The USofA brochure makes mention of the driving position in relation to sightline over the hood and the height adjustable feature. There is also a mention of the "heavily bolstered sport seats help hold you in place". They do not go into any specific design goals in relation to the seats and driving position the way the Japanese brochure does.
PS: I usually have the brochure w/me at work, how sick is that?? :-)
Theyre selling a nothing-on-it 2002 RS for $17,991?! That makes me happy! I might actually be able to get on!
The only thing Im upset about is the LSD... I can have some foglights installed easy and cheap I want the new one because of the Chasis and the better interior, and as far as I can tell, the same suspension set up as the WRX That means its gonna handle like the WRX for $5k less! (Handling is my #1 priority)
My parents never had a manual drive car either. I actually learned when I got a motorcycle during grad school. I taught myself how to gear on that, and then transferred the same principle to cars. At the age of 30, I got my first manual car, a 1999 Maxima, since it seemed such a shame to mate that great engine with an automatic. You should find a way to learn, I think you'd really like it, and it truly accentuates your daily driving experience.
The $23K is for a 5 speed manual sedan, no options. Tax, tags, dest. are NOT included.
Sorry you've had trouble in Texas. Sounds like some people are doing a little better, some worse than I did.
I don't claim to be a master negotiator. I just basically split the difference between what I figured "invoice" would be and sticker. Told the salesman I was trying to avoid the typical back and forth and haggling and wanted us both to feel good about the deal. He only went to the "sales manager" twice. After the second huddle we had a deal.
I'm a little nervous after reading one of the postings regarding the legality or enforceability of these advance orders. For example, what happens if my WRX comes in and the owner's kid decides he likes it? Or someone offers more than the $23K I agreed to? Am I S.O.L.? I did give them a $500 check which they intend to cash.
If it helps those of you who don't live near reasonable dealers, the guy who runs www.subaru.net works for a dealership in Minnetonka, MN, and if I remember correctly he claimed that he could take out of state orders. I never pursued this but it might be worth a try (with him or one of the others mentioned here).
Finally, whatever you end up paying, my guess is you will be glad you bought when you did. Chances are the price of the WRX will only go up. The automotive press was guesstimating $26K or more before SOA set official MSRP.
Stephen: I'm usually the same way. I have all but the WRX brochure here. The WRX one is at home. They're handy when someone asks a very specific question, like how much ground clearance a certain model has (Forester 7.5", Outback 7.3", Legacy 6.3", OBS 6.5").
Steve: I don't have the LSD either, but the AWD still works like a charm. Even in a 10" snow storm, I was plowing through. Also, viscous LSDs are set up for snow, not for the track, so you're not missing out on much if that's what you wanted.
One article on the WRX had prices estimated at a whopping $28 grand!
I second all the questions by sajohnson. Plus, I have more questions
After reading reviews before MSRP was announced, and calculating by my own unscientific methods what the price would be, I became absolutely excited that the MSRP is 24K. I would pay 24K and walk away a happy person. But that's not to say that I wouldn't like to save a grand.
All I have to back up what I'm paying for my pre-ordered sedan is some emails and casual phone calls with my dealer. I must have sort of assumed that I'd pay MSRP. Would it be a good idea to contact the dealer, pay them a visit, and suggest a price that is plausibly between Invoice & MSRP? Or at least get SOMETHING in writing?? My dealer's been very helpful and straightforward so far, but I have nothing in writing and not even a receipt for my deposit. Course, if things go sour - I will need to "pre-order" somewhere else and wait longer (and waiting for the WRX has been more excruciating than I expected).
