The WRX is the default option for an AWD sedan with 3 pedals and some power, so I figured I'd see what all the hype is about. And I wanted to compare it with the STI I drove the other day.
The Interior: The limited trim gets you a nice leather interior with heated front seats. All black interior for this one, with a standard-looking gage cluster and Subarus standard blue infotainment system. Plenty of space for passengers inside, and a decent-sized trunk. Typical Subaru shift knob, fairly long with 6 speeds and a pull-up collar for reverse down and to the right. The shifter matches the 2017 STI I drove, but this one is black instead of red.
The Tech: Bluetooth, back-up cam, push-button start. Subarus standard optional StarLink program of course, and this one had the upgraded Harmon/Kardon sound system. No Android Auto/Apple CarPlay.
Driving: Like the STI, the weight and the AWD system make the car feel pretty planted. It's got good power, and it's definitely a fun car. It has less power than the STI obviously, but I think it hits just right for a daily. It's more comfortable and quieter than the STI, so I think that I would actually pick this over the STI for a daily. I fully see the appeal, and I think it would be a great car to own, especially in an area with rough roads and/or a lot of inclement weather. But the biggest issues for me were the clutch and the shifter - which are kind of a big deal...Like the STI, I felt like throws to 1st, 3rd, and 5th from neutral were shorter than 2nd, 4th, and 6th, and again second-guessed whether or not I was in first when I was starting out. The shifter also felt a bit sloppy to me, but I might chalk that up to this particular car having 93k miles on it. The clutch was probably my least favorite clutch of any car I've driven. There's a ton of resistance down low (close to the floor), and you really have to push hard to get it all the way to the floor, and I didn't take as much joy in shifting as I typically would. I imagine it would get annoying in heavy traffic, and I certainly wouldn't want to learn stick with a clutch like this, but I know many people love these cars, so it may just be a matter of getting used to it.
The Value: This one is listed at $20k for 93k miles, which seems crazy high to me. A 2020 WRX Limited MSRPs for $32k, so I probably wouldn't pay $20k for one with almost 100k miles on it. 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway on premium fuel isn't too bad for fuel economy.
Overall, it's a fun car, and I fully see the appeal in the enthusiast community. Living in New England, where the weather is always changing and often rainy or snowy, I might be persuaded to buy one one day. Subarus hold their value well, so getting a newer one might not be a bad move here. The next generation has been announced though, so it might leave you wanting if you don't wait for the new one. If I did get one though, the first thing I'd have to do is swap out the clutch.
