Hello,

 

I am currently looking into purchasing either a 2008 or 2009 Subaru WRX. I have been doing some research and looking at reviews. What are some of the major differences between the 08 and 09?

 

Also I read that the 08 has more problems then the 2009? Is this true and if it is what are the common problems seen in 08 and not the 09? I am debating between purchasing a used 08 or 09 with high miles but a lower cost or pay a little more and get one with low miles?

 

Thank you.

I had a 2009 Wagon. I miss it a lot. I worked at the dealer when they came out and could have had an 08 for 6,000 less and opted for an 09. I would do the same today.

 

There are a lot of interior and exterior revisions done.

The auto climate control works better on 09.

The seats have WRX stitched into them and red edging.

Ground Effects kit added

No factory mudflaps available on 09 but 08 uses standard Impreza ones. No loss to me but its a difference.

 

The power is huge. Turbo is changed, maps changed.

The mileage on the 08 is better.

 

If you plan on making a lot of changes and mods to the car the 08 isn't a bad choice.

If you want to keep it stock the 09 is much smarter. Its got a lot more to it, doesn't cost much more, and in stock form is pretty fun as is.

 

I have an access port I used on mine if you buy one and want to grab a nice used AP PM me an offer on it. I flashed about 3 different times and reverted back to stock and unmarried it when I sold the car.

 

I don't think the shortblock in either year is better. I would try to find one with record of having it replaced though, as the rod/main bearings were weak and after the change are usually sound again.

 

I drove mine out to LA and I gotta say the most fun I ever had with the car was there. Getting onto the freeways there with the power at sea level was amazing fun.

According to a forum a read on NASIOC about 09 these years have engine failure issues.

 

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1648372&page=4

 

I am leaning more towards an 08.

They both have just as much failure. I replaced them under warranty while working at the dealer. Like I said, if they had the shortblock replaced under warranty-either is good but the 09 better.