The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best 2020 Subaru WRX STI for Sale

Looking for a 2020 Subaru WRX STI for sale? If you’re a car enthusiast or someone who appreciates performance-driven vehicles the 2020 WRX STI might be on top of your wishlist. Known for its rally-inspired design and iconic all-wheel-drive system Subaru's WRX STI is legendary for both its speed and handling on various terrains. But how do you find the right one? And what should you consider before you make a purchase?

In this article we'll go in-depth about everything you need to know about the 2020 Subaru WRX STI. From what makes it special to potential drawbacks we'll help you get a complete picture.

Why Buy a 2020 Subaru WRX STI?

Before jumping into specifics on how to find the best one for sale let's take a moment to understand what makes the 2020 Subaru WRX STI such an appealing car. It's not just another sports sedan. This car was built with the spirit of rally racing embedded into its DNA.

Performance-Driven Powerhouse

One of the main reasons people seek out the WRX STI is for its engine. Powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine, this beast generates 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. That’s more than enough to get your heart racing every time you push the throttle. And thanks to its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, you’ll get unmatched traction and control.

Manual Transmission for Purists

For those who love the feel of being connected to their car, the 2020 WRX STI only comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. It’s one of the last performance sedans out there to offer a manual gearbox in a world that’s rapidly switching to automatics. This is for drivers who want to feel every shift and fully engage with the road.

Iconic Handling

Where the 2020 WRX STI really shines is in the corners. Thanks to its adjustable Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) and track-tuned suspension, this car was built to handle sharp turns and varying road conditions with ease. Whether you’re driving on the highway or taking on winding mountain roads, the STI gives you confidence at every corner.

What to Look for When Searching for a 2020 Subaru WRX STI for Sale

Once you've decided to get a WRX STI you'll want to make sure you're getting the best deal and the right car for your needs. But not all 2020 WRX STIs are created equal. Depending on how the previous owner cared for it, there can be a lot of variation in condition and features.

Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vs Regular Used

If you're buying a 2020 Subaru WRX STI, you might want to consider looking at Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) options. These vehicles have gone through a rigorous inspection by Subaru and come with extended warranties. Yes, they’re usually more expensive than non-certified used cars, but for peace of mind, it’s worth it.

However, if you don’t mind some potential risks buying a regular used 2020 WRX STI from a private seller can also be a good deal. Just be prepared to thoroughly inspect the car or pay for a mechanic to do so.

Mileage and Wear

The fewer miles on the odometer, the better. Lower mileage generally means less wear on the engine, transmission, and suspension. For the WRX STI, it’s also important to ask how the car was driven. This car attracts enthusiasts, and many owners love to drive them hard. That's part of the fun! But excessive racing or track use can put more stress on the vehicle's components.

Look for:

• Signs of wear on the clutch (high clutch engagement points can indicate that the clutch is on its way out)
• Any unusual noises from the differential or suspension (these can indicate past abuse or a need for repairs)
• Condition of the tires (uneven tire wear might mean issues with alignment or suspension)

Vehicle History Report

Always request a vehicle history report (such as from Carfax) before buying. This report will give you valuable information like whether the car has been in any accidents if it has a clean title and if it has been well-maintained.

Trim Levels and Special Editions

The 2020 WRX STI comes with a variety of trims and options to consider. While the base model is already impressive there are a few additional packages and special editions that might catch your eye.

WRX STI Base Model

Even the base model is well-equipped with:

• Keyless entry
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Recaro seats for that added sporty feel

WRX STI Limited

The Limited trim adds some creature comforts and luxury touches, including:

• Power-adjustable Recaro seats
• Harman Kardon audio system for premium sound quality
• Sunroof

2020 Subaru WRX STI Series.White Edition

This special edition was limited to just 500 units and comes with:

• Exclusive Ceramic White paint
• Brembo brakes with silver calipers
• Lightweight BBS wheels
• Revised suspension tuning for enhanced cornering abilities

If you're lucky enough to find a Series.White Edition for sale, it’s likely to hold its value well due to its rarity.

