Been shooting Canon for over a decade and honestly the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the first time I felt like I had the perfect hybrid. Ive been using it for a while now and I'm still super happy with how it handles. For car builds, that 4K 60p uncropped is a game changer. Especially when you're stuck in a cramped garage and cant back up any further... This setup usually stays paired with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM for those tight engine bay shots. It has that macro capability for the details but its wide enough for a general view. Autofocus is basically magic too... it just sticks. No overheating issues either which was a major headache on older gear. Really satisfied with how this thing performs for the price tho.

So, I've been thinking about your WRX build project, and as someone who spends way too much time wrenching and filming solo, the technical workflow is basically everything. Shooting in a garage or on a driveway is a whole different beast than a controlled set, and your gear needs to reflect that DIY reality. Before you drop two grand, I have a couple of clarifying questions to see what specs actually matter for your setup: * Are you mostly filming as a one-man crew where you need a fully articulating screen to monitor yourself while you're working under the car or in the cabin?
* Are you planning to do heavy color grading in post, or do you just want something that looks pretty good straight out of the camera with minimal fuss? Tbh, knowing if you're gonna be doing high-end technical editing or if you just want ease-of-use while your hands are covered in grease makes a huge difference. Like, sometimes 10-bit color is overkill if you don't have the hardware to edit it, but good autofocus is non-negotiable when you're moving around a 2023 Subaru engine bay.

Works great for me

Regarding what #7 said about been shooting Canon for over a decade and finding the R6 II perfect, I totally agree. Its the first body in a long time where I have no complaints about the video or photo side. Since youre on a budget, definitely look at the Canon Refurbished store before buying new. My Canon EOS R6 Mark II came from there for way under retail and it looks and acts brand new. Saving that extra cash lets you grab a lens like the Canon RF 35mm f1.8 Macro IS STM or maybe even a used Canon RF 24-105mm f4 L IS USM if you find a deal. Getting the body cheaper is the only way to stay near 2k and actually get good glass... honestly wouldnt do it any other way.

Commenting to find later

I've been happy with my Canon EOS R6. Great photos and video, plus the used market has them around $1800 now. Works well for my needs – no complaints so far!

Consider the Canon EOS R6. Its internal 10-bit 4:2:2 video codec offers significantly more editing flexibility than lower bit-depth options. Important for color grading your WRX build footage.

Instead of a new camera, consider a used Canon EOS R and a good lens. You'll get great quality for less than $2000, leaving room for lighting – which makes a HUGE difference for car shoots.

Canon EOS R6 is decent. Secure mounting is crucial; dropped gear is a safety hazard.