Thinking about RA but got some Q`s :)
Thinking about RA but got some Q`s :)
Hey guys this is my first time posting on the fourms,
Ive always been a big Evo fan and now that im at the point where i can get one ive been thinking that it wouldn't suit as a DD (Think i might be getting old lol at 28)
The 09 ralliart seems to be the total mix of comfort and performance im looking for, so ive got some Q's and who better to ask then the people that know the most about it... The people who drive one
*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60?
Also would getting these void the warranty ?
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ?
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
So thats all i can think of, Im looking to be getting on in Dec/Jan can ill be posting my pics of my mods and stuff on here too, cant wait
If anyone could help me out with my Q's I would appreciate it
Thanks Brett
Ive always been a big Evo fan and now that im at the point where i can get one ive been thinking that it wouldn't suit as a DD (Think i might be getting old lol at 28)
The 09 ralliart seems to be the total mix of comfort and performance im looking for, so ive got some Q's and who better to ask then the people that know the most about it... The people who drive one

*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60?
Also would getting these void the warranty ?
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ?
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
So thats all i can think of, Im looking to be getting on in Dec/Jan can ill be posting my pics of my mods and stuff on here too, cant wait

If anyone could help me out with my Q's I would appreciate it
Thanks Brett
Hey guys this is my first time posting on the fourms,
Ive always been a big Evo fan and now that im at the point where i can get one ive been thinking that it wouldn't suit as a DD (Think i might be getting old lol at 28)
The 09 ralliart seems to be the total mix of comfort and performance im looking for, so ive got some Q's and who better to ask then the people that know the most about it... The people who drive one
*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60? would put you real close to stock evo power
Also would getting these void the warranty ? the flash yes
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ? im 38 and my ralli is dd so i personally did not like them. standard seats are more comfortable imo
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ? dual is simply for looks
*iPod connections - does it have any ? yes two rca jacks
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ? i avg 5.9 with only a drop in, but i live in az and its hella hot right now
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ? i dont have but i would imagine alot for a car like this
So thats all i can think of, Im looking to be getting on in Dec/Jan can ill be posting my pics of my mods and stuff on here too, cant wait
If anyone could help me out with my Q's I would appreciate it
Thanks Brett
Ive always been a big Evo fan and now that im at the point where i can get one ive been thinking that it wouldn't suit as a DD (Think i might be getting old lol at 28)
The 09 ralliart seems to be the total mix of comfort and performance im looking for, so ive got some Q's and who better to ask then the people that know the most about it... The people who drive one

*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60? would put you real close to stock evo power
Also would getting these void the warranty ? the flash yes
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ? im 38 and my ralli is dd so i personally did not like them. standard seats are more comfortable imo
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ? dual is simply for looks
*iPod connections - does it have any ? yes two rca jacks
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ? i avg 5.9 with only a drop in, but i live in az and its hella hot right now
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ? i dont have but i would imagine alot for a car like this
So thats all i can think of, Im looking to be getting on in Dec/Jan can ill be posting my pics of my mods and stuff on here too, cant wait

