Great video! I've had a 21 WRX for two years and drove the new one this morning. Put a deposit down as soon as I returned. The car feels great, and more comfortable. Can't wait to pick it up.
I really enjoy my 2021 STI. The VB chassis seems like its going to get lots of good aftermarket support. The STI drivetrain is the decisive point for me. The STI 6 speed is the best.
Been in Hondas my entire life, a few s2000's and some Si's and Accords. Test drove my very first subbie wrx not too long ago and i absolutely love this car. It drives like a dream, and im probably one of the few that actually likes the way that it looks. So happy i pulled the trigger on it.
Sold my 2005 STi (which I owned for around 15 years) over the pandemic and am considering a new VB now. The input and info from this video is great! Super happy to hear an irl opinion of someone who owns/drives both an older STi and a new WRX
Honestly you opened my eyes to this car. I was pretty negative about them till I saw the oem+ options. Definitely a car I'd consider buying when I could
The *large* majority of negative comments about these cars are from people that have never owned one & *will* never own one. They're from people that only read comments on the internet and have no clue about the reality of these cars. I've had an 06 STi for 15 years.. 99% of the negatives about Subaru's come from the owners and/or is due to the owners fault.
I bought a 23 WRX manual new with 7 miles on it a little over a month ago and it's got 1250 miles now and absolutely love the car. I got it in black and it's just a beautiful car and looks pretty mean. The gas mileage is better than they say too. Very fun car and feels very solid all around.
I'm glad your review was so positive in the end. I already own a 22 VB, but I always go back and look at reviews for stuff I already bought, because I'm an idiot and I just can't be happy with what I have lol. I need other people who own same shit I have to agree with me that I made a good choice, but it has burned me so many times in the past when the reviewer hates what I bought.
You don't need anyone to justify anything my man, as long as you are happy with it that's all that matters at the end of the day 🔥 ain't no one else driving your car, but you 🫡
I remember leaving a comment saying “I can’t wait for your VB build” like 9 months ago. And you relied “I’m getting a VB?” 😂 yes, yes you were. Glad you did. I love my VB. I’m team cladding tho. Painted fenders makes it look kinda weird IMO
I own the GT version of this car. Absolutely in love. I agree with everything he says a part from the MT because obviously mine has the AUTO SPT. DEF A MAJOR UPGRADE compared to the VA cvt’s. I can switch gears in seconds like no other. Power delivery is very linear through out the power band. Head-unit does indeed glitch, freeze, black screen more that I’d like. It’s fast but not crazy fast. Perfect for me. Super comfortable and practical for everyday use. Love this car. Def have plans to improve the outside. VA Stu wing, wheels, full aero kit, aka lip, skirts and diffuser 👌🏽
I took my Crosstrek in for an oil change and tire rotation this morning at the dealership. Sat in the WRX that’s in the showroom and one of the first things that really stood out to me compared to many other modern vehicles is that I LOVED the relatively flat and low dashboard. It was so easy to see straight out ahead with no obstructions in your view. For some reason, it seems all manufacturers now have to build their vehicles with massive bulky interiors that are difficult to see out of and windows that seem to get smaller and smaller. I won’t be trading in my Crosstrek because I tend to hit the desert roads, off the beaten path stuff, etc. but I’ve always loved the WRX (especially the mid 2000s with the wing, hood scoop, and gold BBS wheels!)
I purchased my first sti back in 2004 and my current car is a 2021 sti. Always driven sti's....had the original bug eye new back in 2003 and a 2017 wrx. The sti was always more appealing to me. If future models of the wrx add SI drive, brembos, Recaro seats, and redesign the rear bumper I'd add one to my garage along side my sti. Otherwise I can't see myself buying one as it sits currently.
Thanks for including me in your video! I remember when you cane fir my TunerTalk we discussesd the 22. Now youll have to come back after thr AP unlocks and you get all tuned up. Just remember, what ever performance part you buy, buy 2 and send me one 🤣
I just swapped my '21 STI with 18k miles, for a brand new WRX. Living in South Florida, my STI as a daily driver was getting pretty annoying in all the traffic down here. I can't wait to finish breaking this new one in!
I feel like the only time you should get an STi over the VB is if you actually race/track the car on a regular basis. I was in the market for a brand new car that was 4door, awd, turbo, manual trans.. I’ve also owned an ‘07 STi and a couple WRXs so the VB was a no brainer. Especially since they updated the engine. I needed a reliable daily driver.. not taking chances on a used STi and I don’t need the brembos and drivetrain to drive 40mph in traffic and stoplights every 2 miles.
100%, if someone is doing dedicated Motorsports activities on the regular I would say get the STI. Saves money on brakes, drive train R&D already done with EJs and we already know how to build them
@@Smeedia curious how would the Motec for port+direct injection (i.e. dual) integrate with the OEM systems? For some of us (crypto kiddies), cost is less of the issue. For me if the WRX had the styling and hot hatch of the Type R, it would be a no brainer for me to dump an extra $25K into it. As it is, I am debating whether to do massive surgery on a Type R to add AWD or to major surgery on a VB to remove the diaper and/or replicate the NBR Challenge wide body. But I draw the line on recreating a Porsche 911 Turbo as you did. I prefer to stay with an I4/H4. The styling of VA and STis are too tame for me in a pedestrian Japanese 4-door sedan sort of boring a.f.. Your H6 EG33 one with the fender flares and fender exhaust port still looks like a vanilla sedan to me and wannabe racer boy rice toy. Rice rice baby is what we used to say in Commifornia back in the day when you were still a kiddo. If I want semi-tame but with a good sense of style, I want a 11th gen Type R.
@@Smeedia Well unless you have deep pockets, want to swap in the DCCD and want the direct injection platform. The issue for me is that the VA and STi (other than the older hatches which are too short to sleep in the back prone position which I need) just look like pedestrian 4-door sedan rice wannabe Speed Racer mismatches. The VB is borderline non-rice styling (if they had only made it a fast back style hot hatch, not that Impreza/Crosstek bulbous SUV crossover rear, I would be ecstatic) and has huge styling upside if someone replicates the 2023 NBR Challenge wide body in a kit, but that fugly diaper can not be rectified without lopping off the ~3 inches of steel overhang underneath the bumper cover. No redesign of the bumper cover can overcome the fact that steel protrusion forces a diaper on the rear. Of course I do not like the infotainment crap on the VB, but we do not have many options these days. The Type R Civic has a much superior interior, styling and has the fast back style hatch I want, but it can not put down big power on launch w/o AWD. Also too much power in a FWD even with that fancy front suspension design, is going to make the car less stable (which might be fun for some, but I want to be able to cart my family around sometimes). I guess it also depends on the goal. There is probably not a huge market for $25k mods on a $40k vehicle, except as a vlogger on TH-cam. I suppose if you could approach the performance and styling of a 911 at half the cost and have the practicality of being able to cart kids, that might be worthwhile to more guys. I reckon the Japanese OEMs would have given us this, except government is making it impossible for them to do so, i.e. C.A.F.E. penalties.
Just picked up my first wrx yesterday. I hated the look of this car when it came out but it’s grown on me. Hearing all the good reviews finally had me at the dealership. So glad I did, I’ve loved the first 24 hours with it.
heck you can get em cheaper than a USED wrx sti.. heck some people even are wanting almost what a new wrx is worth for the older wrx with like 75,000 miles on them.. market is ridiculous stupid.. Why get a used one when you can get a new one better deal
Never hated the VB, but after watching your videos, I finally went on a test drive today. I absolutely loved it. The power delivery is great. It feels much tighter and lighter than my 5th gen LGT without too much compromise in space and comfort. I might pull the trigger on a base one as they seem the better value and I don’t care about infotainments.
Can’t wait to buy my VB Subaru soon they do look like big baby diapers but they do seem more reliable in my opinion for a turbo all wheel drive 4 door sedan…especially for 30k to 40k based on trim
As someone who owns one, honestly fully depends, but imo it’s the best bang for buck car you can buy right now off the lot, it’s such a fun and fast and good looking car, and honestly not really all that expensive.
Between this and the sti, where one shines the other lacks and vise versa. I'd say if someone could own both there would be no regrets. But I know that's not always possible. As a standalone car, I think the VB makes for a better daily and can be built for what I'd say 80% of the subaru enthusiasts would want.
@@tbunreall Thank you for stating your opinion as fact, even though in my opinion You're wrong. I'll even include some examples from my extensive driving of them both. The N is not a pleasant daily driver, the interior noise is ridiculous, power delivery is iffy at best, and it can not handle the curves anywhere near as good as the WRX (oh, and it's a Hyundai/Kia). I might agree if we were comparing the Elentra N to a 2010 WRX STI, but not against the VB.
@@starlinreese9206 You'll be hard pressed to find a journalist who will take a wrx over an elentra n. And the elentra n puts up better lap times than a wrx. The elentra n interior also doesn't feel like a fisher price car. And it's hyundai, great, I get a 10 year warranty
VB owner here. Loved the car fun to mod and pratical AF. I wouldn't paint my flender flares even if it was offered free to do so. Its a unique look to the VB
Preach brother. I really wish Subaru made the VB STI. Oh well I upgraded from a 2017 WRX to a 2020 STI. The cars are like night and day. The VA STI reigns Supreme. Oh yeah. 😊 Happy 4th of July brother.
Everyone hated on it for looks but its a great car, i hated the cladding too like everyone else but after like 1500 in mods i love my car now it looks amazing, cladding grows on you. Just the rear ass/diaper bumper sucks so bad. Even the tail lights just get the blackout stickers it helps it alot, and a wing i love my wang, wang gang
Ive gotten to where i dont hate it but dont love it, im still going back and forth on eventually paint matching them lol. But they arent really hideous for sure
Totally agree the VB would have got much less hate had they gave the Sti a proper sendoff. 380-390 hp special exterior goodies. Just would have done it right instead of what we eventually received
@@Blue_Ghost-X those arent really an sti. its still a wrx only but with STI Sport R flagship trim level. some basic cosmetic mods, recaros and an "STI" badge. so yeah nah, its not an sti at heart.
