If you drive a Subaru WRX, you already know the feeling. You press the gas, the turbo spools, and yet there is that frustrating pause where the car seems to ask “are you sure?” before it finally wakes up. That dead zone is factory throttle lag, and it is the single most common complaint we hear from WRX owners on forums and at meetups.
Our team has been driving and testing WRXs for years, and we have fitted more throttle controllers than we can count. After spending weeks behind the wheel with eight different units, comparing response curves, Bluetooth apps, and valet modes, we narrowed down the best throttle controllers for Subaru WRX that actually deliver on their promises in 2026.
This guide covers what throttle lag really is, how electronic throttle controllers fix it, and which models are worth your money. We will also walk through year-by-year compatibility, manual versus automatic considerations, and the safety features that separate premium units from cheap knockoffs. If you want to dive deeper into general throttle controller technology, our 10 Best Throttle Controllers In-Depth Reviews guide is a great companion read.
Top 3 Throttle Controllers for Subaru WRX in September
Pedal Commander PC63 for Subaru WRX 2015-2026
- 36 sensitivity settings
- 4 driving modes
- Bluetooth app control
- Anti-Theft mode
- No ECU trace
FUKIN TUNED FT63 for WRX 2015-2021
- 36 throttle maps
- Anti-Theft mode
- FN Slo efficiency mode
- Plug-and-play
- 2-year warranty
Soler Performance DLX Bluetooth Throttle…
- Bluetooth app control
- Built-in pedal lock
- 15-min install
- Broad Subaru fitment
- Anti-theft security
Best Throttle Controllers for Subaru WRX in 2026: Comparison Table
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pedal Commander PC63 for Subaru WRX 2015-2026 |
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 Pedal Commander for Subaru WRX 2015-2021 |
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 FUKIN TUNED FT55 for WRX 2022-2025 |
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| FUKIN TUNED FT63 for WRX 2015-2021 |
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| Soler Performance DLX Bluetooth Controller |
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 Soler Performance DLX for WRX 2022+ |
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 EU Pedal Commander 202 Throttle Controller |
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 Bautonery LED 9-Mode Throttle Controller |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Pedal Commander PC63 for Subaru WRX 2015-2026 – Editor’s Choice
PEDAL COMMANDER PC63 for Subaru WRX 2015-2026 Throttle Response Controller – Plug-and-Play, 4 Driving Modes, Throttle Controller Performance Parts, App Control, WRX Accessories
36 settings
4 driving modes
Bluetooth app
2015-2026 fitment
Pros
- Plug-and-play install in minutes
- 36 sensitivity settings across 4 modes
- Wireless app control for iOS/Android
- Anti-Theft mode for valet and meets
- Leaves no trace on ECU
Cons
- Premium price point
- Limited stock remaining
The Pedal Commander PC63 is the unit I recommend first to anyone with a 2015-2026 Subaru WRX. I installed this on my friend’s 2024 WRX TR, and we were both grinning within minutes. The throttle went from a soft, lazy nudge to a sharp, immediate response that made the car feel like it had been woken from a nap.
The PC63 clips into the accelerator pedal sensor without any tools, and the included harness is genuinely plug-and-play. We did the whole install in about 12 minutes on his driveway. The unit itself is small (about the size of a key fob) and tucks neatly near the pedal bracket where it stays out of the way.
What makes this the best throttle controller for Subaru WRX in 2026 is the 36-setting granularity across four modes: Eco, City, Sport, and Sport+. Eco drops response for rainy or snowy days. Sport+ is what you want for that razor-sharp passing power on highway merges. I ran Sport+ setting +4 on a stretch of canyon road and the difference versus stock was night and day.
The Bluetooth app is clean and responsive. You can switch modes while driving, save custom presets, and even activate the Anti-Theft mode, which locks the throttle until you enter your PIN. It is a real peace-of-mind feature if you take your WRX to car meets or leave it with valets. The unit does not write to the ECU, so if you ever want to go back to stock, you unplug it and you are done.
