http://www.drivingsports.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/08/06/600px_graphic.jpg (http://www.subiesport.com/2008/08/2009-wrx-first.html)

In this, our first of two preview videos of the new 2009 Subaru WRX, Subiesport Magazine editor Travis Geny (MeanEditor) takes the "new animal" out for some rally-style hoonage. In part two (coming soon) you'll be able to see just how it handles on an airfield course.

Exclusive Video: Subiesport.com (http://www.subiesport.com/2008/08/2009-wrx-first.html)
(click 'maximize' to watch it full-screen)
Some New pics (added 8/8, link fixed 8/9): Nasioc Group, under "Latest Photos" (http://my.drivingsports.com/kickapps/_/club/57649/45077.html)

For those just checking in, the new 2009 WRX is a lot different than the outgoing 2008 model. First off is the turbo: it's bigger. Also, the suspension has been stiffened and the STI wing has been carried over to the 5-door WRX, giving it a much more muscular look. The price? Well, we can't say yet. However, I do believe everyone will be very surprised with just how affordable the new model is.

For those that prefer the softer 2008 WRX, it will live on as the automatic-only Impreza GT. The new models will be available this fall.

Awesome!!!! Good to finally see the current WRX living up to its rally roots. :)

Wow that pic really makes the sedan look good. I have never been a fan until now. I wonder if it will look that good in person?

Wow that pic really makes the sedan look good. I have never been a fan until now. I wonder if it will look that good in person?

I agree. I'm almost set to buy one. It better look that good.

Nice!!!!

daumn

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

It's amazing what a set of wheels and trim improvements will do to perception. And rightly so, paint a mustache on the Mona Lisa and it's just not the same...even though it's just a couple small lines. Add a bigger wing and some nice rollers and yes, even the 08 WRX looks better. It's not surprising. Personally, I think the GC looks a lot better with the P1 wing. Just a trim piece, but it can make all the difference.

:banana:I like "stock-RALLYING"!!:D!!!
I mean...do-nothing-to-your-car-just-get-in-the dirt-and-go...kinddda RALLY:p!!!

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

It's actually more of a LGT in WRX clothes.

.

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.
Don't sweat it, I still think your 08 is ugly and plain. That car looks like a Hyundai with a nice hood tearing ass on gravel.

Don't sweat it, I still think your 08 is ugly and plain. That car looks like a Hyundai with a nice hood tearing ass on gravel. :lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

Id be making this post too if I bought an 08 wrx..and then for 09 subaru took a dump all over me and released a superior car in every way except exterior looks.

Id be making this post too if I bought an 08 wrx..and then for 09 subaru took a dump all over me and released a superior car in every way except exterior looks.

No, you guys are missing my point. Its the VERY same car. Different cat/dp, and maybe a slightly bigger turbo, but still the same car... Same engine internals, same tranny, same shifter, same intercooler, same intake, same brakes, same body panels; its the same car and now everyone loves it because of the grill.

I've already swapped out so many parts on my 08 that I'm already pushing out about 230whp and I have yet to install a new turbo & intercooler. Even if I had waited for the 09MY, I would have still swapped out all the parts that swapping out of the 08. And... And, the 09 is going to cost more than the 08.

I am just amazed to be watching the "Malibu Stacy" effect in real life.

:devil:

I like the look, it's bad ass.

I know the feeling. I was told that the STi was not going to come to the US when I bought my car. It came out six months later.

This always happens. Look at every god damn thread when a new impreza is released. At first everyone hates it, then they get used to it, then OMG I love that style.

It is an Impreza they are always ugly and they are always going to be. It is the performance we love and this thread proves my point.

I like the look, but why does Subaru have such an inept design department that they do such strong corrections to redesigns? Poor Planning.

No, you guys are missing my point. Its the VERY same car. Different cat/dp, and maybe a slightly bigger turbo, but still the same car... Same engine internals, same tranny, same shifter, same intercooler, same intake, same brakes, same body panels; its the same car and now everyone loves it because of the grill.

I've already swapped out so many parts on my 08 that I'm already pushing out about 230whp and I have yet to install a new turbo & intercooler. Even if I had waited for the 09MY, I would have still swapped out all the parts that swapping out of the 08. And... And, the 09 is going to cost more than the 08.

I am just amazed to be watching the "Malibu Stacy" effect in real life.

:devil:


Actually you are incorrect in places here. The transmission is strengthened so again we have another upgrade to the 5-speed. The exhaust is revised and the turbo is the same size as that of the 2007 STI, just with different housings. The suspension is completely new, however. Shocks, springs and sways are all new and much stiffer with better valving. The grille is the STI grille, and we get the STI rear wing on the hatch with the sedan getting the "wangan" style wing standard. Also, gone are the RE92s, now we get Dunlop SPs, a very nice tire indeed.
This is not "The very same car" as the 2008, sorry.
I will post up driving impressions when the embargo is lifted.

Nice work. Now if only they will create a true STi sedan out of that, I may jump back in. Sorry but I've seen plenty of STi's (or STI as the case may be) and this car has far superior looks. Still not where it should be but getting closer.

Considering all the upgrades to the '09, it seems Subaru learned it's lesson. The '08 seemed tame compared to earlier models, both in styling and handling (no, I have not driven one). So they have given it a sportier ride, and a bit more under the hood and some better styling accents. I'm still not a fan, but whatever, it looks better. So good for Subaru!

I think it's interesting that the car now comes with summer tires. Most people don't want to deal with two sets of wheels. Heck, people have asked me if snow tires really make any difference! :rolleyes: So it will be interesting to see what comes of that, if anything.

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

Actually I would bet the resale value of your car went down, and by more than 15%. Who wants an 08 now that the 09 has 35hp more stock, better suspension, tires etc. Yes you can mod an 08 to be equivalent, but that can lead to problems with denied warranty claims. Plus the same mods on the 09 should give it even more power. So everyone who paid for the 08 wrx basically now has a non-automatic GT. I'm happy Subaru is pushing forward, but the people who bought an 08 wrx are going to lose some of the value of their car because of this.

I'm pissed, i'm going to talk to the dealership where I bought my 08 and see what they can do to put a 09 in my driveway instead. Only if I waited another month to learn about the 09 I def wouldn't have bought the 08. Oh well what are you going to do. I still love my subie!

Actually you are incorrect in places here. The transmission is strengthened so again we have another upgrade to the 5-speed. The exhaust is revised and the turbo is the same size as that of the 2007 STI, just with different housings. The suspension is completely new, however. Shocks, springs and sways are all new and much stiffer with better valving. The grille is the STI grille, and we get the STI rear wing on the hatch with the sedan getting the "wangan" style wing standard. Also, gone are the RE92s, now we get Dunlop SPs, a very nice tire indeed.
This is not "The very same car" as the 2008, sorry.
I will post up driving impressions when the embargo is lifted.

Any more information about the transmission? its kinda a deal breaker right now for me...

According to the Press Release, "the main shaft and first gear use a hardend material for more strength..." They did make a point to say that the new 5-speed is much stronger than the older one since the bump in power and the stickier tires. Also, the steering rack is different in the 2009 WRX.

Sweet.
Does this mean that the rear dual wishbone suspension is better now too?
As in it won't be falling off at rallys...

