Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon

barresa62 · June 2001

I think the Forester will move up in size. The big (pardon the pun) question is how much bigger? I, like you, hope the Forester doesn't get too big. I also think it be a worthwhile approach to do a regular size Forester and a "Grand" Forester, something like Suzuki does w/their Vitara & LX-L. In addition to the 3rd seat, the "grand" Forester could offer better towing #'s for those that require it.

Stephen

ateixeira · June 2001

Agree 100%. I'd get the 7 seater for the wife, and trade up for a turbo Forester (still small).

Then again, if they went big I'd just get a Rex wagon.

-juice

barresa62 · June 2001

We'll get ya into a Rex wagon yet! :-)

Stephen

subaru_team · June 2001

this is NOT based on anything I "know" but I don't think they will make the Forester much bigger in the near future.

Since we are such a small company, they try to keep our model lines really different. If the put the Forester on the Legacy platform it would be direct competition for the Outback.

They may do it, but it would surprise me.

Thanks!

Patti

ateixeira · June 2001

Hmm, so stretch the wheelbase about 2" and bring in the rear multilink suspension from the Legacy to open up that rear cargo area.

Seriously - I think the biggest upgrade the Outback got in 2000 was the extra space freed up by that suspension. My dad's Outback is far wider than my Forester in the cargo hold.

I was kind of surprised when the Impy did not get it, but space isn't as important on a WRX as it is on a Forester.

-juice

hypov · June 2001

I know you don't exactly "know", but I do hope they don't put "Bug Eyes" on the re-designed Forester.

ateixeira · June 2001

Good point - will the Forester remain square or will they round it off? It has sold well with the current styling, so if it ain't broke don't fix it.

-juice

rsholland · June 2001

are all based upon many "common" parts. To say they're all variations upon one platform would not be too much of a stretch. So...

I can see the next Forester to still be (mainly) Impreza based, with a 2" increase in wheelbase, and using the Outback rear suspension. Also, if the new Forester is still to be produced in Japan, which I believe will be the case, then keeping it on the Japan-built Impreza platform really makes sense.

This also makes additional sense because the new '05 GM/Subaru SUV is to be (mainly) Outback based.

Bob

ateixeira · June 2001

Yeah, but I remember GM saying they wanted to move Forester production to the US. Maybe for the next gen?

-juice

rsholland · June 2001

I wasn't aware of that. If they do move the Forester to the USA, then building it off the Outback platform makes more sense.

Bob

ateixeira · June 2001

That was in a press release right about the time of the 20% acquisition.

Also, if they don't want a smallish-for-an-SUV 2.0l turbo in there, as some have hinted, the new engine, at least, may be made in the USA.

-juice

bblacha · June 2001

Move Forester production to the US? Then the quality will go down
just like it did in the Legacies. (ref: Cons.Rep.)

The only Japanese subie remaining will be the Impreza.
Perfect, just the excuse I need to get the WRX :-)

-Bart

ateixeira · June 2001

Well, not necessarily. True, the latest Legacy isn't quite as good as the previous one, but that one was also built in the US.

I think the drop in the ratings had more to do with the fact that it was a new model with some teething issues. Now that those are worked out, I bet it goes back up.

-juice

kostamojen2 · June 2001

The current legacy is several bars above the previous generation (last gen was a un-inspiring car that nobody noticed, the new model is sooo much more attractive especially the sedans, and the chasis was as improved apon as the Impreza was in 2002). Its just as reliable as well, if not more so. The funny thing is the 2000 model has had less recalls than the 2001 model... (which was one recall btw)

ateixeira · June 2001

CR's realibility rating isn't as good, I should have said. I agree the 2000 was a big improvement, just not in their reliability ratings.

I think it's rated "average" now, while the '99 was "better than average".

-juice

himiler · June 2001

Usually, the longer a car stays in one product cycle, the better the build quality will be in subsequent years.

p0926 · June 2001

himiler- You'd think that but then look at the Jeep Cherokee. Same basic design in production for 18 years and it's reliability was still below avg at the end of its run.

