Charlie Wong Turns to AEM's Subaru Impreza WRX Cold Air Intake and Strut Bar for His Custom Ride

Owner Charlie Wong plans to take his modified 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX to the track later down the line.
Owner Charlie Wong plans to take his modified 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX to the track later down the line.
Charlie Wong, of San Gabriel, California, is all about optimal performance and is no stranger to modifying his vehicles to suite his expectations. The car enthusiast equipped both of his previously owned Nissan 240 SXs with AEM cold air intake systems and also tweaked a Honda Civic Si in the past.

Charlie Wong bought a 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX in December of 2012. At the time of purchase, the vehicle fit all of the requirements of what Wong wanted in a car; all-wheel-drive, four-door, and a factory turbo. However, looking back at the car enthusiasts's track record, change was eventually on its way.

It didn't take long for the car owner to grow restless. In fact, within a month, he had already embarked upon his next modification. Having already experienced the quality of AEM products, little thought had to go into what changes needed to be made. A cold air intake would boost the engine's performance, and AEM strut bars would prove useful during high speed turns.
Charlie Wong's custom Subaru Impreza WRX is equipped with an AEM cold air intake and an AEM strut bar.
Charlie Wong's custom Subaru Impreza WRX is equipped with an AEM cold air intake and an AEM strut bar.


In reference to the modification to the car's suspension, Charlie Wong said, "This is my first time to own an AEM strutbar (part 29-0004). I plan on taking the car and entering a couple of track events later down the line," he continued. "So a strut bar was definitely going to to be purchased. It improves the front of the vehicle under turn-ins and makes the car feel more solid."

With intentions of entering his car in future track events, AEM's Subaru Impreza WRX strut bar was an obvious choice. However, it was equally as important to make changes that would increase the performance of his engine.

Having previously experienced the benefits of adding a cold air intake into the equation, this modification was a no-brainer. Knowing first hand how well this particular AEM product performed there was no need to look any farther. The AEM cold air intake system for Subaru Impreza WRX (part 21-478WR) was proven and easily accessible. It was dyno tested and shows an estimated gain of 36 horsepower.

"The price was right, and AEM has always been known for their quality intakes," shared Charlie Wong. I had AEM cold air intakes on my two previous cars and couldn't have been happier with their performance." With the modification behind him, Charlie Wong has experienced ample time to come to a conclusion - was it worth the efforts or not?

According to the vehicle owner, with the change came some noticeable differences. As suspected, there was a noticeable increase in throttle response. Although there was not much change in the sound of the engine, Charlie Wong could definitely hear the air intake gathering air during acceleration.

These characteristics would have been more than enough to deem the modification a success, but it seems he was treated with another benefit that was icing on the cake - a noticeable difference at the gas pumps. "It seemed to have improved fuel economy," he shared. "So that was an added bonus." At this point in time, Charlie Wong is satisfied with his recent modifications to and the performance of his vehicle. However, as do many who are accustomed to turning their own wrenches, he is always excited to embark upon another project.

That in mind, Charlie Wong already has plans that will take fruition a little farther down the road. And as one might suspect, AEM will play a role in his plans for improvements.

When asked if he had intentions of modifying the next vehicle he purchases, Wong said, "Definitely. . .Without a doubt I would. Judging from his satisfaction with AEM products, one would suspect that they will be a sure fit for his next project. In reference to the benefits of their cold air intakes and strutbars, he shared, "They increased performance and livened up the car. AEM products are one of the best bangs for the buck and are very well made."

Use the AEM Product Search to find AEM performance products for your vehicle. To find an AEM dealer near you, use Search for AEM Dealer or simply visit AEMintakes.com.
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