Faults:

I have just purchased the car and put several K on it. Nothing is wrong with the car, but some things to highlight before you purchase one of these:

- Cabin/Wind noise is higher than normal.

- Close gear ratios meaning you need to change more often and higher revs at hwy speeds.

- No folding rear seats or trunk pass through.

General Comments:

The good points. The AWD is quite capable of keeping the car in full control. The differential, LSD, has more capability than most, even my previous Audi A4 (Torsen type), so you can do more with this car. This is not good for novice drivers, but a more experienced driver will appreciate the benefits (and fun times).

Power is more than sufficient for this vehicle's low curb weight and hwy acceleration is good.

Overall a solid, well designed machine that will appeal to a driver who prefers to experience a more positive driving experience.

Definitely a good buy for anyone in the snowbelt region.

With that said this car can be modified quite easily, as it is the platform for the Rally Champion, and it definitely feels like it wants to be champion of the city streets. I can't imagine how insane this car would be with the 270 HP version.

Resale on these is also excellent and reliability is as good or better than a Honda.

Faults:

Radiator Replaced at 33,000 km.

Camshaft Position Sensor Failed.

Turbo Failed at 53,000 km.

Fuel lines ruptured requiring extensive labor. At 75,000 km (Intake manifold was removed)

The windshield mysteriously cracked in the -30 winter air.

Complete engine failure. New small block at 78,000 km.

Air conditioning failed at 88,000 km.

General Comments:

When I first seen this car I fell in love. I took one for a test drive and was amazed at the rapid acceleration and "on rails" type of handling. So, I bought a used WRX. It turned out to be both a blessing and a curse.

I still wake up and smile at the site of this car. It is truly an all weather sports car. I drive a lot of twisty, hilly, single lane type of highway in all weather. I've cruised at 120 kph on foot deep snow in a blizzard with no problems (winter tires). Its 1000 times more sure footed then my front wheel drive Grand Prix was. The safety, performance, looks, and comfort all rank high for me.

The reliability on the other hand is another story. Replaced was: radiator, camshaft sensor, turbo, fuel lines, engine internals, and air conditioner. All I can say is get an extended Subaru warranty that covers everything!

Even with the problems I'm still saving up for a 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi. Subaru's are amazingly engineered cars. I just happened to buy a pre abused and used lemon. Be weary of hidden problems when buying used, and do research! But, I still love the car and enjoy driving it everyday, its my pride and joy.

The dealership was terrible. I hope that not all service managers are that rude. The mechanics were great though and did quality work.

I would recommend this car to whoever is considering one, but with extended warranty.

Faults:

Had the clutch replaced under warranty at 30,000 miles. It shuddered since the day I bought the car. I guess a few of the early cars had this problem, and now it's fixed and everything is great.

General Comments:

I have modified this car heavily and it takes the abuse well.

Sway-bars made the car handle like it should. Now it handles amazingly.

Turbo boost is the only way to fly.