WRX VB With Magnetite Grey Wing has long been celebrated for its blend of performance, reliability, and style, making it a go-to choice for car enthusiasts. The WRX VB, the latest iteration, continues this tradition but with an even more refined design and advanced features. However, what truly sets this model apart is the addition of a wing—specifically, one in Magnetite Grey. This simple modification can significantly enhance your car’s appearance and performance.
Why Choose a WRX VB Wing in Magnetite Grey?
Standing Out with Style: The Magnetite Grey wing isn’t just about functionality. Its color perfectly complements the Subaru WRX VB’s sleek lines, creating a cohesive look that stands out without being overly flashy. This shade is subtle yet bold, offering a modern twist to the traditional Subaru aesthetic.
Performance Benefits: Beyond the visual appeal, adding a wing to your WRX VB can improve aerodynamic performance. It provides additional downforce, which helps maintain stability at higher speeds, particularly useful during spirited driving or on the track.
A Close Look at the Magnetite Grey Color
Understanding Magnetite Grey: Magnetite Grey is a unique shade within the Subaru color palette, offering a dark, metallic finish that adds depth to your car’s appearance. This color shifts slightly in different lighting conditions, giving your WRX VB a dynamic look that catches the eye from every angle.
Matching with Other Subaru Accessories: If you’re someone who likes their car’s accessories to match perfectly, Magnetite Grey is an excellent choice. Subaru offers a range of accessories, such as side mirrors, grilles, and badges, that can also come in this color, allowing for a unified, custom look.
Durability and Maintenance: Magnetite Grey is not only about aesthetics. This color is known for its durability, resisting fading and wear even after years of exposure to the elements. Maintenance is relatively easy, with most standard car cleaning products keeping your wing looking fresh and new.
Performance Impact: Why the WRX VB Wing Is More Than Just a Visual Upgrade
Enhanced Downforce: The primary function of a wing on a performance vehicle is to generate downforce. For the WRX VB, this means better traction and stability at high speeds. When combined with the car’s all-wheel-drive system, the wing can significantly improve cornering performance, making your drives both safer and more enjoyable.
Improved Aerodynamics: While downforce is a key aspect, the wing also plays a role in reducing drag. By channeling air over the car more efficiently, the WRX VB wing helps to maintain speed without requiring additional engine power. This can lead to better fuel efficiency in certain driving conditions, a surprising but welcome benefit for performance car enthusiasts.
Balancing Form and Function: The WRX VB wing in Magnetite Grey manages to strike a balance between enhancing the car’s visual appeal and improving its performance. This makes it a must-have for anyone looking to get the most out of their Subaru WRX VB.
Installation Guide: How to Install a WRX VB Wing
Tools You’ll Need: Installing a WRX VB wing requires some basic tools, including a drill, a set of screwdrivers, masking tape, and a measuring tape. It’s important to have these tools ready before you begin to ensure a smooth installation process.
Preparation: Start by thoroughly cleaning the trunk lid where the wing will be mounted. Any dirt or debris can affect the adhesion and stability of the wing.
Drilling and Mounting: Carefully drill holes into the trunk lid at the marked points. It’s crucial to drill slowly and steadily to avoid damaging the car’s paint or bodywork.
Final Adjustments: After securing the wing, check its alignment from various angles to ensure it’s perfectly centered and level. Tighten all screws and bolts to ensure the wing is securely attached. Finally, clean up any debris and apply a protective wax to the surrounding area to protect the paint.
Customization Options: Making Your WRX VB Wing Unique
Color Accents and Decals: While Magnetite Grey is stunning on its own, you can personalize your wing further by adding color accents or decals. Whether you want to match your car’s paint or add a contrasting color, the options are endless.
Wing Extensions: For those who want even more downforce or a more aggressive look, wing extensions are available. These can be installed on top of the existing wing, adding height and changing the aerodynamics of the vehicle even further.
Carbon Fiber Finish: If you’re looking to enhance the performance of your WRX VB even more, consider a carbon fiber finish for your wing. This not only reduces weight but also adds a high-tech, sporty appearance to your car.
Maintaining Your WRX VB Wing
Regular Cleaning: To keep your Magnetite Grey wing looking its best, regular cleaning is essential. Use a mild car shampoo and a soft cloth to remove dirt and grime without scratching the surface. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the paint or the finish.
Waxing and Polishing: To protect the finish from UV rays and environmental pollutants, regularly apply a layer of car wax to your wing. This will not only enhance its shine but also provide a protective barrier against the elements.