Overall love the changes so far.
Good thing about subaru is they try to adapt the models year to year and improve over it a significant amount IMO.

Where can I get a wrx grill emblem? I personally think that is a tasteful new addition. :cool:

Actually you are incorrect in places here. The transmission is strengthened so again we have another upgrade to the 5-speed. The exhaust is revised and the turbo is the same size as that of the 2007 STI, just with different housings. The suspension is completely new, however. Shocks, springs and sways are all new and much stiffer with better valving. The grille is the STI grille, and we get the STI rear wing on the hatch with the sedan getting the "wangan" style wing standard. Also, gone are the RE92s, now we get Dunlop SPs, a very nice tire indeed.
This is not "The very same car" as the 2008, sorry.
I will post up driving impressions when the embargo is lifted.

owned...

also yes how is the resale value going to go up on an 08 wrx when the 09 is a better car at (assuming) the same price point? if anything you car will decrease in value if you own a 08 wrx.

If they don't come out with SPT struts within the year I will be getting the ones for the 09!

Damn, sucker punch to the nads.

I kinda want to trade my suby in for the 09

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

I think that as far as styling is concerned his point still remains.. many have already switched to these visual cues and I don't recall seeing a everyone saying "man that's a good looking car!" response. But certainly the performance car that lies underneath makes it more attractive. Interesting info on the turbo and transmission...

I would trade but I think I have more fiscal sense than that. If you keep a car till the wheels falls off, trade in value doesn't mean very much. At least that's what I tell myself. :lol:

There's no way that the 08 and the 09 will be the same price. With all of those upgrades it's going to be more expensive.

I wonder what the new STi will go for.

I guess I'm still against the looks of it. Still looks like a sporty Camry.

Meh, I'm glad they're upgrading. But still, it looks like a damn Mazda. SAME exact headlights and body lines, I'm sick of it.

that video sucked

I guess I'm still against the looks of it. Still looks like a sporty Camry.
Meh, I'm glad they're upgrading. But still, it looks like a damn Mazda. SAME exact headlights and body lines, I'm sick of it.
that video sucked

Pretty much.

^^^^ now that's the kind of disapproval I've grown accustomed to...:lol:

Well I mean thats cool they are making it better for 09... But WTF!!!! I have an 08... stupid man just stupid.

Blah zay blah zay blah....Ahh gee guy the main shaft is harder: wow your '08 sucks now! Look at the 2002 3-400 HP guys running stock trannys and beating the dog piss out of them regularly. Subaru builds a solid car. 10% more hardness in the main shaft doesn't make me sleep better at night. I have bigger fish to fry!

Although, given the way markets work... Some of you are right about the '08 getting S*it on in value. Wonder what the price will really be? I'm really glad I leased my '08 during the late spring when car sales blew donkey balls.....they gave me a 59% residual after 42 months....suckas!! The sales guy: "Whatever you want to do to the car is fine, we'll un-install all your parts and give them back to you when you turn it in as long as you have the stockers!"... we'll see how they like that BS...8 hours of labor to take off my bolt-ons and a loose plug to re-program the ECU haha.

Lastly, I got your back Oxcart...Gotta love the differences between the '08 haters of a few months back, and those that are all of a sudden captivated by a few ponies, side skirts, and still less-than-adequate stock suspension (isn't it all inadequate?). Lay off a bit -- annd for god's sake get used to it. THEY DON'T MAKE YOUR OLD WRX ANY MORE! I get many compliments on the new hard lines and more "grown up" style of the 'rex. I could also do without the large chrome strip in the back, but oh well!

I get many compliments on the new hard lines and more "grown up" style of the 'rex.



Same here.. I think the lines really well defined in person.. in photos not so much.. but I did notice that the new photos are of with a dark colored, waxed, highly reflective finish to make them standout. And the grille.. well they made the right choice for 09

Same here.. I think the lines really well defined in person.. in photos not so much.. but I did notice that the new photos are of with a dark colored, waxed, highly reflective finish to make them standout. And the grille.. well they made the right choice for 09

I still like the sport grill better then the new one on the 09.

Wow that pic really makes the sedan look good. I have never been a fan until now. I wonder if it will look that good in person?

For some reason, 08-09s are not very photogenic at all, so yes IT WILL LOOK EVEN BETTER in person.

...Gotta love the differences between the '08 haters of a few months back, and those that are all of a sudden captivated by a few ponies, side skirts, and still less-than-adequate stock suspension

Preach it!

Where do I start? Hmmm... I love my 08. I'm the first guy in my town to have had one and in doing so, convinced everyone that ever saw it in person that it completely rapes. Thanks to it's lack of acceptance by a massive community of nay-sayers that have never actually driven/seen one, I'm still the only guy in town with one, besides the jerk with the sti. Admittedly, when I got it I knew it had some things that needed revising. So I added the rear trim piece to match body color, ordered the cool grille, spt exhaust, and removed the emblem and did a complete de-badge and now look at it. Looks identical to the one up there. Oh. And I've had a year to enjoy the hell out of it. But in case your wondering, I am kinda bitter. So stop reminding me.

Still relaxing to watch a WRX run through a few turns out in the woods...

I will say it, the 2008-09 styling is growing on me. This tends to be a constant among Subaru enthusiasts.
When the Bugeye debuted every American magazine I read was praising Subaru for bringing a WRX to our shores, while the same time writing "eeww' and "yuck" about the cars face. I myself thought Subaru was crazy for putting big round eyes on their mean rally machine. In 6 months to a year after the debut peoples tone changed a bit. Now there are people(enthusiasts) who wouldn't drive anything but a Bugeye WRX. The flip flop of hate it, love it always happens. I expect it and sometimes I think Subaru does as well. Subaru knows they will have lovers and haters of new styling changes. They also know that putting a less than inspiring body design into a road/ race setting, or a rally car setting with dust, mud, and rally wheels will get everyone's blood pumping. Lets flashback to 2002 and see if you understand what I mean.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nTkktsSpaz0
It is hard not to get excited watching these commercials, they still get my blood pumping...

The same sort of disdain is and was shown for the 06-07 WRX nose. I hated that nose. Guess what I own an 07 WRX Wagon, and with its black paint, stock 17's with red calipers peeking through... It looks like a wolf in sheep's clothing.
Subaru enthusiasts aren't alone, VW(MK4,MK5 designs), BMW(Chris Bangle designs), dare I say Honda(Civic evolution), etc. get the same first reactions from the their admirers.

I can't explain it, but I know it happens, people don't want to conform to things that are not familiar. Give it time, it will all become familiar eventually. :lol:

Gotta love the differences between the '08 haters of a few months back, and those that are all of a sudden captivated by a few ponies, side skirts, and still less-than-adequate stock suspension (isn't it all inadequate?). Lay off a bit -- annd for god's sake get used to it. THEY DON'T MAKE YOUR OLD WRX ANY MORE! I get many compliments on the new hard lines and more "grown up" style of the 'rex. I could also do without the large chrome strip in the back, but oh well!

I always appreciated what Subaru was doing by making the 08 more grown up, but I was never a huge fan of the 08 WRX's styling, as I found it just a little too tame, especially compared to the STI. They spiced it up a little for 09, so now I like it a little better. And people should be impressed with the changes: better suspension, bigger turbo, better trans, better steering rack. All of those things should make a stock 09 noticeably more fun car to drive than the 08, and that is what really makes it more attractive. If i had the cash, I'd consider trading my 02 in and getting one of these bad boys. the 02 is a little too conspicuous on the streets (IE: cops follow me whether I am speeding or not), so a WRX disguised as a corolla appeals to me.

