Is the 2020 Subaru STI WORTH $10k MORE than the WRX?

It is the FINAL YEAR of production for the current generation Subaru WRX & STI. There has always been that old question as to "WHY" does the STI cost about $10,000 more than the standard WRX. Let me take you step by step and cover these two 2020 Subarus to show you exactly where they differ. Is it worth the extra money to buy a 2020 Subaru STI over a WRX? LET"S FIND OUT!
**Please click the link to get your Raiti's Rides Merch!
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[@Patriotgrl01]

My husband just got last Saturday a 2020 STI Limited that has a sunroof in that wonderful World Rally Blue. He is truly enjoying it 😎

[@RaitisRides]

Luciegrl83 congrats you both if you!😎👍🏻

[@WrxyDriven82]

Tell him to do what's called T51R mod to the turbo housing. Go to ocdworks, they make them and their on Instagram.

[@Patriotgrl01]

Jack Lambert - He definitely waves at the family! 😁 It’s great to see how many people are out there with an STI or WRX that show the love. It’s a fun car to drive and has convinced me to one day in the future get a BRZ. Gotta pay off the Outback first 😆

[@sepehrkosari9775]

You don't even have a husband.

[@Patriotgrl01]

Excuse me?? Yes I do. How presumptuous of you to assume something of a stranger.

[@iamsammuiga]

Raiti's ride first awesome quote😂 "the heck with that, growing up is overrated ~ raiti's ride "

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share the laughs with you!

[@FabienCharles108]

That guy checking out the car at 23:00, that's me every time I see an STI drive by.

[@gtrzdaddy]

i love the giant wing on the STi. The same for the Evo. Could never understand people complaining how "boy racer" they look. The wings are what makes these cars extra cool

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share it with you!

[@planetfabulous5833]

"Growing up is overrated" - yes Raiti I totally agree! Fabulous video as always!

[@RaitisRides]

Planet Fabulous thanks my friend! I knew some people would agree with me!

[@buntafujiwara5069]

Planet Fabulous not when you are making you’re own money

[@absboodoo]

Got an old Bugeye STi myself. I agree with many people and that is if you don't need the transmission, the suspension, the brake, and other upgrades. If you just need a daily driver with the occasional fun, the WRX will be better suited for you. Although I will advice to avoid the CVT if you decide to go with the WRX.

[@robmiester]

I got my 2020 STI and I absolutely love it. I am forever grateful, its a pure joy feeling every time I look at her.

[@moflow99]

Good for you! 😊

[@edwardvalivonis23]

It's female?😂

[@edwardvalivonis23]

@@robmiester don't be rude

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! What color did you get!

[@RaitisRides]

AGREED!

[@paulmarsdensr8199]

Thats what I'm talking about Sir. Joe you always do the best attention to detail breakdown of all your videos. Thanks for all of your hard work and your staff as well.

[@RaitisRides]

That means so much Paul! Thank you for saying that!

[@beetpresto7600]

I picked up an STI partly because of your channel. Thanks! I was between the STI and WRX... drove both and it made sense. Thanks!

[@ericbucci6325]

The great thing is I can fit my three children in the back and the wife up front comfortably. Even the middle back seat works. Other cars like the A4 & A6 can’t sit three across like the WRX. That was the selling point. I can have my fun and fit the entire family and drive it all year here in New England. There is less difference when you have the limited with the leather, Harmon system, STI shifter, and adaptive steering lights. I bought the WRX & it is a blast to drive within traffic for the better power delivery early compared to the STI. In addition the WRX has better MPG has and has a longer range. All that being said, I do sometimes think, I should have gotten the STI. But around town I have no regrets. When I get on it, yes the STI is better. But overall for normal use, dipping in the the turbo the WRX limited is great. Love the reviews ... keep up the good work

[@zuowang8030]

My car feels like shit when fully loaded. Cant turn cant break

[@D-AVGGamer]

that early power delivery is slowly eating at your piston rings. having boost come on as early at 2.5k is not healthy for the engine, you'll find out once the car hits 100k miles.