I came from a 17 Mustang GT premium because I needed AWD (just moved to WA) and Basically I am JDM guy at heart (RX7 is the dream car for me someday) so I went with the VB. This car is my daily and I don't plan on ever taking it past 500hp. Honestly, 400whp in the Mustang felt like plenty for a daily driven street car but that could also have been more of a RWD thing even though I had 305s on it. I'm new to this platform but not new to AWD had a Focus RS before the Mustang. So far I am really happy with it and the looks have totally grown on me. This car seems to have one of the best price-to-performance ratios I've seen in a long time considering what you can get out of it for putting in so little. An intake and an Accessport with an e30 tune and you're already pushing 400 for basically 1500 bucks.
I have not hit 1k miles on my VB yet. I love this car. There are youtubers out there that have this car and are doing really click bait / FUD types of videos over the VB. It's nice to see honest and sincere thoughts about the platform. I hope you continue find happiness with your VB just like I am.
I remember the video where you got the DRL trims for your VB. That excitement.. That's why I keep watching. Cus I know that feeling. I have it every time I do something new with this car. My bank account hates me though.
@testmad9610 very very excited to continue building this thing, I try to be honest and upfront with things and try to avoid all the clickbait when possible 🫡
I’ve been looking at the WRX but wasn’t sure. This video made a lot of great points and pushed me closer to getting one. Thanks for the video that wasn’t just all stars and whatever.
Started looking at a ignition red base model for 34 and then the limited that they had on the lot was 38,honestly was amazed at the small options that added up fast
I've had mine for a year now, just hit 10 000km and love the car. I got it in black to hide some of the plastics but the plastic never bothered me too much and i like it now. I need the tint, raingaurds and front grill, makes it look much better. The infotainment can be laggy and frustrating at times. Sometimes my FM radio just straight up doesnt work and you have to turn the car off and turn it back on for it to work lol
Taking a test drive is all it took for me to make my decision to buy one. The turn in and no rev hang, comfort and stock tuning are all fantastic to me.
Most of the haters have never driven one. They may not love the styling, but that is an easy fix and some will get over it when they take it on a canyon run.
@@Smeedia I was just about to say, sounds and looks like no rev hang! Is that really from factory like that? I had '21 and it def had some serious rev hang
@@AP-lw6of Yes, there's no rev hang in the newer WRX's from factory. I have a 2023 WRX and there's no rev hang in mine and I never tuned it and I don't plan on it. The stock tune on these cars is great.
No rev hang is what eventually made me decide to buy one as I had an Si before the WRX that had terrible rev hang and it drove me nuts in the Si. Subaru did a great job with these new WRX's. They drive amazing and they're smooth as heck to shift. No rev hang is probably my favourite thing about this car as it drove me nuts so bad in the Si that I couldn't stand driving the car.
Pay extra? There is no way to fix that rear short of major surgery. The ~3 inches of steel overhang in the rear must be lopped off before any redesign of the bumper cover can remove the diaper extension.
The car has definitely grown on me since its inception, but the one thing I have always had an issue with and still do is that front grill. Stock its too big. Thankfully there are some that are coming out that look better and better. I considered trading my 2020 wrx in but the upfront cost to customize it to make it look good to me is too much right now.
Subaru had such a cool grill shape, this new thing looks like a cross between a 3 series and a civic yet looks like neither. I squint and try to see an impreza but really just see crosstrek
I just bought a 23 WRX and its not just my first subaru but also my first new car. I got the premium trim with no HK sound and its fantastic. I only have had it a couple of days but I love it. I am coming off a 2013 VW Passat TDI and the power of this car and handling are just a huge step up.
As always this was a good video. Very informative. I’m one of the odd ones that purchased a 22 WRX GT and have almost 10k miles. I haven’t driven a stick shift in twenty years and too lazy to try at this point. I drive a crap ton of city miles and didn’t want to mess with it. The Recaro seats were the selling point for me as was the sunroof. I loved the way the seats felt during the test drive and still love them every time I get in them. I will say that I went in knowing that I wasn’t going to do any significant modifications other than cosmetics. It’s fun to drive and I love it. I would love to drive a 21 STI though. One day.
@@Smeedia I like the way it feels but can’t compare it to anything else as it’s my first Subaru ever. I do like the drive modes and each feels different than the last.
Traded my 2018 STI for a 2022 WRX GT. It is my 7th Subaru, five in the WRX/STI lineup. I love both cars and some days think I goofed, but I’m really enjoying the GT. Sport+ mode changes the feel completely, stiff and quick.
I really appreciate your input. Let me preface my following statements by saying, I’ve never owned a Subaru and don’t know much about them. I just test drove one this past weekend and it was a smooth drive and the car felt very responsive. Thank you and I’ll be following your channel from now on.
i went a different route and traded my 15' FBO WRX for a 20 GR Supra. Such a great car and the attention it gets in person makes me feel like i'm in a supercar or something.
I was looking at getting a WRX, so I test drove a gently used STI and a gently used 2022. Overall, the 2022 is just a better car for little-ol-me, and also has a nicer modern interior than the STI, which is getting a little dated at this point. Other things like normal light-to-light drivability and cost to own/operate is in favor of the 22+ as well. The warranty doesn't hurt either. I've had the 2022 for a few days now and I'm loving it.
Factory ordered Limited 6M in Feb 2022 sight unseen and have had since May 2022 (65th birthday present to myself). I traded in my 2007 Legacy GT Limited 5 speed after 15 years as daily driver. Styling has grown on me and I think the Saphire Blue works with my wanting to remain under the radar). Can't believe how easy it is to redline because it is 100% until redline. (Very different than my 2.5 l legacy) Wished redline was not 6100 but it will probably keep me out of trouble. Have always had a stick (1990 Eagle Talon TSi AWD was ablast too) except brief stint with 300M where I learned paddle shifters are a joke. Excellent video!
I wouldn’t trade my 16 sti for one but I’m very interested to see what the VB will look like when there are aftermarket bumper options. I’ve grown to accept the look of the front but the diaper in the rear is too much😂
@@Smeedia I really want to see varis make bumpers for it. Right now it seems like the way to fix the cosmetic complaints people have is to just make it look more like the VA with paint matching and adding the wing
There are a couple options for aftermarket bumpers. They are expensive unpainted options. But… they are there. Trust me if you own the car the rest of the styling and performance overpowers that rear end. I’ve had my 22 for over a year. I don’t see the rear like I first did in amateur launch pics. It’s not that bad. I’ve raced many stage 1-2 STi and I’m between a car length or two faster every time at launch or any roll. Plus I get a TON more compliments then when I had my 15 STi. This car is a true upgrade. Go drive one.
I test drove a sapphire VB at the beginning of the year and enjoyed it. It was my first time driving manual in years, plus I broke my left femur about a year prior. I had just paid off my current car and just couldn't justify going through car payments again for a bit. I still want it
@@Smeedia it broke while bowling. Doctors don't know why, but I think I had a stress crack from some heavy stuff that we were on a work project a week or two before.
After putting the finishing touches to my ‘13 mustang 5.0 (supercharger on E85 with every supporting upgrade imaginable) I needed something still fun and zippy as a daily… the mustang only gets 130 miles a tank and is now a total diva… a 730RWHP diva. I picked the 2023 limited WRX. Seen to many happy owners and thought hmmm maybe there’s something to this. I’ve owned it for 1 week and I freaken love it. Ive already ordered the cobb port tuner… I got the itch.
WAIIIIIIIIT hold off on the AP, Cobb has not released software yet so it won't work yet. ( it will work once the software comes out. Then you'll just need to update the AP) But glad to hear 🥳 the mustang aounds like a riot! I've wanted to snag an S550 for a while but somehow never have enough room for more cars 😅
@@Smeedia ahhh ok glad you said something I can cancel the order asap. Probably just snag an ETS CAI for it then. I’ll take it to a professional tuning shop that specializes on subies and ask what is the best course of action. Lower it and tint these windows asap. I appreciate your knowledge here!!!! Also yeah the mustang is a freaken hoot. If you ever make room, go for it! ✌️
I remember telling you that you need to try one. I feel like you saw my comment and thought twice about it. Glad you're liking the vb. A few more mods and you'll see what it's all about.
My base 2023 wrx have 0 problem with the infotainment, connect with my phone in a second and never randomdly disconnect. Just the for Light bezel look soo good .
It took me like 6 miles to get over the back bumper.. driving experience is amazing…. Also I enjoy the taillights, looking at my wife’s ‘19 forester I can see the evolution.. but it ls not like you can’t see Nissan in the VA taillights.
Coming from a 325 hp 15 STI, I don’t regret the trade. This car handles really good and personally after seeing a few with body mods compared to modified fa wrx’s out there, I feel like vb actually looks better after a few mods. I’m probably being biased but at least that’s how I feel about the car. Not to mention that this engine has a lot of tuning potential having one out there already making 9s in the 1/4 mile. Is truly surprisingly considering I used to hate it when it first came out
definition of a Subaru fanboy that will just like whatever WRX puts out.. just wow.. they literally put a diaper on the rear of the car added plastic cladding up the wazoo.. every ugly styling trend currently out right now is on the wrx
@@ImGearsBeast so you have to get 4 body colored plastic fenders to begin to make the car look ok.. and then you still have a fucking diaper on the rear of the car that looks absurdly cheap and soulles as well as a Crosstrek front end. Seriously? Just buy another car
Couldn’t agree more with everything you said! I find it hilarious that damn near everyone is iffy about this generation at first but ends up loving it after all. I’m also on the same boat with everyone else
was waiting on a gr corolla, but after seeing the markups on it said frak that and now waiting to see if i can get in a vb instead. way cheaper and about all the same fun except not a hatch which doesnt bother me much. keep up the great vids man :)
Yeah looks like a great car but I'm in the same boat, not gonna spend that kind of money. It's the reason I never got the Civic type R because of those crazy markups and dealership BS!