-Frank P.

barresa62 · June 2001

I knew someone was going to use the "Cherokee" example, LOL!

Stephen

klkrause · June 2001

Just because it was still below average after 18 years doesn't mean it didn't improve! It was just "crappy" at the end of the cycle instead of "really crappy!" LOL!

barresa62 · June 2001

boolan · June 2001

I've been driving a '95 5spd Acura Integra which I love. Also leased a Ford Explorer which I only loved for the AWD and cargo capacity (hated everything else). I'm now looking at the WRX which seems to be the perfect compromise.

I do have some concerns that I'll list:

- turbo
- gas mileage
- reliability

TURBO: I've never owned a turbo before. I've heard that there could be maintenance issues. Also, are there any problems with turbos and cold winters (the NY/NJ kind, not the Minnesota kind)!

GAS MILEAGE: From reading the boards it seems that it gets better after break-in - with AWD and Turbo I expect less than the integra but more than the explorer.

RELIABILITY: Anyone have any experience with similar Subarus?

Thanks!
Brian

philwang66 · June 2001

Regarding your concerns about the WRX wagon...

Turbo - I would say that modern turbos are far more reliable than those from 15 years ago. Though my dealer recommended cool-down for about a minute or so, I don't see any mention of it in the manual. There are differing opinions on this matter. You might want to check out www.i-club.com for a larger sampling of Subaru owners.

Gas Mileage - I just got out of my break-in. I've been getting about 22-23MPG in mixed local/hiway driving. With any luck and some restraint of my right foot, the mileage may improve a little.

Reliability - Subaru enjoys a pretty good reputation as far as reliability is concerned. The WRX is a new model so there's not much data.

I doubt the WRX wagon will match the cargo capacity of your Explorer, but I suspect it'll be a heck of a lot more fun to drive. The largest item I've been able to get into my wagon is a 27" TV (with original box). Anything bigger would have to be strapped to the roof.

Hope this helps,
Phil

boolan · June 2001

After reading all the great feedback on the WRX I think I'm ready to buy. I live in NJ near Manhattan - any recommendations on how to get the best price or am I going to pay the same regardless because of the limited production and strong interest in this car?

I was thinking of trying Autobytel.com or carsdirect.com.

Thanks,
Brian

ateixeira · June 2001

Subaru has been building turbos for a very long time. That they brought them back to the demanding US market (i.e. customers that drive turbos hard and put them away wet) says a lot about how much faith they have in the new WRX.

-juice

drew_ · June 2001

...at 6-7pm Pacific/9-10 pm Eastern. Hope to see you there!
http://www.edmunds.com/chat/subaruchat.html

Drew
Host
Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards

quikstyle · July 2001

I just picked up my WRX wagon yesterday (I love it!!) and was presented with the option to buy the extended warranty. It was a factory (Subaru) extension for 3 extra years and 44,000 extra miles making the total coverage 6 years/80,000 miles. The price was quoted at $1184. Is this a fair price? Is it worth getting the warranty? I want to keep the car for as long as possible so I'd like the warranty but I feel I might be getting ripped off price wise. Any advice?

-Quik-

cptplt · July 2001

I paid about that much 3 years ago for a 5 yr/100K with zero deductible. Whatever the list price is , you should be able to get a third off by bargaining.
As with any insurance its piece of mind. I have 55K on my 98 Legacy and have used almost $300 from my extended warranty already. I would have to say that if anything goes wrong with your turbo, you just lucked out with the extended warranty as they are very expensive to fix! Lets face it, even somethings simple like a sensor can set you back several hundred already. Some people say use the money and invest it and you will make enough to cover your repairs, maybe, but I'm more likely to spend it before it happens!

ateixeira · July 2001

Quik: try getting quotes from Edmunds' partner One Source. Then ask Subaru to match it. Bet you can get it down under a grand.

