Bought mine brand new back in late 2014. Had it for 8 years and it never skipped a beat. Only recently traded it for a 7 seater as my family is growing. Do I miss driving it? Heck yeah. It's a great car if you look after it as with everything else. ❤
We have been Subaru owners for 20 years. We are on our 3rd Forester and love them. We bought a 2017 WRX Limited new and now have 71,000 US miles. Yes, we have the CVT, but it was that, or no WRX since I was not the only driver. It is not modified nor tracked, just a fun daily driver. It has been a great car with very few issues. The first and only repair before 70,000 miles was an HVAC fan. I just thought a leaf had gotten in and was making a slightly funny noise. Service person pointed it out and replaced under warranty. As for cabin, I don’t feel slighted not having a GTI (as I don’t want their maintenance and constant repair expense.) The interior has held up very well and other than a little rattle in passenger door, it is nice and tight. 90% of the time the ride more than comfortable, even on long trips. And speaking of trips, I would regularly see 30+ mpg on the highway at 70 mph. Highest was 35.1! City driving does take a bit of a hit, but I show 24 mpg for my average right now. I absolutely agree, if you buy used, buy unmodified and get a PPI, you will have a blast!
Something ive noticed is that for the most part, Subaru's only blow up with cheaper parts, harsh treatment, bad tuning, and lack of mantinence. If you keep up with them mechanically and dont push them too hard, they can be reliable.
Buy a sporty rally bred car that you need to baby to not break. 🤡. Had one and unless you drive it like you stole it, you're going to struggle to overtake a schoolbus full of children.
@remissiveslave its not about speed. If you want speed, buy a BMW that will break every time you turn it on. And I never said you have to baby it. If you actually take care of it and do the proper maintaining, not put cheap crappy parts on it, and don't dune it for 350-400+ horsepower, they're great.
@@remissiveslave Brother if you’re not gonna do basic maintenance on your vehicle and buy quality parts, you shouldn’t get a performance vehicle. Sure they thrash tf out of them on a rally stage but they still have whole teams of mechanics pouring over every inch of the car to make sure it’s running in top shape.
I replaced the shift bushings with solid brass, replaced the shift plate with a 33% shorter throw one that weights about 3x as much as the stock plate, installed a shift stop and 3D printed my own nylon shims. Made my '21 feel about as close to a non-cable driven manual as possible.
Early Subaru CVT's did have a few problems that are well documented (Failed valve bodies, input shaft bearing issues etc) but for the most part this isn't as common as it once was. These do come with the higher spec version of Subaru's CVT. Most of the N/A Subies come with the TR580 whereas the WRX, Levorg and the new turbo Outback get the TR690 which is rated for more torque. A big part of the problem with the CVT's is Subaru didn't (maybe they do now?) specify any service interval for looking after it. The service booklet merely says to inspect the transmission at every service, nothing more, which involves only a check of the TCU to check it's estimated fluid condition. Contrary to this, that fluid does actually need to be replaced, it's subjected to heat and pressure and will break down over time and k's just like any other lubricant. Anyone who tells you they're "Sealed for Life" is a moron. Find a transmission or Subaru specialist who has access to the correct Subaru fluids and get it serviced just as you would a regular automatic and you'll be going a long way to keeping the CVT alive and happy. Just like any Auto really. I have a CVT equipped VM Levorg (which is mechanically almost exactly the same as the VA WRX, same driveline, engine, transmission, hell even most of the interior is the same) currently at 145000km running perfectly happily. Maintenance is key with all cars but especially Subaru's, look after them and don't skimp on servicing and they'll look after you for a long time! :)
Got 2018 XV with 120k highway kms/full dealer service history and I recently serviced the CVT at 130km. No issues so far but recently the AC compressor is out and scheduled for a replacement at AC specialist. Hopefully no more issues to come.
Bought a 2019 WRB premium new… for nostalgic reasons 😊. Love it. I don’t compare it to anything else, don’t care how much “better” another car maybe. It’s got everything I need and no more. All the things some may point out as flaws, I see as WRX character 😉.
Bought my first WRX in 2010, my second in 2016, and my third in 2023. My most recent, I really wanted an i30N or a Corolla GR but the projected 18-24 month wait soured both deals. Gotta say, though, I’m so pleased I bought WRX number three. Guys, they just keep getting better.
Love the channel. Gotta laugh though, every time you say, "this has 80,000 kilometres on it!!", like that's high mileage. That's almost new in the real world.
Got a new WRX and drove it at the track with my husband's STI and the handling difference was ridiculously higher in the STI. We asked our Subaru engineer friend that was at the track event and he let us know the new WRX handling doesn't feel confident because it uses from the Crosstrek and SUV global platform the open front and open rear diff with electronic vectoring, and that my husband's STI has LSD front and rear and center DCCD diff.
@panderalexander Yeah the STI driveline is much better. I was looking forward to a new STI with the same driveline but the newer motor of the WRX. I wish Subaru had discontinued the WRX and gone all out on a final STI if they thought they had to discontinue one of them.
Hi guys. Love your videos. I have a 2016 CVT WRX Premium. It's done 140,000km in NZ (cold, wet, snow, gravel, crap roads) and it's awesome. Never given me any trouble. Love it. Can't see myself trading it any time soon. DB
You aint fixing the CVT for $5k. Try 10k for a decent refurbed one, fitted, or 15k at Subaru for a new one with labour. My CVT failed, after MUCH fighting with Subaru Australia, they finally replaced it under warranty
Just sold my 2021 wrx premium (48500 miles)...Had AOS installed as soon as I bought it, Fortune 500 suspension, STI wing, Processwest intercooler, Hawk HPS brake pads, and vortex gen as my add-ons. Did regular 3k to 4k mile oil changes (Motul Xclean EFE 5W30 always, Mobil 1 once...had all the records of it...gave it to my dealer...they said that they would throw it away if it had my personal info). Transmission and differential oil change at 30K miles...pro tune by Panda Motor Works (St. Louis)...If you love your car, take care of it.
Only got my premium 2018 VA in April this year and I gotta say the seats are waaay more cush than the cardboard ones that came with my GD bugeye ☠️ only thing I miss fr my old WRX is the signature Rumble
Love my 17 wrx special edition 6 speed in rally blue. Ride is firm but grip is epic. Owned for 3 years no problems. Such a fun car to drive, always smile inducing. Good review guys
I bought a brand new 2015 model. Great car, modified to 203kw at the wheels. Steering wheel "leather" wore out quickly but still regret selling it after 4.5 years and 90,000kms. In winter the thing was a weapon in second and third gear.
Mine is a 2018 with 60K miles, and the top of the wheel is already worn out. I’m surprised coming from a Scion tC how bad the interior is. It’s comfy and modern but I’d argue the Scion had better sound dampening inside the cabin than this does. You get a lot of wind and road noise inside. The ratlles and creaks aren’t as bad but still an annoyance with everything inside being plastics.
The straw that broke the camel's back, which made me unload my '21 (10k miles), was a whining sound coming from the clutch in first gear from a stop and sometimes into second gear.
These used to be hot rods in the GC8 era, peak WRX was up until 2007 with the Hawkeye. These latest models, the VA and VB WRX have just turned into your everyday soccer mum sedan that struggles to dust off your most basic Camry off a set of lights and gets absolutely obliterated by every other performance sedan within its price range.