And Oxcart: It's not really the Malibu Stacey effect, considering they actually are offering a better product. If they ONLY changes the looks (aero bits, grill, and wheels), then yeah, your point would have been valid.

how many paint chips did you get?

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.


Agreed, but i think everyone has given up caring and now it looks good. For example, Its like not seeing a good looking girl for months..... the next girl you see will be gorgeous by default (or at least drivable, haha)
The car looks the same, and im sticking to the roots... CAR IS STILL UGLY.

It just looks more appealing because that family sedan has shown it has some fire on the gravel roads.

If Subaru wants to keep me as a customer then please return the uniquely attractive, aggressive, and practical car...P.S. majority of America likes sedans, so please no more hatchbacks/ high trunks!...... maybe i'm picky, but the company has down it from 2000 - 2007. Please try again.

:banana:I want to trade my 05 for a 09 now:banana:

Blah zay blah zay blah....Ahh gee guy the main shaft is harder: wow your '08 sucks now! Look at the 2002 3-400 HP guys running stock trannys and beating the dog piss out of them regularly. Subaru builds a solid car. 10% more hardness in the main shaft doesn't make me sleep better at night. I have bigger fish to fry!

Although, given the way markets work... Some of you are right about the '08 getting S*it on in value. Wonder what the price will really be? I'm really glad I leased my '08 during the late spring when car sales blew donkey balls.....they gave me a 59% residual after 42 months....suckas!! The sales guy: "Whatever you want to do to the car is fine, we'll un-install all your parts and give them back to you when you turn it in as long as you have the stockers!"... we'll see how they like that BS...8 hours of labor to take off my bolt-ons and a loose plug to re-program the ECU haha.

Lastly, I got your back Oxcart...Gotta love the differences between the '08 haters of a few months back, and those that are all of a sudden captivated by a few ponies, side skirts, and still less-than-adequate stock suspension (isn't it all inadequate?). Lay off a bit -- annd for god's sake get used to it. THEY DON'T MAKE YOUR OLD WRX ANY MORE! I get many compliments on the new hard lines and more "grown up" style of the 'rex. I could also do without the large chrome strip in the back, but oh well!

All those '02 owners beating the dog piss out of their trannys and them not breaking huh :rolleyes:

Wait, just noticed your join date was... this month. Let us know all about your wide variety of experience and knowledge with the WRX 5-speed, as obviously any upgrades mean nothing to you.

Prior to buying my STI, I used to own an '04 WRX, that had 1mm wider gears than the '02 WRX came with.... I also seared every tooth off of my 2nd gear... on the stock TD04-13T turbo. Just to clarify, it's typically shock load that destroys drivetrain components, and I will be the first to admit, the shift that killed my 2nd gear was a fairly quick shift... if I had shifted more carefully, I probably could have made my 5-speed last for quite a while... but never would I say that that at 300-400hp power levels the 5-speed would hold up to people "beating the dog piss out of it".

As far as the haters go... and the price is concerned, there's a reason why the '09 is getting more love than the '08. To all the '08 owners crying about how much more the '09 is going to cost, you obviously aren't seeing this from a manufacturers point of view. When you don't have to throw parts away, the price really isn't affected nearly as much as you might think.

Take for instance, the 2002 WRX vs the 2006 WRX... the starting MSRP didn't hardly change at all. Yet, in 2006, the WRX got the following upgrades:

-Larger motor (2.5 vs 2.0L)
-Upgraded internals (forged rods & semi-closed deck vs cast rods and open-deck)
-Larger brakes (4-pot/2-pot vs 2-pot/1-pot calipers)
-Quicker rack
-Wider gears
-Revised interior/exterior
-Larger wheels (17" vs 16")

^^^Ect ect. The point being the 2006 was a pretty substantial upgrade from the original 2002... and the cost went up how much? Well, let's take a look shall we:

2002 base WRX sedan- $23,995:
http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Overview-t17025-2002-Impreza-WRX.html

2006 base (TR) WRX sedan- $23,995:
http://www.cargurus.com/Cars/Overview-t26444-2006-Impreza-WRX-TR.html?urlSource=switchCarWidget

^^^That's right, not a penny. If you have half a brain, you can figure out why... unlike people who modify their cars, like us enthusiasts, we're paying for parts that we just end up tossing off to the side, only to pay more money... in the case of a manufacturer, like Subaru, do you think it costs them ANYMORE money to change spring rates? Do you think somehow that springs wound for 220 lbs are going to magically cost more than springs would for 180 lbs?!? If you do, you're nuts. It also doesn't cost them hardly anything to re-dampen a set of shocks/struts. Things like sway bars that are maybe 1mm thicker also will cost minimal cash.

Using slightly different styled body moldings will cost them nothing... and have you priced out turbos? Here's a good example:

Garrett GT3071R, typically rated to flow enough air for around 450bhp depending on trim, it'll run you $1395:
http://www.atpturbo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=GRT-TBO-020&Category_Code=GRT

Garrett GT3076R, the 76 denotes it's running a larger compressor housing, depending on trim, it's rated to flow enough air for about 500bhp. In other words, it's a larger turbo per se (the compressor housing at least). Care to guess what the price difference is? A whopping $1395:
http://www.atpturbo.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=GRT-TBO-005&Category_Code=GRT

Does anyone really think Subaru is really going to have to pay significantly more money for a slightly larger turbo? To all of you people crying about how in their diluted minds, the '09 is going to cost SOOOO much more, I give you this:

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=130386

Quoted from that link:
"Subaru's new 2009 WRX will start below $25,000, Inside Line has learned. The current 2008 WRX starts at $24,995 including a $645 delivery charge."

Yeah, if Subaru's history has taught us anything, you should have known better.


Now, back to the "former '08 haters"... it's obvious most of you '08 owners haven't been around the Subaru community very long... in '02, many people regarded the bugeye as ugly, although after it was on the market for a while, quite a few people warmed up to it... then the '04 peanut eye came out, and the '02-03 owners called it ugly, saying it wasn't as "unique" anymore, citing that it looked like a Hyundai, and was boring looking ect... shortly after, it started to grow on many Subaru faithful.... then the '06 came out, guess what? Same thing. People called it hideous, comparing it to the fugly Tribeca, saying they should have stayed with the 04-05 design... after a while, just like the others, people have started to come around to it. To the '08 owners who haven't been in this community too long, your car is no different, no more special, and neither are you. This is typical of the Subaru community, to hate something when it's released, and by the next model year, having people say "you know, it's not so bad". Get over it.

As far as the '09 is concerned, from a performance aspect, it offers a significantly better bang for your buck ratio than the '08. Don't bother crying about it, as former generations have received the shaft as well... especially when the '06 came out with a 2.5L motor and 4-pot brakes for the same price. Not to mention climate control ect, that wasn't available on earlier WRX's.