-juice

bluesubie · July 2001

Knock on wood, I haven't needed the extended warranty on my 97 OBS nor my wife's 99 OB. Both at around 50k miles. You'll never know if you really need it though.

Another thing, check the fine print and find out what's not covered by the warranty.

Dennis

hunter001 · July 2001

I think with the Wintersports, your WRX should be near invincible in nasty weather.

Later...AH

perrito · July 2001

Please, I need more WRX wagon pictures, and hopefully you current owners already have some available. Just post your links to on-line sites please... thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou!

Perrito

barresa62 · July 2001

Eric: Here you go. These are the pics of my wagon from over at i-club.

http://members.i-club.com/ViewMemberPics.cfm?MemberID=4854

Stephen

rsholland · July 2001

Loved that parking sign and vanity tags!

Oh, BTW, the car's nice too.

Bob

ateixeira · July 2001

I have 48 photos from the Philly Auto Show here:

http://albums.photopoint.com/j/AlbumIndex?u=1400062&a=11402573&f=0&sp=0

Most are close-ups intended to show one thing or another (wheels, turbo, ground clearance, etc).

-juice

barresa62 · July 2001

Thanks, Bob. I'm looking to upgrade the wheel/tire combo to 17" Dunlop 5000 & Prodrive p7's in silver sometime in Feb or Mar. The Bridgestones compromise the handling capabilities of the WRX too much. I understand from a cost perspective why SOA went w/them though. I will keep them and the original wheels as backups. I also plan on putting the sedan's 20mm rear sway bar on. The remaining mods (I know, famous last words) would be a K&N filter, removing the silencer box to open up the breathing some more, and a Cobb cat-back exhaust system. Should be about 25 to 30hp more (at least by the butt o'meter) :-)

Stephen

ateixeira · July 2001

Ooh, those wheels will look sweet. What do they cost?

I can see why 16" are standard too. My Z3 buddy has bent 3 rims in DC's bad streets.

-juice

1subydown1togo · July 2001

Which size Dunlop 5000 were you planning to get? Tire Rack doesn't show a 215/45 x 17 for the SP 5000 Assymetrical..

http://www.tirerack.com/tires/dunlop/du_s5000.jsp#Comments

I will probably get those for Susan's Legacy in 16" when the RE92s die.

bluesubie · July 2001

"save yourself eight grand and buy the WRX wagon"

:-)

http://www.edmunds.com/reviews/roadtests/spin/46587/article.html

Dennis

perrito · July 2001

Stephen, Juice,

Thanks for posting! I had seen your previous photos Juice, but was frustrated that there weren't more publicly available photos of wagons in different colors, which I think seriously affects the appearance of the wagon. I like black, blue, and silver but wanted more visual data... for platonic purposes only of course

I summon my great will-power to resist getting a WRX wagon as I just got a 2001 forester this past december, but if there's an STi wagon coming out next year... well... I'm smoked.

thanks again, perrito

barresa62 · July 2001

Serge: Didn't know that about the size offering over @ TireRack. I was hoping of the 215/45x17 that you speak of. I may have to check w/the gang at NW i-club. BTW, TireRack now has an official affiliation w/i-club, just in case anyone wants to know.

Juice: Sorry, I missed the chat. I have no defense other then I was outside in the glorious NW summer weather and just spaced. Wasn't even driving the WRX. The P7s cost $259 per wheel over at TireRack, so $1036 before shipping. The tires are about $90 so I think at least $1500 total w/shipping. Not too bad when I compare w/the $3000 for BBS wheels alone through SOA. I know the BBS are special wheels built for SOA but there not worth that much more...most importantly to me and my wallet. :-) I've been going back and forth between the P1s and the P7s but I think I prefer the cleaner look of the 7's.