I have to ask you enthusiasts what you think about non-performance options. I ordered a couple of WRX's for stock. The performance parts have to be dealer installed so I will leave that up to the people who buy these cars. (won't front load them) but I did opt for some port installed options on these cars and I want to know what ya'll think. (worth while or not?)
auto dimming mirror security system upgrade wheel locks air filtrations system armrest extention premium speakers and subwoofer
outbackguru, mandatory options always piss me off, more out of principle than anything. I resent it when a dealer puts stuff on a car and insists I pay for it. Having said that, I think a serious performance nut wouldn't want any of the gizmos you mention, but might consider paying for the air filtration system, wheel locks, and possibly the auto-dimming mirror. I never buy alarms, and don't care much for audio systems in my cars. If the armrest gets in the way of my shifting - no thanks.
I didn't mean to scare anyone about enforceability of orders! I'm a lawyer, but have only a basic understanding of contracts and their enforceability. I need to be clear on that, I do criminal law as one of the good guys ;-).
Basically, unless you have an agreement in writing and there has been money exchanged, you can't expect a court to enforce it. But remember, this also means a dealership can't enforce it against you! So really, unless you have a price set and ready to be agreed on, it's not a good idea to put anything in writing, IMHO.
I do know that most sales contracts have a space for a car's VIN number to identify which car you've contracted to buy. If the car is not clearly identified, then yes, the dealer could jerk you around saying you've got to wait because his son bought the one earmarked for you (this happened to me once at a Nissan dealership).
Personally, now that we know what the MSRP and invoice prices are on the car (not the options as far as I know), I think it'd be a good idea to start asking for things in writing.
And finally, even if you could enforce a contract in court, the cost of hiring a lawyer and hassle of dealing with a lawsuit will probably not be worth it. Really, it's best to move on to another dealer.
wheel locks: depends on where you live, but they'd be indispensible in urban areas. Those rims are sweet and OE rims are very pricey (even 16" ones).
air filtration system: I have asthma, so this choice was easy. Filters are very easy to access on the Forester/Impreza.
arm rest extension: don't get one without it. This puts the center console at the same height as the door armrest (at least on my Forester). It feels odd without it, and it's more comfortable on trips.
Juice: I totally agree w/you about having info on hand, plus now I don't feel so "sick". :-) The center armrest extension was a must-have for me as well. I don't like it when the center armrest is at a different height than the armrests,plus center console storage is at a premium on the WRX anyhow. I also opted for the auto dimming mirror/compass. I have this on my OB (already installed when I bought car) and have come to depend on it. I also went w/upgraded sec pkg as any prevention is better than none and I couldn't see myself going through the hassle of installing aftermarket. I didn't incl the short shift option after discussing w/my salesguy. He recommended installing aftermarket if it was something I really wanted after driving the WRX. He listed several recommended brands. I passed on the upgraded amp/spkrs as I'm not sure the improvement offered equals the fairly pricey amt Subaru is asking. I will go through Darlene for the cargo net, cross bars and diffy protector. Who knows, maybe I will include the aero pkg and upgraded wheels (not outrageously priced BBS...pluuuuueeeze!!)and tires, etc at a later date. I'm sure I will be able to find some justification. :-)
I have the purchase price of the WRX sportwagon w/options in writing as well as my trade-in price. I'm purchasing at MSRP and consequently am getting a full-value trade-in amount (you know, "apples to apples" thing). I have all the e-mails that the salesman sent me regarding order allocation and arrival dates. He has been great at keeping in touch w/me and, so far, I highly recommend him for anyone in the NW region (specifically Puget Sound area).
Stephen
PS. For some reason, I got un-auto logged-in and couldn't remember my password to re-log on. I am now using barresa62 for work posts (shhhhh, keep it secret now!!!) and barresa11 for home.
I put it on my WRX order..with the security system and air filtration system...the air filtration is a standard feature on all honda cars..I wonder why subaru don;t just make this a standard feature...
In my opinion, I think the rear spoiler makes the slight sporty look and reduce the 'cheap' sedan look of wrx..for $399 it's a bit pricey though I must admit..:)
They charge $200 for the security system..I live in a pretty secure areas in Milwaukee...so the basic factory installed system would be enough for me...