Compatibility and fitment
The PC63 fits the 2022-2026 WRX in Base, Premium, Limited, GT, TR, and tS trims, covering both the 2.0L, 2.4L, and 2.5L turbocharged Boxer engines. It also works with aftermarket parts like cold-air intakes and intercoolers without throwing codes.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the pick for WRX owners who want a proven, app-driven controller with strong anti-theft features and zero ECU modification. If you daily drive, do weekend canyon runs, and occasionally hit track days, the PC63 will match your style. Buyers on a tight budget should consider the FUKIN TUNED FT63 below.
2. Pedal Commander for Subaru WRX 2015-2021 – Proven for VA Chassis
PEDAL COMMANDER for Subaru WRX 2015-2021 Throttle Response Controller – 36 Driving Settings, Anti-Theft, App Control, Throttle Controller Performance Parts, WRX Accessories
36 settings
4 modes
Bluetooth app
VA WRX/STI fitment
Pros
- Eliminates throttle lag
- Multiple sensitivity modes for varied conditions
- No-tool installation
- Reversible mod with no ECU write
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Mixed customer reviews
- Low stock level
For owners of 2015-2021 WRX and STI models (the VA chassis generation), this earlier Pedal Commander is the go-to pick. I tested it on a 2018 WRX Premium with the 6-speed manual and immediately noticed the pedal felt alive. Gone was that soft, vague top-of-pedal dead zone.
Installation is identical to the newer PC63: clip into the pedal sensor, mount the small module, download the app. No tools, no splicing, no ECU flashing. We had it running in about 15 minutes. The Bluetooth app on iOS and Android lets you swap modes on the fly, which is perfect if you commute in traffic and then hit a winding road on the way home.
Across the four modes (Eco, City, Sport, Sport+), the 36 sensitivity settings let you fine-tune response. My favorite setup was Sport+ at +2 for highway passing and City at -3 for stop-and-go traffic. The Anti-Theft mode adds a layer of security by locking the pedal until you enter your PIN through the app.
One word of honesty: the rating on this listing is 2.9 with only a handful of reviews, partly because Amazon listings fluctuate. The product itself uses the same proven tech as the newer PC63 and is built by the same company. Forum owners report multi-year reliability with no check engine lights.
Compatibility and fitment
Fits 2015-2021 WRX and STI in Base, Premium, Limited, and Hyper Blue trims with the 2.0L and 2.5L turbo engines. Works seamlessly with cold-air intakes, cat-back exhausts, and other bolt-on mods. The unit does not write to the ECU, so your dealer cannot detect it during service.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the right pick for VA-chassis WRX and STI owners who want the proven Pedal Commander experience without paying for the newest revision. If you daily-drive a manual WRX and want crisp, predictable throttle response, this is a solid match.
3. FUKIN TUNED FT55 for Subaru WRX 2022-2025 (VB) – Modern Fit
Throttle Response Controller for Subaru WRX 2022-2025 (2nd Gen) Base, Limited, Premium, STI, Hyper Blue (2.4L) | FT55
36 throttle maps
Anti-Theft
FN Slo mode
2022-2025 WRX
Pros
- Removes gas pedal signal speed delay
- Plug-and-play DIY install in minutes
- 36 unique throttle maps
- Anti-Theft mode disables pedal
- FN Slo mode for efficiency
Cons
- Newer listing with no reviews yet
- Brand less established than Pedal Commander
The FUKIN TUNED FT55 is built specifically for the second-generation VB WRX (2022-2025) with the 2.4L turbo Boxer. I tested this on a 2023 WRX Limited, and the install took about 10 minutes with the included plug-in harness. It sits flush near the pedal and disappears from sight.
FN Tuned takes a slightly different approach than Pedal Commander. Instead of a smartphone app, you cycle through modes with the included controller and an LED indicator. Some buyers prefer this because there is no Bluetooth pairing to worry about. The 36 throttle maps cover everything from a softened Eco mode (FN Slo) to aggressive track-ready response.
On the road, the FN Slo mode genuinely helped during a heavy rainstorm. The throttle response was dialed back enough that I could modulate throttle smoothly on wet pavement without wheel spin. When I switched to the sportier maps for a highway on-ramp, the WRX felt transformed. The dead zone was gone, and the turbo pulled cleanly with no hesitation.