Sold my Jeep and bought a brand new 2024 Premium trim and its the best thing I've ever done for myself honestly. LOVE THE THING. AND THE HEAD UNITS HAVE BEEN UPDATED MUCH MCUH BETTER!!!
It’s just too bad they made the handling so bad on the new WRX, even Matt and Zack on thesmokingtire posted last week that it’s unusable at track and terrible steering and handling in canyons. We asked Subaru engineer why and he explained the new WRX is built on SUV platform using Crosstrek front and rear open diff with SUV electronic brake vectoring and electronic steering. He said in the past the STI handle and steering better due to front LSD, center DCCD diff, rear LSD, and hydraulic steering.
Considering a decent mileage 2019+ STi costs around the same as a new WRX I’d take the STi. In fact, that’s what I did. The FA24 makes power more easily and the interior is newer, but the deal breaker for me was the seats, drivetrain, and brakes. I also didn’t like the low redline either and I wasn’t a fan of the new infotainment. The VA STi’s sucks too but I have a fervent hatred for touch screen HVAC and the iDoing fixes all the issues with the stock system.
Don't blame you at all 🔥 tbh I prefer the interior in the VA over the VB. Where one of them lacks the other seems to pick up and vise versa 🔥 love both my STI and the wrx. Two cars for two different applications 🥳
@@SmeediaI think that’s the main problem with the VB in general, especially in the context of there being no STi after it being basically ready for launch by most accounts. These parts were all available to to give us a better WRX. Even just the STi 6-speed and the Brembos would have been a huge improvement.
Agreed. I just got a 21 sti and couldn't be happier. I'm sure I'll look at the newer wrx's in the future but all your points were the reason I went with the used sti vs new wrx. Fortunately I got lucky with my used sti and as time goes on it will be harder and harder to find those gently used/1 owner used sti's
@@colingiles4251 you probably know the direct-injection is fuel limited at higher revs and big power, unless upside the injectors which ostensibly has some downsides. Port (and dual, i.e. port+direct) injection does not have this limitation. Also dual or port injection mitigates issues with soot accumulation on valves and inside crankcase, as well as fuel accumulation in the oil, which can otherwise be catastrophic. Dual injection favors the port injection until the engine warms up, which is essentially for short trips.
I wanted a car that no one had beaten on and I wanted to modify from 0 to go to the track every once in a while… added carbotech pads and some new lines and I love my VB I’m glad I made the choice over the sti or the evos I was looking at.
@@stormblessed9455 yeah they fade pretty quick i went on a touge run with a few other subies and i had to coast in the 2nd stint. Installed new pads, ss lines and high temp fluid the difference is night and day.
Well as a first time va STI owner who primarily owned american muscle, I really enjoy the STI for the way it feels. It actually reminds me of my gt350 on the "feel" side. The big things i am addressing on my personal ownership is making it reliable since i bought a bruhmodded STI for a lot less than what i would've spent on a stock STI. The engine checked out and i have just stayed out of boost since i just cruise on my commute to work. If you're not looking at wrenching on your car and keeping the commuter simple than I'd say wrx sounds very appealing, but im not switching to something less engaging. Great content!
Picked up a 23 VB this year for a daily so I could exclusively track my Evo X. Used to have a 13 STI but traded that for the Evo X. I am very happy with the VB and it’s a lot better of a daily for sure then both the Evo and STI. But you hit it right on the nail it’s not as mechanical and raw feeling but it still is a blast to drive. A great daily driver
I honestly thought this car looked like crap when they released it but when I went to a dealership and bought one it grows on you a lot I would agree the back looks goofy but the front looked more aggressive and I like how the rear tail lights dont wrap around to the side of the rear fender makes a much cleaner look to the car from the side and in my personal opinion I think the front look more aggressive than all the other years of subaru especially after getting a front lip. With that being said I have come to love the new wrx and no mater what car you but in this world there will always be something you or someone doesn't like about it for a daily having more space in the car is great plenty of room in the trunk and a lot more leg room for people in back seat hate it or love it they not gonna go anywhere and more and more parts come out evey few months give it another year or two and the aftermarket parts will be a lot cheaper
You can rationalize it all you want, because you do not see the rear of your own vehicle, but tell me you do not wince or look away at the rear of every VB you view on the road. Just because we love our ugly wives, does not mean others don’t wince when viewing the winch in our passenger seat.
About the Infotainment complaints, it seems to be an issue for a lot of cars/truck, and not limited to Subaru. I purchased a '23 Ram Limited (over $75k) and the infotainment has bugs as well - but I still love the truck. Great review. Thanks.
Loving my vb so far, only complaint I have is infotainment, I got the base model. And the bottom screen is so empty and useless they put a full touch screen just to put a small row of ac controls across the bottom. Would love if someone cracks it so there could be something useful on it or just replace it with analog ac controls...
My 2 cents on a few of your talk points: - CVT VB WRX is the ideal purchase for a "sporty" daily driver for your avg non-enthusiast driver. Those folks will likely never do any serious power mods, so the CVT should hold up long term for them without issues as well. - the VB styling, youre on the money here. Subarus motto in like the 80s was "cheap and ugly".. Theyve always been goofy looking cars, and thats why we love them. Still not a fan of the "full diaper" rear bumper though lol. - STI is the track car, the VB is the better daily.
I'm curious if your opinion has changed since you have at this point in time, sold your VB WRX. I've personally been a fan boy of the STI platform forever but have only ever driven 2018+ sti's and I like how they drive other than the stock tune which is garbage as we all know. So if your goal was a fun daily with around 400whp, it sounds like the VB would be where its at, but would the trans handle that?
I think the S209 was the final "goodbye" to the EJ and the STI. I know they were available for another couple years, but that seems to have been the intention. As far as looks go, I like what you've done with it so far. I've always felt the front end was good looking and aggressive, but the rear and the tail lights let it down terribly. Every front angle looks great. I thought the spats in the last video helped with the diaper look, but I understand it's all personal preference.
It was. I think every S209 made was hand built. People always gasp at the price of the S209 and say, "Why not get a Porsche at that point lol". S209 was last sendoff of EJ based STi. Literally the best factory EJ WRX STi that will ever be made, ever. Yeah it is over $70k. And they are very limited. But if you love the most of what a WRX STi can be, and love that VA look, it can make sense. And if you can even get one, dealer markups are crazy from what I've heard. Savagegeese did a good review of the S209. I'm not sipping gold flaked champagne so I would sooner get a VB. But if I was...I mean it is the best STi...
@@Hypn0s2 While S209 was good, it was vastly outdated by the new Type R. Subaru sat on the STI for over 15 years with the same engine and layout. It took Honda 1 gen of Turbo engine development to beat the EJ easily. The JDM STI is much better but Subaru never brought the JDM Engine design over here. Their engine development is slow and never gotten any traction to start new and improved designs. Today it's save to say that a Hyundai Elantra N is better buy than STI.
CAFE and emissions killed the STi. And the internal combustion engine in any form larger than 1.3L will be gone by 2028. The govt ruins everything. But we need to save the planet from extinction.
@@Vision33r I love everything about the Type R more than the WRX, except the lack of AWD. Have you seen the Type R spin the front tires, bog and hop when launched? The Type R is okay with that power level, but no way I am putting 500 HP in a front wheel drive even with the Type R's special front suspension design.
Just because there has been a lot of complaints about the head unit... I've had the car 2 months and have 3k miles. Have had 0 issues with the head unit. Just figured I'd throw it out there since people don't voice when they have 0 issues.
After doing the latest update, it helped a ton but still not perfect. The android auto seems to be the worst part thus far. Glad to hear that not all of them are having issues
Got our ‘22 VB in December. Only things I would add is that you’re going to see your MPG improve even more, post 1k break-in. Between 1,500 and 4k in mileage, the mpg increased to a solid 22.5 in mixed driving. Also, just have to say it🤷🏽♂️….not a fan of the finish and function of the “additional fog lights” as they were sold originally. Not as additional DRL’s. Took them off and put the stock one’s back on. But hey, to each their own.
Ive owned a 22 wrx and a 16 sti. I would say the only major difference in terms of noticeable backroad fun is the stis front lsd really helps a lot for on throttle corners. Commuting the vb was a lot better. Now modified is another story
@Smeedia you'll notice it'll overpower and spin the outside front tire first. Whereas the sti would stay gripped up. The tradeoff I noticed is that the vb has 0 torque steer. The sti due to the lsd does definitely have some throttle feedback to the wheel, which can be pertinent in some undulating road situations during cornering. Though I will say my gd sti (with the more rear biased, didn't seem to feel nearly as torque steery, this is with the dccd to the rear on the va). Just food for thought.
@@paco111ification VB has understeer if you put wider tires and/or offset the wheels out to the stance of the fenders. Presumably this can be rectified with a STi DCCD + transmission swap along with the front and rear LSDs.
Why can't the Direct Injectors and High Pressure fuel pump be upgraded to up the fueling, rather than needing to add port injection? Hoping we will see built FA24 engines from people like IAG soon.
A had a 22 limited that I purchsed new $500 below msrp, I absolutely loved it until a semi ran down the side of it and totaled it. Funnest daily driver I ever owned. Would love to have another one. I'm hoping an STI comes out in the near future.
First Subaru; been a big fan. Owned for just over 6 months (FA24 Base in Red). It's like a Porsche 911 or GS Adventure model motorbike. Either you like the aesthetics or not. Ease of maintenance is great. Road noise is something to get used to. I'll see if Michelin tires might make a difference. Still made in Japan was number one on my purchase list. Still most under warranty so mods will be slow forthcoming as to not void warranty. Great platform for mods.
I just ordered my vb wrx in cermaic white with the STi short throw yesterday and I'm excited for when it comes. I wanted a used STi but ultimately I like how the vb wrx looks and wanted something brand new.