Stephen: I agree that the spoiler actually helps dispell the "common sedan" look, although I know that some like this for the "Q-ship" factor.
I felt that the std sec system wasn't enough...it isn't much really. Check out the specs on what's std. Just a friendly FYI (maybe my pessimistic self coming through), no place is safe from auto theft. I feel that $200 is a small price to pay for (admittedly small) extra piece of mind.
I like the idea of a sleeper. You could even hide a "Cop Kit" under your glove compartment, and remove all the WRX labels. Stuff an empty baby bottle and a baby photo in the Kit, and just tell the officer you were in a hurry to get milk/formula for the baby in your STATION WAGON (sounds even better than a sedan).
That ought to save you about $100 per month in speeding tickets, reducing the overall cost of the vehicle significantly! :-)
Actually - no joke - this worked for me last fall in the Outer Banks. I had the baby in the car, and we had actually been to the Food Lion for groceries. I pointed to the milk, the baby, mentioned "Station Wagon" and before I could finish my apology he handed me back my license and told me to have a nice day!
.. well you ran into a much nicer cop on the Outer Banks than I did a couple of years ago - I was sitting in the "no parking" (NOT no stopping!!) zone waiting for my friend to come out of the grocery store in the pouring rain for maybe three minutes, more likely not that long. I had left the friend as we were just about to check out while I went to get the car.
Here comes OBX cop on his megaphone - heck, HE didn't want to get out in the rain! - making me the spectacle of the shopping strip.
Okay, fine, I'll just circle for another minute, what in the heck is the problem here? The strip mall was deserted at the time, off-season, raining, what did he care?
(uh, sorry, I guess this has nothing to do with the WRX!! But you know what, I think that was indeed a Food Lion!)
:-)
Pat Host Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
You really were treated very badly. eMail desi@irvinesubaru.com and get a better shake and kindness, as well as no pressure or syupidity. I like her ethics.
The page can be slow but hang in there, or call her at 800-287-1281.
It's quality stuff. I have the T-shirt, hat, sunglasses, pen, 2 different keychains (leather and silver plated), jean oxford shift, and even stuffed animals for our little one.
Highly recommended. At local Subaru club events the folks are green with envy (though I usually try to get sponsorship to hand out freebies).
The 2nd link has pricing on that page for some of the items (not all).
You can certainly call for prices on specific items.
Another tip - depending on where you live, look into clubs in your area. Quite often events are sponsored and freebies are handed out. I've given out T-shirts, hats, keychains, and sunglasses. Someone gave me a Subaru car wash kit, with a bucket and sponges, etc.
I have noticed on the upgrades page of newimpreza.com, that the spoiler for the WRX sedan retails at $395, and they'll send it to you for $283 plus S/H.
Is this accurate? Is it straight forward to install this oneself?
Installing the spoiler probably isn't a big deal - as long as you have the guts to take a drill to the pristine trunklid of your new WRX. I understand you need to drill four holes, and you'd want to de-burr, prime and paint them to avoid corrosion. I'm also assuming the torsion springs that hold the lid open are the same, and are strong enough to support the extra weight of the spoiler. Obviously, this is a personal taste issue, but it beats me why anyone would want to add a goofy thing like this to a street car.
People have posted that the car looks "too much like a Korean econosedan" without the spoiler. Hello? Where I live, EVERY Hyundai, Kia, Daewoo, etc. has a big wing bolted on the back - I'm sure their owners love them. Whatever happened to purity of line? The front of the WRX is busy enough, with the IC scoop & brake ducts around the chin. Personally, I think the rear of the WRX sedan sans spoiler is pretty classy - it is certainly the first Subaru product I've ever considered buying, largely due to the styling of their cars.
Some of you are utter fools. What a ridiculous thing to say. Fritos are better? What are you smoking? You act like it's undisputable. Regardless, it is still an opinion. Let me give you the *facts*. Doritos are the best, and this is no opinion. When you somehow prove that Fritos are better, then you will have our attention.
