Subaru has long faced criticism for refusing to release a WRX hatchback for the US market, despite consistent demand from fans. One enthusiast, Stephen Ketelsen, took matters into his own hands, completing a full mechanical swap to create a modern WRX hatchback from a stock Crosstrek. This project highlights the enduring popularity of the discontinued five-door WRX and the lengths fans will go to get what they want.
The Problem: No WRX Hatchback in the US
For years, Subaru fans have lamented the absence of a WRX hatchback in the US lineup. The original five-door model was a hit before being discontinued in 2012, with no direct successor ever offered. This has left enthusiasts seeking alternatives or modifying existing models to achieve the desired result.
The Solution: A Full Mechanical Swap
Stephen Ketelsen, known as @vb_hatch on Instagram, decided to transform his 2020 Crosstrek into a functional WRX hatchback. The build wasn’t cosmetic; it involved a complete swap of the engine, transmission, and other key components from a salvaged 2022 WRX Premium. This includes the FA24 engine and six-speed manual gearbox.
The Process: From Salvage Yard to Shop
The project started with securing a donor vehicle. Ketelsen won an auction for a wrecked 2022 WRX and began dismantling both cars in his garage. With assistance from Mach V Motorsports, a Subaru specialty shop, the swap was carefully executed over several months. The process involved:
- Stripping parts from both vehicles.
- Wiring the WRX harness into the Crosstrek chassis.
- Swapping the rear subframe.
- Fitting the WRX engine and transmission without modification.
Unexpected Challenges
The swap wasn’t without issues. The Crosstrek’s radiator core support was incompatible with the WRX’s components, requiring a front-end transplant. Additionally, the front fenders needed custom modification to align with the WRX body lines. These challenges were resolved with the help of Independent Car Collision, ensuring a clean fit.
The Result: A Fully Functional WRX Hatchback
After months of work, Ketelsen’s Crosstrek now functions as a fully equipped WRX hatchback. The engine bolted in without modification, and the final product matches the performance of a stock VB WRX. Ketelsen plans to further upgrade the powertrain for increased power.
“The goal was always more power, and while the swap nearly doubled the Crosstrek’s original horsepower figure, I fully intend on adding bolt-ons and experiencing for myself what this powertrain is capable of.”
This build demonstrates the dedication of Subaru enthusiasts and serves as a testament to the demand for a WRX hatchback that Subaru continues to ignore. Ketelsen’s project proves that with enough effort, anything is possible, even if it means building the car the manufacturer refuses to make.
