyle-ty6mx]

good luck finding anything even remotely as sporty/fast as the wrx brand new for 26-30k these days.. everything is expensive now..

[@rallysauruswrex]

Maybe 15 years ago, base model civics go for that much now

[@Ntmoffi]

That was a possibility at the end of 21' and probably January of 22'. But it ain't gonna happen here in 2023. Everything is too expensive now.

[@shad3128]

@@Kyle-ty6mx bro the elantra Ns and other quick hyundais are like 32k fully specced out lol

[@Kyle-ty6mx]

@Shad good luck getting one for that price though lmao, all the new ones I've seen have been having for $44k+

[@collinstephans6390]

Not a a fan of cvt but i owned a 2019 accord 1.5 with the cvt and it was surprisingly fun

[@Russell132]

Sure, it might be the best CVT. But it's still a CVT

[@trapt29]

LOVE my CVT. Most people who have commented negatively have not even driven one. I have had several Crosstreks with them and now my WRX. The difference between the Crosstrek and WRX is night and day. It pairs very well with this motor.

[@Arturito2017]

They are unreliable, and people want shifts. That’s the only reason people hate them. And they are noisy

[@-nightraider-1169]

True true. Don’t listen to the haters. CVTs have come a long, long way. People just refuse to believe that CVTs are actually very good transmissions that have many benefits over traditional automatic transmissions. They think all CVTs are like the ones from Nissan and have not driven good ones from Subaru, Honda and Toyota

[@NSDG813]

@@-nightraider-1169 I'm just from a time where cars ran on gas, sounded loud as hell, and had a manual transmission. It's what brings me comfort. For sure a tesla could smoke my 2020 WRX but... I just wouldn't have that same level of physical fun.