Street scorchers face off: subaru wrx vs sport — who reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The WRX features a more aggressive front fascia with a larger grille and prominent air intakes, while the Sport has a more understated and refined appearance.
- The WRX offers more power and performance features, while the Sport provides a more balanced and comfortable driving experience with a lower price point.
- If you seek a more balanced and comfortable vehicle with a lower price point, the Sport is a highly capable and appealing option.
The Subaru WRX and Sport are two high-performance vehicles from the renowned Japanese automaker. Both models offer a thrilling driving experience, but they have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. This comprehensive comparison will shed light on the key differences between the WRX and Sport, empowering you to make an informed decision based on your specific needs and aspirations.
Performance and Powertrain
The WRX and Sport share a 2.0-liter turbocharged boxer engine, but they differ in power output. The WRX boasts a more potent 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, while the Sport produces a slightly lower 241 horsepower and 244 lb-ft of torque. These differences translate into a more exhilarating and adrenaline-pumping ride in the WRX, particularly for enthusiasts seeking raw power.
Drivetrain and Handling
Both the WRX and Sport come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, offering a direct and engaging driving experience. However, the WRX is also available with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), providing a smoother and more fuel-efficient alternative.
In terms of handling, the WRX benefits from a stiffer suspension and a more aggressive chassis setup. This results in sharper cornering and improved stability at high speeds. The Sport, on the other hand, strikes a balance between performance and comfort, with a slightly softer suspension that maintains a comfortable ride quality even on rough roads.
Exterior Design
The WRX and Sport share a sleek and sporty exterior design, but they have subtle differences that set them apart. The WRX features a more aggressive front fascia with a larger grille and prominent air intakes, while the Sport has a more understated and refined appearance.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the WRX and Sport offer comfortable and well-equipped cabins. The WRX’s interior is designed with a focus on performance, featuring supportive sports seats and a driver-oriented dashboard. The Sport, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious experience with premium materials and amenities such as heated seats and a sunroof.
Both models come with a comprehensive suite of infotainment features, including a touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. However, the WRX offers a more advanced audio system with a 9-speaker Harman Kardon setup.
Safety and Technology
The WRX and Sport come standard with a range of advanced safety features, including airbags, ABS, and electronic stability control. The WRX offers a slightly more comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning.
Price and Value
The WRX has a starting price of around $29,000, while the Sport starts at a lower $25,000. The WRX offers more power and performance features, while the Sport provides a more balanced and comfortable driving experience with a lower price point.
Which One is Right for You?
The choice between the WRX and Sport ultimately depends on your individual preferences and driving style. If you prioritize raw power, sharp handling, and an aggressive exterior, the WRX is the ideal choice. If you seek a more balanced and comfortable vehicle with a lower price point, the Sport is a highly capable and appealing option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which model has better fuel economy?
A: The Sport has slightly better fuel economy than the WRX, due to its lower power output and more fuel-efficient CVT transmission.
Q: Does the WRX offer a sunroof?
A: No, the WRX does not come with a sunroof as standard equipment.
Q: Which model has a larger cargo capacity?
A: The WRX and Sport have the same cargo capacity of 12.5 cubic feet.
Q: Is the WRX available in all-wheel drive?
A: Yes, all WRX models come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Q: Which model has a better sound system?
A: The WRX offers a more advanced audio system with a 9-speaker Harman Kardon setup.