Wrx va vs. vb: the ultimate subaru showdown that will shock you!
What To Know
- The VA laid the foundation with its impressive performance and handling, while the VB builds upon that foundation with increased power, improved technology, and a more refined interior.
- Whether you prefer the classic styling and raw performance of the VA or the modern amenities and enhanced capabilities of the VB, there is a WRX generation that is sure to meet your driving needs and preferences.
- Both the WRX VA and VB offer excellent handling, but the VB benefits from a revised suspension setup, a stiffer chassis, and an improved electronic power steering system, resulting in even more precise handling and responsiveness.
The Subaru WRX is a legendary sports car that has captured the hearts of driving enthusiasts for decades. With its turbocharged boxer engine, all-wheel drive, and aggressive styling, the WRX has earned a reputation for delivering exhilarating performance and handling. In 2015, Subaru introduced the fifth-generation WRX (VA), which brought significant updates to the platform and powertrain. In 2022, the sixth-generation WRX (VB) arrived, promising even more power, agility, and technology. This blog post will delve into the key differences between the Subaru WRX VA and VB, providing an in-depth comparison of these two iconic generations.
Exterior Design
At first glance, the WRX VA and VB share a similar silhouette, but there are subtle design cues that set them apart. The VA features a more angular and aggressive front end, with sharp headlights, a prominent grille, and a wide lower air intake. The VB, on the other hand, adopts a sleeker and more modern aesthetic, with smoother lines, a revised grille, and restyled headlights with LED accents.
Interior Design
The interior of the WRX VB has undergone a significant overhaul compared to the VA. The VB features a more spacious cabin with improved ergonomics and premium materials. The dashboard is dominated by a large touchscreen infotainment system, and the center console has been redesigned to provide easier access to controls. The VA, in contrast, has a more traditional interior with a smaller touchscreen and a less intuitive layout.
Engine and Performance
The WRX VA is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The VB receives a bump in power, with its 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine delivering 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both generations feature a six-speed manual transmission as standard, with an optional CVT automatic transmission available on the VB.
Handling and Performance
The WRX VA is renowned for its sharp handling and impressive cornering abilities. It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing excellent stability and grip. The VB builds upon this foundation, boasting a revised suspension setup with improved damping and reduced body roll. It also benefits from a stiffer chassis and a new electronic power steering system, resulting in even more precise handling and responsiveness.
Technology and Features
The WRX VB has a clear advantage over the VA in terms of technology and features. It comes standard with a suite of advanced driver-assist systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The VA, while still offering some safety features, lacks the comprehensive suite of technologies found in the VB.
Price and Availability
The WRX VA has a lower starting price than the WRX VB. However, the VB offers more standard features and a more advanced powertrain, making it a more compelling value proposition for many buyers. Both generations of the WRX are widely available at Subaru dealerships across the country.
Recommendations: The Evolution of an Icon
The Subaru WRX VA and VB represent two distinct eras in the evolution of this legendary sports car. The VA laid the foundation with its impressive performance and handling, while the VB builds upon that foundation with increased power, improved technology, and a more refined interior. Whether you prefer the classic styling and raw performance of the VA or the modern amenities and enhanced capabilities of the VB, there is a WRX generation that is sure to meet your driving needs and preferences.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which generation of WRX is more powerful?
A: The WRX VB has a more powerful engine than the VA, producing 271 horsepower compared to 268 horsepower.
Q: Which generation of WRX has a better interior?
A: The WRX VB has a more spacious and modern interior with improved materials and ergonomics compared to the VA.
Q: Which generation of WRX handles better?
A: Both the WRX VA and VB offer excellent handling, but the VB benefits from a revised suspension setup, a stiffer chassis, and an improved electronic power steering system, resulting in even more precise handling and responsiveness.
Q: Which generation of WRX is more fuel-efficient?
A: The WRX VA is slightly more fuel-efficient than the VB, with an EPA-estimated combined fuel economy of 23 mpg compared to 22 mpg for the VB.
Q: Which generation of WRX is more affordable?
A: The WRX VA has a lower starting price than the WRX VB, but the VB offers more standard features and a more advanced powertrain, making it a more compelling value proposition for many buyers.
