Which Is The Best Subaru: WRX or STI?

Looking to buy a new Subaru? There are two main models, the WRX and the STI. Which one should you buy?

So which is the best Subaru: WRX or STI? That depends on what you’re looking for in your next car. This article explores some of these differences and helps you decide which Subaru fits.

The WRX and the STI are both excellent cars. But, they are designed for different purposes. So, it’s not always obvious which one is the best for you.

Comparison Of The Two Cars

There are many factors that contribute to how well a car performs. One of these factors is the drive train. Both cars have turbocharged, boxer engines, but they function differently.

The STI has an all-wheel-drive system while the WRX only has front-wheel drive. This means technically, the STI is better equipped for inclement weather since it doesn’t rely on just the front wheels to steer it.

The WRX also comes with more sound deadening materials which make it quieter than the STI model. However, both cars are equipped with adaptive suspensions that can be turned off if desired for a more performance-oriented driving experience.

Subaru WRX in silver metallic.

The WRX is cheaper than the STI with a starting price of $27,265. The cost of maintenance on the WRX is also lower than that of the STI by about $1,000 per year.

Which Car Best Suits Your Needs?

The question of which Subaru is best for you is one that only you can answer. If your needs are for a car with great handling and responsive steering, then the STI may be the better choice for you. The WRX, on the other hand, is a bit more affordable and it rides better than its counterpart.

Subaru WRX STI in blue pearl.

There are other opportunities to explore as well. For instance, if you live in an area where there’s plenty of snow or rain, the four-wheel-drive would be a priority should you choose either vehicle. Or if the price is important to you, the WRX may be a better option since it costs less than the STI (though remember that the STI has more features).

Ultimately, choosing between these two Subaru’s boils down to personal preference and what your needs may be. With this information in mind, we hope we’ve helped make your decision process easier!

The WRX’s Engine

The WRX’s engine is turbocharged, which gives it a boost of power when needed. This is helpful if you need to quickly accelerate. Additionally, the WRX weighs less than the STI, so it can go faster with less effort on your part.

The STI comes with an all-wheel-drive system that helps it handle inclement weather better than the WRX. This means that in snowy or rainy conditions, the STI performs better than its competitor.

Both of these cars are equipped with adaptive suspensions that can be turned off if desired for a more performance-oriented driving experience, but they do have different methods of achieving this goal. The WRX has an electronic system while the STI has hydraulic control arms and struts to help fine-tune how stiff or cushioned your ride feels – all at the touch of a button.

The STI’s Engine

The WRX has a 2.5-liter boxer engine. The STI’s engine is more powerful, with a 2.5-liter turbo engine. Both engines produce power in the same way: by compressing air and fuel together.

In the STI, the air and fuel are compressed more tightly, which allows for a greater amount of power output while using less fuel. This increased compression also leads to an increase in gas mileage for the STI, but not the WRX.

If you’re looking for a faster car that can get up to speed quickly, then you should buy the STI. If you’re looking for something that will last longer on gas mileage than the STI then it’s best to buy the WRX.

One of the differences that these two cars have is sound-deadening materials. The WRX has more sound-deadening materials which makes it quieter than the STI. If you don’t need an all-wheel-drive car like the STI and want a quieter ride, then go with the WRX. With only front-wheel drive, it’s easier for this model to turn corners as well.

The STI’s Adaptive Suspension Settings

Another thing to consider with these two models is the suspension. Both cars have an adaptive suspension, but they function differently. The WRX has a “Sport” mode that can be set before you take off on a journey if you want a more performance-oriented experience.

This setting stiffens the suspension and makes it more responsive to steering inputs. The STI also has this same setting, but the STI’s adaptive suspension settings allow for more fine-tuning of the ride.

Subaru Intelligent Drive buttons.

You can adjust your suspension with five different settings: Normal, Comfort, Sport, Sport#, and Off-Road. This gives you greater control of how your car handles in different situations which is ideal depending on where you’re going with your car.

So if you’re looking for a Subaru that will do well in inclement weather and provide a comfortable ride, then the STI might be better for you! If you want a sportier experience or plan on doing some off-roading then go with the WRX.

Comparing Each Cars Features

If you’re looking for a more fuel-efficient, lower-cost car, the WRX may be the best fit for you. With its smaller engine and less powerful turbocharger, it is able to achieve a fuel economy of 21 mpg city/27 highway.

If you’re looking for a high-performance vehicle that can handle inclement weather, then the STI may be the better option. This model has traction control that can be turned off with paddle shifters for more sporty driving. It also has active torque vectoring which gives it more control on wet or snow-covered surfaces.

