Subtle elegance vs. aggressive power: impreza vs. corolla design comparison

In the competitive compact car segment, the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, performance, and reliability, making them popular choices among consumers. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two cars, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

Performance and Handling

Engine and Powertrain:
The Subaru Impreza offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
The Toyota Corolla comes with two engine choices as well: a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated engine with 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine with 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. The 1.8-liter engine is paired with a CVT, while the 2.0-liter engine can be paired with either a CVT or a six-speed manual transmission.

Handling:
The Subaru Impreza is known for its agile handling and responsive steering, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system. The Corolla, on the other hand, has front-wheel drive as standard, which provides adequate handling but lacks the same level of grip and stability as the Impreza.

Fuel Economy

The Impreza’s fuel economy varies depending on the engine and transmission chosen. The 2.0-liter engine with CVT returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway, while the 2.5-liter engine with CVT gets 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway.
The Corolla’s fuel economy is generally better than the Impreza’s. The 1.8-liter engine with CVT returns an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city/40 mpg highway, while the 2.0-liter engine with CVT gets 29 mpg city/39 mpg highway. The Corolla with the six-speed manual transmission gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city/36 mpg highway.

Interior and Features

Cabin Space and Comfort:
The Impreza offers spacious seating for up to five passengers, with comfortable seats and ample headroom and legroom. The Corolla also provides adequate space for passengers, but its rear seats may feel a bit cramped for taller individuals.

Technology and Features:
Both the Impreza and Corolla come with a range of standard and available technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. The Impreza offers additional features such as a sunroof, navigation system, and heated seats, while the Corolla has options like a blind-spot monitoring system and rear cross-traffic alert.

Safety

Both the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla have earned excellent safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features on both cars include airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control.

Price and Value

The Subaru Impreza has a starting MSRP of $18,795, while the Toyota Corolla has a starting MSRP of $20,425. The Impreza offers a good value for money, considering its standard all-wheel drive system and comprehensive safety features. The Corolla is slightly more expensive but still offers a competitive value proposition with its excellent fuel economy and reliability.

Final Thoughts: The Right Choice for You

Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla depends on your individual needs and priorities. If you prioritize performance, handling, and all-weather capability, the Impreza is the better choice. If fuel economy, affordability, and reliability are your top concerns, the Corolla is a more suitable option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which car is more reliable?
A: Both the Impreza and Corolla are known for their reliability, but the Corolla has a slight edge in terms of long-term dependability.

Q: Which car has a better resale value?
A: The Corolla typically has a better resale value than the Impreza, due to its strong reputation for reliability and popularity among consumers.

Q: Which car is better for winter driving?
A: The Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive system gives it a significant advantage over the Corolla in terms of winter driving capabilities.

Q: Which car has more cargo space?
A: The Corolla has slightly more cargo space than the Impreza, with 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space compared to 12.3 cubic feet in the Impreza.

Q: Which car has a more comfortable ride?
A: The Impreza has a slightly more comfortable ride than the Corolla, thanks to its softer suspension and plusher seats.