But the fact remains - Doritos have 30% superior texture, 45% better taste, and 98% more superiority over the second best. 98%! That's incredible!
Tostitos vs. Doritos (!!!) vs. Fritos: I gotta admit that for me it really depends on the day of the week. Or else which one is sitting in front of me :-)
WRX spoiler: it's probably an age thing. I know it's not for me. The WRX looks like it is going to appeal to a wide enough audience that making the spoiler optional is a smart choice. I think the car is so cool, so much fun to drive, and such a great value that whether or not it has a spoiler is not going to change my opinion. It looks okay, if you like spoilers. I just wouldn't buy one, that's all.
I looked high and low for a spoiler-free Legacy GT, and I'm glad every day that I found one. The car looks classy in my greybearded opinion. I've heard the arguments that it actually has some positive effect, and I can certainly believe that those arguments have merit; but for some odd reason I have serious doubts that I'll ever regret not having gotten a spoiler whilst the back of my car loses traction in an off-camber 100MPH sweeper. Other things will give out long before the traction does. Things like my nerve ;-)
So you cover your chin with a grey beard but not your trunk with a plastic boomerrang? Would you consider the front chin spoiler instead? I bet we could put one together in a contrasting grey primer look. These "aero" kits on street cars are just for looks, they don't help a bit with downforce (actually I think the audi TT did need some kind of modification to keep it from trying to take off). That said I prefer the spoiler look most of the time. No company will ever top the HUGE wing and front nose cone used on the 70 Superbird or 69 Daytona although a few Civic owners have attempted it for themselves.
I'm impressed that so many people could do without the spoiler! My WRX will not have one either. I'm primarily interested in the WRX's unique performance for the price. And it just so happens that I think it looks awesome anyway. I'm with Joe too; the WRX is the real deal - I haven't heard anything even suggesting the dinky optional rear spoiler really truly improving any performance w/ downforce.
Looking at the profile of the spoiler, it won't make a measureable amount of downforce (like most OEM spoilers). But it will move the center of pressure aft. If it is farther aft than the center of gravity and center of grip, the car will tend to point into the wind, like a weathervane.
The Audi TT now has a ducktail spoiler because it kills rear lift; the rear was getting light at high speed. But I don't think the WRX would make as much lift as fastbacks or cars with a smooth rear profile. The airflow probably somewhat separates at the top of the back window, so it wouldn't make a lot of lift in the back.
I'm not getting one on my WRX, because it'll hurt the already not-so-good fuel economy and it definitely won't do $395 worth of good.
That's why I ordered a silver wagon. It should be here middle of March. I also like the added versatility and more interior room. I'm willing to sacrifice a bit of performance. It's still one of the quickest things out there, regardless of price! The best thing is that there's no bantering back and forth about the spoiler because it's standard just as Ramon pointed out. :-)
In case any of you hadn't heard first hand from the dealer or followed a post by Glenn Wallace at i-club, it looks like everyone agrees the first allocation will reach dealers across the country on March 13!!
If I can only make it through the next couple weeks...
Actually, the idea of the spoiler on the roof to distribute the forces more usefully while idling in a traffic jam has set me thinking (a rare enough event, yes) -- why not put one of those advertising boards on top like they have on taxis? It would provide a little income and, if shaped properly, a bit of downforce too. Whaddya think?
in Friday's/weekend edition of the Money section. The review is overall good w/the exception of the "controversial styling". The styling will remain controversial so I don't put much stock in it. I take exception though, that the reviewer didn't even mention the wagon in his article. This is especially perplexing as he harped on the lack of interior space in the sedan. The wagon has more headroom f/r and rear legroom. Overall, this is probably a mute point for most perspective WRX buyers because it's all about the driving experience!