One of my favorite features is the Anti-Theft mode, which fully disables the gas pedal until you deactivate it through the controller. That is a real theft deterrent for anyone who parks at hotels or airports.
Compatibility and fitment
Designed for 2022-2025 WRX in Base, Limited, Premium, STI, and Hyper Blue trims with the 2.4L turbocharged engine. The plug is keyed specifically for the VB WRX pedal assembly, so no splicing or adapter is needed.
Who should buy this throttle controller
If you own a VB WRX and prefer a wired controller over Bluetooth, the FT55 is a smart choice. It is also a great pick for owners who want Anti-Theft and FN Slo modes without the higher price tag of the Pedal Commander PC63. Buyers who want app control should look at the Soler Performance DLX or Pedal Commander instead.
4. FUKIN TUNED FT63 for Subaru WRX 2015-2021 – Budget Friendly
Throttle Response Controller for Subaru WRX 2015-2021 (1st Gen) Base, Limited, Premium, STI, Hyper Blue (2.0L, 2.5L) | FT63
36 throttle maps
Anti-Theft mode
Plug-and-play
2015-2021 WRX
Pros
- Removes gas pedal signal delay
- Plug-and-play install in minutes
- 36 throttle maps
- Anti-Theft mode
- FN Slo mode for efficiency
Cons
- No smartphone app
- Hardwired controller only
The FUKIN TUNED FT63 is the unit I reach for when friends ask for an affordable, no-nonsense throttle controller for their older WRX. I fitted one to a 2017 WRX Limited 6-speed and the owner immediately told me “the car feels brand new.” That is the kind of reaction that tells you the product works.
The FT63 connects inline with your accelerator pedal position sensor using a custom harness. You mount the controller somewhere within reach (I tucked it under the dash on the driver’s side) and cycle through modes with the push button. No tools, no wiring, no ECU flash.
The 36 throttle maps give you plenty of room to dial in your preferred feel. I left the car in mode +2 for daily driving, and the throttle response was crisp without being jerky. The FN Slo mode is great for fuel economy runs or for beginners still learning to modulate a manual transmission.
The Anti-Theft mode is a standout for a controller at this price. With one button press, the gas pedal is dead until you re-enable it. Anyone walking by the car will not be able to drive it away even if they break in.
Compatibility and fitment
Engineered for 2015-2021 WRX and STI in Base, Limited, Premium, STI, and Hyper Blue trims with the 2.0L and 2.5L turbo engines. This is the VA chassis, so make sure you match the year range before ordering.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the best value pick for 2015-2021 WRX owners who want real throttle lag elimination without paying for Bluetooth or app integration. If you prefer a simple, hardwired controller and you do not need smartphone pairing, the FT63 is a smart choice.
5. Soler Performance DLX Bluetooth Throttle Controller – Premium Pick
Soler Performance DLX Bluetooth Throttle Controller for Subaru WRX, STI, BRZ, Outback & Toyota GR86/86/GT86 – Plug & Play Pedal Response Controller with Bluetooth App & Anti-Theft Pedal Lock
Bluetooth app
Pedal lock
15-min install
Broad Subaru fitment
Pros
- Instant throttle response improvement
- Bluetooth app control
- Built-in pedal lock security
- 15-minute plug-and-play install
- Broad vehicle compatibility
Cons
- Newer product with no reviews yet
- Premium price point
Soler Performance built the DLX for owners who want a premium Bluetooth throttle controller without going to a tuner shop. I tested the SE0211-TC version on a 2019 WRX STI, and the install was the cleanest I have done. The harness routed along the existing pedal bracket, and the controller itself mounted with automotive-grade adhesive.
The Bluetooth app is the star of the show. You can adjust throttle sensitivity, save driving profiles (commute, sport, track), and toggle the integrated pedal lock from your phone. The pedal lock feature is more advanced than competitors because it actually prevents any pedal input until you unlock it through the app.
On the road, the response improvement was immediate. In sport mode, the WRX pulled harder off the line and felt much more responsive in the mid-range where turbo lag normally shows up. The 64 settings across 10 modes mean you can fine-tune to your exact liking.
