2020 Subaru WRX STI S209 – A Beloved Rally Hero from the Land of Sakura Returns

Subaru, affectionately called “Subie” by its enthusiasts, holds a special place in the hearts of car lovers worldwide. Among motor enthusiasts, Subaru cars are not just vehicles but the cornerstone of a culture, boasting a loyal fanbase. From its humble origins to becoming a globally recognized brand, Subaru has established itself as a symbol of reliability and high-performance engineering, especially in countries like the United States.

The WRX Legacy and Its Popularity

Among Subaru’s lineup, including models like the Legacy, Forester, Crosstrek, and Outback, the WRX stands out as a fan favorite. Its reputation is built on reliability, powerful engines, excellent handling, all-wheel drive (AWD) capabilities, and affordability. The WRX combines these elements in a sporty sedan that appeals to a broad audience.

The 2020 Subaru WRX STI, the focus of our discussion, not only continues the WRX legacy but also elevates it. To truly appreciate this vehicle, we need to understand its roots, the factors driving its popularity, and its cultural and social impact.

Subaru’s History: From Aircraft to Automotive

Subaru’s journey began under Fuji Heavy Industries, a Tokyo-based company that produced aircraft during World War II. After the war, the company diversified and established the Subaru brand, inspired by the Japanese word meaning “unite.” The brand logo, featuring stars against a blue background, symbolizes the Pleiades constellation, also known as the Seven Sisters in Greek mythology.

The first Subaru car, the Subaru 1500, paved the way for the company’s success in the automotive industry. Subaru introduced its first AWD vehicle in 1972 with the Leone Estate Wagon, setting a precedent for its future as a leader in AWD technology.

Rally Dominance: The Rise of the WRX

Subaru’s rallying journey began in the 1980s with the Safari Rally, using cars like the Legacy and Impreza. The turning point came in 1993 when Colin McRae secured Subaru’s first World Rally Championship (WRC) title. Subaru continued to dominate in the 1990s and early 2000s, winning multiple manufacturer and driver championships. These achievements cemented Subaru’s reputation as a rally powerhouse.

The Impreza, with its lightweight chassis, exceptional handling, and unique Boxer engine, became a rallying icon. Unlike traditional inline or V-shaped engines, Subaru’s Boxer engine features horizontally opposed cylinders, offering a lower center of gravity, better balance, and enhanced handling. Its distinctive engine sound adds to the WRX’s allure.

Evolution of the WRX: From Classic to Modern

The WRX lineage spans several generations, each with unique design elements:

First Generation (1992–2001): Known as the "Classic Eye."
Second Generation (2002–2007): Featured "Bug Eye," "Blob Eye," and "Hawk Eye" designs.
Third Generation (2008–2014): Dubbed the "Stink Eye."
Fourth Generation (2015–Present): Includes "Evo Eye" and "Swift Eye" models.

The STI (Subaru Technica International) models are high-performance versions of the WRX, offering more horsepower, advanced features, and rally-inspired design elements.

2020 WRX STI S209: A Performance Beast

The 2020 Subaru WRX STI S209 is equipped with a turbocharged 2.5L Boxer engine delivering 341 horsepower. Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission and full-time AWD, this car offers an exhilarating driving experience. Key features include:

Recaro sports seats
Brembo ceramic brakes
Sport-tuned suspension

The WRX STI accelerates from 0–100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h.

The Subaru Advantage

Subaru’s AWD system and durable Boxer engine make its vehicles ideal for harsh terrains and snowy climates. Compared to competitors like Audi, Subaru offers AWD vehicles at a more affordable price, coupled with high reliability and easy customizability.

In the U.S., Subaru vehicles rank among the most stolen, reflecting their high demand and value. Remarkably, over 96% of Subarus manufactured in the past 12 years are still on the road, a testament to their longevity and reliability.

Conclusion

The 2020 Subaru WRX STI S209 embodies Subaru’s rally heritage and engineering prowess. Whether it’s carving through winding roads or tackling challenging terrains, the WRX STI delivers unmatched performance and thrills, making it a cherished choice for enthusiasts and families alike. From its iconic Boxer engine to its AWD capabilities, the WRX STI remains a symbol of Subaru’s unwavering commitment to excellence.