Just bought mine a couple of days ago, the 2023 premium trim. I have not experienced any problems with the infotainment system, the driving is much better, and the car feels like it wants you to rip it every time. Pros: drives very very nice, strong pulls, comfortable, smooth. Infotainment looks great! (Apple car play only). So many upgrades Cons: halogen lights on the Base/Premium trim interior, no spare wheel, weird turn signal Ps: I can’t wait to take it to the beach!!
I have a 2023 wrx. I am really liking it. I used to have a heavily modded 08 wrx and this is such a better built car. Performance and feel is massively better.
I absolutely love my VB. Traded in my ‘19 Golf R for it and have never been happier. I drive mostly on mountain roads and dirt roads so this is perfect. Very similar power delivery to the golf R and a simple stage 1 tune wakes it up so much. I run Vredestein quattrac pros on it and it’s a beast off-road.
@@Smeediadude I'm so glad that you got one! Can't wait to see the potential of the VB platform and its limiting factors. Probably the trans will be the weakest link but we will see
I test drove this over the weekend. It’s a nice car BUT felt too comfortable. It doesn’t have that connection to the road. The look does resemble a civic and to make it look decent you can NOT go with the basic package. No premium wheels , no LED lights , 2 small screens , the seats don’t feel or look like racing bucket seats etc…. Would also need some body modifications. But it does have lots potential. For some reason my sti Felt waaay faster especially off the launch. I’d stick with my sti overall. This WRX should have competed with the rest of the newer cars and should have came with Atleast 300whp. There was a lot of hype to it and not much was actually done engine wise.
STIs stock for stock will always give a faster feeling. Thr way boost response is on an EJ vs an FA is never same same. An Ej hits you like a ton of breaks when it starts to pick up 😅 I will agree in stock trim it dosent feel all that great, with some basic nods though it honestly completely changed how the car feels. 🙏
It has TONS of potential and I’ve seen some that I’d definitely switch for my sti.( once fixed up ). I’m staying tuned on your journey. Excited to see the end result. More than anything I’m looking forward to the rx7 😅😅
I have the dual screen and I've noticed similar issues. The unit will freeze or not accept inputs. Another issue is the steering wheel audio controls sometimes don't work. Otherwise, the car is great.
i did buy a wrx 2024 red ignition sport tech because of how it looks! I love the look. ( obviously the previous version was better looking but i still dig it ) :)
I was driving next to a blue vb on the way in to work and I can say they look better in person! But I still love the style of my 2021 wrx better! I tried to get him to run it with me but he wouldn’t bite 😂 I’m curious on the acceleration difference fa20 to fa24! Maybe next time! Keep up the great content man 👍
The Fa platform is just so much safer of a platform honestly. And the VB is so much nicer to daily than my VA ever was even stock. It def doent just feel like a facelift. The other thing is it is one of the only sports cars that you can actually get at msrp without a dealer markup. Great bang for your buck and with fbo e85 and a good tune you are making easy and reliable power.
I bought a 21 WRX with the explicit plan to trade for the new generation STI when it came out (rip) now, i am considering trading for the 24 WRX TR. As far as i can tell its about the engine and with the absence of the ej... may need to go to fa24 instead of being stuck on the fa20
I’m in the market for an AWD sedan at the moment, and I’ve been asking myself for awhile should I get the VB or a Wrx sti 19+. I believe based off where I’m in my life, I am looking to have a car that I get excited about driving. I don’t commute anywhere because I work from home. I’m 26, and I don’t have kids. I’m looking for with a driving experience for more smile per gallon than anything. I’ve only test driven an STi, but maybe test driving a VB would change my mind. My heart is set for an STi but this video is making reconsider just a little bit. However I’m leaning more towards the STi because I’m still young and might as well go hard before I start really thinking about what’s next. The styling and the uel headers are also the breaking point for me between the VB and the STI
one thing you didnt mention is the VB shifter feels a million times better than the VA shifter. stock VA shifter feels like you're breaking something every time you put it in any gear & you have to absolutely wrestle it to get in reverse. VB shifter is like butter compared to the VA.
I agree. I had a ‘21 and now a ‘23. The VB shifter is way smoother. And my ‘21 had the same drivetrain upgrades as the ‘23 (STi SS, Cobb shift plate, shifter stop and bushing). VB shifter almost feels like a german car by comparison. On another note the stock tune on the VA was just awful, even stage 1 OTS was just ok. Stock VB tune is miles better.
Why out an Sti badge on it if it’s a better car than an Sti. Put a wing in it too 😂! Weird how people wanna say it’s a better overall car yet they wanna wear the badge and take all the best part of the Sti amd out in in this wrx. IMO all your getting is a engine that cheaper to get Power out of.
I daily a 21 sti and am keeping it long term but if I didn't manage to get that (last batch imported to australia) I'd get the WRX. What would be even better if they put the WRX engine in the Crosstrek.
Thats all im waiting for is a fa24dit crosstrek with a manual, they would have my money in a heartbeat. I dont think they'll ever do it though. I got a 05 forester making close to 300, and just bought 22 outback onyx xt. Its night and day difference dailying the outback. So much more quiet and comfy. Fa24 mpg is awesome for the power it gives i can average over 30mpg on the highway easily.
Lol I’m dumb I got both. Nothing compares to the old GD Sti to me like you said it’s raw feeling, but this VB is definitely dope asf I love it nice n smooth my gf like it’s ride you don’t feel everything on the road. So far on my VB only upgrade is to the brake calipers I did brembos all around. Best thing I did to it. Now toying with getting Cobb and doing dual maps n getting some E in there
yeah dude i have the worst insurance full coverage on my gr is like 3 times what you pay o got a few tickets in the past. might have gone with the brand new car but with the insurance it was unrealistic
I have the 22 premium wrx with hk and moonroof package. I agree with everything that has been said but the biggest gripe for me is the carplay connectivity (or lack thereof) where it disconnects atleast 1-2 times during every drive. I am ok with it being wired carplay but when it still disconnects during your drive, it just annoys the heck out of me. I even updated the software version of the infotainment myself where all the hvac controls are in the main screen but the disconection still happens. Besides that, happy with the power and awd grip here in Seattle. I think the only awd performance car that is comparable is gr corolla and vw r but both costs more than this given it has less power compared to both.
Great video!
I've had a 21 WRX for two years and drove the new one this morning. Put a deposit down as soon as I returned. The car feels great, and more comfortable. Can't wait to pick it up.
I really enjoy my 2021 STI. The VB chassis seems like its going to get lots of good aftermarket support. The STI drivetrain is the decisive point for me. The STI 6 speed is the best.
The STI drive train is one of the best ones out there 🔥
100% same reasoning here
There is also STI 6 speed swaps that have been done to VB chassis WRX and VA chassis WRX, which is pretty awesome
2020-2021 sti are the best.
It’s literally 10K more for an STI now over a 22 wrx. Not worth it at all, plus suspension is improved.
Been in Hondas my entire life, a few s2000's and some Si's and Accords. Test drove my very first subbie wrx not too long ago and i absolutely love this car. It drives like a dream, and im probably one of the few that actually likes the way that it looks. So happy i pulled the trigger on it.
Sold my 2005 STi (which I owned for around 15 years) over the pandemic and am considering a new VB now. The input and info from this video is great! Super happy to hear an irl opinion of someone who owns/drives both an older STi and a new WRX
Honestly you opened my eyes to this car. I was pretty negative about them till I saw the oem+ options.
Definitely a car I'd consider buying when I could
I was suuuuper negative on them as well, and I will admit I was pleasantly surprised with the Car 🫣
The *large* majority of negative comments about these cars are from people that have never owned one & *will* never own one. They're from people that only read comments on the internet and have no clue about the reality of these cars. I've had an 06 STi for 15 years.. 99% of the negatives about Subaru's come from the owners and/or is due to the owners fault.
I bought a 23 WRX manual new with 7 miles on it a little over a month ago and it's got 1250 miles now and absolutely love the car. I got it in black and it's just a beautiful car and looks pretty mean. The gas mileage is better than they say too. Very fun car and feels very solid all around.
I'm glad your review was so positive in the end.
I already own a 22 VB, but I always go back and look at reviews for stuff I already bought, because I'm an idiot and I just can't be happy with what I have lol. I need other people who own same shit I have to agree with me that I made a good choice, but it has burned me so many times in the past when the reviewer hates what I bought.
You don't need anyone to justify anything my man, as long as you are happy with it that's all that matters at the end of the day 🔥 ain't no one else driving your car, but you 🫡
Dude I'm the same way. 😅
Why do you think im watching it ? LMAO
Man those fog light bezels and front lip really improve the front of the car
They help it a TON
Yeah, they look great. I just wish they weren't $450 for a piece of shiny plastic with lights.
Naw I want to see what can he do with the rear man I just test drove one and I can't do it it looks too busy and squished
I remember leaving a comment saying “I can’t wait for your VB build” like 9 months ago. And you relied “I’m getting a VB?” 😂 yes, yes you were. Glad you did. I love my VB. I’m team cladding tho. Painted fenders makes it look kinda weird IMO
What fogs are those🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
I own the GT version of this car. Absolutely in love. I agree with everything he says a part from the MT because obviously mine has the AUTO SPT. DEF A MAJOR UPGRADE compared to the VA cvt’s. I can switch gears in seconds like no other. Power delivery is very linear through out the power band. Head-unit does indeed glitch, freeze, black screen more that I’d like. It’s fast but not crazy fast. Perfect for me. Super comfortable and practical for everyday use. Love this car. Def have plans to improve the outside. VA Stu wing, wheels, full aero kit, aka lip, skirts and diffuser 👌🏽
I got a GT as well I’m pushing 17.0 of boost about to get it one final tube to 19.5 and I’m going to call it there I will say the “SPT” is legit
i have an 04 sti and have been following your vids to help me! keep up the good work!
