Just purchased a 2012 Sti hatch. 45,000 miles, the engine compartment is filthy, with dust/dirt. Is that common? My 02 never, ever got close to being that dirty. I know this model has more engine bay air flow enhancements, is this the reason? It looks like the previous owner parked it on a busy dirt road with the hood up.
Is the "skid plate" missing? Mine isn't on because rust and broken off bolts, and I'm assuming it's part of the reason mine gets fairly dirty in there. Just guessing?
Neglect. I feel like you can tell a lot about a car and its owner by looking at the cleanliness of the car's engine bay. That may not be entirely accurate/fair, but it's one of the main things I look at when buying.