If anyone could help me out with my Q's I would appreciate it
Thanks Brett
Last edited by Jestr71; Aug 10, 2009 at 05:48 AM.
I found the recaro's to be a bit uncomfortable for me even just after a few minutes (I am 6'3" and weight 260lbs though).
full 7yr 100k mile warranty was going to run $1,900; I will purchase it later down the road close to the expiration of the 3yr/36k
Not sure on performance, I'll be hitting up Palm Beach Raceway soon and will report back.
expect 50+whp gains with those mods, single exhaust shaves weight and dual is not needed since we only have 1 manifold/turbo/downpipe, it's the way to go.
BTW - after a 4month buying process I purchased my black '09 RA last night; I am in love with the car, perfect mix of comfort and performance in its class....I am extremely happy I didnt buy the '10 Mazdaspeed as it was much smaller interior wise and would have pissed me off today. 1 day and no regrets
full 7yr 100k mile warranty was going to run $1,900; I will purchase it later down the road close to the expiration of the 3yr/36k
Not sure on performance, I'll be hitting up Palm Beach Raceway soon and will report back.
expect 50+whp gains with those mods, single exhaust shaves weight and dual is not needed since we only have 1 manifold/turbo/downpipe, it's the way to go.
BTW - after a 4month buying process I purchased my black '09 RA last night; I am in love with the car, perfect mix of comfort and performance in its class....I am extremely happy I didnt buy the '10 Mazdaspeed as it was much smaller interior wise and would have pissed me off today. 1 day and no regrets
*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60?
From some of the dyno sheets that have been posted, you could see between 50 and 90 additional whp with basic bolt ons and a tune. Not sure what that would equate to in 0-60 time, but my guess is that it would put you in the low 5s.
Also would getting these void the warranty ?
Technically, any modification you do could void the warranty, but generally, only those mods that could be directly connected to some sort of mechanical failure would void the warranty. I.E., if you install a shortram and burn out your pistons, or if you just about any power mod and fry your TC-SST.
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
This is really a personal choice. For me, the Recaros fit perfectly, and are very comfortable. They are a pain to adjust as far as reclining is concerned, but otherwise, I prefer them. But, to give an example of how they aren't for everyone: I have two friends with very different physiques. The first friend, who has broader shoulders and is narrower at the torso finds the Recaros very comfortable. The second friend, who is shaped more like a pear absolutely HATES riding shotgun.
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
Pure performance wise, the single-tip seems better. More of a linear exhaust flow and reduced weight. Aftermarket duals still reduce weight from the stock dual, and increase flow, just not as much. It's really a question of performance versus aesthetics.
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
Yes. Maybe not all models??? All I know is if you get the RF system, the AUX port is in the cubbyhole in the dash.
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ?
I have found that some reviewers have better drivers than others.
In my opinion, Motortrend tends to have the best drivers (especially in the realm of small displacement turbocharged engines). When the WRX was first released in the United States, most of the reviewers were having a hard time just breaking the 6 second 0-60 barrier. Then Motortrend came along and was able to hit 5.4, which was subsequently proved to be the more accurate number.
That being said, the Ralliart is NOT a 0-60 monster. The TC-SST is not meant for hard launches and does not have launch control. If 0-60 is your thing, you might want to look at other options.
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
I have no experience with this. I stuck with the factory warranty.
From some of the dyno sheets that have been posted, you could see between 50 and 90 additional whp with basic bolt ons and a tune. Not sure what that would equate to in 0-60 time, but my guess is that it would put you in the low 5s.
Also would getting these void the warranty ?
Technically, any modification you do could void the warranty, but generally, only those mods that could be directly connected to some sort of mechanical failure would void the warranty. I.E., if you install a shortram and burn out your pistons, or if you just about any power mod and fry your TC-SST.
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
This is really a personal choice. For me, the Recaros fit perfectly, and are very comfortable. They are a pain to adjust as far as reclining is concerned, but otherwise, I prefer them. But, to give an example of how they aren't for everyone: I have two friends with very different physiques. The first friend, who has broader shoulders and is narrower at the torso finds the Recaros very comfortable. The second friend, who is shaped more like a pear absolutely HATES riding shotgun.
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
Pure performance wise, the single-tip seems better. More of a linear exhaust flow and reduced weight. Aftermarket duals still reduce weight from the stock dual, and increase flow, just not as much. It's really a question of performance versus aesthetics.
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
Yes. Maybe not all models??? All I know is if you get the RF system, the AUX port is in the cubbyhole in the dash.
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ?
I have found that some reviewers have better drivers than others.
In my opinion, Motortrend tends to have the best drivers (especially in the realm of small displacement turbocharged engines). When the WRX was first released in the United States, most of the reviewers were having a hard time just breaking the 6 second 0-60 barrier. Then Motortrend came along and was able to hit 5.4, which was subsequently proved to be the more accurate number. That being said, the Ralliart is NOT a 0-60 monster. The TC-SST is not meant for hard launches and does not have launch control. If 0-60 is your thing, you might want to look at other options.
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
I have no experience with this. I stuck with the factory warranty.
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You could lunch it like this but it's not recommended, I think.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPiwyL5DYAY
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RPiwyL5DYAY
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BTW - after a 4month buying process I purchased my black '09 RA last night; I am in love with the car, perfect mix of comfort and performance in its class....I am extremely happy I didnt buy the '10 Mazdaspeed as it was much smaller interior wise and would have pissed me off today. 1 day and no regrets