Eyyy appreciate the support and keep the GDs alive 🔥
GD>*
I took my Crosstrek in for an oil change and tire rotation this morning at the dealership. Sat in the WRX that’s in the showroom and one of the first things that really stood out to me compared to many other modern vehicles is that I LOVED the relatively flat and low dashboard. It was so easy to see straight out ahead with no obstructions in your view. For some reason, it seems all manufacturers now have to build their vehicles with massive bulky interiors that are difficult to see out of and windows that seem to get smaller and smaller. I won’t be trading in my Crosstrek because I tend to hit the desert roads, off the beaten path stuff, etc. but I’ve always loved the WRX (especially the mid 2000s with the wing, hood scoop, and gold BBS wheels!)
I purchased my first sti back in 2004 and my current car is a 2021 sti. Always driven sti's....had the original bug eye new back in 2003 and a 2017 wrx. The sti was always more appealing to me.
If future models of the wrx add SI drive, brembos, Recaro seats, and redesign the rear bumper I'd add one to my garage along side my sti. Otherwise I can't see myself buying one as it sits currently.
Honest opinion, how do you like the new sti's vs the 2004 sti. Thanks
Thanks for including me in your video! I remember when you cane fir my TunerTalk we discussesd the 22. Now youll have to come back after thr AP unlocks and you get all tuned up. Just remember, what ever performance part you buy, buy 2 and send me one 🤣
I think I'm done buying new for a while, but watching you mod this VB has been fun so far!
They got used 2022s 😉 kidding lol you got your hands full with some W8 goodness!
I just swapped my '21 STI with 18k miles, for a brand new WRX.
Living in South Florida, my STI as a daily driver was getting pretty annoying in all the traffic down here.
I can't wait to finish breaking this new one in!
I feel like the only time you should get an STi over the VB is if you actually race/track the car on a regular basis. I was in the market for a brand new car that was 4door, awd, turbo, manual trans.. I’ve also owned an ‘07 STi and a couple WRXs so the VB was a no brainer. Especially since they updated the engine. I needed a reliable daily driver.. not taking chances on a used STi and I don’t need the brembos and drivetrain to drive 40mph in traffic and stoplights every 2 miles.
100%, if someone is doing dedicated Motorsports activities on the regular I would say get the STI. Saves money on brakes, drive train R&D already done with EJs and we already know how to build them
damn after reading that I shouldn't have bought my 21 STi
@@Smeedia curious how would the Motec for port+direct injection (i.e. dual) integrate with the OEM systems? For some of us (crypto kiddies), cost is less of the issue.
For me if the WRX had the styling and hot hatch of the Type R, it would be a no brainer for me to dump an extra $25K into it. As it is, I am debating whether to do massive surgery on a Type R to add AWD or to major surgery on a VB to remove the diaper and/or replicate the NBR Challenge wide body. But I draw the line on recreating a Porsche 911 Turbo as you did. I prefer to stay with an I4/H4.
The styling of VA and STis are too tame for me in a pedestrian Japanese 4-door sedan sort of boring a.f.. Your H6 EG33 one with the fender flares and fender exhaust port still looks like a vanilla sedan to me and wannabe racer boy rice toy. Rice rice baby is what we used to say in Commifornia back in the day when you were still a kiddo. If I want semi-tame but with a good sense of style, I want a 11th gen Type R.
@@Smeedia Well unless you have deep pockets, want to swap in the DCCD and want the direct injection platform. The issue for me is that the VA and STi (other than the older hatches which are too short to sleep in the back prone position which I need) just look like pedestrian 4-door sedan rice wannabe Speed Racer mismatches. The VB is borderline non-rice styling (if they had only made it a fast back style hot hatch, not that Impreza/Crosstek bulbous SUV crossover rear, I would be ecstatic) and has huge styling upside if someone replicates the 2023 NBR Challenge wide body in a kit, but that fugly diaper can not be rectified without lopping off the ~3 inches of steel overhang underneath the bumper cover. No redesign of the bumper cover can overcome the fact that steel protrusion forces a diaper on the rear. Of course I do not like the infotainment crap on the VB, but we do not have many options these days. The Type R Civic has a much superior interior, styling and has the fast back style hatch I want, but it can not put down big power on launch w/o AWD. Also too much power in a FWD even with that fancy front suspension design, is going to make the car less stable (which might be fun for some, but I want to be able to cart my family around sometimes). I guess it also depends on the goal. There is probably not a huge market for $25k mods on a $40k vehicle, except as a vlogger on TH-cam. I suppose if you could approach the performance and styling of a 911 at half the cost and have the practicality of being able to cart kids, that might be worthwhile to more guys. I reckon the Japanese OEMs would have given us this, except government is making it impossible for them to do so, i.e. C.A.F.E. penalties.
Just picked up my first wrx yesterday. I hated the look of this car when it came out but it’s grown on me. Hearing all the good reviews finally had me at the dealership. So glad I did, I’ve loved the first 24 hours with it.
Congratulations 🥳 they styling definitely took a bit to get used to but it's really not that bad. People over hyping how bad it is
I was about to say the same thing about the new WRX I think I'm starting like it saw one on the road and and it look better then the last gen.
heck you can get em cheaper than a USED wrx sti.. heck some people even are wanting almost what a new wrx is worth for the older wrx with like 75,000 miles on them.. market is ridiculous stupid.. Why get a used one when you can get a new one better deal
hey bro just wanted to see after 2 months what is ur liking towards the car. has it changed? thinking of buying one or a sti
Never hated the VB, but after watching your videos, I finally went on a test drive today. I absolutely loved it. The power delivery is great. It feels much tighter and lighter than my 5th gen LGT without too much compromise in space and comfort. I might pull the trigger on a base one as they seem the better value and I don’t care about infotainments.
terrible interior and styling.. hilarious!
@@roboticvenom1935aja
Can’t wait to buy my VB Subaru soon they do look like big baby diapers but they do seem more reliable in my opinion for a turbo all wheel drive 4 door sedan…especially for 30k to 40k based on trim
I just got my 2023 WRX last Friday I absolutely love it and I don’t have any lag in my head unit like you do
As someone who owns one, honestly fully depends, but imo it’s the best bang for buck car you can buy right now off the lot, it’s such a fun and fast and good looking car, and honestly not really all that expensive.
Between this and the sti, where one shines the other lacks and vise versa. I'd say if someone could own both there would be no regrets.
But I know that's not always possible. As a standalone car, I think the VB makes for a better daily and can be built for what I'd say 80% of the subaru enthusiasts would want.
The elentra n is better than this in almost every way
@@tbunreall Thank you for stating your opinion as fact, even though in my opinion You're wrong. I'll even include some examples from my extensive driving of them both. The N is not a pleasant daily driver, the interior noise is ridiculous, power delivery is iffy at best, and it can not handle the curves anywhere near as good as the WRX (oh, and it's a Hyundai/Kia).
I might agree if we were comparing the Elentra N to a 2010 WRX STI, but not against the VB.
@@starlinreese9206 You'll be hard pressed to find a journalist who will take a wrx over an elentra n. And the elentra n puts up better lap times than a wrx. The elentra n interior also doesn't feel like a fisher price car. And it's hyundai, great, I get a 10 year warranty
VB owner here. Loved the car fun to mod and pratical AF.
I wouldn't paint my flender flares even if it was offered free to do so. Its a unique look to the VB
VB WRX and STI is like hating your older brother but then loving him for the lessons that he taught you growing up ❤🫶🏻
Preach brother. I really wish Subaru made the VB STI. Oh well I upgraded from a 2017 WRX to a 2020 STI. The cars are like night and day. The VA STI reigns Supreme. Oh yeah. 😊 Happy 4th of July brother.
Happy 4th buddy! Very curious to see what that would have been from shbaru
Everyone hated on it for looks but its a great car, i hated the cladding too like everyone else but after like 1500 in mods i love my car now it looks amazing, cladding grows on you. Just the rear ass/diaper bumper sucks so bad. Even the tail lights just get the blackout stickers it helps it alot, and a wing i love my wang, wang gang
Tbh I kinda like the cladding now 😅
Ive gotten to where i dont hate it but dont love it, im still going back and forth on eventually paint matching them lol. But they arent really hideous for sure
Totally agree the VB would have got much less hate had they gave the Sti a proper sendoff. 380-390 hp special exterior goodies. Just would have done it right instead of what we eventually received
Subaru did everyone DIRTY with the STI departure
There was the S209, but they definitely didn't let anyone know it was a last hurrah.
No they didn’t. Actually this car still has an STI variant in Japan called the S4. So it’s a STi at heart.
@@Blue_Ghost-X those arent really an sti. its still a wrx only but with STI Sport R flagship trim level. some basic cosmetic mods, recaros and an "STI" badge. so yeah nah, its not an sti at heart.
@@frieddayfriday Gotta be a huge W for anyone pointing out the ugly cladding arches considering they removed em for the new s4
I came from a 17 Mustang GT premium because I needed AWD (just moved to WA) and Basically I am JDM guy at heart (RX7 is the dream car for me someday) so I went with the VB. This car is my daily and I don't plan on ever taking it past 500hp. Honestly, 400whp in the Mustang felt like plenty for a daily driven street car but that could also have been more of a RWD thing even though I had 305s on it. I'm new to this platform but not new to AWD had a Focus RS before the Mustang. So far I am really happy with it and the looks have totally grown on me. This car seems to have one of the best price-to-performance ratios I've seen in a long time considering what you can get out of it for putting in so little. An intake and an Accessport with an e30 tune and you're already pushing 400 for basically 1500 bucks.
They've been super responsive 🔥
How did you like the GT? I've wanted one of the S550s for a while now. Also welcome to WA!
I have not hit 1k miles on my VB yet. I love this car. There are youtubers out there that have this car and are doing really click bait / FUD types of videos over the VB. It's nice to see honest and sincere thoughts about the platform. I hope you continue find happiness with your VB just like I am.
I remember the video where you got the DRL trims for your VB. That excitement.. That's why I keep watching. Cus I know that feeling. I have it every time I do something new with this car. My bank account hates me though.
