I know I'm gonna get flamed for this.........but if you want real aftermarket support then you might look at the Ford Focus or if you can swing it, the GT Mustang. They have their own parts division (Ford racing) that offers everything from suspension to crate engines. They actually have a fairly extensive aftermarket for the Focus too. Plus they are the ONLY company to TRUELY support the aftermarket by providing CAD drawings to aftermarket companies like Steeda to develop the very best aftermarket components. Steeda's computer chips can be serviced by the Ford dealer. HOWEVER warranty is a subjective thing and ANY car that has been altered can cause complications with the warranty. Best advice is to stay away from engine work till the warranty ends if you are that concerned about it.

Anyway, I am not all that familiar with the Focus but I do know that it isn't as popular or fast as cars like the RSX even though it has great aftermarket support from Ford. Personaly, I would tell you to test drive a GT (hell if you're test driving a WRX it's only a few bucks more) because it can do anything that a Carolla or RSX can do - and way better. It has ten times as much aftermarket support, not just from little one off tuners, but right from big racing companies like Roush and from Ford itself. Anyway, it depends on your budget or future plans.......hell you may not even like either of them!!! I'm just saying that they are the leader in aftermarket support if that's your goal.

A friend of mine at work has a new RSX and he tells me that the dealer told him he could do the intake, headers, and exhaust and would be covered. I didn't hear that myself but it woul be something to ask. From a Carolla or RSX I would lean towards the RSX. But also......what about the Sentra? It has a pretty good package out there too.