Essential Guide to Buying a Used Subaru WRX

July. 16,2025

Explore the essential features of a used Subaru WRX, from performance and safety innovations to interior comforts. This guide helps buyers understand the key aspects and advantages of owning this iconic sports sedan, including maintenance tips and safety systems, ensuring a confident purchase experience.

Essential Guide to Buying a Used Subaru WRX

Discover the Key Attributes of a Pre-Owned Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX is renowned among car enthusiasts for its exceptional driving dynamics and performance. This compact sports sedan combines adrenaline-pumping power with advanced features commonly found in luxury vehicles. Featured extensively in automotive magazines, video games, and enthusiast garages, the WRX is the benchmark for high-performance vehicles.

Planning to buy a used Subaru WRX? Here's what you need to know:

Performance

The legendary sporty compact has evolved over the years with significant redesigns. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and four-door layout contribute to its superior handling and stability.

Key Features of a Used Subaru WRX
Buyers can enjoy cutting-edge features, including Subaru’s Performance Transmission, a turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine, upgraded gearboxes, a sporty exterior, and a driver-centric interior. Notable specifications include:

Six-speed manual transmission paired with a 271-horsepower 2.4L turbocharged SUBARU BOXER® engine with twin-scroll technology

Lightweight 17-inch gunmetal-finished alloy wheels with 15 spokes

Heated, sport-bolstered front seats

Technology and Safety

The safety features are a highlight, notably Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance system, installed in over a million vehicles. EyeSight monitors traffic, enhances cruise control, and alerts drivers if they drift out of lanes, ensuring peace of mind on every trip.

Subaru's safety record is top-notch, earning the highest IIHS ratings for front collision prevention when equipped with EyeSight. The pre-collision braking can apply maximum braking power in emergencies to help prevent or reduce frontal impacts. Additional safety features include Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection (SRVD) and High Beam Assist (HBA), which automatically adjust lighting and alert to vehicles in blind spots, increasing awareness and safety.

Battery Upgrades

Modern used Subaru WRXs no longer require traditional lead-acid batteries. Opting for an AGM OPTIMA sealed battery, such as a Group 35 YellowTop or RedTop, offers three times longer lifespan. A RedTop is suited for daily drivers, while YellowTop is ideal if your vehicle has aftermarket electrical modifications like custom alarms or sound systems.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

The WRX’s cabin shares design elements with other Subaru models, featuring carbon-fiber-like accents and red contrast stitching. It includes analog gauges, a thick-rimmed, flat-bottom steering wheel, and Recaro front seats with microsuede upholstery — standard on higher trims. The rear seats fold 60/40 for versatile cargo access. Many used models come equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, dual 7-inch screens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM Radio with Travel Link, perfect for long journeys.

Renowned for its off-road capability, durability, and reliability, the Subaru WRX has become a legend among performance car lovers. Starting at approximately $30,600, it offers excellent value. Schedule a test drive today at your local dealership and experience this formidable vehicle firsthand.