@testmad9610 very very excited to continue building this thing, I try to be honest and upfront with things and try to avoid all the clickbait when possible 🫡
I’ve been looking at the WRX but wasn’t sure. This video made a lot of great points and pushed me closer to getting one. Thanks for the video that wasn’t just all stars and whatever.
Started looking at a ignition red base model for 34 and then the limited that they had on the lot was 38,honestly was amazed at the small options that added up fast
For real, I wanted a limited but was not willing to spend an extra 4K over a premium for one 😅
34 for a base? Way too much . I’m seeing that price for premiums in Houston
I've had mine for a year now, just hit 10 000km and love the car. I got it in black to hide some of the plastics but the plastic never bothered me too much and i like it now. I need the tint, raingaurds and front grill, makes it look much better. The infotainment can be laggy and frustrating at times. Sometimes my FM radio just straight up doesnt work and you have to turn the car off and turn it back on for it to work lol
Taking a test drive is all it took for me to make my decision to buy one. The turn in and no rev hang, comfort and stock tuning are all fantastic to me.
The no rev hang is such a nice oem tuning adjustment from subaru
Most of the haters have never driven one. They may not love the styling, but that is an easy fix and some will get over it when they take it on a canyon run.
@@Smeedia I was just about to say, sounds and looks like no rev hang! Is that really from factory like that? I had '21 and it def had some serious rev hang
@@AP-lw6of Yes, there's no rev hang in the newer WRX's from factory. I have a 2023 WRX and there's no rev hang in mine and I never tuned it and I don't plan on it. The stock tune on these cars is great.
No rev hang is what eventually made me decide to buy one as I had an Si before the WRX that had terrible rev hang and it drove me nuts in the Si. Subaru did a great job with these new WRX's. They drive amazing and they're smooth as heck to shift. No rev hang is probably my favourite thing about this car as it drove me nuts so bad in the Si that I couldn't stand driving the car.
I like what you did to it. What I’m not a fan off is that you have to pay extra to make it look better vs. the STI that already looks great stock.
Agreed, wish that they came with some of the OE options, significantly helps the thing
Pay extra? There is no way to fix that rear short of major surgery. The ~3 inches of steel overhang in the rear must be lopped off before any redesign of the bumper cover can remove the diaper extension.
The car has definitely grown on me since its inception, but the one thing I have always had an issue with and still do is that front grill. Stock its too big. Thankfully there are some that are coming out that look better and better. I considered trading my 2020 wrx in but the upfront cost to customize it to make it look good to me is too much right now.
I don't blame you at all. It needs some aftermarket love to fix some of the smaller gripes
Subaru had such a cool grill shape, this new thing looks like a cross between a 3 series and a civic yet looks like neither. I squint and try to see an impreza but really just see crosstrek
I just bought a 23 WRX and its not just my first subaru but also my first new car. I got the premium trim with no HK sound and its fantastic. I only have had it a couple of days but I love it. I am coming off a 2013 VW Passat TDI and the power of this car and handling are just a huge step up.
Congratulations on the wrx and glad to hear your enjoying it 🥳
@@Smeedia have you dropped the oil pan on yours to check the silicon?
@@garrettscott4748yeah, I’m wondering about that
As always this was a good video. Very informative.
I’m one of the odd ones that purchased a 22 WRX GT and have almost 10k miles. I haven’t driven a stick shift in twenty years and too lazy to try at this point. I drive a crap ton of city miles and didn’t want to mess with it.
The Recaro seats were the selling point for me as was the sunroof. I loved the way the seats felt during the test drive and still love them every time I get in them.
I will say that I went in knowing that I wasn’t going to do any significant modifications other than cosmetics. It’s fun to drive and I love it.
I would love to drive a 21 STI though. One day.
You knew what you wanted and nothing wrong with that 🔥 how's the CVT feel?
Also jelly of those seats si wanted them but not an option for manual 🥲
@@Smeedia I like the way it feels but can’t compare it to anything else as it’s my first Subaru ever. I do like the drive modes and each feels different than the last.
Traded my 2018 STI for a 2022 WRX GT. It is my 7th Subaru, five in the WRX/STI lineup. I love both cars and some days think I goofed, but I’m really enjoying the GT. Sport+ mode changes the feel completely, stiff and quick.
I really appreciate your input. Let me preface my following statements by saying, I’ve never owned a Subaru and don’t know much about them. I just test drove one this past weekend and it was a smooth drive and the car felt very responsive. Thank you and I’ll be following your channel from now on.
Love mine. Ordered it almost day one and took delivery May 2022 so I guess I’ve always dug the styling, definitely at least tolerated it since reveal
Too me a bit to start to like the styling but super happy with it now 🔥
Just bought a 2022 WRX with low miles, and absolutely love it! It's comfortable, responsive, and plenty of get up and go! Very happy with this car!
i went a different route and traded my 15' FBO WRX for a 20 GR Supra. Such a great car and the attention it gets in person makes me feel like i'm in a supercar or something.
I was looking at getting a WRX, so I test drove a gently used STI and a gently used 2022. Overall, the 2022 is just a better car for little-ol-me, and also has a nicer modern interior than the STI, which is getting a little dated at this point.
Other things like normal light-to-light drivability and cost to own/operate is in favor of the 22+ as well. The warranty doesn't hurt either.
I've had the 2022 for a few days now and I'm loving it.
Factory ordered Limited 6M in Feb 2022 sight unseen and have had since May 2022 (65th birthday present to myself). I traded in my 2007 Legacy GT Limited 5 speed after 15 years as daily driver. Styling has grown on me and I think the Saphire Blue works with my wanting to remain under the radar). Can't believe how easy it is to redline because it is 100% until redline. (Very different than my 2.5 l legacy) Wished redline was not 6100 but it will probably keep me out of trouble. Have always had a stick (1990 Eagle Talon TSi AWD was ablast too) except brief stint with 300M where I learned paddle shifters are a joke. Excellent video!
I wouldn’t trade my 16 sti for one but I’m very interested to see what the VB will look like when there are aftermarket bumper options. I’ve grown to accept the look of the front but the diaper in the rear is too much😂
I've seen some aftermarket rear bumpers already 🫣
@@Smeedia I really want to see varis make bumpers for it. Right now it seems like the way to fix the cosmetic complaints people have is to just make it look more like the VA with paint matching and adding the wing
This but I'm hoping whenever they start making a proper STi again the design will be better than the WRX
@@Smeedia just jdmuscle's or is there another?
There are a couple options for aftermarket bumpers. They are expensive unpainted options. But… they are there. Trust me if you own the car the rest of the styling and performance overpowers that rear end. I’ve had my 22 for over a year. I don’t see the rear like I first did in amateur launch pics. It’s not that bad. I’ve raced many stage 1-2 STi and I’m between a car length or two faster every time at launch or any roll. Plus I get a TON more compliments then when I had my 15 STi. This car is a true upgrade. Go drive one.
I test drove a sapphire VB at the beginning of the year and enjoyed it. It was my first time driving manual in years, plus I broke my left femur about a year prior. I had just paid off my current car and just couldn't justify going through car payments again for a bit.
I still want it
How did you break your femer?! 😮
@@Smeedia it broke while bowling. Doctors don't know why, but I think I had a stress crack from some heavy stuff that we were on a work project a week or two before.
After putting the finishing touches to my ‘13 mustang 5.0 (supercharger on E85 with every supporting upgrade imaginable) I needed something still fun and zippy as a daily… the mustang only gets 130 miles a tank and is now a total diva… a 730RWHP diva. I picked the 2023 limited WRX. Seen to many happy owners and thought hmmm maybe there’s something to this. I’ve owned it for 1 week and I freaken love it. Ive already ordered the cobb port tuner… I got the itch.
WAIIIIIIIIT hold off on the AP, Cobb has not released software yet so it won't work yet. ( it will work once the software comes out. Then you'll just need to update the AP)
But glad to hear 🥳 the mustang aounds like a riot! I've wanted to snag an S550 for a while but somehow never have enough room for more cars 😅
@@Smeedia ahhh ok glad you said something I can cancel the order asap. Probably just snag an ETS CAI for it then. I’ll take it to a professional tuning shop that specializes on subies and ask what is the best course of action. Lower it and tint these windows asap. I appreciate your knowledge here!!!!
Also yeah the mustang is a freaken hoot. If you ever make room, go for it! ✌️
I remember telling you that you need to try one. I feel like you saw my comment and thought twice about it.
Glad you're liking the vb. A few more mods and you'll see what it's all about.
My base 2023 wrx have 0 problem with the infotainment, connect with my phone in a second and never randomdly disconnect. Just the for Light bezel look soo good .
The tablets can be ao annoying sometimes 😂
Forget the RTV issue. If your stock it’s covered with warranty. Not an issue imo.
It took me like 6 miles to get over the back bumper.. driving experience is amazing…. Also I enjoy the taillights, looking at my wife’s ‘19 forester I can see the evolution.. but it ls not like you can’t see Nissan in the VA taillights.
Coming from a 325 hp 15 STI, I don’t regret the trade. This car handles really good and personally after seeing a few with body mods compared to modified fa wrx’s out there, I feel like vb actually looks better after a few mods. I’m probably being biased but at least that’s how I feel about the car. Not to mention that this engine has a lot of tuning potential having one out there already making 9s in the 1/4 mile. Is truly surprisingly considering I used to hate it when it first came out
definition of a Subaru fanboy that will just like whatever WRX puts out.. just wow.. they literally put a diaper on the rear of the car added plastic cladding up the wazoo.. every ugly styling trend currently out right now is on the wrx
@@roboticvenom1935you can just get that shit painted, they don’t look bad in certain colors
@@ImGearsBeast so you have to get 4 body colored plastic fenders to begin to make the car look ok.. and then you still have a fucking diaper on the rear of the car that looks absurdly cheap and soulles as well as a Crosstrek front end.