[@EpeenKing]

Just bought a 2021 STI last night - wanted this car for 10+ years! Thanks for your reviews on them, I've watched them all.

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats man! I am so glad that I could share my car passion with you.

[@donquixote2072]

How do you like?

[@EpeenKing]

@@donquixote2072 I love it, just finished break-in recently and added a muffler delete. It's a joy to drive every time.

[@donquixote2072]

@@EpeenKing That's good to hear, I've wanted one for years now too. Had a guy tell me the STI was no good, and to go for an EVO instead.

[@nathanlake78]

I just bought a 2021 as well. Possibly the last STI ever.

[@lyndahammel9502]

I love the fog light on cars. Fog lights really help when you need them. Interesting fact about the cherry blossom trees around the factory. The dark rims are a good choice with the blue. Thanks for another informative review.

[@scepticus]

I appreciate Joe’s committed and professional regimen! With enough work, you’ll go places!

[@joshuaalvarado5188]

I seriously can’t wait till I get one 🤤🤤 its been my dream forever!! I love your channel joe! Keep up the great work !!

[@RaitisRides]

You will love it Joshua! Thanks for the compliment!

[@jedrekcorrea5301]

Thanks to your videos I purchased a 2020 STI Limited about a month ago. I can’t wait until the break in period is over so I can truly enjoy it.

[@fggonzalez5503]

How is it?

[@KealanRobert]

Great video! Heck, all of your videos are fantastic! I’ve had a 2011 WRX and now a 2017 WRX (both manual) and love them both! Just checked our video on the 2021 Audi S4 and you’ve convinced me to make the move. Keep up the amazing work! Thanks for sharing your love of all things cars. Take care and stay safe!

[@currbag]

I had a 2018 sti and sold it and picked up a mint 2006 Hawkeye sti and built the block the suspension and upgraded everything under the hood. 420whp and 450tq......i loved my 18 sti but man the Hawkeye with that kinda power is just an absolute blast!

[@aethro]

Your channel has been incredible for someone in the market for a 15-21 WRX/STI. Love your enthusiasm about these cars, and also am jealous of your Type RA! Can't wait until you get your hands on the next gen coming out this month!

[@mini2nut67]

Great review. My lease is about up on my base 2018 WRX so I test drove an STI for the first time this weekend. Wow, I was blown away at how different the two cars shift, handle, brake, etc. 2021 STI’s wont hit local dealerships until March or April so I am going to be patient before pulling the trigger. It will be a Crystal White Pearl STI with the short shifter. I plan on leaving it 100% stock minus a cat back exhaust. Spring can’t come soon enough!

[@h3dfx]

Absolutely LOVE my 19 STi Joe, Love everything about it including the boy racer wing! Looking forward to what Subaru come out with in 2021 but it won't be the same with out the EJ headers and boxer sound.... Keep the content up mate, always happy when I see a new video to watch :)

[@mandowrx1]

I'm picking up my 2020 STi at Reeves on Saturday! I can't flipping wait.

[@RaitisRides]

Armando Lopez congrats! You are going to love it!

[@robamg63s58]

Joe! I always admire you every time you do a car review! That Sub. STI is cool..

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Rob for saying that! It really means a lot!

[@TurboBMRProjectLove]

Had a white 2016 STi a couple of years back then sold it to save money for a wedding and house. A couple of years later i ditched the fiance and now bought a red 2020 STI. Don't do what i did guys...

[@tevtroop5697]

Hey Raiti, I think I have watched all your WRX and STI videos so far. Guess what? I bought an Sti. I like the WRX but I new I would be disappointed eventually if I had bought the WRX. So, I just went ahead and got the STI. Its an amazing car. I just can't get enough of it. It's a 2018. with mild accessories: visors, wheel spacers, rally mud splash set, short throw shifter as well as mild window tint and 14000 miles on the clock. I would encourage those who don't mind, to get a used, very low mileage Sti instead of a WRX. Thanks for all your reviews. They have helped me to make my decision. keep up the good work.