WRX has always been the luke warm model vs the STI. I agree they went astray in 2008 with the STI hatch. They stepped away from their rally car roots and went to a regular consumer vehicle, just with an STI driveline. I recently picked up a 2020 model Levorg, which is essentially a wrx under the skin. It's a good mix of being a really nice daily driver while still going well enough and can deal to a back road. They haven't completely lost the plot
Great review ReDriven team! I bought a Used 2016 WRX Premium (3rd Owner - No mods) 1.5 years ago and I’ve loved every second. Such a fun car to daily and always puts a smile on your face. I’ve only had a couple of minor issues like an A/C gremlin (was a faulty part) and the peeling steering wheel leather (easily fixed with a wheel wrap). My tips would be stay on top of the servicing, spend the money when needed and if possible use a reputable Subaru specialist mechanic 🙌❤
Love my bugeye. But, alas, I gave up on "experts" long ago; missing bolts, break fluid cap left in the boot, wrench left in engine bay, safety goggles left next to the battery, battery terminals not tightened. "we couldnt get the diff drain plug out, so we skipped the diff oil, we'll do it next time", "the air filter we have doesn't fit this model, we'll do it next time"... I've done my own rotors, pads, fluid changes, etc for years. Take bolts off, put them back, it's not rocket science. IMHO part of owning one of these is doing a lot of the work yourself, it's part of the fun of having an old WRX and keeping it going. It does help that I was around petrol heads (family members) ever since I can remember. The only thing I cannot do is the AC recharge and tyres :-( dreading that, what are they going to break or forget? Next up, whiteline goodies to install. Install some decent guages, oil pressure at least. That oil light is not a warning, it's the mark of death :-(. WRX's IMHO are not ment ot be luxurious, I want more gauages, buttons, knobs. A touch screen has no place in these cars. I don't even use my phone in the car. When on curvey roads in the "woods", CD/radio off, window down, and feel that WRX music! :-). When I get some spare cash, I'll be looking for an older GC8. :-) That will be a fun project car.
I owned a 2015 WRX, has a little oil leak on the left valve cover, lots of rattles and a squeak in the clutch pedal ( was the clutch thrust bearing) . The rev hang in first gear was horrible. But it was a blast of a car to drive
I’ve got the same annoying oil leak. Originally my cam carrier cracked, replaced that, the valve cover, and timing cover, and still has a small leak. Replaced all the lines going to the turbo and resealed everything again, and it’s still got a leak. Love it 🥲
@@zayslost Currently about $10K into the car in repairs having the engine pulled twice to be resealed still having issues. Replaced the cam carrier and timing cover with new components and still leaking🥲
@DaMurphMurph sorry you wasted 10 k on that. After rod bearings failure twice, sold the pos. Never to again buy ANY pos wrx. Used to be envious of them on the road, now I'm remorseful.
In the United States Subaru has the number one resale value out of any manufacturer. Meaning: when you drive off the dealership lot since you bought a Subaru, it will depreciate less than any other automobile manufacturer in the country and when you go to sell it, it will have lost way less value than any other manufacturer.
Finally, a vehicle to carry my stamp collection. Which is small, but important to me. How I have waited for a manufacturer to finally listen to what the customer wants.
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Went to look at a 2021 limited with 13k on it that the dealer had just got. They didn’t have a chance to clean it yet, thank god. The thing was absolutely trashed. Ended up leaving in a brand new ‘22 instead. Best decision I’ve made in recent years
I had a 2016 one of these. My opinion - zero clutch feel, terrible throttle mapping, rev hang and the horribly inconsistent powerband spoiled this car. Some days it was like the car ran into a wall at 5krpm. You never knew what it was going to give you in terms of power - usually disappointment. The hardest car to drive smoothly I've ever driven, also the most frustrating. I think some of these issues were addressed but not eliminated in the mid life update. Stock brake pads also very dull in feel. Positives were the excellent traction, decent shift feel once modded, nice noises from the turbo when spooling - and the thumps from the exhaust when shifting. I also didn't mind the handling up to about 7/10ths before the understeer set in. The simplicity of the AWD system is a plus as well. As a former owner, I'd recommend anyone looking at one of these as a driver's car to stretch to an STI and take a risk on the EJ25 for better sound, steering, gearbox, AWD system, seats brakes etc...or look elsewhere. I was fooled on the test drive by not driving it long or hard enough. Unless you get it cheap, eventually you'll be disappointed by this car
@Itsdjsigi no it wasn't resolved with VB, his post is spot on, especially the handling on my 23 WRX was so dull and bad even with $5k in coilovers, sways, wheels , 200tw tires. We drove my new WRX along with my husband's STI at the track and the STI was on another level. Our Subaru engineer friend happened to be there and he explained because to save costs his team used the drivetrain from the Crosstrek and SUV global platform, so open front and open rear diff with electronic brake vectoring, and that my husband's STI has front LSD, center DCCD diff, and rear LSD.
0 clutch feel? So I'd assume it was either too soft or too stiff, and you couldnt feel where the bite was? I know the Sti clutch has a very direct pickup point (usually 1/3 travel) for the clutch, but i dont know much about the normal Wrx clutch feel.
I had a 2016 STI premium I bought from new. Never missed a beat and had 165k on the clock. Only issue I ever had was jammed air pump valves which I changed out (the valves corroded on both) I get it was a great all round car and a completely different driving experience compared to the standard WRX. Well worth the extra money. Unfortunately it got written off 2 weeks ago after it was rear ended. One less STI in the pool and a sad day for me.
I owned a 2021 CVT & tracked it & never missed a beat just brilliant car. So I can’t complain about the CVT just praise its performance 👍 I have moved on now and currently own a i30N DCT another brilliant car for track 👍
i bought my wife the same model in 2018. has been a good car in the 65k that its travelled .i dont like the shift quality or the flat spot at 5krpm. fuel use from the direct injection is far better than the ej motor from the previous model.
Have a 2019 wrx auto, have had zero issues with the transmission so far and I’m the second owner. Things I have had issues with are injectors was told I don’t drive enough so the clog up, also had a wheel bearing that went bad. Besides that over all I enjoy the car.
How much miles do you have? I’m looking at one that has 71,000 miles 2019 wrx auto. 1 owner. Would you recommend checking the car out? Was told the car hasn’t been tuned . But there’s an exhaust on it. Anything else I should look out for?
@@davidcorona3360 I just hit 50,000 K (canadain car) so converted that's 31,000 miles. I have been told for over 50,000 miles to keep an eye on wheel bearings, if you can take it for a test drive on some rough roads and listen for any rattles. Also get the vin and look the car up see the service history.
@@matt2244 ok I’ll keep an eye out for the wheel bearing when test driving. I have looked up the vin the car is originally from CA and moved to Texas then to Arizona then he sold it out here in CA. Service history looks clean. The spark plugs were changed before he sold the car at the dealer. (Looks well maintain and no accidents )
Tossing up between a 2017- 2020 STI WRX or a 2017- 2020 Golf R such a hard choice. Although the Golf does get more bang for buck if you mod it getting 400hp at stage 2 with stuff all needed.
I bought one of these in June last year and got incredibly lucky to find one unmodified and serviced every 5,000 kms. I've been using it as my daily and I love it, highly recommended if you can find a well looked after one.
You will likely find improvements to the CVT in post-mid-year 2017 plated machines are solid, and having driven a manual, the CVT. makes a lot of sense if you live within 10kms. of a CBD, of a substantial town (ie: Melbourne).
