Why should you install a performance Catback exhaust on your 2018 Subaru WRX? There’s 4 reasons and 2 other mods you will want.
Installing a Catback exhaust system on the new 2018 Subaru WRX sports sedan will not only improve the appearance, but it will improve performance and give it an enhanced driving experience. There’s two other factory parts available from Subaru you should also consider installing on your WRX, and all three are covered under factory warrantees. The WRX/STI performance parts were developed jointly by Subaru Corporation (Japan); Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA); and Subaru Tecnica International (STI). Here’s why they are worth the price.
STI Catback exhaust
The STI Performance Catback exhaust has four benefits over the stock exhaust system. It will give the stock 2018 WRX a different appearance, an enhanced exhaust note, stainless steel quality, and gives it a bump in power. The stainless steel Catback exhaust has practical benefits that allow exhaust gases to flow more freely, so the 2.0-liter turbo Boxer powerplant “breathes” better, which helps improve overall efficiency. The performance exhaust removes spent gases quickly and easily, and reduces exhaust pressure.
Subaru doesn’t reveal how much power increase there is, but it will effectively improve performance. If you have additional engine mods, it will increase the efficiency and improve the performance of the Catback exhaust system even more. The exhaust system also enhances the sport sedan’s appearance with polished STI exhaust tips stamped with the STI logo. Check out the video on page 2 on how a Catback exhaust works.
6-speed Short Throw shifter
The Short Throw Shifter and Shifter Bushing is a must for performance enthusiasts. This enables the driver to select the right gear much quicker for a more engaging driving experience. The shorter throw enables faster shifts and has a more positive feel than the original-equipment shifter. Anyone who has experienced this on the track can attest that quicker, more precise shifts translate into overall improved performance. The shifter gives the WRX a sportier feel on the road or track. You can also individualize your WRX shifter with a number of custom STI shift knobs.
STI 15 Spoke 17-inch Alloy Black Wheels
You might not think custom wheels can make a different, but they can have a big effect on the handling of your WRX or WRX STI. The unique STI 15-spoke 17" Alloy Black Wheels help enhance overall visual appeal and they also improve handling. They are lighter, reducing unsprung weight, which helps to improve handling performance and steering precision. Go to Page 2- Catback exhaust explained video.
Installing these threeSubaru STI mods on the 2018 Subaru WRX will give it more power and a more engaging driving experience. If the performance parts are installed prior to delivery, they come with a 36,000/60,000 mile warranty. If they are installed after vehicle delivery they come with 12 months/20,000 mile factory warranty. The Short Throw shifter and Catback performance exhaust can be added to all 2018 Subaru WRX trim levels equipped with the 6-speed manual gearbox.
Watch Catback Exhaust Engineering Explained video
Photo credit: Subaru
Having road tested two
Having road tested two different STIs with the short throw shifter, I purchased one with the regular shifter which I feel shifts much smoother. Adding a Slammer shift knob, the setup shifts almost as smoothly as my old '06 Civic Si, which had a great shifter feel.