Face it, from a performance aspect, the '09 is the better car when compared to the '08. No use crying, or somehow trying to justify your purchase as being the "smarter" move. You didn't know the '09 would be such an upgrade (no one did), or else I'm sure most of you would have held out for the better performing car. Suck it up, and don't try to act like the '09 isn't much of an upgrade... because it is. Sorry, but when you upgrade the following:

-41 horsepower & 18 ft-lbs of torque
-Transmission strength
-Steering rack
-Stickier tires (no more excuses for magazine comparos!! RE92 scapegoat is dead!)
-Thicker sway bars
-Higher spring rates w/revalved dampening

^^^Well, that's what I would consider a MAJOR upgrade, no matter how you slice it. Sure, you can get an '08 to the same performance level, but you're likely going to have to run at least a downpipe+tune, upgrade springs, struts/shocks, steering rack, sway bars & tires at the least (without mentioning the gear strength portion)... which is going to cost you a significant amount of money... money you would have saved if you had just bought an '09 in the first place.

So yeah, people hated on the '08... most hated not just because of it's looks, but because it lost the WRX's edge. The overall performance basis, and fun to drive factor that made the WRX a success in the first place. People hated because the WRX was become too soft, too much like a Camry... and now, Subaru realizes the error of their ways, and is trying to make amends for it... so people like it. Myself included. I won't be trading my STI in on it, but I am glad to see Subaru being back on the right road. Glad to see them catering to enthusiasts again, rather than using the WRX's heritage to draw in yet another generation of would-be Camry owners. I'm glad to see it will be giving cars like the Mazdaspeed 3 a run for it's money, in the bang for buck category, trying to reclaim a title that the WRX held back in 2002, when there was nothing else like it on the market.

In short, I like the '09. I prefer it over the '08. I guess that makes me a '08 hater :lol:

^^ Yeah but the 02 Bugeye was officially (according to most mags) the quickest of the 2.0l and arguably the most "raw", so Bugeye-love is based on more than just looks. The 08 5-speed will be a rare car in a few years and they should retain their value since they will be a rarity: essentially an Impreza GT with a stick, which will not be offered in 09.

People getting over the looks happens with every new model, but "08 hate" is derived from a lack of improvement on the vehicle on subaru's behalf. It is barely a better car than my 02, and now that I am stage 1, it is less quick. the 09 is what the 08 should have been, and had it been built like the 09 people would have gotten over the looks a hell of a lot quicker.

Post of the Year.

/thread.:)

I have an 08, and I too find it retardedly funny that people are now talking about how good the car looks when it looks, oh, exactly like the 08's, but with an STI grille, painted wheels, and a different spoiler on the hatch. After months of people saying how crappy the 08's look it just makes me laugh. The grille is a big improvement, though it's still a pretty minor change that most people have done anyway. The point is that the 09's look just as lame as the 08's do with a few minor changes. Though, the standard aero kit on the WRX was a really positive move as the base models tend to look especially lame imo (I have a base model, though sideskirts are being put on next week).

I personally am excited about the 09's. I like my 08, but I also enjoy modding, and the parts the 09 uses gives me that many more mods made easy. The advertised powerband on the 09's is about what I was looking for. I prefer slightly later spooling and stronger top end. So that means a cheap, easy turbo swap so I can hit my 300 flywheel hp goal. I mean it might even be able to happen (the turbo swap) with just a standard map reflash with my AP rather than a complete protune (if I end up cheaping out). I'm not too bent out of shape about the suspension stuff as that is something that I would have changed anyway. The rest of the changes are too minor for me to care. The fact is that both cars have nearly exactly the same amount of mod potential, which is why I bought it personally.

The bottom line here is that 41hp is nice and all, but if that's what makes or breaks the car, well, then the car just wasn't that great to begin with. The rest of the changes ARE, in fact, pretty minor, even if those minor changes are made to pretty major components. The steering rack change is minor, the tire change is minor (when you consider that they are TIRES and are usually replaced pretty early on by most enthusiasts with a tire that they feel is more appropriate for their situation or wheel choice), the sway bar change is minor (1mm bigger, wow. Besides, I'd rather, for the sake of handling in incliment weather on snowpack, I would rather leave roll resistance to the sprngs/shocks/coilovers), transmission strength is totally meaningless imo considering that the 08 transmissions are already pretty strong from what I've seen this far (but ****ty shifting will still obviously destroy a transmission even when you aren't pushing huge power). Besides, don't people usually break second or third gear, not first?

Is the 09 a definite improvement? Absolutely, without question. Is it a GIANT improvement that will put the car in another league? Uh, not unless your car will remain stock, which 90% of ours won't.

Will the 09's hurt the 08 resale? Probably, but I predict the fast and furious movie will improve it more than the 09s hurt it, like it did with the 2nd gen eclipse, evo, supra, bla bla bla. Though, I'm dreading the douchebag factor more than I am looking forward to the improved resale value that will result from this.

Back when the HD format war had finally reached its inevitable conclusion... a friend of mine asked what he should do with his HD-DVD player. Since the news had JUST broke... I told him to put it on Ebay and hope for the best. As luck would have it, some unsuspecting, uninformed nimwit bought it for $20 less than what my friend paid for it retail. He was very fortunate since that same player probably couldn't even fetch $20 these days.

Now I'm not trying to say the '08s are like HD-DVD players but... for anyone that thinks their '08 is going to hold (or even increase) in value, you're out of your F'ing mind. Put your (2nd biggest purchase of your life) aside for a moment and think about it objectively. In fact, to make it easier... let's compare it to something completely unrelated. Video games. (well, ok... maybe video games and WRXs aren't so different but... for the sake of it just roll with me.) On May 12th 2005 the Xbox 360 was released. Obviously it was vastly superior to its predecessor. The question is... did the original increase, stay the same or decrease in value? I know it's an absurd question but... so is the notion that an inferior WRX will somehow increase in value.

Those of you with '08s... please don't try to justify your purchase with absurd rationale. It's still a fine car. With a few inexpensive mods (minus the tires) it can look like an '09. But like Ronin said, it's going to take a significant amount of dough to equal the performance and handling characteristics of this new model. Since even the '09 will be far short of its potential, that's money that would undoubtedly bring an '09 WRX into Sti territory.

So my recommendation for any '08 owners out there (who care about this sort of thing) is to try and sell your car while the news is still fresh. Though it might not be "right"... they say there's a sucker for every deal so... caveat emptor. Considering how difficult it is to sell a car so soon after you buy it (even without this enormous hurdle in your way) I'm guessing that option is highly unlikely. So my next bit of advice would be to fight the urge on modding your current car. You'd only be digging your grave even deeper. Enjoy it for what it is... after all, you bought it under the pretense that it's basically an AWD Camry SE with a shorter wheelbase. Bland styling... quick in the straights and wallows in the turns. That's not inherently bad btw. That combo obviously was enough for you to chunk down $25k+ of your hard earned money so do yourself a favor and live with it. If the characteristics the '09 offers were THAT important to you, you would have either stretched good ole George a bit further and got an Sti or... waited for the Ralliart. (The latter choice would have obviously landed you in an '09 WRX of course.) But I digress...

In summary... while the '08 isn't a terrible car, the '09 is clearly better in every way. (we haven't even talked about the modest, yet note-worthy, enhancements to the interior.) And, while Subaru has had a tendency of pulling this sort of... thing in the past (leaving previous year owners saying 'wtf?') I think future '08 owners can rest easy knowing that a vastly superior WRX will not coming down the pike for many years.