[@Hamid_Hussaini]

Last time I criticised some of the things you were saying on each one of your videos. This time u have done much better. Btw ur video titles are very catchy. Guud job. Sydney Australia.

[@RaitisRides]

I really appreciate you taking the time to say that!

[@edcarra113]

Thanks for the informative video. Loving the passion for car reviews! Keep up the great work

[@slothystyle]

Every time you post a 2020 STI video it literally makes me wanna go back to the STI and get one lol.

[@RaitisRides]

Hugh Vupy I know that feeling!

[@buntafujiwara5069]

Hugh Vupy good to know

[@con8723]

Great review. You can really tell you have a passion for cars. Keep it up Raiti.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that! It really means a lot!

[@jojokuki9701]

"Growing up is overrated" Joe, I love you man!!!

[@reggiehodges6784]

My son has recently bought a rally blue 2020 STI. It had only 2,000 miles on it . He let me drive it today . And I have to say , it was amazing ! Tons of power ! Great feel on the road !

[@ijustwannaflybutigotworktodo]

Thanks for the great review, man. I love your enthusiasm and the overview of each model without droning on. The only feedback I'd give is that you film the STI in the forward view like you did with the WRX. It would also be great if you dedicated more time to exhaust sounds - maybe even a cold start sound for each and prolonged idling sounds after warmed up.

[@besimmemedovski6802]

Watching your videos have me really debating on getting the wrx but of course the limited trim and cvt. But awesome job with the vids, keep em coming!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for letting me share my passion with you!

[@GaragebuiltOriginal]

CVT why?

[@marchufnagel9068]

Really nice and loved the video. Awesome comparison, STI is my next car if I can swing it!

[@RaitisRides]

Marc Hufnagel thanks for saying that!

[@matthewallwood8234]

Love this episode. The comparisons btw the two cars was very informative and both cars are a good buy which ever one you can afford. Keep up the good work. 👍🏾👍🏾

[@ChristianHudnell]

Awesome video bro! Both cars are awesome and amazing. Keep up the good content.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that! I am so glad that you liked this one!

[@fairlifemilk3533]

It's always going to be a preference thing. There will always be two sides

[@RaitisRides]

Of course, but is there a right side! LOL

[@87ssstans]

Love the video Joe! love my wrx but really need to try an Subaru STI

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Stan! I would take one for a test drive just to experience it.

[@BoostAndRedline]

This is the video I was looking for 😍😍

[@davidvespe1079]

looking forward to the performance package review

[@RaitisRides]

David Vespe thanks! Stay tuned!

[@christopherdizon8497]

Awesome review good job as always !!!

[@RaitisRides]

That is so awesome of you to say!

[@TheKaino10]

Epic video on the comparisons best one on KZbin great video brother 👌👍👍👍

[@ahmedsyed3436]

Great unbiased review. So refreshing 👍🏼

[@YouTubeIsAss]

The first Nissan GTR Nismo I seen in person was being driven by a couple that had to be in their 80's. Drive what you enjoy and screw what anyone else thinks.

[@RaitisRides]

AMEN!

[@bruh1077]

Just not a Subaru, because you’ll be repairing it more than driving it

[@vinauto2075]

Like your energy in reviewing that subies! 😊

[@IAMPOPP]

I love my 2017 STI Limited. Absolutely love it!

[@tims]

What a great way to spend the evening - Raiti’s Rides and a couple World Rally blue beauties!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks Tim! That really means a lot!

[@WestHawaiiRealEstate]

Excellent video, great explanation of the difference

[@alcaraballo4211]

I have a 2020 sti pure red... Yes it's defenetly worth it wouldn't traded ,,I'm thinking I'm keeping this one.for good

[@RaitisRides]

Nice call!

[@Dontgo5]

thanks for the excellent review! so is the answer yes or no about being worth it? I can see the happiness in your face when talking about subaru wrx/sti. I'm the same way and fell in love since I saw them tearing up the course at WRC. I ended up going with a black on black 2020 wrx premium. has the keyless entry, full leather, racing pedals, sunroof, etc. Love the style and body and hope they don't change it too much for 2021 and beyond. thanks again aand keep up the great work!