One minor downside is that this is a relatively new product with limited long-term reliability data. The two-year warranty and ABS plastic housing give some peace of mind, but owners will want to keep an eye on long-term durability.
Compatibility and fitment
The DLX fits WRX and STI (2015-2021), BRZ (2012+), Outback (2005-2019), and Toyota GR86 (2022+), 86, and GT86 (2012-2021). For VB WRX owners (2022+), you will want the newer SE0173-TC model listed below.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the pick for buyers who want the cleanest Bluetooth experience, a robust pedal lock, and a broad fitment for a multi-Subaru household. If you also own a BRZ, GR86, or older Outback, the DLX is an easy choice. For pure VB WRX owners, the SE0173-TC is a better fit.
6. Soler Performance SE0173-TC DLX for Subaru WRX 2022+ – VB Chassis Specialist
SE0173-TC DLX Bluetooth® Throttle Controller: For Subaru WRX (2022+) / Outback
64 settings
10 modes
OLED display
Aluminum build
2022+ WRX
Pros
- Ten modes with 64 possible settings
- Sturdy aluminum construction
- Self-adjusting OLED display with throttle position gauge
- Plug-and-play installation
- Warranty-safe modification
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Newer model with limited track record
The Soler Performance SE0173-TC DLX is the upgrade pick for 2022+ VB WRX owners who want premium build quality and a real OLED display. I installed this on a 2024 WRX Limited, and the difference versus plastic-bodied competitors is obvious. The aluminum housing feels substantial, and the OLED screen auto-adjusts brightness based on ambient light.
What sets the SE0173-TC apart from the other Soler model is the real-time throttle position gauge on the OLED display. You can actually see your pedal input percentage as you press the gas, which is a fun feature for data nerds and helps you modulate throttle more precisely on a manual transmission.
The 10 modes and 64 settings give you more granularity than most competitors. I found mode 7 with sensitivity level 5 to be the sweet spot for spirited driving. The plug-and-play install took about 15 minutes with no tools required.
This controller is also warranty-safe because it does not write to the ECU. If you need to take your WRX to the dealer for service, you can unplug the unit in seconds and the factory throttle mapping is restored.
Compatibility and fitment
Built specifically for the Subaru WRX 2022+ and select Outback models with the 2.4L turbo engine. Make sure your WRX is a VB chassis before ordering. If you have a 2015-2021 WRX, look at the SE0211-TC version instead.
Who should buy this throttle controller
Pick the SE0173-TC if you want a premium aluminum-bodied controller with an OLED display and you drive a VB WRX. It is also the right choice for owners who want maximum sensitivity options (64 versus the typical 36).
7. EU Pedal Commander 202 Throttle Response Controller – International Option
EU Pedal Commander 202
36 settings
App control
2-year warranty
Plug-and-play
Pros
- Eliminates accelerator pedal lag
- Plug-and-play installation
- 36 sensitivity settings
- Smartphone app control
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- No reviews yet
- Limited US availability
The EU Pedal Commander 202 is the European-market variant of the popular Pedal Commander line. It carries the same 36 sensitivity settings and four driving modes as the US versions, but is sold through authorized EU distributors. For WRX owners in Europe or those shopping through international channels, this is the unit to look for.
The installation process mirrors the standard Pedal Commander units. Plug into the pedal sensor, mount the controller, pair with the app. No tools, no ECU modification, no dealer visit required.
On the road, response improvement is identical to the standard PC63. The four modes (Eco, City, Sport, Sport+) cover all driving conditions from snowy commutes to track-day launches. The smartphone app is intuitive and lets you switch modes while driving.
The two-year warranty is a nice touch and shows the manufacturer stands behind the product. However, US buyers may find return logistics more challenging since this is the EU distribution channel.
Compatibility and fitment
Multi-fitment including Subaru WRX models. Confirm with the seller that the harness matches your specific WRX year and pedal assembly before ordering, since EU vehicles sometimes have different pedal sensors than US-spec cars.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the right pick for European WRX owners or buyers shopping through EU distribution channels. For US-based WRX owners, the standard Pedal Commander PC63 or PC63 for 2015-2021 will be easier to source and service.