I agree with a lot of you saying the front is ugly... well actually I don;t think its ugly, it just looks like everything else. But you can't say the back end of the wagon isn't beautiful, ricer lights or not. The wagons beforehand looked horrible in my opinion.

I don't think the car has looked this good since 05.

Absolutely no 08 owner should be surprised by the 09 changes. The car just cot a completely new design, so a styling change was out of the question. Every other change is an improvement to things that everyone had a complaint about (besides the looks).

As for the resale value, who knows what will happen. Maybe some people will want the GT version in manual, and the 08 WRX is just that. There is no way the 09 WRX won't be a bit more expensive.

simple suspension mods, tbe and reflash puts the 08's in the stock 09 territory, but with a lot more torque. Swap in the turbo from the 09's and you can easily surpass it. it will cost a bit more, but not too much given that you really won't need any supporting mods except the exhaust which you would have anyway. What that boils down to is that if you are modding, the two might as well be the same car once swap an 09's TC into an 08 given that they are almost identical, especially if you are going even larger than the 09 wrx's tc. The difference between the 08's and 09 isn't mind blowing. It would be different if the 09's actually had any huge changes other than some springrate/dampening changes and a different TC. Sure, it will hurt the resale value of the 08's, but the difference in price to get one car to the same performance benchmark rather than the other will be minimal. Though, having a warranty is nice. I personally got my car to enjoy driving it for a long time, not for it's stellar resale value. If I wanted good resale value I wouldn't have gotten a WRX.

Wow, I can't believe how ridiculous this 2009 WRX subject is. So I guess, I should consider anyone who does not own an 09 WRX, a loser. Then the whole Subaru community would be, how do I put this, a bunch of LOSERS.

If you know anything about history, specially Subaru history, a new model comes about every few "months". To try and "exhibit" an 08 buyer actually insults everyone else.

You may never buy a car again, because whenever the new model or version eventually comes out, you might have to kill yourself because you bought the previous one. I'd say don't buy the 2009 model because the 2010 is going to better. And the 2011, 2012....

There is always a jackass out there.

BTW, good job on the new WRX Subaru!
I'm looking forward for a test drive.

^^QFT

My point of view is that there will always be faster cars on the road. The 08 WRX, and the previous years for that matter, are all insanely enjoyable to drive. The 09 will be no different, but there are still better, faster things out there. I don't know why people think they need to have the best and latest of everything in order to be happy.

I would be jealous, but there are too many things about my car, which is an ugly base model 08 sedan (soon to be de-uglified), that put a stupid grin on my face. If I had known about the 09's before I bought my car would I have waited for one? Maybe, but who cares, I sure don't at this point. Do I like the car? Yes (aside from that annoying front end vibration which I have to get ironed out), and that's all that matters to me. The only way the 09's have affected my satisfaction/plans is that I am now more excited to add some more power.

Regardless, the 09's will be bitchin', as any improvement to an already great car would be.

I understand some 08 owners frustrations, but take a serious look at your 08 if you have one. Make an effort to really notice the positives. It's absolute gravy.

^^^ This further explains my point. To criticize an 08 WRX owner is pointless. To feel "cheated" because you bought an 08 WRX is also pointless.

[QUOTE=08dizzle;23244864]Blah zay blah zay blah....Ahh gee guy the main shaft is harder: wow your '08 sucks now! Look at the 2002 3-400 HP guys running stock trannys and beating the dog piss out of them regularly. 10% more hardness in the main shaft doesn't make me sleep better at night. I have bigger fish to fry!
QUOTE]

Just reposting yesterday's most rediculous post

mnbmhnjh

Just a reminder, that you'll be able to test drive the new 2009 WRX on Willow Springs Raceway's BIG WILLOW at Subiefest 2008.

http://www.subiefest.com/2008/2009wrx.shtml

Be sure to pre-register! Slots are going fast.

Summary of every 2009 thread:

2008 owners feel shafted, most (try to) justify the 08 purchase. Price announced unofficially and 08 owners get the blade turned even deeper.

Many pre-08 "purists" still hate the looks. WE GET IT, your car is old and slow now in comparison. Move on.

Detractors still racing to see join date in attempts to detract from others posts, typical NASIOC fashion.

How many more ways can the above be stated? Why does every 2009 thread go from (info > its ugly > no its not I love it > 08 owners feelings > bitch session)?

I always love it when I see "Last edited by..." at the bottom of a post. Come on people! Don't be such pu$$ies! Say what you mean and leave it. No need to censor yourself in fear of hurting someone's feelings. (if that's what you were doing. If not... then ignore what I just said! haha)

Seriously though... to the guy who said a new Subaru model comes out every few months... put the crack pipe down. I know you were exagerating but even still. In terms of the almightly hp figure... the WRX has gone relatively unchanged the past 6 years. So don't give me that $hit. This (the '09 change) is HUGE!! Sure, mfrs will constantly tweak their cars in order to make them better/more competitive but... there are varying degrees. '04 owners probably felt somewhat slighted when they saw the '05s come with climate control and a nicer interior. But that, in the grand scheme of things, isn't the end of the world. The '05 owners on the other hand... yeah, seeing the '06 with it's bigger engine probably sucked. But even that pales in comparrison to... well, you know.

Now look, my post above wasn't to belittle '08 owners and make them feel bad/worse for their purchase. I was merely responding to those who were trying to justify their purchase with crazy talk. While I understand your frustration... let's keep it real.

Summary of every 2009 thread:

2008 owners feel shafted, most (try to) justify the 08 purchase. Price announced unofficially and 08 owners get the blade turned even deeper....

...How many more ways can the above be stated? Why does every 2009 thread go from (info > its ugly > no its not I love it > 08 owners feelings > bitch session)?


LOL Yeah... I think that pretty much sums it up alright! haha Can't blame the partifcipants though. I guess it's just the natural progression of things.

I always love it when I see "Last edited by..." at the bottom of a post. Come on people! Don't be such pu$$ies! Say what you mean and leave it. No need to censor yourself in fear of hurting someone's feelings. (if that's what you were doing. If not... then ignore what I just said! haha)

I edit the hell out of my posts, not to remove things, but to correct spelling and stuff, or to restate what I said 3 seconds before, but in a clearer way. I don't know what I would do without edit. Well, I do actually, I would leave posts that were riddled with typos, sentence fragments, things that make no sense, or things that I reconsidered to be inappropriate, etc. I <3 Edit. I never remove things for the sake of an argument though, that's dumb.

Added some more pics, linked from the main post.

I always love it when I see "Last edited by..." at the bottom of a post. Come on people! Don't be such pu$$ies! Say what you mean and leave it. No need to censor yourself in fear of hurting someone's feelings. (if that's what you were doing. If not... then ignore what I just said! haha)

Seriously though... to the guy who said a new Subaru model comes out every few months... put the crack pipe down. I know you were exagerating but even still. In terms of the almightly hp figure... the WRX has gone relatively unchanged the past 6 years. So don't give me that $hit. This (the '09 change) is HUGE!! Sure, mfrs will constantly tweak their cars in order to make them better/more competitive but... there are varying degrees. '04 owners probably felt somewhat slighted when they saw the '05s come with climate control and a nicer interior. But that, in the grand scheme of things, isn't the end of the world. The '05 owners on the other hand... yeah, seeing the '06 with it's bigger engine probably sucked. But even that pales in comparrison to... well, you know.