It's a shame that the WRX has had its reputation tarnished via association with hoons and the price of spare parts otherwise it'd be a car I'd consider. The guys that lent you the WRX are the same guys that lent you the Commodore from Friday's video aren't they? An overall great and eye opening video gents so great work and as always stay safe and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
I bought the 3.6RS that has almost as much HP but more usable power. There's more reasonto buy the NA 3.6 that can use all 3 octane fuels over the 98 required for the Turbo.
Funnily enough everyone saying that WRX owners are normally the hoons, in my area it’s actually the opposite as I’ve seen five different WRX’s and they all drive sensibly whereas there is a BMW up the road that flies down my road with a burble tune at midnight every night, a loud as Golf R, and GTI’s that drive like they’re in a action movie😂
@@lanceweatherburn6118 All I can tell you is I averaged 11L per 100klm in my G3 5 speed manual WRX, which was better fuel economy than I was expecting. Had a 2006 4 speed automatic Subaru Outback that couldn't do better than 13 litres per 100klm, no matter how gently I drove it. Current car gets 5.6 Litres per 100klm, and is more fun to drive, more of the time than the WRX, (on the road)
I've never had a problem with the CVT in my levorg. There was a recall done a few years ago that Subaru did for free. I prefer the interior on the Subie to the over digitised, over done VAG stuff. Just the stereo is a bit average.
Some say the gears inside the gearbox are made of glass, and that steam from the tailpipe is a good sign as it means the engine still has coolant, all we know is, buy the STI.
One owner vehicles like this with a complete service record will be a strong indicator of the owner Multiple owners and that could be a bad sign if neglect and padding on known problems without taking accountability
Manual WRX owner from Canada here! It's hard to find decent examples where I'm from. Either they're 70k+ kms or have seen better days on the cosmetics. Or have been in an accident. Maybe it's just where I'm from. idk. H)WEVER! There are gems out there. I found my with a minor front bumper ding (which was fixed) and only 35k kms. Which I think is pretty solid for a 2019 WRX RS (Recaro Seat). Speaking of the Recaros, THEY. ARE. GREAT. I tried both the Recaros and the leathers. Nah. I like my Recaros. :) That being said, I'm always worried about my clutch, as I should tbh. But for a sporty car, with AWD, and a manual? I love it. P.S. I have an average of 10.2L/100kms ;3 and it's going down despite me maybe having a bit of fun here and there.
Greetings from Bulgaria! Thank you, ReDriven, for the yet another great car review. You, guys, are legends! And I would love you make a review of another legend, maybe the greatest one: Honda Legend :)
Hey great video only thing idk if its supposed to be Australia exclusive but in the USA we don't get the leather and better stereo until the limited trim the premium just gets heated stuff a better headunit and moonroof.
Yeah I looked into it (from Aus) there is the standard trim and the "Premium" trim which just has 9 speaker with sub, keyless entry (hand sensor on driver passenger) and keyless start (I think also remote start which is cool) those features are only from 2015 onwards for the premium though
@Redriven, if you need an STI for filming, let me know. It would be an absolute pleasure to loan you my car. Mines a 2020 model STI Spec R. Just over 9000km since new. Completely bone stock. Located in Brisbane
@@pug2411 yea, but some guys really love that exhaust note and the classic Subie rumble. Also the AWD means its much better to drive in wet weather, than the Cerato or i30N. But I'd rather the i30N if i had the money.
Well, my debate at this time. On one side a 2019 unmolested WRX with 46,000 miles (US) and on the right side a rally blue stock 2005 STi with 56,000 miles on body and a brand new stock engine by a very reputable shop in Virginia US, Mach V Motorsports. What should I get? I’m honestly loosing sleep over this. 😂
as much as I love my VA sti the paint is garbage, after only 50K kms I want to respray the bumper and bonnet. The HK stereo is an embarrassing joke, who thought putting a sub on a parcel shelf and covering it with plastic was a good idea?
VW if you buying any VW or some other brand from VW you are a bad human. We do not reward poor corporate behaviour for VW creating the diesel gate scandal. Proudly profit before people! How very Germany 1943
Dear Leo, chill Darling. Subaru, for all their faults and failings, are not connected to nor responsible for the actions of the hitler wagon company. Seems you have your meds mixed up and your corporate history a bit muddled up. Take your meds as prescribed Leo.
If you're considering buying a low km example, see if you can stretch the budget to a new VB WRX. Subaru has improved every single area including reliability. There is way more potential for power too. Whispers are that the next model may be all electric.....hopefully not, but who knows these days. Id highly recommend taking a VB for a test drive after driving one of these. It's like a completely different car
Much slower though, especially compared to the EJ powered wrx’s of the 2000’s. I own a tidy, original low mileage MY05 GD WRX that I love. I’m taking a VB for a test drive on Wednesday morning. I do not have great expectations
One thing to consider for those looking for handling specifically I'd warn about is it's not good on the new VB, many will talk about the new FA engine but they don't mention the terrible handling. On our 23 WRX we put $5k on coilovers, sways, wheels, 200tw tires, and we took it to the track with my husband's STI and the handling difference was huge, the STI was on a whole other level. We asked the Subaru engineer that was there at the track event and he let us know his team to save costs used the SUV global platform drivetrain of open front and open rear diff with electronic brake vectoring, versus my husband's STI with front LSD, center DCCD diff, and rear LSD.
I have had my 18 wrx sti for 2 years now. Pushed it i guess too hard and blew the engine. 12k down the drain fora new engine. 9 months later, blew up again. Im selling it now and buying a ford RS. Why make a car with a fucking turbo charger if the engine is going to blow? And on top of that, why tf put a TOP MOUNT intercooler on the damn thing? Waste of money it was, but lesson learned.
@madloudnoises yup. Subaru ass kissers "don't drive too aggressively and it won't pop". OK. So keep it under boost and waste 35k to get groceries. Worst engines ever. Fa and ej.
@madloudnoises have an st now but a rs is highly likely my next car. They're quite a hoot. Way more durable engine and better driving dynamics, and hatchback to top it off.
Bought a 2018 WRX Premium, 2 owner car full car fax and bone stock. Already put over $5K in repairs into it. Cam carrier cracked, needed a new timing cover because the oil pump is built into it, new timing kit, etc. They’re great cars but truthfully best to be left stock. Engine and trans can’t handle much power, and they’re finicky when it comes to modifications so you’ll need a tune for almost anything. I’m happy with mine for now, they’re gutless on the top end but it’s not a racecar it’s a grocery getter. I get over 30mpg on the highway with 300whp and an upgraded turbo so I can’t complain much. Just constantly worry about blowing it up anytime I go above 3K rpms😂
@@remissiveslave I completely forgot I even made this comment. Update: I had the car FBO pushing around 350whp and kept having issues. Put the car back to stock. Upon doing so I found out the shop the car was tuned and worked on at deleted all PCV components, so when in boost it would pressurize the crank case and push oil out of every hole possible. It was a long and not fun process but everything was put back to stock with all new OEM components that I needed (I kept things like intake exhaust etc…). Runs great and is reliable again! Lesson learned, just don’t mod a Subaru.
i had a truck ended up trading to WRX was thinking of going for STI but i only need cheaper on gas also fun to drive without the hassle of breaking down, only had my car for 1.5 years and added 35k on odometer already lol.