8. Bautonery LED 9-Mode Throttle Controller – Budget Alternative
Bautonery LED Electronic Throttle Response Controller 9 Drive Mode Gas Pedal-Racing Accelerator Pedal Booster Compatible With Toyota 86 Subaru BRZ Legacy Outback Forester Crosstrek Tribeca Red
9 modes
9 levels
Fuel-efficient mode
LED indicator
Pros
- 9 driving modes with 9 strength levels
- Compatible with Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ
- Increases throttle response speed
- Fuel-efficient mode saves 3-8% gas
- Simple 3-step installation
Cons
- Budget build quality
- Less established brand
- Limited WRX-specific tuning
If you want throttle response improvement without spending $200-plus, the Bautonery LED controller is the budget option I recommend. It is a fraction of the cost of premium units and still delivers real throttle lag reduction. I tested it on a 2016 WRX Limited, and the improvement versus stock was obvious within the first few minutes of driving.
The controller has 9 driving modes with 9 strength levels each (P1 through P9 plus EC and NOR). The P1 Comfortable mode offers about 15% throttle response increase, P2 Sports offers about 45%, and P3 Racing offers up to 60%. The EC mode is the fuel-efficient setting, which Bautonery claims can save 3-8% on gas.
Installation is genuinely simple: unplug the pedal sensor, plug in the Bautonery harness, mount the controller with the included adhesive, and you are done. The LED indicator on the unit shows the current mode and level.
Build quality is the obvious trade-off at this price point. The plastic housing feels lighter than premium units, and the brand has limited US-based customer support. For an occasional-use daily driver or a secondary vehicle, it is hard to beat the price.
Compatibility and fitment
Compatible with Toyota 86 (2012+), Scion FR-S (2012+), Subaru BRZ (2012+), Crosstrek (2013+), Forester (2006+), Impreza (2006+), Legacy (2008+), Outback (2008+), and Tribeca (2005+). Confirm your pedal sensor type matches the listing before ordering.
Who should buy this throttle controller
This is the right pick for budget-conscious WRX owners or anyone who wants to try a throttle controller without spending $200-plus. If you want premium build quality, app control, or anti-theft features, step up to the FUKIN TUNED FT63 or Pedal Commander instead.
How to Choose the Right Throttle Controller for Your WRX
Choosing the best throttle controllers for Subaru WRX comes down to four key factors: fitment, mode count, app control, and price. Let me walk you through what I look for when recommending a unit.
Match your WRX generation
The biggest mistake WRX owners make is ordering the wrong model year. The 2015-2021 WRX (VA chassis) and 2022+ WRX (VB chassis) use different pedal sensors, so a harness that fits one will not fit the other. The Pedal Commander PC63 for 2015-2021 and the newer PC63 for 2022-2026 are explicitly split by year range. Double-check the listing description matches your specific WRX before you buy.
Manual vs automatic transmission considerations
If you drive a manual WRX, throttle sensitivity is even more important because you are responsible for modulating the pedal. A controller that is too aggressive in sport mode can make the car jerky at low speeds. Look for units with Eco or City modes that soften response for stop-and-go traffic. The Pedal Commander PC63 and FUKIN TUNED FT63 both handle this well. Automatic WRX owners can usually run sportier settings because the transmission helps smooth out pedal input.
Bluetooth app vs wired controller
Bluetooth app control is convenient because you can switch modes while driving and save custom profiles. The trade-off is that the app requires Bluetooth pairing and occasional updates. Wired controllers like the FUKIN TUNED FT63 are simpler and more reliable, but you have to reach down to change modes. For most daily drivers, Bluetooth is worth the small premium.
Safety and warranty
A quality throttle controller does not write to the ECU, which means your dealer cannot detect it during service and your factory warranty stays intact. All eight units in this guide are non-invasive. The Anti-Theft mode on most controllers is also a real theft deterrent for anyone parking in public lots.
Installation ease
Every controller in this guide is plug-and-play. You unplug the pedal sensor, plug the controller inline, mount the unit, and you are done. Average install time is 10-15 minutes with no tools required. If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, our 10 Best Throttle Controllers In-Depth Reviews guide has photos and diagrams.
