I thought the LSD only came on the higher trim levels, but otherwise I agree. The outgoing Z was a fun car. An extra 100HP and factory turbos (aka built-in tuning overhead) while retaining a manual transmission option is not a bad upgrade at all.

I'd still reach for the Supra for myself, but I actually enjoy good auto transmissions (heresy, I know). The Z looks like it will remain a good option for people who want a fun, manual transmission, turbo car. At least until everything goes electric.

 

Was the last Z really a fun car? I've driven a bunch over the years and they have all been rubber bands. Maybe I drove crap setup ones? I do know stock they felt like a block of government cheddar that had been sitting out in the sun.

 

The NASA Spec Z class (350Z) has been very popular locally. I haven't driven a Spec Z build but it looks faster than Spec Miata without being excessively expensive. Not hard to find a caged, ready to race Spec Z for $20K.

 

It'll probably be too soft, but I saw in the news that Acura is going to come out with a new Integra. Apparently the Type R moniker is only used with Honda nowadays, but they said there will be a Type S variant of the new Integra (and stick shift as well). With the GR Corolla, new Z, Type R, and Integra it looks like we might have one last hurrah before the world goes electric.

 

I was looking into CTR's again but unfortunately, even with an upgraded radiator and oil cooler, they still overheat on track after a couple of laps. It's actually quite shocking that Honda would release a Type-R with this issue.

 

With the way things are going i'm actually considering throw 20k into a 360hp na s2k build thats still street friendly.

 

Although, the majority of Type Rs overheat on track, there have been quite a few people who have been able to track their R's without any issues of overheating. C&R radiator, IC, Varis carbon fiber hood, Acuity rad hoses and a few other mods have helped. It's just expensive to fix the problem.

 

I had my 9 since 2014 and have yet to find anything "modern" to replace it. If you really want to go fast, you can just get a Tesla and call it a day. But I agree with others above, in terms of overall package in terms of feel, handling, etc., nothing.

Previous 2005 STI owner, I would not buy a new STI as they are too heavy, barely had any upgrades in recent years, and just pretty much outdated. At least wait for the 2022 refresh.
Previous 350Z owner, the new 400 is nice, twin turbo would be awesome, just like the old 300zx. However, that two seater is more impractical than most realize.
Previous GTI owner, the new R looks nice, definitely a decent interior IMO, but hard to get over that German over engineering if you decide to tinker on your own car

If I really had to pick a new FWD car, I would probably get the Civic Type R. I currently own and have owned many Hondas and they are just so darn reliable it's not even funny. For RWD, the BRZ, Supra, 400Z.

 

Subaru has waited so long to refresh the STI that I'm afraid whatever they release next will be too little, too late.

 

That is a valid point. My daily driver is a 2018 Forester and the Forester Sport they sold these past few years have been a joke. The 2022 Forester Wilderness just released, but for whatever boneheaded reason did not include a better engine (turbo). Anyways, my fingers are crossed for the WRX and STI to have a good refresh. But a part of me anticipates that same 300 hp even with a refreshed engine with the lame excuse that "power is not everything" with the car blah blah

 

Surprisingly I don't think it matters what Subaru does. They sell a million of them. I see like 30 WRX and STI's a day up here in New York State. 50% of them have the "I want to throw babies into a black hole when I hear it" crackle tunes as well.

Having lived in California such a large chunk of my life, it feels very odd to me now that when I take the Evo out, a ton of people break their necks when I drive by. Probably because it's not just another Subaru.

 

Only 30? Whenever I go to the gym or a trailhead it's 60% Subarus, 30% Toyota Tacomas, and then 1 or 2 guys who didn't get the memo and showed up in a Camry or whatever.

I agree, though. Subaru doesn't really have to try. It's going to sell no matter what. At least until someone else comes out with a viable AWD turbo competitor and sticks with it.

 

So far the STi is the only thing i can think of. I cant get into the hot hatch game. I am glad they made those cars, and look fun, but i just cant drive a hatchback lol.

 

My Evo alternative is our Model 3. Its the right amount of power, and the just fills the role of being a unique driving experience.

 

The new WRX just got announced today. Not a fan of it so far....

https://www.subaru.com/2022-wrx?SIE=...&bid=1-PLGE6B9