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Is a Subaru WRX a good first car?

I’ve always loved learning about and working on cars, and now that I finally have enough money, I’m looking for my own first vehicle. I want something that can get me where I need to go, but also be a good project car in my spare time. Would the Subaru WRX be good for something like this?

avatar
Kathryn Mae Kurlychek · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
Overall, the
Subaru WRX
is a reasonably good first car—but not for everyone. As with any vehicle, the WRX comes with its own set of pros and cons.
Below, we summarize what makes the WRX a strong first buy—and what features are better left for the more experienced.
Pros
Cons
The WRX comes standard in AWD, giving you greater traction and control on varying road conditions
A turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive powertrain combo make the WRX more expensive to purchase and maintain
A powerful engine gives drivers quick acceleration and enhances overall performance
The WRX has poor fuel economy, with a combined mileage of just 23 mpg
The WRX is fun to drive and handles like a dream, according to trusted car reviewer Edmunds
Its stiff suspension and low profile make for a loud and bumpy ride
Received a 3.5/5.0 reliability rating from RepairPal, and a solid past rating of 83/100 from J.D. Power
Automatic transmissions aren’t standard—and safety features are lacking in manual models
Since you’ve expressed having a background in mechanics and car mods, it’s likely that the Subaru WRX will suit your needs perfectly fine for a first-time car.
But for drivers with less experience—or those who aren’t interested in investing in mods or upgrades—we’d gently steer you toward safer and more reliable Subarus like the
Legacy
or
Outback
.
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