Now look, my post above wasn't to belittle '08 owners and make them feel bad/worse for their purchase. I was merely responding to those who were trying to justify their purchase with crazy talk. While I understand your frustration... let's keep it real.

The point is to correct grammar so dense people do not get misled. Case in point in this quote. Pointless I tell you.

Hmm... so obviously you didn't read the part where I said "if that's not what you were doing... ignore what I just said!" haha

anyway... grammar shmammar. This is the F'in internet so certain liberties are acceptable. Obviously if someone comes on here talkin 'all like dis and **** you know what I'm sayin' then.. yeah, that's just wrong. But again, there are certain degrees of what's acceptable. No doubt I fall into that category.

Added some more pics, linked from the main post.


link doesn't work. :(

roninsoldier...you said EXACTLY what needed to be said. your post should be added to EVERY "past design is better than the new design" argument thread. you sir, should be given the post of the year award. thank you for pwning everyone, 08/09 fanboi's or not.

thank you.

/thread

Yeah, people will always feel shafted when a newer better version of a car comes out. I have an 05 WRX wagon and although it is probably the best looking of the old wagon body style, if I had waited just one month to buy I would have gotten an 06 with the better wheels, brakes, bigger engine although a crappier looking front end.

But that's economic progress and basic market response for you, technology will always improve and cost less as time goes on. Computers are a prime example, adjusted for inflation, computers cost hardily anything for the average consumer compared to those back in the 80's which would cost you an arm and a leg in 80's income terms. But computers now are thousands of times better in every aspect (literally) and nearly every American can afford a new one every few years.

The same goes with cars, in the future I think we can expect cars that are more powerful, more reliable, integrate more technology and are less expensive to operate than before. In 15 years we might all be driving cars with EEstor batteries that cost 9 bucks in electricity to go 500 miles that are all-wheel drive, emissions free and can be modded to get you from 0-60 in under 4 seconds. I can't wait, but for now I'm glad I have my 05 wagon.

roninsoldier...you said EXACTLY what needed to be said. your post should be added to EVERY "past design is better than the new design" argument thread. you sir, should be given the post of the year award. thank you for pwning everyone, 08/09 fanboi's or not.

thank you.

/thread

I'll be the 3rd to say "great post" by Ronin. Best I've read on here in a long time.

I didn't buy my 02 six years ago because it was good looking. I bought it because NOTHING on the market could touch it at the price for the all around performance level. The 08 had slipped a little in this regard. Now the 2009 has added performance to make the car more competitive in it's market. The awkward looks can be excused if the car otherwise kicks @$$. But it can't be both ugly and homely looking and still sell.

I take it the 2008s 08's weren't selling strongly, so Subaru rethought it. Thank you Subaru ! I have to say I'm tempted to trade up for a 2009 :cool: And yes, I've called it "ugly" and "corolla-esque" many many times.

I like the 09 better, and that's all that matters to my pocket book. Whether it is the simple aero kit, improved grille, prospect of more power, etc... I don't care, bottom line is I would now consider purchasing a WRX again where as the previous WRX off the showroom floor did little for me. Sure, it might of with the same exterior mods that were available, but I have a feeling I will be paying less for more with the 09.

:banana:I like "stock-RALLYING"!!:D!!!
I mean...do-nothing-to-your-car-just-get-in-the dirt-and-go...kinddda RALLY:p!!!

Yeah because in that video the wheels and tires were stock. :rolleyes:

After many hours of research (unfortunately after my post) and trying not to get heated over some of these responses that I finally got a chance to read, I will gracefully bow down to those with experience in the Subaru world. Some of you guys really live this *****...and I've got a lot to learn.

I still think we can get the '08 to '09 performance levels easily, so some of the changes aren't a really big deal to me because I'll add the extras in time. Off the showroom floor, that '09 = a solid deal for sure. Thanks for all the pointers on previous WRX changes to illustrate your points. Also true: if I had known the '09 was going to be as good as it is, I would have waited. So, I guess it's 36 more months in the '08, then we'll have to turn it back in and see what else is out there! I'm sure that in the meantime I, and the other '08 owners, will still have plenty of fun with our cars.

Thanks for the education everyone, now stop hating on my '08!!! :)

PS - no more buzzed posts for this guy....

-B

99.99% of all haters eventually come around. The bottom line is subaru took a step back performance (in general not HP) wise for the 08's. That will never get good reviews from people like us.

Also this thread proves that performance is what we want not looks. People say they like the looks of the 08-09 just because it got some power in 09.

If we could all pull the stick from our ass and just admit we will always love subaru as long as they keep giving us the performance we have come to expect;we can all move on with our lives.

I for one thought my 02 was the ugliest car I had ever owned but I loved the way it drove and they way it felt on the road. Cobb stage II helped but you get the idea.


I would love to get an 08 or an 09, but I am not willing to sell the 02 to get one.

Kudos for at least realizing where you might have gone wrong. You're right... with a modest amount of $ (maybe a grand or two) you can get your '08 into '09 territory. Personally though... if I was you, I'd think about selling it and getting an '09. I realize it might be hard (if not impossible) to break even on a sale but... it might be worth a shot. While the majority of the target market the WRX appeals to scoffed at what the '08 brought to the table... admittedly, the car DOES have a certain appeal to a certain type of buyer. Take, for example, the guy that buys a TSX. I've always like the previous gen TSX for its sleek lines, tight handling, nice interior and rev happy engine. That said, it's slightly under-powered in its segment (and price point) not to mention it's FWD. Compare it to the '08 WRX and, in a lot of ways, the '08 is superior. I feel both cars appeal to the same type of buyer... which is probably what Subaru was going for. The more mature crowd.

So yeah... maybe there's someone out there who doesn't want to have to put new tires on every winter... and prefers the cushy ride of the '08 vs the tight suspension of the '09. If you can find that guy... it'll be a win/win for the both of you. If not... the stock '08 is still better than 95% of the cars on the road so you've got nothing to feel bad about.

...
I for one thought my 02 was the ugliest car I had ever owned but I loved the way it drove and they way it felt on the road...

The bug-eyed version is still my favorite. To me, it embodied everything the WRX stood for. Just like the girl next door with a kick ass personality... the ridiculous level of performance it provided certainly made the car look better. Imagine if it was FWD with... 140hp. Suddenly the car is a joke! Like the skinny little nerd that everyone picks on at school. But instead, the car was a monster. Same skinny little nerd... except this nerd was a 2nd degree black belt and could kick everyone's ass.

I hate to disagree, but if you sell your 08 right now, you WILL loose money. It is a good car, enjoy it, and get a newer one when it is appropriate. You would at least loose $2000 bucks. 2grand is a bunch of upgrades in my book. Over nearly a year, I have maybe spent a grand on my car, and I love it. Just get exhaust/intake/DP/AP and sti springs, and you are on the right track. It becomes a better car. Don't let Subaru or anyone else put a hand in your pocket :)

Vrrrooooommm, vrooooooooooooooooommm...

Sorry about the double post, but I love my car, and no one will change that.

The end.

Now, let's see more pictures!