I know the spoiler doesn't do much for performance but I think the car definetly looks better with it. I wouldn't consider myself a flashy person, but I like spoilers on sports sedans. I received a new allocation report from Subaru yesterday, it still just says that my WRX orders are due in March. No week indicated. Not everyone will get cars at the same time, distance from the port of entry and mode of transportation (truck or train) makes a difference. I think it will be late march before we see any in Texas.
Comments
Sporin-Don't tell me your one of those people who wonders if published invoice prices are the real thing. Invoice is invoice!
LOL! Nope, I agree with you, I was being facecious. :-)
bedabi: good luck. Hope that dealer doesn't change his tune.
I have a WRX brochure at home. Anyone got one handy now? If not I'll check it tonight.
-juice
PS: I usually have the brochure w/me at work, how sick is that?? :-)
Stephen
hell yeah!
The only thing Im upset about is the LSD... I can have some foglights installed easy and cheap I want the new one because of the Chasis and the better interior, and as far as I can tell, the same suspension set up as the WRX That means its gonna handle like the WRX for $5k less! (Handling is my #1 priority)
My parents never had a manual drive car either. I actually learned when I got a motorcycle during grad school. I taught myself how to gear on that, and then transferred the same principle to cars. At the age of 30, I got my first manual car, a 1999 Maxima, since it seemed such a shame to mate that great engine with an automatic. You should find a way to learn, I think you'd really like it, and it truly accentuates your daily driving experience.
Sorry you've had trouble in Texas. Sounds like some people are doing a little better, some worse than I did.
I don't claim to be a master negotiator. I just basically split the difference between what I figured "invoice" would be and sticker. Told the salesman I was trying to avoid the typical back and forth and haggling and wanted us both to feel good about the deal. He only went to the "sales manager" twice. After the second huddle we had a deal.
I'm a little nervous after reading one of the postings regarding the legality or enforceability of these advance orders. For example, what happens if my WRX comes in and the owner's kid decides he likes it? Or someone offers more than the $23K I agreed to? Am I S.O.L.? I did give them a $500 check which they intend to cash.
If it helps those of you who don't live near reasonable dealers, the guy who runs www.subaru.net works for a dealership in Minnetonka, MN, and if I remember correctly he claimed that he could take out of state orders. I never pursued this but it might be worth a try (with him or one of the others mentioned here).
Finally, whatever you end up paying, my guess is you will be glad you bought when you did. Chances are the price of the WRX will only go up. The automotive press was guesstimating $26K or more before SOA set official MSRP.
Steve: I don't have the LSD either, but the AWD still works like a charm. Even in a 10" snow storm, I was plowing through. Also, viscous LSDs are set up for snow, not for the track, so you're not missing out on much if that's what you wanted.
One article on the WRX had prices estimated at a whopping $28 grand!
-juice
After reading reviews before MSRP was announced, and calculating by my own unscientific methods what the price would be, I became absolutely excited that the MSRP is 24K. I would pay 24K and walk away a happy person. But that's not to say that I wouldn't like to save a grand.
All I have to back up what I'm paying for my pre-ordered sedan is some emails and casual phone calls with my dealer. I must have sort of assumed that I'd pay MSRP. Would it be a good idea to contact the dealer, pay them a visit, and suggest a price that is plausibly between Invoice & MSRP? Or at least get SOMETHING in writing?? My dealer's been very helpful and straightforward so far, but I have nothing in writing and not even a receipt for my deposit. Course, if things go sour - I will need to "pre-order" somewhere else and wait longer (and waiting for the WRX has been more excruciating than I expected).
auto dimming mirror
security system upgrade
wheel locks
air filtrations system
armrest extention
premium speakers and subwoofer
In total these add about 1K to the MSRP
What do ya'll think???
Basically, unless you have an agreement in writing and there has been money exchanged, you can't expect a court to enforce it. But remember, this also means a dealership can't enforce it against you! So really, unless you have a price set and ready to be agreed on, it's not a good idea to put anything in writing, IMHO.
