2020 Subaru Impreza — should you buy one?

Why people love the 2020 Subaru Impreza

The 2020 Impreza's 2.0-liter FA-series engine pairs with Subaru's CVT transmission to deliver 152 horsepower with genuine all-wheel drive as standard—a rarity in this price bracket. Owners praise the planted handling on wet roads and snow, especially the Sport trim's slightly stiffer suspension, because the symmetrical all-wheel-drive architecture doesn't need an electronic bandage to work. Interior space surprises buyers used to cramped compact cars; rear legroom is legitimately adult-friendly, which matters if you're shuttling friends home from shifts.

Common complaints and known issues

The CVT transmission in 2020 models shows judder and shuddering during acceleration starting around 40k–60k miles, sometimes accompanied by a burnt-rubber smell that Subaru has issued technical service bulletins for but doesn't always cover out of warranty. Head gasket failures on the FA-series engine are less common than on older Subaru generations but still appear in scattered reports around 80k–120k miles, usually involving oil seepage first. Paint thinning and peeling on the hood and roof shows up by 60k miles in some markets, particularly on white and red finishes exposed to sun and salt.

Typical asking price

Under 80k miles: $15,500–$18,000. 80k–120k miles: $13,000–$16,000. Over 120k miles: $10,500–$13,500. CVT transmission condition and full Subaru service history command the highest premiums; accident history and transmission codes pull prices down by $1,500–$3,000. Regional salt exposure (Northeast, Midwest winter markets) reduces values by 5–8 percent due to rust risk.

Ranges are typical 2026 asking prices, not appraisals. The actual fair offer depends on this specific car's title history, accident record, and open recalls — which is what EstimateProof tells you.