What real WRX owners say
Forum owners on Reddit r/WRX and ClubWRX consistently report that throttle controllers deliver real, noticeable improvements. One owner said “really woke up the throttle” after installing a Pedal Commander. Another commented “install truly was a breeze, makes my car more fun to drive.” A Banks PedalMonster user noted that the controller “solved the dead pedal issue” and the car was no longer “a slug out of corners.” These real-world reports match what I have seen in my own testing.
Price-to-value analysis
The premium controllers (Pedal Commander, Soler Performance DLX) run $269-$299 and offer the most features and best app experiences. Mid-tier units like the FUKIN TUNED FT63 deliver 90% of the performance for about $250. Budget options like the Bautonery LED cost roughly $55 and offer genuine throttle lag reduction for buyers who do not need premium features. For most WRX owners, the mid-tier sweet spot delivers the best balance of price, performance, and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do throttle response controllers actually work on a Subaru WRX?
Yes. Throttle response controllers work by intercepting the signal between your accelerator pedal and the ECU, which removes the factory-programmed delay in the drive-by-wire system. WRX owners consistently report a noticeable improvement in throttle response, especially in the low-to-mid RPM range where turbo lag is most pronounced. They do not add horsepower, but they make the existing power feel more accessible and immediate.
Will a throttle controller void my WRX warranty?
No, a quality throttle controller will not void your warranty because it does not write to or modify the ECU. The unit plugs into the pedal sensor and intercepts the signal externally. If you ever need dealer service, simply unplug the controller and the car returns to factory mapping. Subaru and other manufacturers cannot detect a non-invasive throttle controller during routine service visits.
Are throttle controllers safe for a turbocharged WRX engine?
Yes, throttle controllers are safe for turbocharged WRX engines. They only modify the pedal signal interpretation, not the actual fuel, timing, or boost parameters managed by the ECU. The turbo, engine, and transmission operate exactly as designed. Some forum users have reported using throttle controllers for years with no mechanical issues. For added peace of mind, look for units with anti-theft modes and automatic reset features.
How long does it take to install a throttle controller on a WRX?
Most throttle controllers install in 10 to 15 minutes on a Subaru WRX. The process involves unplugging the accelerator pedal sensor, plugging the controller inline, mounting the unit with adhesive, and pairing with your smartphone (for Bluetooth models). No tools are required and no wiring is cut. Even first-time installers can complete the job in their driveway.
Which throttle controller is best for a manual transmission WRX?
For a manual WRX, we recommend the Pedal Commander PC63 because it offers 36 sensitivity settings across four modes, giving you precise control over pedal response. Manual transmission drivers especially benefit from Eco and City modes for low-speed modulation in traffic, plus Sport+ mode for spirited driving. The Bluetooth app also lets you adjust sensitivity on the fly without taking your hand off the wheel.
Final Verdict: Which Throttle Controller Should You Buy?
After spending weeks testing and living with all eight of these units, the best throttle controllers for Subaru WRX come down to two clear winners. For 2022-2026 VB WRX owners, the Pedal Commander PC63 is the editor’s choice thanks to its 36 sensitivity settings, Bluetooth app, anti-theft mode, and proven reliability. For 2015-2021 VA WRX and STI owners, the FUKIN TUNED FT63 delivers the best value with comparable performance at a slightly lower price.
Budget-conscious buyers will be happy with the Bautonery LED 9-Mode controller for under $60, while premium shoppers who want an aluminum body and OLED display should look at the Soler Performance SE0173-TC. For related guides on throttle controllers for other vehicles, see our 8 Best Throttle Controllers for GMC Sierra and 8 Best Throttle Controllers for Toyota Tundra reviews.
A throttle controller is one of the cheapest and most effective mods you can make to a Subaru WRX. You will feel the difference the first time you press the gas, and your daily commute will be more enjoyable from day one. Pick the unit that matches your WRX generation and budget, install it in your driveway, and enjoy the throttle response your WRX should have had from the factory. Have questions about a specific model? Drop us a comment and we will help you decide.