Buying an unmolested example is the key, even for the other hot hatches, buy an unmolested example only ... promise anything that's been tuned, upgraded, has been flogged hard.....
As a VA STI owner, only thing not mentioned that's horrible about these cars is the is brutal insurance premiums. Other than that, I'm impressed with level of thought and research that goes into these videos. Great work guys and nice rexy! Ps my low Kay STI still available to review, it hasn't moved much, perfer driving amd modding the Kia 😅
Yup... fixed costs were another reason I bought two 3.6RS NA models... I prefer driving my 2017 model better than my 18 updated model because of the stiffer suspension and better steering feed back. Test drove an 2016 Rex and couldn't justify the running costs of the Rex (insurance and 98 Oct fuel requirements). I'm currently getting 7.7L/100km on my daily commute to work (70km) and enjoy comments like your own, as it cements my decision to buy the 3.6 over a turbo. Thank you.
The people (me) need the VM Levorg review made in to a video. It is THE car that haunts my dreams. On paper - the perfect practical WRX that actually looks awesome. In the hands of journos - shamelessly flogged. Is it the perfect do-everything-enough car? Is the damping on the rear shocks too short? Can the CVT engage people who care about driving? I must know!
The problems arise when people modify these cars then drive the snot out of them Leave it stock I don’t see the issues other than that These cars have an extremely high reliability rating
‘Risk’ pppfffftt. I’ve had 2 now over the past 17 years. First one (wrx) went 350kms with original engine, gearbox and clutch before I sold it to buy a new model (wrx). If you service these cars on time and drive them with mechanical sympathy, you won’t have an issue. People that talk crap about them either have no idea how to drive/service wrxs or have never owned one.
most times, its the previous owner that has belted the car beyond repair. In stock form with no mods, they can last the journey. Issue is that too many hoons own these and they sell them off right before they're about to fall apart.
Yeah. Spend boatloads of money on a SPORTY CAR, who's origins are based in rally x, then baby it. Slow and boring if you rip it, let alone baby it. Lost the plot. Actually a joke, a very bad one at that.
@@remissiveslave There's a massive differnece between driving the car with mechanical sypathy (i.e letting the car come up to temp before booting it, not constantly dropping the clutch and shifting gears correctly) and 'babying' the car. Also these cars are extremely affordable, but that's subjective and relative.
I was looking at a 2016 wrx with 125k miles but would that be good thing to get reliably wise or should I look for something lower miles ?? And if so how many miles
Depends if you can see the carfax and the service records.. so to even consider... I would first make sure it's a one owner with that many miles . Second I would need to see every service maintenance record reported by carfax, if it doesn't meat both those criteria I would not purchase
I bought one brand new in 2017 and only owned it for a little over a year. Easily the worst car I’ve owned. Ride was terrible, handling terrible, brakes terrible, seats terrible engine was lacklustre. Moved to bmw and like chalk and cheese….335 is fast, smooth, comfortable and a better car around. Never own another Subaru
Dodged failed rod bearings. Good choice. These cars are made of glass and subi dickriders won't give you a word in edge wise, and go down their cleverly crafted checklists of gaslighting tactics to justify the pos engine, along with everything else. I've owned numerous cars and the wrx is the BEST taken care of, maintained, least horseplay endured, car I've ever had, just to need the engine replacement before 50k. Oil changes every 3-4k checked oil weekly, never was low. All of this headache for a car that can't beat another car w/o an engine, being pulled by a resting turtle. In a 14 st at 105k and runs like a clock and will be bumping it up to 350-400 this spring. Perfect compression still.
Other its pretty bang for your buck out the factory for what you get compared to other cars I don't get the same feeling or what you're saying about the inspiration of an evolution of the Porche. Looks nothing like the GC8.
Bought mine brand new back in late 2014. Had it for 8 years and it never skipped a beat. Only recently traded it for a 7 seater as my family is growing. Do I miss driving it? Heck yeah. It's a great car if you look after it as with everything else. ❤
Growing family.. 7 seats? WTF? Do you have super sperm?
6 yrs on my 2018 that I bought new. No issue, but I think the crap radio is even worse now due to possibly stock Amp blown? Lol
Just bought my 2015 wrx yesterday very excited to drive it more
@@alfredoherrera2112 how has it been
We have been Subaru owners for 20 years. We are on our 3rd Forester and love them. We bought a 2017 WRX Limited new and now have 71,000 US miles. Yes, we have the CVT, but it was that, or no WRX since I was not the only driver. It is not modified nor tracked, just a fun daily driver. It has been a great car with very few issues. The first and only repair before 70,000 miles was an HVAC fan. I just thought a leaf had gotten in and was making a slightly funny noise. Service person pointed it out and replaced under warranty. As for cabin, I don’t feel slighted not having a GTI (as I don’t want their maintenance and constant repair expense.) The interior has held up very well and other than a little rattle in passenger door, it is nice and tight. 90% of the time the ride more than comfortable, even on long trips. And speaking of trips, I would regularly see 30+ mpg on the highway at 70 mph. Highest was 35.1! City driving does take a bit of a hit, but I show 24 mpg for my average right now. I absolutely agree, if you buy used, buy unmodified and get a PPI, you will have a blast!
You lost me at cvt
😆 jk thanks for the info tho
Yeah I’d rather have no wrx lol or something else with a dual clutch at least
Something ive noticed is that for the most part, Subaru's only blow up with cheaper parts, harsh treatment, bad tuning, and lack of mantinence. If you keep up with them mechanically and dont push them too hard, they can be reliable.
Buy a sporty rally bred car that you need to baby to not break. 🤡. Had one and unless you drive it like you stole it, you're going to struggle to overtake a schoolbus full of children.
@remissiveslave its not about speed. If you want speed, buy a BMW that will break every time you turn it on. And I never said you have to baby it. If you actually take care of it and do the proper maintaining, not put cheap crappy parts on it, and don't dune it for 350-400+ horsepower, they're great.
@@remissiveslave Brother if you’re not gonna do basic maintenance on your vehicle and buy quality parts, you shouldn’t get a performance vehicle.
Sure they thrash tf out of them on a rally stage but they still have whole teams of mechanics pouring over every inch of the car to make sure it’s running in top shape.
I replaced the shift bushings with solid brass, replaced the shift plate with a 33% shorter throw one that weights about 3x as much as the stock plate, installed a shift stop and 3D printed my own nylon shims. Made my '21 feel about as close to a non-cable driven manual as possible.
Early Subaru CVT's did have a few problems that are well documented (Failed valve bodies, input shaft bearing issues etc) but for the most part this isn't as common as it once was. These do come with the higher spec version of Subaru's CVT. Most of the N/A Subies come with the TR580 whereas the WRX, Levorg and the new turbo Outback get the TR690 which is rated for more torque.
A big part of the problem with the CVT's is Subaru didn't (maybe they do now?) specify any service interval for looking after it. The service booklet merely says to inspect the transmission at every service, nothing more, which involves only a check of the TCU to check it's estimated fluid condition. Contrary to this, that fluid does actually need to be replaced, it's subjected to heat and pressure and will break down over time and k's just like any other lubricant. Anyone who tells you they're "Sealed for Life" is a moron. Find a transmission or Subaru specialist who has access to the correct Subaru fluids and get it serviced just as you would a regular automatic and you'll be going a long way to keeping the CVT alive and happy. Just like any Auto really.
