Thinking of going Skoda to Subaru, advise!

[SheffieldMan]

Hi all, so I'm new round here, but not to car forums etc.

So, I currently drive a 2009 Octavia VRS TDI hatch which is lovely. It's quickish, practical and frugal.

However, I've had it nearly 4 years and I feel like a change. A faster petrol powered 4WD change to be precise (don't want an Audi)! So I'm looking at late gen 2 impreza saloons (I don't actually need THAT much space) and I'd be willing to spend £5-6k.

Firstly, will that get me a decent late gen 2 STI or similar?

Secondly, what are they like to live with? I used to have a 1993 legacy, so I know Subaru interiors are pants. What are they like to drive every day and to commute in? I do the odd long trip on motorways from Sheffield to Wales etc, so what's that like? I also like working on my own cars too.

Now I know they're a bit thirsty, but realistically, how thirsty if driven normally, ie most of the time?

Thanks all!!

[HoodedLime]

I think £5-6k may get you an STI but rather average condition, or pretty decent WRX and just do a few standard mods - decat, injectors, intercooler, turbo and remap should get you to 320-350hp. I just got back from Wales yesterday, did almost 30mpg on the trip which I'm really proud of lol, on daily commuting to work (5 miles each way) I do about 22mpg average, thats on the car with quite a few mods and not driving like a grandpa :D You will definitely notice the difference going from 2009 Octavia if it comes to interior comfort lol, but it depends what do you like. I'm a fan  of spartan interior and stiff suspension so I love my Scoob.

[SheffieldMan]

I think £5-6k may get you an STI but rather average condition, or pretty decent WRX and just do a few standard mods - decat, injectors, intercooler, turbo and remap should get you to 320-350hp. I just got back from Wales yesterday, did almost 30mpg on the trip which I'm really proud of lol, on daily commuting to work (5 miles each way) I do about 22mpg average, thats on the car with quite a few mods and not driving like a grandpa :D You will definitely notice the difference going from 2009 Octavia if it comes to interior comfort lol, but it depends what do you like. I'm a fan  of spartan interior and stiff suspension so I love my Scoob.

Thanks man. A WRX is a 5 speed right? I'm not too fussed about super luxury, I used to drive 2 landys and a 1996 legacy! The only thing that would bother me comfort wise is noise. What are they like on long journeys? Does the exhaust note drive you mad?

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[HoodedLime]

Yes its 5 speed. Noise you can control. Mine is fully decatted with 3 inch system but I do have resonator in mid pipe. To me is just right. There is a lot of choice if it comes to exhaust, you can get it just as you like. 2.5 inch systems are quieter or you can always get a custom made.