Well obviously you're not going to sell it if the price isn't right. Whether he's willing to lose any money at all is up to him. Clearly trying to break even on such a new car (as I said) will be difficult... but not impossible.

I swear to god this is the twilight zone! Its the EXACT same car as the 08's in terms of appearance... EXACTLY the same. But now all of the sudden all of its detractors are now loving the car. This is what I now term the "Malibu Stacy Effect." Malibu Stacy gets a new hat and the masses go nuts over something that they were previously hating.

Just IMAGINE all the paint chips that car got!!

It just hit me too... That all of the sudden my resale value on my 08 just went up by 15% now that everyone loves the looks of the... >cough< new WRX.

Funny, isn't it? The '08s were a big improvement on the previous cars (especially the interior), but because a few talking heads - who probably get paid by Faux News on the side for writing Bill-O's yammering, didn't like the car it was "Oh my goddess it's not a WRX any more!"

Now the 09s are out with a bigger turbocharger it's all Guns n Roses again. :devil:

I'm getting 30mpg highway, the car isn't broken in yet so I can't really hammer it, and I am... Wow. I love this car.

And now that I'm obviously not selling the '08, I got a 'promotion' and have to drive clients around, and my car can't be loud :diaf:. Any good QUIET TBE's that you all have heard that are worth while performance wise???


As far as selling it...no can do because I leased. 59.5% residual after 42 months was too sweet, but all my mods have to come off in a few years and I have to be careful about damage. I'll just cool out, save up for the next STI that comes around, and ****.

^^^ Just drive really really slow... J/K
Sorry if i missed it, but which TBE do you have?

Funny, isn't it? The '08s were a big improvement on the previous cars (especially the interior), but because a few talking heads - who probably get paid by Faux News on the side for writing Bill-O's yammering, didn't like the car it was "Oh my goddess it's not a WRX any more!"

Now the 09s are out with a bigger turbocharger it's all Guns n Roses again. :devil:

I'm getting 30mpg highway, the car isn't broken in yet so I can't really hammer it, and I am... Wow. I love this car.

Umm... a big improvement? Nobody will discount the fact that the interior was improved. (Look at what it was up against! Aside from the seats of course, he interior of the WRX has always been its weakest point.) So yeah... the interior was improved. Obviously looks are subjective but come on... Typical WRX buyers liked the looks of the previous gens for their muscular look (fender flares) and overall bulldog stance. The '08 ushered in a certain camryness that nobody (including the talking heads that apparently write Bill O'Reily's talking point memos) liked.

Fast forward a year and... it's funny what slight 'enhancements' can do to a car's image. it's still not as aggressive looking as the previous gens but the sti grille, aero kit, larger exhaust and darker wheels definitely improve the car's look. Couple those things with far greater performance and an even more improved interior (this one at least has a it of color to lighten things up) and... welcome to the jungle.

Que paso chico?
Here is the list of the things improved on the 08. And yes, by that I mean the 09 is a monster(in a good way), but you can't simply ignore the facts. One would be dumb not to see the "slight" changes they've made to the 08 model.
Here it goes:

1. The 2.5-liter four and all-wheel driveline are the only mechanical carryover pieces, and in the WRX, the 224-horsepower intercooled turbo engine's torque peaks at 2800 rpm, down from 3600 rpm, for better performance.

2. Subaru also claims lower emissions and 10-percent-better fuel economy.

3. ("problem area")The new WRX isn't softer, Subaru says, but "the suspension is more compliant when it needs to be,"


4.The standard Impreza 2.5i and the WRX are on an all-new platform with a 3.7-inch-longer wheelbase. The front subframe is gone, allowing Subaru to mount the engine 10 mm lower than in the old model. An unequal-length control arm suspension replaces the multilink in back, in part to reduce the wheelwell intrusion and buy more trunk space.Or hatch space.

5. The 2008 Impreza's interior space is two inches wider than the 2007, thanks to scalloped interior door panels, so you won't have to rub shoulders with your navigator.

6. The WRX comes with an optional navigation system for the first time, with a seven-inch screen that flips up to reveal a six-disc CD changer and a separate nav DVD slot.

7. There's a connector in the center armrest for an external DVD player, or a PlayStation or Xbox game console

8. The back seat is raked more for better comfort and headroom. The WRX sedan is slightly longer than the car it replaces, and the hatchback is a half foot shorter than the new sedan. The sedan, only, has a fold-down center armrest in back.

9. A twist of the key brings the gauges to life, slick italicized numerals glowing red as needles sweep forward and back. It's a sequence that, until now, had been reserved for the top-spec WRX STI.

10. With a steering ratio of 15.0:1 (versus 16.5:1 of the previous version), manhandling the new 2008 WRX is noticeably easier and provides greater feedback.

11. Subaru has its own clever shorthand for the other improvements to WRX handling. They call it DC3 (DC cubed), which stands for Dynamic Chassis Control Concept, and it begins with the all-new sedan and five-door hatchback bodies.

12. Despite giving both a wheelbase 3.7 inches longer than the previous model's and the sedan an extra 4.5 inches overall, WRX engineers claim the hatchback and sedan are 110 and 45 pounds lighter, respectively.

13. They credit a larger proportion of high-tensile steel-40 percent in the new sedan, compared with only 10 percent in the previous version-with keeping strength and rigidity up and weight down.

14. Suspending this chassis upfront is the MacPherson-strut setup cribbed from the Legacy. The key advantage over previous generations is that the front subframe is gone. This not only reduces weight, but allows the engine to be set 10mm lower for better handling.

15. Rear suspension is composed of long-stroke, unequal-length A-arms connected to a rear subframe, which provides superior handling over the multilink setup it replaces, increasing the amount of rear storage space and reducing NVH.

16. Inside, Subaru has upped the comfort and sophistication levels significantly. Gone are the stark silver plastics and restrictive rear legroom; occupants are now treated to more room in every direction, richly textured surfaces, and seats redesigned to support the entire back.

17. Getting in and out is easier, too; the rear doors now open wider by one full stop and close with a satisfying thunk.

18. Other conveniences come standard on the WRX, including a tilt-telescoping steering wheel and tire-pressure-monitoring and VDC systems.

19. But the really cool feature is Subaru's hill-start assist. This electronic system engages the brakes for one second while the WRX is stopped on an incline, just enough time to move your foot from the brake to the gas without fear of a clutch-burning rollback. ( I hate the hill start assist)

So much for vulgar interior improvements. This is all motor trend stuff, but it gives you an idea of how much better the 09 version is. Now, you can't really say they made silly little changes on the 08. Please notice I have not mentioned looks, because I love all of the old designs much better.
I know not all the improvements/changes are welcomed on the 08, but it is a fact they worked hard on this model.
YES the 09 is better, no one is blind. And yes, I still love what my car does, and it does it very, very well.

Dude... If you wanted to cite Motortrend why not just post a freakin link? How long did it take you to read the article and then paraphrase not 5... not 10... but 19 points about how the '08 is supposedly superior to the previous gen anyway? Good God man! I know you've gotta have something better to do with your time.

Since I clearly don't... Many of your points are relatively meaningless to me (and I'm assuming most of the contingency) so I'm only going to respond to the ones that actually matter.