I have a CVT equipped VM Levorg (which is mechanically almost exactly the same as the VA WRX, same driveline, engine, transmission, hell even most of the interior is the same) currently at 145000km running perfectly happily. Maintenance is key with all cars but especially Subaru's, look after them and don't skimp on servicing and they'll look after you for a long time! :)
That's the nice thing about these cars is that the issues they do have are extremely well documented because the community behind them is so large.
Got 2018 XV with 120k highway kms/full dealer service history and I recently serviced the CVT at 130km.
No issues so far but recently the AC compressor is out and scheduled for a replacement at AC specialist.
Hopefully no more issues to come.
At 24000 miles, my WRX's CVT had a transmission oil pan leak. Dealership had to reseal it and replace the fluid. Should I be worried about mine?
Just pricy
I'd argue good maintenance is cheaper than repair after neglect.
Bought a 2019 WRB premium new… for nostalgic reasons 😊. Love it. I don’t compare it to anything else, don’t care how much “better” another car maybe. It’s got everything I need and no more. All the things some may point out as flaws, I see as WRX character 😉.
Bought my first WRX in 2010, my second in 2016, and my third in 2023. My most recent, I really wanted an i30N or a Corolla GR but the projected 18-24 month wait soured both deals. Gotta say, though, I’m so pleased I bought WRX number three. Guys, they just keep getting better.
Love the channel. Gotta laugh though, every time you say, "this has 80,000 kilometres on it!!", like that's high mileage. That's almost new in the real world.
That’s around 4-5 years worth of driving for the average driver. Hardly new
80000kms is close 100000kms, and 100000kms is a lot
Had one, was a bit soft so I upgraded to a STI which is a much more analog driving experience.
Same. Sti was the best upgrade. However the wrx used to kick the rear out real easy which was a bit of fun
Got a new WRX and drove it at the track with my husband's STI and the handling difference was ridiculously higher in the STI. We asked our Subaru engineer friend that was at the track event and he let us know the new WRX handling doesn't feel confident because it uses from the Crosstrek and SUV global platform the open front and open rear diff with electronic vectoring, and that my husband's STI has LSD front and rear and center DCCD diff.
@panderalexander Yeah the STI driveline is much better. I was looking forward to a new STI with the same driveline but the newer motor of the WRX. I wish Subaru had discontinued the WRX and gone all out on a final STI if they thought they had to discontinue one of them.
Hi guys. Love your videos. I have a 2016 CVT WRX Premium. It's done 140,000km in NZ (cold, wet, snow, gravel, crap roads) and it's awesome. Never given me any trouble. Love it. Can't see myself trading it any time soon. DB
How's it going now?
Good as gold. Nearly at 160,000kms. Had to regas the AC but no other issues.@@zayslost
Sounds good. How about the CVT need new cvt oil change?
did you change the cvt fluid
You aint fixing the CVT for $5k. Try 10k for a decent refurbed one, fitted, or 15k at Subaru for a new one with labour. My CVT failed, after MUCH fighting with Subaru Australia, they finally replaced it under warranty
Just sold my 2021 wrx premium (48500 miles)...Had AOS installed as soon as I bought it, Fortune 500 suspension, STI wing, Processwest intercooler, Hawk HPS brake pads, and vortex gen as my add-ons. Did regular 3k to 4k mile oil changes (Motul Xclean EFE 5W30 always, Mobil 1 once...had all the records of it...gave it to my dealer...they said that they would throw it away if it had my personal info). Transmission and differential oil change at 30K miles...pro tune by Panda Motor Works (St. Louis)...If you love your car, take care of it.
I have a 2017 cvt premium. Apart from the harsh ride. It’s absolutely fantastic.
I agree speed bumps are fun lol sarcasm
Any issues with transmission?
Only got my premium 2018 VA in April this year and I gotta say the seats are waaay more cush than the cardboard ones that came with my GD bugeye ☠️ only thing I miss fr my old WRX is the signature Rumble
Love my 17 wrx special edition 6 speed in rally blue. Ride is firm but grip is epic. Owned for 3 years no problems. Such a fun car to drive, always smile inducing.
Good review guys
I'm legit looking at a VA STI end of next year, thanks for the video guys!
Get one after 2018
I bought a brand new 2015 model. Great car, modified to 203kw at the wheels.
Steering wheel "leather" wore out quickly but still regret selling it after 4.5 years and 90,000kms.
In winter the thing was a weapon in second and third gear.
Mine is a 2018 with 60K miles, and the top of the wheel is already worn out. I’m surprised coming from a Scion tC how bad the interior is. It’s comfy and modern but I’d argue the Scion had better sound dampening inside the cabin than this does. You get a lot of wind and road noise inside. The ratlles and creaks aren’t as bad but still an annoyance with everything inside being plastics.
The straw that broke the camel's back, which made me unload my '21 (10k miles), was a whining sound coming from the clutch in first gear from a stop and sometimes into second gear.
These used to be hot rods in the GC8 era, peak WRX was up until 2007 with the Hawkeye.
These latest models, the VA and VB WRX have just turned into your everyday soccer mum sedan that struggles to dust off your most basic Camry off a set of lights and gets absolutely obliterated by every other performance sedan within its price range.
WRX has always been the luke warm model vs the STI. I agree they went astray in 2008 with the STI hatch. They stepped away from their rally car roots and went to a regular consumer vehicle, just with an STI driveline.
I recently picked up a 2020 model Levorg, which is essentially a wrx under the skin. It's a good mix of being a really nice daily driver while still going well enough and can deal to a back road. They haven't completely lost the plot
Great review ReDriven team! I bought a Used 2016 WRX Premium (3rd Owner - No mods) 1.5 years ago and I’ve loved every second. Such a fun car to daily and always puts a smile on your face. I’ve only had a couple of minor issues like an A/C gremlin (was a faulty part) and the peeling steering wheel leather (easily fixed with a wheel wrap). My tips would be stay on top of the servicing, spend the money when needed and if possible use a reputable Subaru specialist mechanic 🙌❤
how many miles did it have when you bought it?
@@LinoBeanZ it had a bit over 87,000kms so about 54,000 miles.
Love my bugeye. But, alas, I gave up on "experts" long ago; missing bolts, break fluid cap left in the boot, wrench left in engine bay, safety goggles left next to the battery, battery terminals not tightened. "we couldnt get the diff drain plug out, so we skipped the diff oil, we'll do it next time", "the air filter we have doesn't fit this model, we'll do it next time"... I've done my own rotors, pads, fluid changes, etc for years. Take bolts off, put them back, it's not rocket science. IMHO part of owning one of these is doing a lot of the work yourself, it's part of the fun of having an old WRX and keeping it going. It does help that I was around petrol heads (family members) ever since I can remember. The only thing I cannot do is the AC recharge and tyres :-( dreading that, what are they going to break or forget? Next up, whiteline goodies to install. Install some decent guages, oil pressure at least. That oil light is not a warning, it's the mark of death :-(. WRX's IMHO are not ment ot be luxurious, I want more gauages, buttons, knobs. A touch screen has no place in these cars. I don't even use my phone in the car. When on curvey roads in the "woods", CD/radio off, window down, and feel that WRX music! :-). When I get some spare cash, I'll be looking for an older GC8. :-) That will be a fun project car.