[@RaitisRides]

I would go for the STI and get the current year!

[@Danny-gf2qb]

Love the videos man. I’ve been trying to get an STI this upcoming spring and you’ve really helped me decide. Thank you!

[@RaitisRides]

iSooBeast69 you are so very welcome! Thank you for letting me share my them with you!

[@oliverrojas7117]

Mr. Raiti, thanks for gathering two iconic vehicles for us and thanks to Subaru of Port Richey for supplying them.

[@kristianalejandro792]

GREAT REVIEW, VERY CONCISE AND THE GUY WAS VERY VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE

[@jlammy]

Great video Raiti! I forgot which year it was, but your previous review of the STI got it further on my radar, and I decided to finally pull the trigger this year on a 2020 STI Limited in WR Blue with the wing :) I would have to say that it's worth every penny from my previous WRX. I don't know if you noticed, but I felt as though the clutch on the 2020 STI is much smoother and softer than on my 2013 clutch. Heck, it felt so different that I overrev'd when I drove it :(

[@YasumotoUS]

Heading to a local dealer tomorrow morning to look @ a 2020 STI limited in lapis blue with the wing delete (yeah, I know!) and this was a helpful comparison, Joe. Thanks!

[@Nbahottestclips]

Youre a good reviewer! Very informative and detailed! #lovefromthephilippines

[@stegofuego1285]

Best reviewer ever. I used to dislike your video and personality, you definitely grew on me😂😂 if im looking for a car and it hasn’t been reviewed by raiti im not even considering it

[@taskeenkr8578]

I like and love this channel

[@RaitisRides]

That really means a lot!

[@AJMILLER91]

Raiti always rocking the nice merch

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks brother for saying that!

[@peterraps9659]

Owned 4 wrx's 08,13,18,19. I have just over 100 miles on my brand new white 2020 STI lol I couldn't even begin to explain the differences. Its a totally different car. It's a dream come true.

[@R1Armadill0]

Love my '18 STi. Figures they wait till the last year of this style to actually add the front vents. Would love to see underneath to see how/what they did. Wish they would have just done it from the start, but oh well, no complaints! Love the video!

[@xil3ntkha0s]

I wish they would've included the Brembo brakes on the 2018 model because I always thought it was weak that they called it a 'performance' package but all you really got that year was little bit of weight savings with the moonroof delete and 1/2 Recaros. And the 'upgraded' brake pads.

[@kevinn6882]

I'm just happy I went in for the 2019 WRX. Some people said wait for the 2020 refresh but there wasn't one.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your input and perspective! I really appreciate you watching!

[@tonyjcool5314]

Thanks Joe nice detail between cars.

[@RaitisRides]

You are so very welcome Tony! Thanks for letting share it with you!

[@joecro1453]

Love these videos

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that! It really means a lot!

[@aldomandovani]

I love your reviews

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for saying that and letting me share it with you!

[@nooberp4020]

About to purchase my first brand new car around September it's gonna be the 2021 WRX STI. The catch is since all units in my country are sold out mine would come 4 to 6 months later I pay but I have complete control of the color, interior, and accessories. I can't wait.

[@kemurikusari9629]

nice to see the path the impreza sti took and where it ended (atleast for the ej engine) i like that subaru stayed always true to their principals and i really would love to get a new sti if i didnt bought a 2 door gc8 sti a year ago xD

[@bobkloth57]

“Growing up is overrated.” True that. Lol 😂

[@PeteyPipes32]

Very helpful info for me. I'm looking to buy my first wrx.

[@yup1379]

Love my 2020 STI. My second STI after a 2012 wrx and a 2017 STI. And stiffer suspension is NOT a sacrifice. It gives it beautiful handling and adds to the fun experience. My wife loves it more as I mostly ride my ZX6-R.

[@TK-ys2du]

I like how you talk about a manual transmission and knowing how to do your thing.... Here in South Africa, most cars are manual; mine too.... I'm going auto for my next car, because driving a manual car in our traffic is crazy annoying and tiring for your left foot.