To OP: the Recaros were a bit uncomfortable IMO but they undoubtedly keep you in place. The dual exhaust is pretty much preference, i also was into getting it but the AMS single pipe sound and looks really good. As for voiding the warranty i suggest tryin to get in good with one of the service advisors or mechanics and they may over look basic mods. Thats what i did, saved me alot of money on my OZ when i had it. 0-60 can be hit in the mid 5 second range but at the expense of shortening transmission life. But the car does get out of its own way. I haven't any regrets yet but i am gettin bored with the stock power.
They also claim 1/4 mile in 13.6 @104 which is also quicker than the RA. A few mods will level the field, but you are still going to have a bit of turbo lag to over come. AMS ran 12.9 with a few bolt-ons and a tune.http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/...w/specs_page_3
Base (V6) Mustang is much slower.
Since you live in Vegas, I would personally go for RWD. AWD is great, but the extra lbs are a big waste in the desert. RWD is funnier and handles better, and if no snow is involved I would recommend. For anyone in a northern climate the RA is awesome as it is a 4 season car sports car.
The RA is a great DD, 4 doors, semi manual, good size trunk and back seat
The Recaro's are cool, but not the most comfortable (5'10 160 lbs)
Lots of mod potential
0-60 in the high 5's with brake boost and low 14's 1/4 mile (stock)
The RA lacks in the specs, low skid pad .8g, so so braking 60-0 ~128 ft and it may be a long time or a lot of money to upgrade since Evo stuff is not interchangable
It is a great car and I doubt you would regret the purchase.
The RA is a great DD, 4 doors, semi manual, good size trunk and back seat
The Recaro's are cool, but not the most comfortable (5'10 160 lbs)
Lots of mod potential
0-60 in the high 5's with brake boost and low 14's 1/4 mile (stock)
The RA lacks in the specs, low skid pad .8g, so so braking 60-0 ~128 ft and it may be a long time or a lot of money to upgrade since Evo stuff is not interchangable
It is a great car and I doubt you would regret the purchase.
Last edited by C H; Aug 10, 2009 at 06:46 PM.
*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60?
Also would getting these void the warranty ?
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
*0-60 reviews - Some reviews say that the 09 RA 0-60 is 6.6 and other 5.4 which have you found to be the right one ? have you guys been getting close to 5.4 ?
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
Last edited by dfo; Aug 10, 2009 at 07:48 PM.
*Mods - Ill be looking to get exhaust, drop in, flash and intercooler, How much HP gain would i be looking to get from that and how would it affect performance 0-60?
Flash ~ +20whp
Boost Pill ~ +12whp
Exhaust ~ +30whp
Intake ~ +5whp-20whp
FMIC ~ +30whp
*Also would getting these void the warranty ?
Most likely
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
Sit in the ones from the package if you don't like them $2k to upgrade is not worth the package. (the RF sound package is cool; but not worth 2k)(the HID lights is the only part of the package that justifies the price)(the seats = not the best recaros for quality or feel). If you want good racing seats go out & buy ones you like. I took a trip from San Francisco to San Diego with the standard seats and felt fine the whole way.
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
It's a dual exit not dual exhaust. It is really only one pipe split into two at the end. AMS & HKS have single exit exhaust setups out right now that are good. I like the look of the dual exit but I might end up changing to single and covering the other or something.
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
Been answered. Split RCA right & left.
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
Don't know...
Hope that helped.
Flash ~ +20whp
Boost Pill ~ +12whp
Exhaust ~ +30whp
Intake ~ +5whp-20whp
FMIC ~ +30whp
*Also would getting these void the warranty ?
Most likely
*Recaros - This is going to be a DD for me so do you think it is a good idea to upgrade to recaros or would i just find them a pain, asin are they any good comfort wise or just for the use of been straped down nice and tight ?
Sit in the ones from the package if you don't like them $2k to upgrade is not worth the package. (the RF sound package is cool; but not worth 2k)(the HID lights is the only part of the package that justifies the price)(the seats = not the best recaros for quality or feel). If you want good racing seats go out & buy ones you like. I took a trip from San Francisco to San Diego with the standard seats and felt fine the whole way.
*Dual exhaust vs Single - Is there benfits of have Dual or just go single also what do you do this the missing hole on the other side if i go single ?
It's a dual exit not dual exhaust. It is really only one pipe split into two at the end. AMS & HKS have single exit exhaust setups out right now that are good. I like the look of the dual exit but I might end up changing to single and covering the other or something.
*iPod connections - does it have any ?
Been answered. Split RCA right & left.
*10 year bumper to bumper - If anyone got it how much more did it cost ?
Don't know...
Hope that helped.
awesome, thanks for your input guys, One of the main reason I like the RA is because of the AWD, Im a snowboarder so im driving up to the mountians 5-7 times a year and also the RAs rear seat fold down (well i think so) so i can fit the boards in the car, trying to fit 2 boards in my mustang was a big time fail, Does the Evo X rear seats fold down ? do you know ?
Also HID lights ? I dont really understand what they do, just brighter lights ? counldnt i just get better light blubs for that ?
Thanks Brett
Also HID lights ? I dont really understand what they do, just brighter lights ? counldnt i just get better light blubs for that ?
Thanks Brett