I owned a 2015 WRX, has a little oil leak on the left valve cover, lots of rattles and a squeak in the clutch pedal ( was the clutch thrust bearing) . The rev hang in first gear was horrible. But it was a blast of a car to drive
I’ve got the same annoying oil leak. Originally my cam carrier cracked, replaced that, the valve cover, and timing cover, and still has a small leak. Replaced all the lines going to the turbo and resealed everything again, and it’s still got a leak. Love it 🥲
How much did it cost to replace those? I'm currently looking at a 2016 wrx with 110,000 miles that I really want but i don't know.. @@DaMurphMurph
@@zayslost Currently about $10K into the car in repairs having the engine pulled twice to be resealed still having issues. Replaced the cam carrier and timing cover with new components and still leaking🥲
@DaMurphMurph sorry you wasted 10 k on that. After rod bearings failure twice, sold the pos. Never to again buy ANY pos wrx. Used to be envious of them on the road, now I'm remorseful.
In the United States Subaru has the number one resale value out of any manufacturer. Meaning: when you drive off the dealership lot since you bought a Subaru, it will depreciate less than any other automobile manufacturer in the country and when you go to sell it, it will have lost way less value than any other manufacturer.
You'd get a XR 6 turbo over anything. Which leads to the question, when will you review one of them beauties?
Would like to see this too
you are comparing a mid sized agile car with a 6 metre barge with a turbo?? really..
Yeah, nah.
Make the choice on a daily basis. The subi normally wins.
I prefer to drive a car, not sail it
Some great vids dropping with the vf2 and now this - great redrivens
Finally, a vehicle to carry my stamp collection. Which is small, but important to me. How I have waited for a manufacturer to finally listen to what the customer wants.
hope to see a va sti video soon
IAG oil pan with baffles has basically solved the EJ problem, along with their AOS.
7:57 they released the Levorg, which is basically a WRX Wagon
Albeit with no manual option though
GC8 is where it's at!!! - So was yours the one you did a review on? White w Gold Wheels?
💰Need finance for your next car? Get personalised deals and pre-approval in MINUTES! PLUS, get a $150 fuel voucher when you settle your loan 👉 bit.ly/3EX7yh7
Went to look at a 2021 limited with 13k on it that the dealer had just got. They didn’t have a chance to clean it yet, thank god. The thing was absolutely trashed. Ended up leaving in a brand new ‘22 instead. Best decision I’ve made in recent years
4:45 repeating this afterwards guys, please check.
Another great review, thanks for the hard work!
If you need an auto one your better of getting a levourg as they're a bit cheaper and have a slightly better interior
the review is spot on. this is a budget car with tacky cheap plastic everywhere.
I took a manual VA for a test drive in the morning, then a new manual VB in the afternoon. Bought the VB instead
I had a 2016 one of these. My opinion - zero clutch feel, terrible throttle mapping, rev hang and the horribly inconsistent powerband spoiled this car. Some days it was like the car ran into a wall at 5krpm. You never knew what it was going to give you in terms of power - usually disappointment. The hardest car to drive smoothly I've ever driven, also the most frustrating. I think some of these issues were addressed but not eliminated in the mid life update. Stock brake pads also very dull in feel. Positives were the excellent traction, decent shift feel once modded, nice noises from the turbo when spooling - and the thumps from the exhaust when shifting. I also didn't mind the handling up to about 7/10ths before the understeer set in. The simplicity of the AWD system is a plus as well.
As a former owner, I'd recommend anyone looking at one of these as a driver's car to stretch to an STI and take a risk on the EJ25 for better sound, steering, gearbox, AWD system, seats brakes etc...or look elsewhere. I was fooled on the test drive by not driving it long or hard enough. Unless you get it cheap, eventually you'll be disappointed by this car
This is why I’m getting the vb, all these problem were resolved and the 2.4 makes power easy
@Itsdjsigi no it wasn't resolved with VB, his post is spot on, especially the handling on my 23 WRX was so dull and bad even with $5k in coilovers, sways, wheels , 200tw tires. We drove my new WRX along with my husband's STI at the track and the STI was on another level. Our Subaru engineer friend happened to be there and he explained because to save costs his team used the drivetrain from the Crosstrek and SUV global platform, so open front and open rear diff with electronic brake vectoring, and that my husband's STI has front LSD, center DCCD diff, and rear LSD.
Yep agree, the stock tune was garbage. Smallest amount of heat and pull timing out. The rev hang was really lame too. Massive torque dip at 4500rpm +-
0 clutch feel? So I'd assume it was either too soft or too stiff, and you couldnt feel where the bite was? I know the Sti clutch has a very direct pickup point (usually 1/3 travel) for the clutch, but i dont know much about the normal Wrx clutch feel.
I had a 2016 STI premium I bought from new. Never missed a beat and had 165k on the clock. Only issue I ever had was jammed air pump valves which I changed out (the valves corroded on both) I get it was a great all round car and a completely different driving experience compared to the standard WRX. Well worth the extra money. Unfortunately it got written off 2 weeks ago after it was rear ended. One less STI in the pool and a sad day for me.
I owned a 2021 CVT & tracked it & never missed a beat just brilliant car. So I can’t complain about the CVT just praise its performance 👍
I have moved on now and currently own a i30N DCT another brilliant car for track 👍
i bought my wife the same model in 2018. has been a good car in the 65k that its travelled .i dont like the shift quality or the flat spot at 5krpm. fuel use from the direct injection is far better than the ej motor from the previous model.
FYI certain early year JDM Levorgs can be imported. Why you ask? They rolled out the factory with 300ps (220 kw) tune, with cvt tho. 😂
Have a 2019 wrx auto, have had zero issues with the transmission so far and I’m the second owner. Things I have had issues with are injectors was told I don’t drive enough so the clog up, also had a wheel bearing that went bad.
Besides that over all I enjoy the car.
How much miles do you have? I’m looking at one that has 71,000 miles 2019 wrx auto. 1 owner. Would you recommend checking the car out? Was told the car hasn’t been tuned . But there’s an exhaust on it. Anything else I should look out for?
@@davidcorona3360 I just hit 50,000 K (canadain car) so converted that's 31,000 miles. I have been told for over 50,000 miles to keep an eye on wheel bearings, if you can take it for a test drive on some rough roads and listen for any rattles. Also get the vin and look the car up see the service history.
@@matt2244 ok I’ll keep an eye out for the wheel bearing when test driving. I have looked up the vin the car is originally from CA and moved to Texas then to Arizona then he sold it out here in CA. Service history looks clean. The spark plugs were changed before he sold the car at the dealer. (Looks well maintain and no accidents )
@@davidcorona3360 If you can find a shop that deals with WRX/STi and have them give it a look over and do compression test and check everything.
Tossing up between a 2017- 2020 STI WRX or a 2017- 2020 Golf R such a hard choice. Although the Golf does get more bang for buck if you mod it getting 400hp at stage 2 with stuff all needed.
I bought one of these in June last year and got incredibly lucky to find one unmodified and serviced every 5,000 kms. I've been using it as my daily and I love it, highly recommended if you can find a well looked after one.
0:43 that neighborhood looks so nice
You will likely find improvements to the CVT in post-mid-year 2017 plated machines are solid, and having driven a manual, the CVT. makes a lot of sense if you live within 10kms. of a CBD, of a substantial town (ie: Melbourne).
I had one with the CVT as a company car. Horribly impractical, noisy and boring. Practically no upside.
WRX as a company car?
