Are you looking for a sports vehicle that combines performance and good looks? Your best options are the Subaru WRX and its high-performance cousin, the Subaru STI. Yes, when it comes to reasonably priced, very potent sports sedans, the buck stops here, and we’re here to offer you the entire WRX vs. STI comparison.
Even though the classic STI is now being discontinued, which you may already be aware of, both vehicles are in great demand due to their potent performance and unfussy styling. They both represent the essence of high-performance driving.
Of course, there are differences between the Subaru WRX and STI. So let’s get started.
The History of Subaru WRX
After capturing three consecutive World Rally Championship championships, the Subaru WRX was introduced to the public for the first time in Japan in 1992. Since then, the WRX has garnered a reputation that extends throughout the globe. After all, WRX is knowledgeable in rallying and knows the significance of this moniker.
The STI is the performance-oriented section of the Japanese-based Subaru Corporation responsible for naming the WRX STI. STI is all about achieving the ideal synergy between the driver and the automobile to provide a driving experience that is second to none. The company was established back in 1988. You will get what we’re talking about once you sit behind the wheel, but you’ll get it as soon as you do.
What Type of Car Is Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX and STI are performance four-doors with simple bodywork and powerful turbo power. The basic all-wheel-drive system is powered by a turbo flat-4 engine, producing mile-long cornering skills and a superb safety record. TWRX competes on price with vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz CLA45 AMG, although it performs more like a Hyundai Veloster N.
The Subaru WRX is a tiny all-wheel-drive sports car manufactured by Subaru based on the Impreza produced for the 1992 World Rally Championship. The WRX range has been separated from the Impreza lineup since 2014, with several body styles with the hatchback/wagon body type retiring. The engine has a power output of 268 horsepower.
Important Differences Between the Subaru WRX and STI
One word distinguishes these vehicles: performance. The WRX is a racing enthusiast’s ultimate dream come true. It has an extra 34 horsepower under its 2.5-litre turbocharged engine hood and a six-speed manual gearbox for surgical changes.
It also has firmer springs, thicker tyres, and stronger brakes. The WRX and STI have a significantly more aggressive appearance thanks to a wider hood scoop and a more noticeable rear spoiler. Naturally, both models benefit from Subaru’s incredible all-wheel drive capabilities.
If you got the impression that the basic WRX is the boring cousin with slight creativity, you’d be right. The WRX is already pushing the edge with its distinct throaty burble that appeals to the inner child in all of us.
What Benefits Does the WRX Offer?
Although the WRX isn’t as track-ready as its STI sibling, it still has the dynamic performance down pat and enough stats to make you smile.
The Subaru WRX comes standard with a 2.4-litre DOHC turbocharged engine that produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
The WRX also comes with a six-speed manual gearbox or an automatic Sport Lineartronic gearbox with paddle shifters for those who can’t resist the urge to take back control around the turns.
What STI Achieves?
To summarise, it was a great deal of fun. Subaru’s STI turbo and engine are the product of years of trial and error, along with some dirt and grime. The STI model is the one to buy if you want a vehicle that will give you thrills in performance, daily driving, and some pretty competitive 0-100 times.
Any modern model from STI should satisfy your expectations regarding its specifications. Even though the production of engines with the EJ25 designation is scheduled to end in 2020, you can still get a lot of power out of any used model or one purchased from a dealership that is still for sale.
How About the Safety of the Vehicle?
Both models have a high priority on safety, even though they are fast and attractive. The Subaru WRX 2022 and earlier iterations of the STI come standard with Subaru’s comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies, designed to keep you alert and secure no matter where you drive, whether on the road or the racetrack.
These automobiles have been awarded the maximum possible ANCAP safety rating of five stars.
Additional Subaru Vision Assist features, such as Front View Monitor and Side View Monitor, are introduced to the WRX AWD RS Manual trim for greater peace of mind. This technology is standard on higher WRX trim levels.
In Summary
The standard Subaru WRX and the STI models are fantastic alternatives for driving enthusiasts searching for a vehicle that blends sports, performance, and flair. While the STI delivers in terms of performance, the WRX provides just as many thrills on the road.
Don’t just take a word for it; compare these models.