I do know that most sales contracts have a space for a car's VIN number to identify which car you've contracted to buy. If the car is not clearly identified, then yes, the dealer could jerk you around saying you've got to wait because his son bought the one earmarked for you (this happened to me once at a Nissan dealership).
Personally, now that we know what the MSRP and invoice prices are on the car (not the options as far as I know), I think it'd be a good idea to start asking for things in writing.
And finally, even if you could enforce a contract in court, the cost of hiring a lawyer and hassle of dealing with a lawsuit will probably not be worth it. Really, it's best to move on to another dealer.
wheel locks: depends on where you live, but they'd be indispensible in urban areas. Those rims are sweet and OE rims are very pricey (even 16" ones).
air filtration system: I have asthma, so this choice was easy. Filters are very easy to access on the Forester/Impreza.
arm rest extension: don't get one without it. This puts the center console at the same height as the door armrest (at least on my Forester). It feels odd without it, and it's more comfortable on trips.
-juice
Serge
The center armrest extension was a must-have for me as well. I don't like it when the center armrest is at a different height than the armrests,plus center console storage is at a premium on the WRX anyhow. I also opted for the auto dimming mirror/compass. I have this on my OB (already installed when I bought car) and have come to depend on it. I also went w/upgraded sec pkg as any prevention is better than none and I couldn't see myself going through the hassle of installing aftermarket. I didn't incl the short shift option after discussing w/my salesguy. He recommended installing aftermarket if it was something I really wanted after driving the WRX. He listed several recommended brands. I passed on the upgraded amp/spkrs as I'm not sure the improvement offered equals the fairly pricey amt Subaru is asking. I will go through Darlene for the cargo net, cross bars and diffy protector. Who knows, maybe I will include the aero pkg and upgraded wheels (not outrageously priced BBS...pluuuuueeeze!!)and tires, etc at a later date. I'm sure I will be able to find some justification. :-)
I have the purchase price of the WRX sportwagon w/options in writing as well as my trade-in price. I'm purchasing at MSRP and consequently am getting a full-value trade-in amount (you know, "apples to apples" thing). I have all the
e-mails that the salesman sent me regarding order allocation and arrival dates. He has been great at keeping in touch w/me and, so far, I highly recommend him for anyone in the NW region (specifically Puget Sound area).
Stephen
PS. For some reason, I got un-auto logged-in and couldn't remember my password to re-log on. I am now using barresa62 for work posts (shhhhh, keep it secret now!!!) and barresa11 for home.
In my opinion, I think the rear spoiler makes the slight sporty look and reduce the 'cheap' sedan look of wrx..for $399 it's a bit pricey though I must admit..:)
They charge $200 for the security system..I live in a pretty secure areas in Milwaukee...so the basic factory installed system would be enough for me...
I felt that the std sec system wasn't enough...it isn't much really. Check out the specs on what's std. Just a friendly FYI (maybe my pessimistic self coming through), no place is safe from auto theft. I feel that $200 is a small price to pay for (admittedly small) extra piece of mind.
Stephen in Seattle
That ought to save you about $100 per month in speeding tickets, reducing the overall cost of the vehicle significantly! :-)
Actually - no joke - this worked for me last fall in the Outer Banks. I had the baby in the car, and we had actually been to the Food Lion for groceries. I pointed to the milk, the baby, mentioned "Station Wagon" and before I could finish my apology he handed me back my license and told me to have a nice day!
-juice
Here comes OBX cop on his megaphone - heck, HE didn't want to get out in the rain! - making me the spectacle of the shopping strip.
Okay, fine, I'll just circle for another minute, what in the heck is the problem here? The strip mall was deserted at the time, off-season, raining, what did he care?
(uh, sorry, I guess this has nothing to do with the WRX!! But you know what, I think that was indeed a Food Lion!)
:-)
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
Hmm, you weren't driving a station wagon were you? Goes to prove my point!
