So, I just purchased a 2013 Subaru WRX STI Hatch. It has the short throw shifter and an auto-dimming mirror. Those were the only options I sprung for.
I really lucked into this one. They're hard enough to find on dealer lots in any trim, let alone a hatchback without Nav. And usually they're bought on order or have a deposit on them while in transit.
I spotted this one on Heritage Subaru's website on Thursday. I called and found out that it was unspoken for. It had just come out of PDI. So, I drove out that way, test drove it, gave it a good look over, and placed a deposit that night. I went back and took delivery today.
pics before review:
Review:
Looks: Outside, the boy-racer-ish looks can be polarizing. I mean, it doesn't look much more special than a base WRX outside of a few badges. Silver was also my last choice for paint color, but I think it looks pretty great. I'm also not much of a fan of clear taillights. But, I happen to like its curves, especially as a hatch.
Inside, the plastic dash is a bit much for me, and it looks like all other Impreza trims, except it's black mostly. It's handsome, but not luxurious. The gauges are bright and easy to read. The car I bought is equipped with an auto-dimming mirror with compass. It also has seat heaters. The seats, front and back, are handsomely appointed in leather and suede, with STI logos. They are racing-style bucket seats, and they're quite comfy for a big dude like me. I'm quite happy with the cabin, looks-wise.
Performance: I am still breaking in the engine, so I haven't really stepped on it yet, but I know it's willing. Little jaunts below 4k rpm are quick. The boxer engine sounds like a swarm of bees, and the turbos whine as they spin up. It's fun so far. I got an STI with a short throw shifter. Shifting gears in this car is glorious. No drama, just snikkety-in, snikkety-out, instant response. Could not be happier rowing gears in her. The car handles on rails. The STI's suspension is stiff as a board, and it glues to the corners. Bit of understeer, as one would expect in an AWD vehicle, but it's not difficult to correct. Again, steering, very undramatic and quick.
Practicality: It is my DD vehicle. Gas mileage won't be great. Probably 20mpg on premium gas, at best. It is AWD, but I need to get winter tires for it. It comes delivered with extreme performance summer rubber. But the AWD will be good in winter with proper rubber. It is roomy and comfortable inside. I had four full-size adults in there today, and everyone was comfy. The stiff suspension delivers a lot of shocks and bangs through the seats, but that's the price one pays. The seating position is comfy, the sight lines are clear, and the ground clearance is high enough.
How it compares to my 370z: I can't fully unleash the engine yet, but I suspect that it will be nearly as fast, may even be quicker to launch because of AWD. It grips like no tomorrow, so it will corner right with the Z, from what I can tell. The shifter is much quicker and less dramatic. The driver's visibility is much better.
Overall, for driving experience, I like my 370Z better. What? That's right, I like carting around in the Z in spite of its disadvantages, because it's an experience. It's a two seater, lower slung, feels more sporty, looks a lot better. The STI will be a hoot and a half to drive every day, and if I ever decide to mod it, I'm sure I could make it a monster... But it's the day to day, and the Z is the weekend lover. Also, driven at 10/10ths, I'm fairly certain that the Z will beat the STI around most courses (until it rains or snows).
I could not be happier having this one-two punch sitting in my driveway. Feel free to ask me any questions about the Rex or my Zed, or how they compare.