Inspection for Damage: Periodically check your wing for any signs of damage, such as chips, cracks, or loose bolts. Addressing these issues early can prevent them from becoming more serious problems that could affect the wing’s performance or appearance.
The Cost of Adding a WRX VB Wing in Magnetite Grey
Initial Purchase Price: The cost of a WRX VB wing can vary depending on the material, brand, and where you purchase it. Expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $1,000, with high-end materials like carbon fiber pushing the price toward the upper end of that range.
Installation Costs: If you’re not comfortable installing the wing yourself, professional installation can add another $100 to $300 to the total cost.
Long-Term Value: While the initial cost may seem high, adding a wing can increase your WRX VB’s resale value, particularly if the wing is well-maintained and professionally installed. This makes it a worthwhile investment for those planning to sell or trade in their vehicle in the future.
Comparing WRX VB Wing Options
OEM vs. Aftermarket Wings: One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) wing or an aftermarket option. OEM wings are designed specifically for your vehicle, ensuring a perfect fit and finish, but they can be more expensive. Aftermarket wings offer more variety and customization options, but the fit and quality can vary depending on the brand.
Material Considerations: WRX VB wings are available in various materials, including ABS plastic, fiberglass, aluminum, and carbon fiber. ABS plastic and fiberglass are more affordable and easier to work with but may not offer the same durability as aluminum or carbon fiber. Carbon fiber is the premium option, offering superior strength and weight savings, but at a higher cost.
Design Variations: Wings come in various designs, from low-profile spoilers that offer a subtle look to high-rise wings that make a bold statement. The choice between these designs depends on your aesthetic preferences and how much impact you want the wing to have on your vehicle’s performance.
Where to Buy a WRX VB Wing in Magnetite Grey
Authorized Dealers: For those who prefer OEM parts, purchasing your WRX VB wing through an authorized Subaru dealer ensures you’re getting a product that meets Subaru’s quality standards. Dealers can also provide installation services and warranty coverage.
Online Retailers: Websites like Import Image Racing offer a wide selection of WRX VB wings in Magnetite Grey, with options for both OEM and aftermarket parts. Shopping online provides the advantage of comparing prices and reading customer reviews before making a purchase.
Local Shops and Enthusiast Forums: Don’t overlook local auto shops and Subaru enthusiast forums. These communities often have leads on rare or discounted parts and can provide valuable advice on the best wing options for your WRX VB.
The Impact of a Wing on Your Subaru WRX VB’s Resale Value
Increased Appeal to Enthusiasts: Adding a wing to your WRX VB can make it more appealing to other car enthusiasts, particularly those who appreciate performance upgrades. A well-installed, high-quality wing can become a selling point, attracting buyers who are looking for a car that stands out from the standard models.
Potential Drawbacks: However, it’s essential to recognize that not all potential buyers will see the wing as a positive addition. Some may prefer the original, unmodified look of the WRX VB. In such cases, the wing could be a dealbreaker unless you’re willing to remove it before selling.
Balancing Investment with Return: When considering the impact of a wing on resale value, think about your long-term plans for the vehicle. If you plan to keep the WRX VB for many years, the personal enjoyment and performance benefits of the wing may outweigh any potential negative impact on resale value.
Common Myths About WRX VB Wings
Myth: Wings Are Only for Looks: While wings do enhance the visual appeal of a car, they also serve a critical function in improving aerodynamics and stability. Dismissing them as purely cosmetic overlooks their practical benefits, especially in performance driving.
Myth: All Wings Are the Same: There’s a significant difference between high-quality, well-engineered wings and cheaper, poorly designed options. Investing in a quality wing, like those available for the WRX VB, ensures you’re getting both aesthetic and performance benefits.
Myth: Wings Negatively Impact Fuel Economy: While it’s true that some wings can create additional drag, many, including those designed for the WRX VB, are engineered to improve aerodynamics, which can actually help maintain or even improve fuel efficiency under certain driving conditions.
FAQ
What is the primary purpose of adding a wing to my WRX VB?
The main purpose of adding a wing is to improve aerodynamics, specifically by increasing downforce. This helps with traction and stability at higher speeds, making your car more capable during spirited driving or on the track.
How difficult is it to install a WRX VB wing?
Installation difficulty can vary depending on your experience with car modifications. While it’s possible to install a wing yourself with the right tools and instructions, many choose to have it professionally installed to ensure it’s done correctly.
Will adding a wing void my WRX VB’s warranty?
Generally, adding a wing should not void your car’s warranty. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your dealer or review your warranty terms to be sure.
How do I maintain the Magnetite Grey finish on my wing?
Regular cleaning with mild soap and water, followed by waxing, can help maintain the finish. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the paint.