Dennis: I went over and visited the 3-series wagon topic over in Station Wagon forum. They didn't take too kindly to Edmunds' review...big surprise. I posted a little tidbit about it and got the typical Bimmer arrogance like: "Since you own a Subaru, I wonder why you bother to post on a BMW topic", etc. Oh well, I started to get offended and then I realized that I have nothing to defend or be offended about and smugly sped away in my WRX wagon (in my mind, as I was at work) laughing all the way to the bank...and back. :-)

Stephen

barresa62 · July 2001

I'm impressed with your will power! Anyhow, your Forester is a fine vehicle! :-)

Stephen

bluesubie · July 2001

Stephen, I think Sube owner's overall are probably the most open-minded about other cars.

Ask Loosh (lucien Subaru Crew) about the instructor from his BMW performance training. Loosh drove his OB on the track. A a few months later, the instructor bought one because he was so impressed.

Dennis

hgutstein · July 2001

Owning both, I can say they are totally different rides. For the money, the Subaru is definitely better performance value. However, the BMW rides great, handles great, looks great, babes love it, it's just not as fast and costs a bunch more. However, I was able to get a real good deal on a BMW 5 series station wagon demo and got it for not much more than a new WRX--

1subydown1togo · July 2001

Another nice set of wheels are the Speedline GT1..here is a link to a group buy on the I-Club...though I have seen them somewhere else...

http://www.i-club.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3173

Mike Shields has the P7s for 225:

http://www.spdusa.com/prod03.htm

don't know how they compare in shipping prices though

barresa62 · July 2001

Serge: Yeah, I saw that Mike Shield's prices are better but I was thinking about the convenience of TireRack as an entire pkg incl having TireRack ship tires/wheels to installer in my area. I just bring my car there when they are in and pick it up after installation/alignment, etc.

I saw the Speedlines but don't like the style as well as the P7s. It's all subjective, of course.

Dennis: I totally agree about Subaru owners. I also find that they have really done their homework before buying a Soob and consequently are quite well-versed in the pros/cons of other vehicles. I really love being a part of the Subaru family...ok, I'll stop, gettin' all teary eyed and stuff. :-)

Stephen

Stephen

rsholland · July 2001

You forgot to delete your second name in your post. You forgot to delete your second name in your post.

Bob

Bob

barresa62 · July 2001

himiler · July 2001

I can't believe I'm actually writing this, but after driving a WRX 5spd. sedan and then a 4AT wagon back-to-back, I've got to admit that I like the wagon more, particularly because of the slushbox. It's a really smart auto(!), and the car felt less "busy" on the highway. It's so easy to set the car up for a corner by just tapping the selector down to "3", and then flick the wheel and mash the gas--whammo! The car is so tossable, it's like a roller coaster off its rails.

From a standstill, there's about 1 extra second of lag before it winds up, but once it hits boost it pulls like a bullet train--very smooth. The manual shifter doesn't quite have the same quality feel that my Acura's shifter has, which, sad to say, has probably spoiled me.

I turned 30 yesterday, so I could be getting lazy in my old age. Or maybe I've completely lost my mind. Can anyone tell me if the short shift kit makes the manual significantly better? I'm able to buy a WRX for Invoice+2%, which seems like a good deal. The dealer tells me that the car just isn't selling in the Northeast like SOA had hoped. I guess they're getting lots of visits from the 18-22 year old "Gran Turismo" crowd, but not much other traffic. Go figure!

Thanks again.

joeandcarol2 · July 2001

Ok. After test driving a blue WRX wagon and reading posts here, I am interested.
But has anyone taken a few hundred mile trip on the highway at say 75, with cruise
control on (so you are not goosing the little beast to pass every few minutes) and
recorded your mileage? Please let me know.

twrx · July 2001

I just put 245 miles of all highway on my new wrx 5 speed wagon. Most of it was on interstate at 70 mph but about 50 of it was 2 lane at 60. I now have about 700 miles on the car. I was pretty happy with the 24 mpg I got. I suspect it will get better.

Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon

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