The WRX VB is Good–But the Right Upgrades Make it Great
Subaru gave the VB version of the WRX a new look, fresh engine, and unique new platform, which is fantastic. However, the factory potential of any vehicle will only get you so far. For those that want to wake up this sleeping beast and transform it into a real enthusiasts’ machine, then it’s time to ditch the factory setup, break out the aftermarket catalog and go hunting for those upgrades you have in mind to re-vitalize your VB. Luckily for you, the WRX VB is already thriving in a robust upgrade environment, and the right parts will take what’s already a strong car and evolve it into something brand new.
We’ve got you covered for all the best parts you could be looking for to boost your VB, whether that might be looking for a louder turbo sound, sharper throttle response, or even an angrier attitude. So join us as we break down some of the top WRX VB mods that give you the best possible performance gains, simplest installs, and the results you’ve been dreaming of.
Where to Start for the Results that Matter
You might think a total teardown is in order to get your VB to the level of performance you’re looking for, and luckily you’re wrong. We aren’t going to be starting totally from scratch, it’s more about getting the right parts in the right order. Doing so helps it feel like it’s a total rebuild without actually having to go through the entire process. We’re walking through some of the higher-impact upgrades that will make your VB more responsive, fun to drive, and even more satisfying to own. So let’s start with the first steps in our build, no wasting time, or money, just pure upgrade vibes.
Boost Control Starts with Turbo and Charge Pipe Kits
You might think a good area to start for your VB would be to start stacking up mods designed at boosting your power. While that isn’t a bad place to start, where you really want to hit the ground running is cleaning up your boost path. Your factory turbo piping and charge setup works just fine if you don’t plan on upgrading your VB at all, but when you want to dial up the pressure, those OE parts just don’t cut it. Swap them out for higher-flow options to help smoothen the airflow and tighten up your powerband.
The change you’ll feel from this swap is almost instantaneous. Your VB’s throttle response sharpens, boost builds faster, and you’ll eliminate those pesky hesitations that will dull your factory setup. Not to mention that this upgrade sets the stage for further enhancements down the line. This is a mod that thrives behind the scenes, working anonymously until that exact moment you really punch it and feel everything get tighter, quicker, and more alive.
Waking Up Your VB with Exhaust Upgrades
The engine in the WRX VB is pretty powerful, but you might not be able to tell just based on the sound. The stock exhaust on the VB keeps everything feeling pretty muted, which ruins half the fun of making upgrades in the first place. Most enthusiasts want their ride to roar like a lion, not whine like a scared little kitten. So once you make the change to a more powerful and aggressive exhaust system, it’s like you’re driving a brand new car. That new signature rumble takes centerstage and your turbo will breathe like its supposed to.
The added benefits to your VB’s performance are also as noticeable as its new sound. Less backpressure, increased flow, and a deeper, more immediate throttle feel are just a few of the new benefits to enjoy. If you decide to throw in a downpipe down the line, you’ll notice the gains are even bigger than you thought possible. Every time you decide to take your VB for a spin you’ll be able to enjoy a better sound, pull, and a more immersive driving experience with every push of the pedal.
Dropping Ride Height to Boost Confidence Sky-High
If you’re looking for one of the more meaningful changes you can make to your WRX VB, then look no further to dialing in its stance. When the VB comes off the production line, it features a higher and softer ride. That sounds all well and good for your average commuter, but not quite what a spirited driving enthusiast is really looking for. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a full coilover setup or installing lowering springs, adjusting that geometry goes a long way into how the car behaves.
A lowered stance will give your VB sharper inputs, flatter cornering, and a total sense of control through every turn. Not to mention that your VB will have that powerful appearance it’s always deserved. We’re talking lower, leaner, and built to dominate anything and everything. This kind of upgrade really changes your connection to the car, and in the best way possible. With a new lowered stance, every corner becomes intentional, every curve feels like a challenge, but the kind you welcome instead of running from.
What to Expect at Your First Track Event
Intercoolers and Blow-Off Valves to Keep It Crisp
Whether it’s the maiden voyage or your 100th spin around town, the time comes quickly when you want to start driving your WRX VB harder than you have before, and without the right upgrade, that can lead to trouble. Your stock intercooler has more defined limits which will keep you from really driving your VB the way you want to. You’ll notice that temps rise, power starts to drop, and everything feels soft when it should feel sharper. Getting a new intercooler fixes these problems quickly, giving your engine cooler air, more consistency, and a better output no matter what happens.
As long as you're already making changes, swapping in a better blow-off valve or bypass valve is well worth the effort. Don’t do it just for the noise–although that certainly helps justify it when you hear that crisp whoosh sound–it’s actually about keeping your turbo spooling efficiently and reducing stress on the system. Together, these upgrades work hand-in-hand to improve confidence, protect your power gains, and make the car feel tight under pressure.
Build Smarter to Drive Harder
Modding your WRX VB the right way means choosing upgrades that will totally transform how it drives–better handling, improved boost, and better response all start with the right parts. MAPerformance makes it easy to build with total confidence, offering free shipping, unbeatable customer support, and a massive selection of upgrades that’ll help turn your build into a total monster.
Comments (0)
There are no comments for this article. Be the first one to leave a message!