advice buying WRX or ?

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

Howdy guys,
I am considering buying our (mine actually) second Soob. I may test
drive the Baja, and a Foreter XT - but really want a WRX wagon.

I have several points I'd like input on. First is, '05 or '06? I
don't mind waiting and the early photos don't really turn me off of the '06.
next is, manual or Auto? (I mostly need a daily driver and doubt I
would be doing anything in the way of street racing, though taking a
driving lesson or 2 or possibly finding an SCCA rallyX to try out is a
dream - I admit it may not be practical. Also, should my wife or other
person need to use the car - obviously the auto is the better choice. I
may installa hitch but likely just for a bike rack - but again, even
towing a light trailer would be easier with auto I guess).

I generally keep cars a very longtime. At my age (50) it's increasingly
harder to get under a car or lean over a fender for long periods even
though I'm no stranger to a wrench. So, what options should I consider
buying, what shopuld I get and install myself? If I get the Subaru
performance muffler, does it prevent me from installing a hitch? Should
I get aftermarket hitch or Soob? So many questions I know.

I'm in Texas so any color coupled with a dark interior is out. I'm
considering white (I guess it'll be offered on the '06 - anyone know or
have a link?) since my baby will likely live outdoors.

What options are best left outta the deal up front? I don't mind a basic
car - though I kinda like the compass mirror in my wife's Outback. I'll
likely be happy with stock sound system too. I will get a sport muffler
and perhaps change the rear anti-sway bar and maybe different wheels
(Kosei?) But I'm in no hurry.

comments?

Carl

 

[Dom]

All these cars come in base model forms with limited options (except
for the Forester XT...you would have to get the Forester X). If you
get the turbo versions, they will come with more options than the base
non-turbo versions.
Compass mirror is a dealer installed option for all Subarus now. Stock
stereo too, comes in all subs.

My advise: test drive all the cars - then decide. Nobody here can make
that choice for you because its a personal choice based on desire,
needs, affordability, & practicality.

Dom

 

[Fred]

WRX or? For a 50 year old, the or could be a Toyota Avalon for long trips,
and an Acura NSX just for fun because life is too short.

If you must have a WRX wagon look into the Saab 9-2x AERO. Its the same as
the WRX, just a little heavier (more insulation) and a little slower but
comes with a $5,000 rebate and employee's discount. If I'm not mistaken that
would take you about $7,000 below MSRP. You also have an extra year in
warranty, road side assistance and free 2 year scheduled maintenance.
http://www.kbb.com/kb/ki.dll/kw.kc.ncinc?kbb.CA;004756;CA013&94583&&;;nc;&4&05SAX2_A;050604

 

[Carl 1 Lucky Texan]

Wow!, very tempting except for the even MORE limited dealership availabilty.

Carl

 

[hippo]

Uhuh, but seeing as only the badges and nosecone have changed, you should
be able to use either network for parts / service on everything else.