Is the Subaru WRX expensive to maintain?

The Subaru WRX is usually more expensive to maintain than a typical compact sedan, but not necessarily “luxury-car expensive.” It’s a turbocharged AWD performance car, so tires, brakes, fluids, clutch wear, and engine-related service can cost more—especially if it has been modified or driven hard.

For a practical expectation:

• New or stock WRX: moderate-to-high maintenance cost for a compact car.
• Used WRX: can become expensive quickly if maintenance records are poor, it has aftermarket tuning, or it shows signs of abuse.
• Big cost risks: turbo/engine issues, clutch replacement, AWD tire matching, performance tires, and neglect of oil changes.