It all comes down to what you want in your next car. The WRX is best for those who are looking for a low-to-middle priced vehicle with good fuel efficiency, while the STI has better performance features and is more expensive than the WRX. You’ll need to figure out what’s most important to you when debating between these two models.

Guide To Subaru WRX and STI models: What They Have to Offer

The Subaru WRX and STI are both sports models from Subaru that have been around for decades. They offer a rally-inspired experience that is just as good on the street as it is off. In fact, the WRX has been ranked number one in performance and handling by Car and Driver magazine for eight years in a row.

If you’re looking to buy a new car or if you want to learn more about what these cars have to offer, here are some of the most important things you should know about them.

About the Subaru WRX

The Subaru WRX is a rally-inspired model that has been around for nearly 20 years. The WRX offers excellent performance and handling. It’s even ranked number one in both areas by Car and Driver magazine for eight years straight.

2020 Subaru WRX on the road.

Built to handle the rigors of an active lifestyle, the WRX is perfect for those who live an active lifestyle. From off-roading to on-road driving, this car can handle it all. The WRX also features a great fuel economy so you won’t have to spend more money on gas than you would if you were driving some other models that are more expensive.

The WRX comes with a six-speed manual transmission or CVT with paddle shifters. It also comes with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive which means you can count on it no matter what the road conditions are like. The car also offers plenty of aftermarket accessories to make it your own, which is always nice!

About the Subaru WRX and STI

The Subaru WRX and STI are both turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline-powered, all-wheel-drive performance cars. The WRX is the more basic model of the two. It’s lighter than the STI, has a lower center of gravity, and offers excellent handling.

The STI is the higher-end model with a turbocharged six-cylinder engine, a stiffer suspension system, and an iconic symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.

With either car, you’ll be getting one of the most well-handling models on the market for a reasonable price. What sets these models apart from others is the rally heritage that they share with Subaru’s World Rally Championship team.

💡 In fact, Subaru is the only automotive company to have won at least one World Rally Championship for 17 consecutive years from 1995 to 2011.

The WRX comes in three different trim levels: Base, Premium, and Limited. The base trim level offers excellent value as it includes features like an upgraded audio system and keyless entry with push-button starting.

The STI comes in two different trim levels: Premium and Limited Edition (LE). Base features for this model include a power moonroof, heated seats with leather upholstery, and 18 alloy wheels. LE trims come with red accent stitching on the seats, steering wheel, and shift knob as an added touch of elegance.

Which has Better Interior Quality, Space, Comfort Safety and Drive?

The Subaru WRX and STI both have a reputation for being safe and comfortable. Both of these cars offer great interior quality, lots of space, and a wide range of comfort features.

The Subaru WRX offers more horsepower and torque than the STI, which means it has better performance and drive. The STI is often considered to be more luxurious in comparison to the WRX.

Interior look of Subaru STI model.

Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for in a car when deciding which one may be better for you. If you want a car with more horsepower but less luxury, go with the WRX. If you want a car that offers lots of luxury but less performance, then the STI is your best choice.

Which Car Should I Buy?

The WRX and STI both offer incredible performance and handling, but the WRX is a little more affordable. The WRX starts at around $26,000 and the STI begins at around $35,000.

If you’re not concerned with budget and want a car that offers extraordinary power and performance, then the STI is a great option. However, if you want a car that handles well but doesn’t break the bank, then the WRX is a sensible choice.

Pricing

The prices for these cars depend on the model year, engine type, and trim level. The WRX starts at $26,195. But if you want the performance package, you’ll have to pay $29,695. The STI starts at $35,295. If you want all the features of the STI with an automatic transmission or limited edition gray paint, you’ll have to pay $41,795.

Conclusion

The Subaru WRX and STI both offer a lot of the same things, but the STI offers a lot more. The STI offers a better safety rating, more space, and a much better interior quality. The WRX has a better drive and is less expensive, but if you are looking for a car that is more reliable and offers a lot more safety, then the STI is going to be a better purchase.

Subaru has been a household name in the States for years, but their performance cars have been massively eclipsed by their niche crossovers. In the WRX and STI, Subaru has two of the best performance sedans on the market.

With a turbocharged engine that cranks out 268 HP and 258 ft-lb of torque, it’s no wonder these cars are so coveted. The WRX and STI also offer something that you can’t find in any other vehicle: a symmetrical all-wheel drive. This means no matter which way you point your car, you’ll be able to get power to all four wheels. But what do you think? Please let us know!

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About Matthew Webb

Hi, I am Matthew! I am a dedicated car nerd! During the day, I am a journalist, at night I enjoy working on my 2 project cars. I have been a car nerd all my life, and am excited to share my knowledge with you!

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