[@clevelandbrown9154]

As an owner of a 2015 WRX and a 2019 STi I can tell you that both cars make the same on e85 with stock block. (Around 400WHP) the FA20 is a really impressive motor and puts the EJ25 to shame in my opinion. I started off with a stage 1+ from brentuning in my WRX and my gf and I raced them. The WRX was beating (not by much mind you) the base STi. When both cars got stage 2 they were neck and neck STi had a tiny pull over the WRX (both catless DP and invidia N1s with e boost controllers and CAIs. When I added the flex fuel kits to both of my cars and had them pro tuned (still only stage 2) the WRX was pulling on the STi a lot harder. This is because the WRX has a lot more power down low and the different turbo which i have turned up to the max (23 psi) and the STi at about 19 pounds. The only difference between the cars is that I added a AOS to it and replaced the stock oil pan. Both very important reliability mods for the STi but no so much for WRX. The WRX suspension for 2015 was just as stiff (if not more) then the previous gen STi and Subaru made it softer in the WRX for years 2016+. If you want a great car for 14-15k get the WRX over the STi. You really aren’t missing much. With the 8-10k you save you can get a bigger turbo for your WRX, catless DP, any cat back really (N1 is a great option) get the boost control solenoid, access port then get pro tuned for less then 5k and you’ll be sitting at about the 340-350 wheel mark.

[@goofymcadams]

cap

[@Kawaii_Life.]

Even though the STi runs a little rough on the streets for the old folks, the beauty of it is that it's a tuner car! Buying a nice coilover set, for example, Ohlins, can greatly reduce the jarring ride quality and make the car handle even better!!

[@RaitisRides]

So very true!

[@Allanstiii]

Keep doing Subaru vids I love them

[@RaitisRides]

Allan Gudino you got it my friend!

[@flyingtiger3954]

I like his attitude and tone speaking. Gd job.

[@tommyjakks]

Great video! You clearly delineated the differences between the two models. You didn’t like the focus RS?

[@mbogopeter]

In Kenya we get WRX S4 producing 296hp from a 2.0 litre DIT boxer. It's a joy to drive.

[@ZZIRHT]

Another great comparison!

[@collingray2212]

I just took delivery of my 2020 in crystal white pearl STI. And even before watching the video. I can say yes. Yes the STI is worth the extra 10k. It’s a night and day difference from the WRX.

[@PittiesAndMore]

I seconded that!

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats!

[@RaitisRides]

AGREED!

[@collingray2212]

Thank you. I just install the Remark exhaust system and she sounds mean. Subaru really did a great job

[@fernandovargas7562]

Cool video dude.

[@johnterrance3075]

I'm a DIE-HARD Subaru fan. It's the ONLY car I will drive (I live in Ontario, Canada so.....those who live in my area understand!), and as much as I LOVE the STi, I will *NEVER* drive another manual vehicle. I'm 46 1/2 years old & one cranky, lazy S.O.B. I absolutely REFUSE to drive a stick! The last stick I drove, was back in '98. With the technology we have in todays day & age, one would think we can get a powerful AWD sports car in AUTOMATIC. Come on Subaru!!!!!!! If Dodge can do it, why can't you?!

[@MrStuwr250f]

Great review. I'm an older guy with an Sti and I don't want to grow up either, so I have the wing. Being older is probably why I love the Sti and it's old school feel and heritage. The turbo lag and the rubble, even at idle just makes it an engaging drive. The interior is a little cheap, when compared to say a Golf R, but it is so much more character. The extra 10k for the Sti, takes it from good car (wrx), to character filled fun machine (Sti), well worth the extra in my opinion. I just Subaru would put the all running gear/interior from Sti into the Levorg. I would buy one instantly.

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with your great points! Thanks for the compliment!

[@dave_riots]

Honestly, I'd rather just go for the WRX. You get to have just as much fun as you'd get in the STI, but for cheaper. It's still an awesome car either way, though!