-juice
eMail desi@irvinesubaru.com
and get a better shake and kindness, as well as no pressure or syupidity. I like her ethics.
Please stop by if you have a chance. We'd love some insights from someone like you.
Pat
Host
Sedans and Women's Auto Center Message Boards
but they;re in UK..which means it will cost almost a hundred dollar to pay the shipping alone..
Beside getting them from the dealers...anybody know any good subaru apparel online store?
thanks..
http://www.qsubaru.homepage.com/
They carry everything Subaru sells, including the entire lifestyles catalog:
http://www.qsubaru.homepage.com/lifestyles/index.html
The page can be slow but hang in there, or call her at 800-287-1281.
It's quality stuff. I have the T-shirt, hat, sunglasses, pen, 2 different keychains (leather and silver plated), jean oxford shift, and even stuffed animals for our little one.
Highly recommended. At local Subaru club events the folks are green with envy (though I usually try to get sponsorship to hand out freebies).
-juice
You can certainly call for prices on specific items.
Another tip - depending on where you live, look into clubs in your area. Quite often events are sponsored and freebies are handed out. I've given out T-shirts, hats, keychains, and sunglasses. Someone gave me a Subaru car wash kit, with a bucket and sponges, etc.
-juice
Is this accurate? Is it straight forward to install this oneself?
Thanks
Ditto for the center armrest extension.
And did I mention front heated seats? Yeah! Bun warmers...
Though I looked closely at one and took photos, and it looked like only two screws held it in place. Unless the other two are hidden. Photos are here:
http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumList?u=1400062&Auth=false
It's photos 11 and 12 in the WRX album. I knew these would come in handy some day! :-)
I'm sure the armrest extension is a lot easier than the spoiler. Make sure to order grey or beige to match your interior.
Personally, I'd wait to see what aftermarket spoilers look like. I'm not too into the boomerang style on the current WRX sedan.
-juice
TAke care.
Joe W>
It's like telling a Fritos lover than Tostitos are better.
I mean, c'mon. We all know Fritos are better! ;-)
I'd take a wagon anyway!
-juice
But the fact remains - Doritos have 30% superior texture, 45% better taste, and 98% more superiority over the second best. 98%! That's incredible!
the WRX is 88% better than anything else.
WRX spoiler: it's probably an age thing. I know it's not for me. The WRX looks like it is going to appeal to a wide enough audience that making the spoiler optional is a smart choice. I think the car is so cool, so much fun to drive, and such a great value that whether or not it has a spoiler is not going to change my opinion. It looks okay, if you like spoilers. I just wouldn't buy one, that's all.
I looked high and low for a spoiler-free Legacy GT, and I'm glad every day that I found one. The car looks classy in my greybearded opinion. I've heard the arguments that it actually has some positive effect, and I can certainly believe that those arguments have merit; but for some odd reason I have serious doubts that I'll ever regret not having gotten a spoiler whilst the back of my car loses traction in an off-camber 100MPH sweeper. Other things will give out long before the traction does. Things like my nerve ;-)
Cheers,
-wdb
These "aero" kits on street cars are just for looks, they don't help a bit with downforce (actually I think the audi TT did need some kind of modification to keep it from trying to take off). That said I prefer the spoiler look most of the time. No company will ever top the HUGE wing and front nose cone used on the 70 Superbird or 69 Daytona although a few Civic owners have attempted it for themselves.
Cheers,
-wdb
The Audi TT now has a ducktail spoiler because it kills rear lift; the rear was getting light at high speed. But I don't think the WRX would make as much lift as fastbacks or cars with a smooth rear profile. The airflow probably somewhat separates at the top of the back window, so it wouldn't make a lot of lift in the back.
I'm not getting one on my WRX, because it'll hurt the already not-so-good fuel economy and it definitely won't do $395 worth of good.
Stephen
If I can only make it through the next couple weeks...
Take care.
Joe W>
Stephen