Upgrading the 2023 Subaru WRX Limited with STI accessories proved to be an exciting endeavor for the team at Autoblog. With limited time, they prepared for the installation by recording exhaust clips for comparison purposes. Upon picking up the vehicle from the Subaru dealer, they were pleasantly surprised to find that the upgrades included an upgraded exhaust, a new front strut tower brace, and a short-shift kit.
The first accessory to be examined was the STI mufflers. Not only did they add a stylish touch with “STI” embossed tips, but they also enhanced the sound of the exhaust. The team recorded before-and-after clips of the exhaust using an iPhone 11, capturing the difference in sound from a distance and directly below. The stock WRX exhaust was described as lackluster, while the STI mufflers provided a deeper bass and a more resonant tone. Although the cabin became slightly boomier, there was no excessive drone at highway speeds.
While the exhaust upgrade was clearly noticeable, the benefits of the strut tower brace and short-shift kit were less apparent in sound clips alone. The team mentioned that the stock shifter had never bothered them, but the short-throw upgrade did require some adjustment in timing. As for the strut tower brace, its impact would require more extensive testing on winding roads.
In a twist of events, the WRX was handed over to News Editor Joel Stocksdale for further assessment of the upgrades. Autoblog encouraged readers to stay tuned for his thoughts, hinting that he had plenty to share.
Overall, the STI accessories for the 2023 Subaru WRX Limited enhanced both its appearance and performance. The upgraded exhaust provided a deeper and more pleasing sound, while the strut tower brace and short-shift kit were expected to offer improvements in handling and shifting precision, respectively. As Autoblog continued to explore these upgrades, their insights and experiences would undoubtedly provide valuable information for potential WRX owners seeking to personalize their vehicles.