@@motoringfan Yeah if you told 20 year old me I'd have a WRX I would've been a lot more excited than what I actually was when I got it.
So basically it's like every car, Make sure is taken care of with good service and avoid anything that's been modified like the plauge lol.
It's a shame that the WRX has had its reputation tarnished via association with hoons and the price of spare parts otherwise it'd be a car I'd consider.
The guys that lent you the WRX are the same guys that lent you the Commodore from Friday's video aren't they?
An overall great and eye opening video gents so great work and as always stay safe and look forward to next week's videos as per usual 👍.
Wheel noise and spare part cost just keeps buyers away😂
I bought the 3.6RS that has almost as much HP but more usable power.
There's more reasonto buy the NA 3.6 that can use all 3 octane fuels over the 98 required for the Turbo.
Unfortunetly, we only got the sti version here in Sweden, i have not seen the wrx from 2015+
Funnily enough everyone saying that WRX owners are normally the hoons, in my area it’s actually the opposite as I’ve seen five different WRX’s and they all drive sensibly whereas there is a BMW up the road that flies down my road with a burble tune at midnight every night, a loud as Golf R, and GTI’s that drive like they’re in a action movie😂
Over 16 litres per 100kilometers is impressive. Had a standard G3 wide body that averaged 11L/100.
I’m looking at one of those soon. Is the economy that bad? Thanks
@@lanceweatherburn6118 All I can tell you is I averaged 11L per 100klm in my G3 5 speed manual WRX, which was better fuel economy than I was expecting. Had a 2006 4 speed automatic Subaru Outback that couldn't do better than 13 litres per 100klm, no matter how gently I drove it.
Current car gets 5.6 Litres per 100klm, and is more fun to drive, more of the time than the WRX, (on the road)
@@MrWilliam.Stewartthat car is mate?
Subaru did make a wrx wagon....sort of.... it's called the levorg. Which needs a video done
I've never had a problem with the CVT in my levorg. There was a recall done a few years ago that Subaru did for free. I prefer the interior on the Subie to the over digitised, over done VAG stuff. Just the stereo is a bit average.
where is Jims retractable pointer hand?
Come on guys like and subscribe so Jim can afford his own🤣
Some say the gears inside the gearbox are made of glass, and that steam from the tailpipe is a good sign as it means the engine still has coolant, all we know is, buy the STI.
“A more sensible and mature image”
(Shows banana yellow French hatch with rear diffuser)
One owner vehicles like this with a complete service record will be a strong indicator of the owner
Multiple owners and that could be a bad sign if neglect and padding on known problems without taking accountability
I was still laughing at boogers and he came out with eye sleep 😅
Manual WRX owner from Canada here! It's hard to find decent examples where I'm from. Either they're 70k+ kms or have seen better days on the cosmetics. Or have been in an accident. Maybe it's just where I'm from. idk.
H)WEVER! There are gems out there. I found my with a minor front bumper ding (which was fixed) and only 35k kms. Which I think is pretty solid for a 2019 WRX RS (Recaro Seat). Speaking of the Recaros, THEY. ARE. GREAT. I tried both the Recaros and the leathers. Nah. I like my Recaros. :)
That being said, I'm always worried about my clutch, as I should tbh. But for a sporty car, with AWD, and a manual? I love it.
P.S. I have an average of 10.2L/100kms ;3 and it's going down despite me maybe having a bit of fun here and there.
Writing from California: Appreciate your channel and information including the Cheat Sheets on your website.
Greetings from Bulgaria!
Thank you, ReDriven, for the yet another great car review. You, guys, are legends! And I would love you make a review of another legend, maybe the greatest one: Honda Legend :)
Hey great video only thing idk if its supposed to be Australia exclusive but in the USA we don't get the leather and better stereo until the limited trim the premium just gets heated stuff a better headunit and moonroof.
Yeah I looked into it (from Aus) there is the standard trim and the "Premium" trim which just has 9 speaker with sub, keyless entry (hand sensor on driver passenger) and keyless start (I think also remote start which is cool) those features are only from 2015 onwards for the premium though
You should totally look at the suzuki ignis
@Redriven, if you need an STI for filming, let me know. It would be an absolute pleasure to loan you my car.
Mines a 2020 model STI Spec R.
Just over 9000km since new. Completely bone stock.
Located in Brisbane
A gd wrx/sti video would be great 😊
2017 sti with 80k. favorite car to daily drive!
Brand new Cerato GT or Hyundai N line is cheaper than a working wrx and the DCT leaves the CVT/bodgy manual at the lights.
unless you want the AWD and the Subie rumble.
@@eyecontrol4900 that's just the echo of parts shaking apart
@@pug2411 yea, but some guys really love that exhaust note and the classic Subie rumble. Also the AWD means its much better to drive in wet weather, than the Cerato or i30N. But I'd rather the i30N if i had the money.
Any chance you guys can do a review of the Levorg?
Well, my debate at this time. On one side a 2019 unmolested WRX with 46,000 miles (US) and on the right side a rally blue stock 2005 STi with 56,000 miles on body and a brand new stock engine by a very reputable shop in Virginia US, Mach V Motorsports. What should I get? I’m honestly loosing sleep over this. 😂
I have a completely stock 2021 STI spec r in Melbourne if you would like to use it for a review
What is that stunning red car in the background behind Jim?
Amyone know what it is?
Ferrari Enzo.
i’m new to this cars specifics what’s cvt mean about this car? starts wrong with it?
as much as I love my VA sti the paint is garbage, after only 50K kms I want to respray the bumper and bonnet. The HK stereo is an embarrassing joke, who thought putting a sub on a parcel shelf and covering it with plastic was a good idea?
True, my 06 base model Accord Euro stock audio system easily can pawn my 2019 HK system.
Was hoping for a Colin McRae or Possum Bourne voiceover for the features segment. Two legends imo.
Both dead though 😞
VW if you buying any VW or some other brand from VW you are a bad human. We do not reward poor corporate behaviour for VW creating the diesel gate scandal. Proudly profit before people! How very Germany 1943
Dear Leo, chill Darling. Subaru, for all their faults and failings, are not connected to nor responsible for the actions of the hitler wagon company. Seems you have your meds mixed up and your corporate history a bit muddled up. Take your meds as prescribed Leo.
And if you buy Toyota, you support child labour and exploitation. How very Japan 1943.
its not that i don't want this car. i just don't enjoy working on motors due to crank bearings and head gaskets
If you're considering buying a low km example, see if you can stretch the budget to a new VB WRX. Subaru has improved every single area including reliability. There is way more potential for power too. Whispers are that the next model may be all electric.....hopefully not, but who knows these days.
Id highly recommend taking a VB for a test drive after driving one of these. It's like a completely different car
Much slower though, especially compared to the EJ powered wrx’s of the 2000’s. I own a tidy, original low mileage MY05 GD WRX that I love. I’m taking a VB for a test drive on Wednesday morning. I do not have great expectations
@@danielcave7065WRX isn't about outright speed. It's about stability in wet or coarse roads.
only thing is, these 2014-2021 ones look far better than the new model. The new model has that ugly rear.
One thing to consider for those looking for handling specifically I'd warn about is it's not good on the new VB, many will talk about the new FA engine but they don't mention the terrible handling. On our 23 WRX we put $5k on coilovers, sways, wheels, 200tw tires, and we took it to the track with my husband's STI and the handling difference was huge, the STI was on a whole other level. We asked the Subaru engineer that was there at the track event and he let us know his team to save costs used the SUV global platform drivetrain of open front and open rear diff with electronic brake vectoring, versus my husband's STI with front LSD, center DCCD diff, and rear LSD.