[@frankparent5980]

My retired pops bought a WRX, he would have liked an STI but it's too rough a ride to comfortably cruise around day to day as an older fella. Both are amazing cars, can't go wrong from base through STI 😁

[@iminlovewitdabluestrips2011]

You Are The Best Car Review Guy On KZbin no doubt im Forshure gonna save up that extra 10 thousand the 2020 STI is absolutely Phenomenal it drives smoother and the inside also looks better 🔥🔥🔥

[@TheU2bstud]

Just purchased a 2020 WRX STI a week ago, car is absolutely amazing. I daily drive it and it is incredible.

[@luisgalvan2716]

Chris J you’re hella out of topic my boy lol

[@Evaca12]

Chris J you have to pay to play. I have a 19 STI and don’t give two shits about gas mileage. That’s what our 19 forester is for. It’s like someone saying they hate trucks because of the gas mileage. You don’t buy trucks for good gas mileage. Sounds like you just can’t afford it lol.

[@TheU2bstud]

She’s still cheaper than my girlfriend.

[@RaitisRides]

Congrats! What color did you go with?

[@Lennox1492]

Love the neon green caliper accent on the blue

[@JayPatel-tx1zc]

STI ALLLLLLLL DAYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!❤❤❤❤❤❤. Love the sound of that Boxter Engine just beautiful the way the Turbo spools up & screams to life. Thanks Joe ❤❤.

[@07acanoia]

Jay Patel “Boxer”

[@JayPatel-tx1zc]

@@07acanoia Thanks bro now I know 🤣

[@07acanoia]

Jay Patel no worries brother. Just helping out. The Boxster refers to Porsche Boxster.

[@JayPatel-tx1zc]

@@07acanoia Oh right 🤣 Thanks a lot

[@RaitisRides]

I totally agree with you Jay!

[@Studio603OnTheAir]

Love the reviews, I always learn something about the cars. I have a 2019 wrx sti and per the owners manual on breaking in the engine it states not to rev past 4000 rpm for the first 1000 miles of break in, sounds like you might have broken that rule on some brand new cars, but please correct me if I'm wrong. Keep the videos coming, really enjoy watching.

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the awesome compliment. These cars are already driven before i get them on test drives. In the end I am a firm believer that you break a car car in how it's going to be driven.

[@derekrobinson2366]

Hey Joe, the WRX you reviewed has single zone automatic climate control. Better than regular AC but not as good as dual zone climate control in some cars. Great review by the way!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for that info! I appreciate it!

[@LEVELMotorsports]

"This is the final year of this generation..." AAAAAAAAAAND COVID.

[@lyndahammel9502]

Lol, I'd go with a wing delete. I'm just not into large wings. But of course you should get the wing. It's nice to have options.

[@user-qz7lw9yq8w]

Amazing video you know your cars

[@jonmckane4672]

Got a 2020 WRX myself 😁 Much love to the rest of the Subi family for being fortunate to own one 😁

[@aaronyounger452]

I have a 16 wrx and don't regret getting the sti one bit! I get way better gas mileage! And with a few cheap mods and a tune I'm faster than a stock sti for way less money and it's more comfortable to drive as a daily. Only thing wish I had on the sti is the old boxer rumble from the unequal length headers but I'd take the more reliable fa20 motor any day!

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this one!

[@totallynotFrank]

when break in calls for no more than 4K rpm for a thousand miles but you redline it for a review... real nice.

[@doctorrobert60]

Thanks for the comparison video Joe! I went with the wing delete on my 2019 STI but everyone has their priorities. I just like the cleaner look and lines of the car without the wing. I have always liked flying under the radar without drawing unnecessary attention from the men and women in blue.

[@RaitisRides]

Very good points Robert!

[@BCNeil]

The best way to tell the difference between a wrx and an sti? The brakes. Wrx people can add wings, change wheels, very rarely do they change to big brakes.

[@RaitisRides]

This is true!

[@MrDjrecon]

I have a 2017 wrx non STI use to have an 04 STI with around 610 hp to the wheels which yah I miss but I’m totally good with just the WRX good video.

[@asvp_m3l]

STI is such a beautiful car 😍 great review as always 🙌

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you liked this one!