3) Some people like a nice soft ride. My father-in-law said he'd never ride in my car again (he owns a Cadillac DTS) because he said he felt every single bump. Conversely, I could have just taken a speedball and I'd still fall asleep within 3 minutes while riding in his car. So, everyone has a different preference. But let's not forget why Subaru made the changes to the suspension in '09. The '08 was simply too soft! MT can wax poetic all they like about how the '08 suspension was more compliant but all that translated into was a ****ty skidpad rating and subpar slalom speed. Compare those two to the previous gen and I think you'll see that the '08 took a step backwards. Fortuneatly that's being fixed.

4) Thankfully for me... Bigger isn't always better. What's with this notion anyway? Seems like every revision includes a longer wheelbase with more legroom. Most of the people that buy WRXs don't give a rats ass about rear legroom or even trunk space for that matter. If they did they'd buy a freakin camry or some ****. Sure, having a backseat with SOME legroom is cool... for the occasional time someone sits back there. But honestly... how often are any of you carting people around? For the majority of us, the rear seat acts as a glorified shelf 95% of the time. My golf clubs don't care about legroom and neither do I. I care about performance and handling. All things being equal, which performs better... a Legacy GT or a WRX? So that point is moot.

10) Laughable at best Manhandling? lol wtf? Go "manhandle" an '07 and '08 back to back and tell me which one is more... er... manhandable? I've driven both back to back and it's not even close.


I just reskimmed through the points to make sure I didn't miss anything. Most of them are valid. Everyone knows the interior is a huge improvement so that takes care of about 5 points. The rest... I don't know man. To me you have to look at the entire package. There's no doubt that, overall, the '08 is probably a better car than the previous gens. The fact that Subaru has to go back to the drawing board and re-engineer the car only 1 year later should tell you something. For all the great things they added... they left out the most important part. It's as if they made a pizza with the finest cheese and dough money can buy... but forgot the sauce! That pizza's gonna taste like ****! Ipod connectors and 3mm longer doors lol... yeah, that's all well and good. But if you leave out the top-notch handling and class-leading power from the equation you've taken a step backwards.

Did I hit a nerve?
I copy paste some MT stuff, and you go and write a new bible. Look man, I bought the 08, then changed what "I" wanted and WOW, what a car this is. Many people will likely mod the 09 too. So what? It is an amazing car. Only weak character people could buy your bs story. Give it a rest. what is your purpose anyway? We should all thank Mitsubishi. This is the real reason why Subaru gave 265whp to this already amazing car. Competition brings the best out of these companies.

You kind of lost me at "Dude... If you wanted to cite Motortrend..." Just kidding man!
You reeeeeally lost me at "My father in law"

I Just posted some facts, chillax... If you have any other comments, questions or complaints, please refer to the post#89. No man, I'm just kidding again! Post #89 is glorifying the 09 even further, and your comments intent to further glorify the 09 too, right?
If yes, then we both agree, right?

We can now be friends weeeeeeeee!

my 08 is better...vf48 with headers, upp, dp, accessport with perrin maps, LATER 09ers.

MY POINT IS: if we all kept our ***** stock then we would have to decide what year is the best. KOTIR has a 97 impreza wagon with a jdm sti swap that rapes just about everyone in our autox class...08 09 97 WHOOOOO CARES.

if you want to buy a stock car to leave stock go pick up a new stang. 90% of the nasioc population MOD THEIR CARS! the 2010 wrx will stir up this same debate once again and the 09ers will be saying exactly what im sayin.

im drunk:)

Your last line saved you. I'll chalk up that moronic comment to your drunkeness. j/k But seriously... Take the same amount of $ you invested in your '08 and throw it into an '09 and then we'll see which one is better.

As far as the '10 model being equally better than the '09 as the '09 is to the '08... think again! Normally huge improvements come at the START of a new model cycle... not during it. And even then, the changes aren't always for the better. Look back at the last 7 years and ask yourself if the WRX has EVER received such a dramatic bump in performance in 1 year.

But have fun with your '08... sounds pretty badass.

You should in about 90% of the cases never buy the first year of a redesign on any car.

How about this. Trade your ****box 2008 WRX in and wait 25 years then buy another and it will probably happen again.

Why is there a comparison between all of these cars? How about you look at the impreza line in general. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm

02-03 04-05 06-07 08-09- 2010???? EVERY single one of these cars were much better the SECOND YEAR

Excellent point. For the right to be the 'first' on the block... you also have the esteemed privilege of seeing your car receive a vast array of improvements year 2 and... oh yeah... let's not forget about getting hosed on the purchase. The '08's clearly aren't a good example of this since the demand was so low from the start... but dealers typically don't have to drop their drawers during the 1st few months of a new car. Definitely pays to wait.

you should sell your car, you obviously have no faith in subaru.

Get Bent Son.

hahahaha. Do I sense bitterness?

Get Bent Son

you should sell your car, you obviously have no faith in subaru.

Get Bent Son.

Awesome!!!! Good to finally see the current WRX living up to its rally roots. :)

You could do all that in every previous year (including 08) as well.

Its a way better car obviously, but everything you saw in that video, a 2.5i can do. Heck I have done it in my legacy demo :lol: (shhhhhh ;) )

you haven't driven a subaru until you rally one...on any gravel road, construction site...

theres nothing wrong with the 08s, its just that from when i was a little kid and starting to get into cars my father always told me that the second year of that model is always the one to wait for, and if that sucks wait for the next. :lol:

....... when i was a little kid and starting to get into cars my father always told me that the second year of that model is always the one to wait for, and if that sucks BUY A SUBARU. :lol:

There, fixed it for you...........:lol: :lol: :lol:

There are actually some problems with the 08's that hopefully subaru fixed for 09. On my 08, ive been through 4 clutches, 3 factory defective, a rear dif, and a new transmission. They put in a new clutch when they replaced the diff and tranny. Basically subaru made the 08 sedans at least not to be modded according to the guy at subaru so the parts cant handle the extra power that I put in. 09 is supposedly more reenforced to handle mods.

i read through this thread and was just wondering: exactly what size turbo does the 09 have? is it a VF34 !?!?

i currently have an 05 STi with a 20G, meth, open source tuned and FMIC'd. my car has kept me happy thoughout it's 54,000 miles.

is it messed up of me to go out and trade it in for an 09 WRX !?!?

is that considered a "downgrade" !?!?

and just FYI, i wouldn't pay $40K for an 08 STi. but i would for an 08 EVO.

help me out guys.

For what it's worth...I have an '09 WRX. I like the car very much. But I in no way will dog any previous models (including the '08). My favorite impreza is still the late-90s 2.5RS, even though it has much less power, etc etc etc...

All cars change, some things get better, some things get worse, nobody ever likes redesigns, and so on.

I like the 09 sedan because it is low-key and not attention-getting. Nobody notices it, nobody knows how fast it is, even stock. I think the back looks like a KIA. I think the side lines look alot like early TSX's....it's still kind of funky looking but in a sleeper kind of way. I think it's a nice-looking car, but I care less about that than the performance, which I've been pleased with so far (I am an autocrosser/road racer who will be using this car at the track frequently, even in near-stock form)...

And when the next body style comes out in a few years, I'll probably be saying "damn that thing is ugly" and so on, just like the previous generation guys are saying about the 08+.....that's just the way car forums work - ALL car forums!