Space and performance clash: vw golf sportwagen vs subaru impreza – the ultimate comparison for wagon lovers

When it comes to compact wagons, two models stand out as top contenders: the Volkswagen Golf Sportwagen and the Subaru Impreza. Both vehicles offer a combination of practicality, performance, and value, making them popular choices among families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. But which one is the better buy? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to determine the winner.

Performance and Handling

The Golf Sportwagen is available with a choice of two turbocharged engines: a 1.4-liter inline-four with 147 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, or a 2.0-liter inline-four with 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Impreza, on the other hand, is powered by a 2.0-liter flat-four engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.

In terms of acceleration, the Golf Sportwagen with the 2.0-liter engine outperforms the Impreza, reaching 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds compared to 8.2 seconds. However, the Impreza offers better fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway compared to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway for the Golf Sportwagen.

When it comes to handling, both vehicles provide a comfortable and composed ride. The Golf Sportwagen has a slightly firmer suspension, resulting in more responsive handling, while the Impreza’s softer suspension offers a smoother ride.

Interior and Cargo Space

The Golf Sportwagen and Impreza offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The Golf Sportwagen has a more modern and upscale cabin with high-quality materials and a user-friendly infotainment system. The Impreza, on the other hand, has a more rugged and utilitarian interior with less soft-touch materials and a less intuitive infotainment system.

In terms of cargo space, the Golf Sportwagen has the advantage, offering 30.4 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats up and 66.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The Impreza offers 22.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.

Technology and Features

Both the Golf Sportwagen and Impreza come with a range of standard and available technology features. The Golf Sportwagen features an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a digital instrument cluster, and a host of driver-assistance systems. The Impreza offers a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features.

Safety

Both the Golf Sportwagen and Impreza have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Golf Sportwagen received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS. The Impreza received a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by IIHS.

Price and Value

The VW Golf Sportwagen has a starting price of $24,190, while the Subaru Impreza has a starting price of $19,795. However, the Golf Sportwagen offers more standard features and a more powerful engine, which may justify the higher price.

Which One is Right for You?

Ultimately, the choice between the VW Golf Sportwagen and the Subaru Impreza depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize performance, cargo space, and technology, the Golf Sportwagen is the better choice. If you value fuel economy, affordability, and a rugged exterior, the Impreza is the more suitable option.

The Verdict

After a thorough comparison, the VW Golf Sportwagen emerges as the winner. It offers a more powerful engine, more cargo space, a more upscale interior, and a more comprehensive suite of technology features. While the Subaru Impreza is a solid choice with its affordability, fuel efficiency, and ruggedness, the Golf Sportwagen’s overall superiority makes it the better buy for most buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
The VW Golf Sportwagen with the 2.0-liter engine has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Impreza.

2. Which vehicle offers more cargo space?
The VW Golf Sportwagen offers more cargo space than the Subaru Impreza.

3. Which vehicle has a more modern interior?
The VW Golf Sportwagen has a more modern and upscale interior than the Subaru Impreza.

4. Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru Impreza is more fuel-efficient than the VW Golf Sportwagen.

5. Which vehicle is more affordable?
The Subaru Impreza is more affordable than the VW Golf Sportwagen.