I'm on my 3rd Subaru and quality isn't there. The interior scratches too easy and my latest is starting to consume oil at 61k miles.
I have had my 18 wrx sti for 2 years now. Pushed it i guess too hard and blew the engine. 12k down the drain fora new engine. 9 months later, blew up again. Im selling it now and buying a ford RS.
Why make a car with a fucking turbo charger if the engine is going to blow? And on top of that, why tf put a TOP MOUNT intercooler on the damn thing? Waste of money it was, but lesson learned.
@madloudnoises yup. Subaru ass kissers "don't drive too aggressively and it won't pop". OK. So keep it under boost and waste 35k to get groceries. Worst engines ever. Fa and ej.
@madloudnoises have an st now but a rs is highly likely my next car. They're quite a hoot. Way more durable engine and better driving dynamics, and hatchback to top it off.
You completely forgot to mention the potential for ringland failure in WRX engines which is not uncommon and can be mega expensive to repair.
@@jamiespinks3657 rod bearings to if you're not careful.
There is a wagon version it's called the Levorg aka Grovel 😅
Bought a 19 with 40k on it, it’s been great so far..
How is it going?
Bought a 2018 WRX Premium, 2 owner car full car fax and bone stock. Already put over $5K in repairs into it. Cam carrier cracked, needed a new timing cover because the oil pump is built into it, new timing kit, etc.
They’re great cars but truthfully best to be left stock. Engine and trans can’t handle much power, and they’re finicky when it comes to modifications so you’ll need a tune for almost anything. I’m happy with mine for now, they’re gutless on the top end but it’s not a racecar it’s a grocery getter. I get over 30mpg on the highway with 300whp and an upgraded turbo so I can’t complain much. Just constantly worry about blowing it up anytime I go above 3K rpms😂
You have reason to worry. Be praying for you. Only infinite cash UA-camrs who can rebuild their own cars, like smeedia, should bother.
@@remissiveslave I completely forgot I even made this comment.
Update: I had the car FBO pushing around 350whp and kept having issues. Put the car back to stock. Upon doing so I found out the shop the car was tuned and worked on at deleted all PCV components, so when in boost it would pressurize the crank case and push oil out of every hole possible. It was a long and not fun process but everything was put back to stock with all new OEM components that I needed (I kept things like intake exhaust etc…). Runs great and is reliable again! Lesson learned, just don’t mod a Subaru.
get the non sti fa20 with manual gearbox, avoid the sti and cvt
i had a truck ended up trading to WRX was thinking of going for STI but i only need cheaper on gas also fun to drive without the hassle of breaking down, only had my car for 1.5 years and added 35k on odometer already lol.
I predict a massive 2024 for RD
Buying an unmolested example is the key, even for the other hot hatches, buy an unmolested example only ... promise anything that's been tuned, upgraded, has been flogged hard.....
Great looking car... but the only good ones were from the 90s & early 2000s with the 22B being the GOAT WRX.
As a VA STI owner, only thing not mentioned that's horrible about these cars is the is brutal insurance premiums.
Other than that, I'm impressed with level of thought and research that goes into these videos. Great work guys and nice rexy!
Ps my low Kay STI still available to review, it hasn't moved much, perfer driving amd modding the Kia 😅
Yup... fixed costs were another reason I bought two 3.6RS NA models... I prefer driving my 2017 model better than my 18 updated model because of the stiffer suspension and better steering feed back.
Test drove an 2016 Rex and couldn't justify the running costs of the Rex (insurance and 98 Oct fuel requirements).
I'm currently getting 7.7L/100km on my daily commute to work (70km) and enjoy comments like your own, as it cements my decision to buy the 3.6 over a turbo.
Thank you.
How brutal is brutal? I'm rating one, off street in a low risk area.
@davidbrayshaw3529 its armed robbery as a reoccurring transaction.
@@peterlattimore6013 smart choice! Will be way nicer dailying. STI hates me for dailying it.
@@Asymmetry0$3.5k p.a. type armed robbery?
The people (me) need the VM Levorg review made in to a video. It is THE car that haunts my dreams. On paper - the perfect practical WRX that actually looks awesome. In the hands of journos - shamelessly flogged. Is it the perfect do-everything-enough car? Is the damping on the rear shocks too short? Can the CVT engage people who care about driving? I must know!
Trying to line one up for a video mate, stay tuned. - AK
The problems arise when people modify these cars then drive the snot out of them
Leave it stock
I don’t see the issues other than that
These cars have an extremely high reliability rating
‘Risk’ pppfffftt. I’ve had 2 now over the past 17 years. First one (wrx) went 350kms with original engine, gearbox and clutch before I sold it to buy a new model (wrx). If you service these cars on time and drive them with mechanical sympathy, you won’t have an issue.
People that talk crap about them either have no idea how to drive/service wrxs or have never owned one.
most times, its the previous owner that has belted the car beyond repair. In stock form with no mods, they can last the journey. Issue is that too many hoons own these and they sell them off right before they're about to fall apart.
Yeah. Spend boatloads of money on a SPORTY CAR, who's origins are based in rally x, then baby it. Slow and boring if you rip it, let alone baby it. Lost the plot. Actually a joke, a very bad one at that.
@@remissiveslave There's a massive differnece between driving the car with mechanical sypathy (i.e letting the car come up to temp before booting it, not constantly dropping the clutch and shifting gears correctly) and 'babying' the car. Also these cars are extremely affordable, but that's subjective and relative.
4:50 Bro repeated himself 💀
I was looking at a 2016 wrx with 125k miles but would that be good thing to get reliably wise or should I look for something lower miles ?? And if so how many miles
Depends if you can see the carfax and the service records.. so to even consider... I would first make sure it's a one owner with that many miles . Second I would need to see every service maintenance record reported by carfax, if it doesn't meat both those criteria I would not purchase
I bought one brand new in 2017 and only owned it for a little over a year. Easily the worst car I’ve owned. Ride was terrible, handling terrible, brakes terrible, seats terrible engine was lacklustre. Moved to bmw and like chalk and cheese….335 is fast, smooth, comfortable and a better car around. Never own another Subaru
Dodged failed rod bearings. Good choice. These cars are made of glass and subi dickriders won't give you a word in edge wise, and go down their cleverly crafted checklists of gaslighting tactics to justify the pos engine, along with everything else. I've owned numerous cars and the wrx is the BEST taken care of, maintained, least horseplay endured, car I've ever had, just to need the engine replacement before 50k. Oil changes every 3-4k checked oil weekly, never was low. All of this headache for a car that can't beat another car w/o an engine, being pulled by a resting turtle. In a 14 st at 105k and runs like a clock and will be bumping it up to 350-400 this spring. Perfect compression still.
I drive a 2020 WRX ; workingman's Porsche
Other its pretty bang for your buck out the factory for what you get compared to other cars I don't get the same feeling or what you're saying about the inspiration of an evolution of the Porche. Looks nothing like the GC8.
I almost sold my immaculate, modified 2021 Swift Sport for a 2014 WRX. Kind of glad I didn't.
Fingernails and boogers. Yep! Haha. Instant follow. Great video.
Welcome!