Head-to-head: toyota gr yaris vs. subaru wrx – which is the true king of performance?
What To Know
- The GR Yaris boasts a highly advanced suspension system with MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear.
- The WRX, while not as advanced as the GR Yaris, still offers a well-tuned suspension system with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear.
- While the WRX is a capable and reliable rally-bred car, it falls short of the GR Yaris in terms of performance, handling, and overall driving experience.
The Toyota GR Yaris and the Subaru WRX are two of the most iconic rally-bred cars on the market. Both vehicles offer impressive performance, handling, and style, making them favorites among enthusiasts. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we will put the GR Yaris and the WRX head-to-head to determine which car reigns supreme.
Performance
Engine and Power
The GR Yaris is powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 257 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. The WRX, on the other hand, is equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
While the WRX has a slight edge in horsepower, the GR Yaris‘s lighter weight and more advanced engine design give it a significant advantage in power-to-weight ratio. This translates into better acceleration and overall performance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
Both the GR Yaris and the WRX come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. However, the GR Yaris also offers an optional eight-speed automatic transmission, while the WRX can be equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
All versions of the GR Yaris feature an advanced all-wheel-drive system with a torque-vectoring differential, providing exceptional grip and handling in all conditions. The WRX also has an all-wheel-drive system, but it is less sophisticated than the GR Yaris’s.
Handling
Suspension and Chassis
The GR Yaris boasts a highly advanced suspension system with MacPherson struts in the front and a double-wishbone setup in the rear. It also features a lightweight and rigid chassis that contributes to its excellent handling characteristics.
The WRX, while not as advanced as the GR Yaris, still offers a well-tuned suspension system with MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. Its chassis is also robust and provides good stability.
Steering and Brakes
Both the GR Yaris and the WRX have precise and responsive steering systems. The GR Yaris’s steering is slightly heavier and more tactile, giving it an edge in handling feel.
In terms of braking, both vehicles are equipped with powerful brakes with large rotors and high-performance pads. The GR Yaris’s brakes are marginally better, offering a shorter stopping distance and more consistent performance.
Style
Exterior
The GR Yaris and the WRX have distinct and aggressive exterior designs. The GR Yaris features a compact and aerodynamic body with sharp angles and a sporty stance. The WRX, on the other hand, has a more muscular and imposing appearance with a wide stance and a prominent grille.
Both vehicles offer a variety of customization options, including different wheels, body kits, and color schemes. Ultimately, the choice of exterior style comes down to personal preference.
Interior
The GR Yaris‘s interior is focused on performance and functionality. It features a driver-centric cockpit with supportive seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a digital instrument cluster. The WRX’s interior is more spacious and comfortable, with a more conventional layout and higher-quality materials.
Both vehicles offer a variety of interior features, such as a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and heated seats. The WRX has a slight edge in interior comfort and convenience, while the GR Yaris offers a more performance-oriented environment.
Price and Value
The GR Yaris starts at around $29,995, while the WRX starts at $29,605. Both vehicles offer competitive pricing in their respective segments.
However, when considering value, the GR Yaris’s superior performance, handling, and exclusivity make it a better choice for enthusiasts who prioritize driving experience over comfort and convenience.
Final Note: The Ultimate Rally-Bred Champion
In the ultimate showdown between the GR Yaris and the WRX, the GR Yaris emerges as the clear winner. Its superior performance, handling, and exclusivity make it the ideal choice for rally enthusiasts and driving enthusiasts alike.
While the WRX is a capable and reliable rally-bred car, it falls short of the GR Yaris in terms of performance, handling, and overall driving experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the GR Yaris and the WRX depends on your individual priorities and budget. If you value performance, handling, and driving engagement above all else, the GR Yaris is the undisputed champion. If you prefer a more comfortable and versatile rally-bred car, the WRX is still a solid choice.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which car is faster, the GR Yaris or the WRX?
A: The GR Yaris has a better power-to-weight ratio and a more advanced engine design, giving it a slight edge in acceleration and overall performance.
Q: Which car has better handling, the GR Yaris or the WRX?
A: The GR Yaris has a more advanced suspension system and a lighter chassis, providing it with superior handling characteristics.
Q: Which car is more comfortable, the GR Yaris or the WRX?
A: The WRX has a more spacious and comfortable interior with higher-quality materials. The GR Yaris‘s interior is more focused on performance and functionality.