Faults:

Nothing! I've owned Subarus for years, and they're the most reliable cars I've ever encountered.

General Comments:

The WRX is a fantastic vehicle. Relatively cheap, ultra-reliable, handles like a go-kart (that's a good thing!), quicker than anything else similar, and also as practical as any other small 4 door car.

I really like the idea of a small, powerful, great handling, and practical car. For a lot more money, I could have gotten something similar, and perhaps more stylish from BMW or Audi, but I live in the country, and want something that I don't feel bad about driving on gravel. And since it's basically a toned down rally car, that's half the fun of owning one!

Performance is stunning, talk about bang for the buck! While it is not a fast car, per se, it is quick. It'll outrun a Mustang at a stoplight, and simply tear up the back roads around here. In case you're wondering, I gave it a 7/10 for performance only because the car next to it in my garage is that much better, but for something like 7 times the price.

And, it's not just a speed demon boy-racer. Comfortable enough for long trips, with enough space for friends, groceries, etc, etc. Wonderful daily driver. The AWD sure does come in handy in the rain and snow, too.

Being a tinkerer, I've upgraded the wheels and tires, suspension, bushings, and a couple other things. Those only make the car handle better. Subarus are a pleasure to work on, and I'm sure there'll be plenty more aftermarket performance parts available to make these little devils even better.

The interior is not all it could be, but I really have no complaints there. Everything is well laid out and comfortable, and I'd rather have more money spent on the handing aspects of the vehicle than a leather interior or something silly like that.

Other gripes? All inconsequential. Gas mileage is not as good as other small cars, but you expect that with a turbo engine. Speaking of which, the engine has a Dr. Jeckyl/Mr. Hyde personality. Quite docile until the turbo kicks in, and then look out! I've never owned a turbo car before, and that does take a bit of getting used to.

The engine does also rev a bit high at highway speeds. That's a result of the low gearing that makes it so fun in the twisties. Slightly annoying, but a trade-off I'm willing to live with.

I've heard people complain about the slightly goofy looks. I dunno, I think it's cute. Perhaps because I'm female, I dunno. But if you get one, take my advice, and get it without the silly spoiler.

In short, the WRX is my ideal daily driver, errand runner, joy rider, do everything vehicle. It has everything I want in a car, and nothing I don't. I'm amazed it only cost what it did.

Faults:

Nothing yet! I have not babied my car at all past the 500 mile mark and it has ran like a champ!

General Comments:

The car runs great, and the power is awesome! The clutch is a little weak for a car with this much power and AWD, but nothing really serious that could not be resolved with a good aftermarket upgrade.

The looks takes a bit getting use to, but it gets a lot of looks on the street because people don't know what it is.

The Honda and Integra crowd knows not to mess with you, and even the one's squeezing 50 shot NOS could only see the Impreza's tail lights.

The interior is sub-par, I expected something more for $25K, but I could live with it because I didn't get the WRX for luxury.

The AWD grips like it has claws, go into a corner hard just let off the throttle and the tail with give, and then apply the throttle again the car tracks like it's on rails!

There will be tons of aftermarket support for this car, expect to see streetable WRX's roaming in your hood running 12-13 second 1320ft and 0-60 under 5 seconds.

Faults:

Only 2950 miles. Nothing wearing out yet. Gas mileage seems to be improving the more I use it.

General Comments:

Great handling. Seats keep you in place during spirited driving. Don't like the trunk lining - cheap plastic milk carton material. A trunk light is on my wish list.

Mechanically, this vehicle is outstanding, and I would trust driving it through any type of environment or weather. Two thumbs up for the Subaru engineers!

Faults:

Check engine light came on recently. I disconnected the negative battery terminal for 5 minutes, and the light does not come on any more (I reset the sensors).

General Comments:

I did the following modifications to the car when I got it:

- Rallispec air induction (www.rallispec.com)

- Brospeed exhaust (dealer).

- Short throw shift kit (dealer).

- Strut tower brace (dealer).

- Whiteline anti-sway bar (Rallispec).

With these additions, the car handles like a high end sports car. The all wheel drive is an absolute blast to drive. I'm running around 185 horsepower without a turbo!