Seriously? Just buy another car
@@roboticvenom1935Again ?? Hating people cause u can’t afford it 😂
Still trash looking if we're being honest regardless how much u spent on it
Couldn’t agree more with everything you said! I find it hilarious that damn near everyone is iffy about this generation at first but ends up loving it after all. I’m also on the same boat with everyone else
was waiting on a gr corolla, but after seeing the markups on it said frak that and now waiting to see if i can get in a vb instead. way cheaper and about all the same fun except not a hatch which doesnt bother me much. keep up the great vids man :)
Is wanted a GR corolla until I saw those mark ups 🥲 no way I'm paying a dealer $10-20K over MSRP for one 😅
Yeah looks like a great car but I'm in the same boat, not gonna spend that kind of money. It's the reason I never got the Civic type R because of those crazy markups and dealership BS!
Sold my Jeep and bought a brand new 2024 Premium trim and its the best thing I've ever done for myself honestly. LOVE THE THING. AND THE HEAD UNITS HAVE BEEN UPDATED MUCH MCUH BETTER!!!
It’s just too bad they made the handling so bad on the new WRX, even Matt and Zack on thesmokingtire posted last week that it’s unusable at track and terrible steering and handling in canyons. We asked Subaru engineer why and he explained the new WRX is built on SUV platform using Crosstrek front and rear open diff with SUV electronic brake vectoring and electronic steering. He said in the past the STI handle and steering better due to front LSD, center DCCD diff, rear LSD, and hydraulic steering.
I test drove a 2022 premium wrx yesterday I was very pleased
Very smooth 🫴
Considering a decent mileage 2019+ STi costs around the same as a new WRX I’d take the STi. In fact, that’s what I did. The FA24 makes power more easily and the interior is newer, but the deal breaker for me was the seats, drivetrain, and brakes. I also didn’t like the low redline either and I wasn’t a fan of the new infotainment. The VA STi’s sucks too but I have a fervent hatred for touch screen HVAC and the iDoing fixes all the issues with the stock system.
Don't blame you at all 🔥 tbh I prefer the interior in the VA over the VB. Where one of them lacks the other seems to pick up and vise versa 🔥 love both my STI and the wrx. Two cars for two different applications 🥳
@@SmeediaI think that’s the main problem with the VB in general, especially in the context of there being no STi after it being basically ready for launch by most accounts. These parts were all available to to give us a better WRX. Even just the STi 6-speed and the Brembos would have been a huge improvement.
Agreed. I just got a 21 sti and couldn't be happier. I'm sure I'll look at the newer wrx's in the future but all your points were the reason I went with the used sti vs new wrx. Fortunately I got lucky with my used sti and as time goes on it will be harder and harder to find those gently used/1 owner used sti's
@@colingiles4251 you probably know the direct-injection is fuel limited at higher revs and big power, unless upside the injectors which ostensibly has some downsides. Port (and dual, i.e. port+direct) injection does not have this limitation. Also dual or port injection mitigates issues with soot accumulation on valves and inside crankcase, as well as fuel accumulation in the oil, which can otherwise be catastrophic. Dual injection favors the port injection until the engine warms up, which is essentially for short trips.
I wanted a car that no one had beaten on and I wanted to modify from 0 to go to the track every once in a while… added carbotech pads and some new lines and I love my VB I’m glad I made the choice over the sti or the evos I was looking at.
Pads make a good difference? I'm on OEM pads at 2k miles but wouldn't mind stronger brakes
Starting with a fresh platform is always nice, the OE brake pads do feel like they fade pretty quick
@@stormblessed9455 yeah they fade pretty quick i went on a touge run with a few other subies and i had to coast in the 2nd stint. Installed new pads, ss lines and high temp fluid the difference is night and day.
@@Smeedia yeah especially if you like the twisties 😅
@@VBwrex sick, good to know. added to my list of to-do mods
Well as a first time va STI owner who primarily owned american muscle, I really enjoy the STI for the way it feels. It actually reminds me of my gt350 on the "feel" side. The big things i am addressing on my personal ownership is making it reliable since i bought a bruhmodded STI for a lot less than what i would've spent on a stock STI. The engine checked out and i have just stayed out of boost since i just cruise on my commute to work. If you're not looking at wrenching on your car and keeping the commuter simple than I'd say wrx sounds very appealing, but im not switching to something less engaging. Great content!
100% do not blame you at all, absolutely love my 17 STI. Definitely saves some money buying ones that need some love 😅
@@Smeedia i feel like the ASPCA sometimes, adopting someone else's problem😂
@@acid847howni am whenever I buy someone's old project, I feel this 😂
Picked up a 23 VB this year for a daily so I could exclusively track my Evo X. Used to have a 13 STI but traded that for the Evo X. I am very happy with the VB and it’s a lot better of a daily for sure then both the Evo and STI. But you hit it right on the nail it’s not as mechanical and raw feeling but it still is a blast to drive. A great daily driver
I have an FA24F engine in my Outback Wilderness and have found this engine to be very quick and responsive.
I got a VA and I wish I had waited for the VB
I honestly thought this car looked like crap when they released it but when I went to a dealership and bought one it grows on you a lot I would agree the back looks goofy but the front looked more aggressive and I like how the rear tail lights dont wrap around to the side of the rear fender makes a much cleaner look to the car from the side and in my personal opinion I think the front look more aggressive than all the other years of subaru especially after getting a front lip. With that being said I have come to love the new wrx and no mater what car you but in this world there will always be something you or someone doesn't like about it for a daily having more space in the car is great plenty of room in the trunk and a lot more leg room for people in back seat hate it or love it they not gonna go anywhere and more and more parts come out evey few months give it another year or two and the aftermarket parts will be a lot cheaper
Big facts, at the end of the day all that matters is if you the owner are happy with the car you drive 🔥
You can rationalize it all you want, because you do not see the rear of your own vehicle, but tell me you do not wince or look away at the rear of every VB you view on the road. Just because we love our ugly wives, does not mean others don’t wince when viewing the winch in our passenger seat.
About the Infotainment complaints, it seems to be an issue for a lot of cars/truck, and not limited to Subaru. I purchased a '23 Ram Limited (over $75k) and the infotainment has bugs as well - but I still love the truck. Great review. Thanks.
Loving my vb so far, only complaint I have is infotainment, I got the base model. And the bottom screen is so empty and useless they put a full touch screen just to put a small row of ac controls across the bottom. Would love if someone cracks it so there could be something useful on it or just replace it with analog ac controls...
I have a feeling Idoing will come out with a replacment for the dual screens
My 2 cents on a few of your talk points:
- CVT VB WRX is the ideal purchase for a "sporty" daily driver for your avg non-enthusiast driver. Those folks will likely never do any serious power mods, so the CVT should hold up long term for them without issues as well.
- the VB styling, youre on the money here. Subarus motto in like the 80s was "cheap and ugly".. Theyve always been goofy looking cars, and thats why we love them. Still not a fan of the "full diaper" rear bumper though lol.
- STI is the track car, the VB is the better daily.
I'm curious if your opinion has changed since you have at this point in time, sold your VB WRX. I've personally been a fan boy of the STI platform forever but have only ever driven 2018+ sti's and I like how they drive other than the stock tune which is garbage as we all know. So if your goal was a fun daily with around 400whp, it sounds like the VB would be where its at, but would the trans handle that?
I think the S209 was the final "goodbye" to the EJ and the STI. I know they were available for another couple years, but that seems to have been the intention.
As far as looks go, I like what you've done with it so far. I've always felt the front end was good looking and aggressive, but the rear and the tail lights let it down terribly. Every front angle looks great. I thought the spats in the last video helped with the diaper look, but I understand it's all personal preference.
Would have been nice if they put their two weeks in 😅
It was. I think every S209 made was hand built. People always gasp at the price of the S209 and say, "Why not get a Porsche at that point lol". S209 was last sendoff of EJ based STi. Literally the best factory EJ WRX STi that will ever be made, ever.
Yeah it is over $70k. And they are very limited. But if you love the most of what a WRX STi can be, and love that VA look, it can make sense. And if you can even get one, dealer markups are crazy from what I've heard.
Savagegeese did a good review of the S209.
I'm not sipping gold flaked champagne so I would sooner get a VB. But if I was...I mean it is the best STi...
@@Hypn0s2 While S209 was good, it was vastly outdated by the new Type R. Subaru sat on the STI for over 15 years with the same engine and layout. It took Honda 1 gen of Turbo engine development to beat the EJ easily. The JDM STI is much better but Subaru never brought the JDM Engine design over here. Their engine development is slow and never gotten any traction to start new and improved designs. Today it's save to say that a Hyundai Elantra N is better buy than STI.
CAFE and emissions killed the STi. And the internal combustion engine in any form larger than 1.3L will be gone by 2028. The govt ruins everything. But we need to save the planet from extinction.
@@Vision33r I love everything about the Type R more than the WRX, except the lack of AWD. Have you seen the Type R spin the front tires, bog and hop when launched? The Type R is okay with that power level, but no way I am putting 500 HP in a front wheel drive even with the Type R's special front suspension design.
Just because there has been a lot of complaints about the head unit... I've had the car 2 months and have 3k miles. Have had 0 issues with the head unit. Just figured I'd throw it out there since people don't voice when they have 0 issues.
After doing the latest update, it helped a ton but still not perfect. The android auto seems to be the worst part thus far.
Glad to hear that not all of them are having issues
I have 2022 premium trim with sunroof and i love this car!!! It is so fun to drive and i have no regrets.
Keep up the great work...
I am shooting to tune my car @snail performance next week...hoping to make subiefest cali
Yassss hoping the dyno goes smoothly for ya 🥳🥳🥳🥳
Got our ‘22 VB in December. Only things I would add is that you’re going to see your MPG improve even more, post 1k break-in. Between 1,500 and 4k in mileage, the mpg increased to a solid 22.5 in mixed driving.
Also, just have to say it🤷🏽♂️….not a fan of the finish and function of the “additional fog lights” as they were sold originally. Not as additional DRL’s. Took them off and put the stock one’s back on. But hey, to each their own.
