Unless you live in a state where there is no sales tax or sales tax is 1% (or have a trade in vehicle), it's safe to say that it will be more than $32,000.

 

why such a hard line?

if getting a loan, the difference between $32k and $34k is like $40/mo .... so cancel the premium channels and buy cheaper cereal ...

If you are reeeeaaaly stretching it ... maybe it isn't a good idea at all ...

 

Well it will probably be over 32K since sticker is 30995 plus 550 destination thats 31545 then sales tax. Unless you can get it for less then msrp.

 

I know how you feel. I have a max amount I will take a loan out for since, while I can afford the car, I'd like to keep my cash flow reasonable.

Make sure if you do come up with your max loan, STICK TO IT! I gaurantee you, nothing is worse than putting yourself into debt for three-six years of monthly payments that you can barely afford. Eventually, after a few years, the STi newness will be gone, there will be better cars out, and you'll be mad that your payments are keeping you from a nice dinner, a new tv, or whatever.

Now that my $0.02 is done with, I don't know what your taxes are where you are but out in California, for rough numbers just add 10% of the cost back. So the STi being $31,500 list, I'm looking at around $34k. The actual amount in California is more like 9.3% but 10% is a good enough round number.

Hope that helps!

 

Obviously it will depend on whether you can actually secure one for MSRP (or less) and also whether the stereo system (or other options, though I think the stereo's about it ?) has already been added as an option (add on another $800, I think ??).......yes, I know it's not standard, but many of the first dealer allocations haven't been built to specific customer requirements; the dealers will try to match up customer "wants" with what they've been allocated by SOA, so if you're really desparate to have one in the first few months you may have to settle for what's out there or shop around.

I would think around $34k out the door would be an absolute minimum from most dealerships for an MSRP car (assuming tax in the $8 to 10% bracket) and I'm sure many dealers may try to gouge..........however, the recent motoring press reviews may sway a few people over to the Evo side, who knows.

Initially leases (if there are any) will be VERY expensive.....not an attractive option if it's coming out of your own pocket.

 

Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't there also options packages to consider? There may be a cold weather package (although maybe not on the STi), as well as dealer options such as faux carbon fiber trim, side sills, etc. This can end up adding on some cash. Oh, and yes, also the radio. I know the speakers in the WRX suck, but the head unit isn't too bad. I don't like getting aftermarket head units because they attract prying eyes.

 

Assume more like $33k and if it's less, be happy

Of course, if you can find the car for $1,500 below MSRP, be very happy anyway!

 

Times like this, I wish I lived in South Carolina. If I'm not mistaken, state law mandates that a single item (such as a car) cannot be taxed any more than $300 or so. What a bummer for those of us who aren't so lucky.

I'm sitting at 6%... not too bad... bad enough to make it hurt, but not bad enough to make it unbearable.