The Brief
Two WRX VA owners came in looking for a reliable Stage 2 setup for spirited street driving. Both cars were stock and both wanted more performance without pushing the FA20DIT beyond its comfort zone.
The Build
We went with the Process West verticooler over a front-mount because it’s a direct replacement for the factory top-mount with significantly better charge air cooling, faster spool, and no heat soak issues. Paired with the Process West cold air intake for better airflow in and the Invidia j-pipe for better flow out, it’s a proven Stage 2 combo on this platform.
Both cars received identical hardware and were tuned on our Dynapack using EcuTek. EcuTek gives us full calibration access on the FA20DIT, so boost control, fueling, and throttle response were all optimised to suit the hardware. The tune was built around reliability, getting the most from the parts without pushing limits.
The Result
Both cars came out noticeably more responsive with stronger pull through the midrange and no more heat soak issues in traffic. A solid, repeatable package that delivers real gains on the street without compromising the engine’s longevity.