Potential Drawbacks to Keep in Mind

No car is perfect and the 2020 Subaru WRX STI does have some drawbacks that potential buyers should be aware of. It's important to consider these factors so that you go in with open eyes.

Outdated Engine Design

One criticism that frequently comes up is the outdated engine. The EJ257 engine has been around in various forms since the early 2000s, and while it's been refined over the years, it’s no longer the most efficient or technologically advanced engine on the market. It still uses port injection instead of the more modern direct injection, which means lower fuel economy (you’ll get around 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway). Some competitors in the sports sedan market have more efficient engines with better fuel economy.

Ride Comfort

The WRX STI’s track-tuned suspension is a blessing for those who love spirited driving, but for daily commuting, it can be a bit of a curse. The ride is firm and stiff, and you’ll feel every bump in the road. If comfort is a priority for you, this might be a dealbreaker. According to Alex Collantes, a WRX enthusiast, “The STI’s suspension is brutal on potholes and rough roads. It's not a car for the faint-hearted when it comes to comfort, but for me, it's worth it for the performance.”

Interior Quality

The interior of the 2020 WRX STI isn't as refined as some of its competitors. While the Recaro seats and sporty touches are nice, there are hard plastics in the cabin that feel a bit out of place in a car at this price point. For some buyers, this might detract from the overall experience, especially when compared to cars like the Audi S4 or BMW M340i, which offer more luxurious interiors.

The Cost of Owning a 2020 Subaru WRX STI

When thinking about buying a 2020 WRX STI, you should also consider the ongoing costs of ownership. Performance cars tend to cost more to maintain, and the WRX STI is no exception.

Maintenance Costs

The WRX STI is not particularly known for being a low-maintenance car. The turbocharged engine and AWD system require regular servicing. On average, you should expect to pay:

• $1,000–$1,500 per year for maintenance
• Higher costs if you need to replace wear items like the clutch or brakes frequently due to spirited driving

Insurance

Because it's a performance car, insurance costs for the 2020 WRX STI can be higher than your typical sedan. You’ll want to shop around for insurance quotes before buying. Factors that influence the cost include:

• Your driving record
• Where you live
• How the car will be used (daily driving vs. weekend fun)

Tips for Negotiating the Best Price

Once you’ve found a 2020 Subaru WRX STI for sale that meets your needs, it’s time to negotiate the price. Here are some tips to help you get the best deal.

Do Your Research

Before entering negotiations, research the market for similar 2020 WRX STIs in your area. Check websites like Autotrader and CarGurus to see what other sellers are asking for similar models. This will give you a baseline for what you should expect to pay.

Be Prepared to Walk Away

It’s easy to fall in love with a car, but if the seller isn’t willing to budge on price and you think it’s too high, be ready to walk away. There are plenty of WRX STIs out there for sale, and you don’t need to settle on the first one you find.

Ask for Extras

If the seller won’t lower the price, consider asking for extras like a free extended warranty or having them cover the cost of new tires or brake pads. Sometimes sellers are more willing to throw in extras than they are to lower the price.

Conclusion

The 2020 Subaru WRX STI is a car for drivers who value performance above all else. Its turbocharged engine, manual transmission, and all-wheel drive make it a thrilling car to drive, whether on the track or on your favorite twisty roads. But it’s not without its drawbacks – its firm ride, outdated engine design, and interior quality may leave some buyers wanting more.

If you’re ready to start your search for a 2020 Subaru WRX STI for sale, make sure you consider all the factors: from condition and mileage to whether it's a CPO or regular used vehicle. By taking the time to do your research and negotiate wisely, you'll be sure to find the perfect WRX STI to suit your needs and driving style.

As Alex Collantes puts it “If you're buying an STI, you’re buying it for the thrill, not for comfort or fuel economy. And for that thrill it’s hard to beat.”