How to Choose the Best Turbo Upgrade for Your WRX VA

Unlocking More Power and Personality From Your WRX

Everyone turns to a turbo upgrade when they’re trying to squeeze more horsepower out of their WRX VA, but that’s not all you’re able to get out of a new turbo. Picking the right option will also give you sharper throttle response, harder-hitting torque, and can even upgrade your VA’s personality. This means that it’s important to be selective when looking for a new turbo, as you’ll want to find that perfect option that almost feels tailor-made to your build. But with so many options to choose from, it can feel overwhelming trying to narrow down the field.

But before you start freaking out, you don’t need to be a professional tuner or career mechanic to make the right choice, because we’re here to help you. Whether you’re seeking a quick-spooling daily, highway-pulling powerhouse, or a track-ready monster, we’ve got the turbo options that are capable of giving you everything you’re looking for. So join us as we break down the best turbo upgrade options for your WRX VA.

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Why Upgrade the Turbo on Your WRX VA

First off, let’s get this out of the way by saying there’s nothing inherently wrong with the stock turbo on a VA. It’s a solid option if you’re primarily using it as a daily driver, but if you’re going VA with the intent of pushing it harder than just your drive to work, you’ll find it leaves a lot of performance potential on the table. This is where an aftermarket option comes in to work its magic. Its faster spool times, larger compressors and stronger internals will completely change the way your VA performs. So let’s get right into it to find a turbo that’ll perfectly fit your driving goals.

Forced Performance Blue 73HTZ Turbo

If what you’re looking for in a new turbo is fast spool and huge power, then consider the Forced Performance Blue 73HTZ Turbo your new best friend. This turbocharger is capable of pushing your VA into the 475+ WHP range when combined with the right supporting mods. But what really makes this a great option is how easily it can blend a street-friendly drivability with incredible punch, which gives you that turbo whistle you love to hear as well as stronger midrange pull, but you’re not losing out on everyday usability. 

The Blue 73HTZ also takes advantage of Forced Performance’s proven designs and technology, giving it increased durability and smoother response under load compared to other options. A perfect option for VA owners that are looking to go beyond a stock turbo’s limits without having to deal with oversized units and the lag that comes with them, this turbo can check all your boxes. This is the definition of a “does-it-all” upgrade, keeping your WRX VA responsive and thrilling to drive, whether that’s going to work, hitting backroads, or cruising down the highway with no destination in mind. 

How an Intercooler Upgrade Transforms Your VA’s Power

Tomioka Racing Gen II GTX29 Turbo

If “pretty quick” isn’t good enough anymore, then consider the Tomioka Racing Gen II GTX29 turbo, because that phrase isn’t even in its vocabulary. Built to handle some serious horsepower, (up to 600 crank) this turbo unit doesn’t mess around, it plays for keeps. Equipping this turbo to your build is entering wild territory, as your boosts hit harder, pulls feel longer, and every gear change will feel like a victory lap. This is the turbo upgrade that takes your VA from “that’s quick” to “insanely fast” from the first moment you lean into the throttle, and you’ll never find yourself looking back.

But we haven’t even gotten to the best part yet. The GTX29 isn’t the kind of set-it-and-forget-it mod, as it’s got plenty of breathing room to grow alongside future mods, think bigger fueling, exhaust, or cooling setups. Your new turbocharger will serve as the foundation for a build that continuously evolves, unlocking even more power as you continue on your journey. If you want every pull to feel unforgettable, then the GTX29 is the kind of choice you’ll need to make sure everyone knows about.

Forced Performance Red 79HTZ Turbo

Another entry from the Forced Performance lineup, the Red 79HTZ is the turbocharger for drivers who believe there’s no such thing as too much power. This upgrade takes your VA to brand new heights, chasing numbers that most people can only dream about. Every wide-open throttle run feels like an event all on its own, and when combined with an endless feeling of airflow and pull, there’s just nothing that compares. You’ll never feel your power taper off when things get serious too, so you can spend every moment feeling like your VA is performing at the peak of its power, with no drop off in sight.

But there is more to this turbocharger than a high ceiling for horsepower, it also changes the mood of your ride. Your WRX won’t just be quick off the line, it’ll feel like pure speed. Every backroad run and highway cruise feel like an adventure, and with the right supporting mods to fully bring out its potential, your build will make jaws drop and leave the kind of impression that isn’t easily forgotten by anyone.

Check Out Our Turbo Superstore!

Shop All Turbocharger Upgrades for Your WRX VA at MAPerformance!

We’ve covered a few truly game-changing turbochargers for your WRX VA, but if you still want to consider your options, we have other turbos that can accomplish what you’re looking for, and the best place to find them is the MAPerformance online store. We have the best selection of turbochargers and other upgrades for your VA, so you’ll be able to create the most personalized build possible, from turbochargers and intercoolers to exhaust and suspension upgrades. We offer free shipping and quick delivery for every purchase, and we offer some great financing options to help make your purchase easier and more affordable. And if you have questions or are looking for recommendations, feel free to reach out to our world-class customer service team, they’re always happy to help point you in the right direction. The right turbocharger will totally change everything about your WRX VA, so now’s the time to turn your dreams into reality!