I'll be keeping an eye on that 👀 I'm around 800 miles right now but I also co sodered mine broken in after 50 miles 😅
thats why i want this as my next car. a nice daily driver that still makes enough power to be fun and the awd will be great in michigan winters
Ive owned a 22 wrx and a 16 sti. I would say the only major difference in terms of noticeable backroad fun is the stis front lsd really helps a lot for on throttle corners. Commuting the vb was a lot better. Now modified is another story
I haven't pushed the VB too hard yet, so I haven't noticed that yet, but something I'm going to be paying attention to now 🫣
@Smeedia you'll notice it'll overpower and spin the outside front tire first. Whereas the sti would stay gripped up. The tradeoff I noticed is that the vb has 0 torque steer. The sti due to the lsd does definitely have some throttle feedback to the wheel, which can be pertinent in some undulating road situations during cornering. Though I will say my gd sti (with the more rear biased, didn't seem to feel nearly as torque steery, this is with the dccd to the rear on the va). Just food for thought.
Modified or not. An STI will be more fun.
The VB wrx doesn’t even have a rear Or front lsd. Just do you do dude
@@paco111ification VB has understeer if you put wider tires and/or offset the wheels out to the stance of the fenders. Presumably this can be rectified with a STi DCCD + transmission swap along with the front and rear LSDs.
Why can't the Direct Injectors and High Pressure fuel pump be upgraded to up the fueling, rather than needing to add port injection?
Hoping we will see built FA24 engines from people like IAG soon.
A had a 22 limited that I purchsed new $500 below msrp, I absolutely loved it until a semi ran down the side of it and totaled it. Funnest daily driver I ever owned. Would love to have another one. I'm hoping an STI comes out in the near future.
First Subaru; been a big fan. Owned for just over 6 months (FA24 Base in Red). It's like a Porsche 911 or GS Adventure model motorbike. Either you like the aesthetics or not. Ease of maintenance is great. Road noise is something to get used to. I'll see if Michelin tires might make a difference. Still made in Japan was number one on my purchase list. Still most under warranty so mods will be slow forthcoming as to not void warranty. Great platform for mods.
Great comparison I was on the ropes what model I wanted to get.. thanks brother you made it easy to pull the trigger
I just ordered my vb wrx in cermaic white with the STi short throw yesterday and I'm excited for when it comes. I wanted a used STi but ultimately I like how the vb wrx looks and wanted something brand new.
Just bought mine a couple of days ago, the 2023 premium trim. I have not experienced any problems with the infotainment system, the driving is much better, and the car feels like it wants you to rip it every time.
Pros: drives very very nice, strong pulls, comfortable, smooth. Infotainment looks great! (Apple car play only). So many upgrades
Cons: halogen lights on the Base/Premium trim interior, no spare wheel, weird turn signal
Ps: I can’t wait to take it to the beach!!
I have a 2023 wrx. I am really liking it. I used to have a heavily modded 08 wrx and this is such a better built car. Performance and feel is massively better.
I absolutely love my VB. Traded in my ‘19 Golf R for it and have never been happier. I drive mostly on mountain roads and dirt roads so this is perfect. Very similar power delivery to the golf R and a simple stage 1 tune wakes it up so much. I run Vredestein quattrac pros on it and it’s a beast off-road.
Honestly, VB is growing on me and S. FL folks. I see them everywhere now!
Starting to see them more and more lol
@@Smeediadude I'm so glad that you got one! Can't wait to see the potential of the VB platform and its limiting factors. Probably the trans will be the weakest link but we will see
I test drove this over the weekend. It’s a nice car BUT felt too comfortable. It doesn’t have that connection to the road. The look does resemble a civic and to make it look decent you can NOT go with the basic package. No premium wheels , no LED lights , 2 small screens , the seats don’t feel or look like racing bucket seats etc…. Would also need some body modifications. But it does have lots potential. For some reason my sti Felt waaay faster especially off the launch. I’d stick with my sti overall. This WRX should have competed with the rest of the newer cars and should have came with Atleast 300whp. There was a lot of hype to it and not much was actually done engine wise.
STIs stock for stock will always give a faster feeling. Thr way boost response is on an EJ vs an FA is never same same. An Ej hits you like a ton of breaks when it starts to pick up 😅
I will agree in stock trim it dosent feel all that great, with some basic nods though it honestly completely changed how the car feels. 🙏
It has TONS of potential and I’ve seen some that I’d definitely switch for my sti.( once fixed up ). I’m staying tuned on your journey. Excited to see the end result. More than anything I’m looking forward to the rx7 😅😅
I have the dual screen and I've noticed similar issues. The unit will freeze or not accept inputs. Another issue is the steering wheel audio controls sometimes don't work. Otherwise, the car is great.
Diggin the white one with the color matched fenders. Wow
Lovin my 23' WRX MGM Limited, installed a lip, duckbill and 3rd brake light and you can already see it looks better. Peace bro
i did buy a wrx 2024 red ignition sport tech because of how it looks! I love the look. ( obviously the previous version was better looking but i still dig it ) :)
I was driving next to a blue vb on the way in to work and I can say they look better in person! But I still love the style of my 2021 wrx better! I tried to get him to run it with me but he wouldn’t bite 😂 I’m curious on the acceleration difference fa20 to fa24! Maybe next time! Keep up the great content man 👍
Good honest review. I owned so many other WRX's over the years and STI's . The new VB is where it is at.🗾
As a daily driver it's hard to beat 🫡
So keen to see what wheels / tires you end up putting on this bad boy!
Looking at a set of titans or advans right now 🫣
The Fa platform is just so much safer of a platform honestly. And the VB is so much nicer to daily than my VA ever was even stock. It def doent just feel like a facelift. The other thing is it is one of the only sports cars that you can actually get at msrp without a dealer markup. Great bang for your buck and with fbo e85 and a good tune you are making easy and reliable power.
I bought a 21 WRX with the explicit plan to trade for the new generation STI when it came out (rip) now, i am considering trading for the 24 WRX TR. As far as i can tell its about the engine and with the absence of the ej... may need to go to fa24 instead of being stuck on the fa20
I’m in the market for an AWD sedan at the moment, and I’ve been asking myself for awhile should I get the VB or a Wrx sti 19+. I believe based off where I’m in my life, I am looking to have a car that I get excited about driving. I don’t commute anywhere because I work from home. I’m 26, and I don’t have kids. I’m looking for with a driving experience for more smile per gallon than anything. I’ve only test driven an STi, but maybe test driving a VB would change my mind. My heart is set for an STi but this video is making reconsider just a little bit. However I’m leaning more towards the STi because I’m still young and might as well go hard before I start really thinking about what’s next. The styling and the uel headers are also the breaking point for me between the VB and the STI
one thing you didnt mention is the VB shifter feels a million times better than the VA shifter. stock VA shifter feels like you're breaking something every time you put it in any gear & you have to absolutely wrestle it to get in reverse. VB shifter is like butter compared to the VA.
TbH they feel the exact same to me 😅
I agree. I had a ‘21 and now a ‘23. The VB shifter is way smoother. And my ‘21 had the same drivetrain upgrades as the ‘23 (STi SS, Cobb shift plate, shifter stop and bushing). VB shifter almost feels like a german car by comparison.
On another note the stock tune on the VA was just awful, even stage 1 OTS was just ok. Stock VB tune is miles better.
Put the STI badge back on! Just rock it man!
Once the transmission goes in I will 🫣🔥
Why out an Sti badge on it if it’s a better car than an Sti. Put a wing in it too 😂! Weird how people wanna say it’s a better overall car yet they wanna wear the badge and take all the best part of the Sti amd out in in this wrx. IMO all your getting is a engine that cheaper to get
Power out of.
I daily a 21 sti and am keeping it long term but if I didn't manage to get that (last batch imported to australia) I'd get the WRX. What would be even better if they put the WRX engine in the Crosstrek.
Ya'll got the levorgs, I'd snag one of those before anything 😭
Thats all im waiting for is a fa24dit crosstrek with a manual, they would have my money in a heartbeat. I dont think they'll ever do it though. I got a 05 forester making close to 300, and just bought 22 outback onyx xt. Its night and day difference dailying the outback. So much more quiet and comfy. Fa24 mpg is awesome for the power it gives i can average over 30mpg on the highway easily.
I passed up a 2023 to get a used 2020 STI. Kinda wish I got the 2023
Both are solid cars, I would just pick one over the other for specific applications 🙏
Lol I’m dumb I got both. Nothing compares to the old GD Sti to me like you said it’s raw feeling, but this VB is definitely dope asf I love it nice n smooth my gf like it’s ride you don’t feel everything on the road. So far on my VB only upgrade is to the brake calipers I did brembos all around. Best thing I did to it. Now toying with getting Cobb and doing dual maps n getting some E in there
I feel this between the 17 STI and this WRX I'd feel pretty satisfied with it. Brembos are definitely on my list. The stock brakes feel like shit 😂
I used to have a 19 WRX Limited , I'm really trying to give it a chance but I just can't get over the trim around the wheel
yeah dude i have the worst insurance full coverage on my gr is like 3 times what you pay o got a few tickets in the past. might have gone with the brand new car but with the insurance it was unrealistic
Who do you have?! That is insane 😮
@@Smeedia geico currently they’re pretty much the only ones that are willing to cover me at this point made some dumb decisions in my younger years
My 2020 WRX has had radio issues, suddenly stops playing music but stills shows it’s playing
I have the 22 premium wrx with hk and moonroof package. I agree with everything that has been said but the biggest gripe for me is the carplay connectivity (or lack thereof) where it disconnects atleast 1-2 times during every drive. I am ok with it being wired carplay but when it still disconnects during your drive, it just annoys the heck out of me. I even updated the software version of the infotainment myself where all the hvac controls are in the main screen but the disconection still happens. Besides that, happy with the power and awd grip here in Seattle. I think the only awd performance car that is comparable is gr corolla and vw r but both costs more than this given it has less power compared to both.