The Subaru WRX is known for its excellent build quality, enjoyable driving experience, and comfortable interior.
But while there’s nothing exactly like this rally-inspired sedan on the market, there are several options you can consider if the Subaru WRX doesn’t quite do it for you.
In this article, we’ll look at 10 excellent alternatives to the WRX, what they both share, and where they differ from each other.
1. Subaru STI
The Subaru STI does not just look like the WRX, but it is also as powerful as its close cousin. Both are four-door sedans with ample interior space, comfortable seating for five, and a similar set of convenience and safety tech features. They also come with a four-cylinder engine, 6-speed manual transmission, and an all-wheel-drive system for better grip on rough or wet surfaces.
But unlike the STI, the Subaru WRX has a CVT automatic transmission, which allows for seamless changing of gears. It is also cheaper, more fuel-efficient, and more comfortable to ride than the STI variant. However, the Subaru STI has faster acceleration, more engine power, and more standard safety equipment compared to the WRX.
2. Subaru BRZ
The Subaru BRZ is one of the closest competitors of the Subaru WRX. They are both five-seaters compact cars with a spacious cabin and a wide assortment of safety and convenience tech features. Plus, the two vehicles have a four-pot engine paired with a manual transmission or automatic transmission.
As for the size, the Subaru WRX is a bit bigger than its rival, so it provides more room for cargo and passengers compared to the BRZ. It is also quicker, less expensive, and better suited for off-road use than its rival.
3. Honda Civic Si
The Honda Civic Si is another popular car that’s often compared with the Subaru WRX. Like the WRX, it also boasts a sporty look, a roomy cabin, a seating capacity of five passengers, and plenty of modern technology features any car shopper would appreciate. Both sedans come with a four-cylinder engine and 6-speed manual gearbox, giving you absolute control over the vehicle’s speed.
However, unlike the Honda Civic, the Subaru WRX also has a CVT transmission and an all-wheel-drive system, ensuring excellent grip no matter the road conditions. It’s also bigger than the Honda sedan, so there’s more space for people and cargo. On the other hand, the Civic Si has better gas mileage, a lower starting price, and more standard safety equipment than the WRX.
4. Subaru Impreza
The Subaru WRX is based on the Impreza, so it’s unsurprising that the two cars have a lot in common. Both are reliable compact sedans with similar interior space, a seating capacity of five people, and a comprehensive suite of in-vehicle technology features. They also have an energetic four-cylinder engine, CVT-automatic transmission, and a standard all-wheel-drive system.
But while the WRX is available only as a sedan, the Subaru Impreza comes in a compact sedan and hatchback version, which provides more space for cargo. The Impreza is also less expensive, more fuel-efficient, and better equipped than its sibling. However, if you want a powerful sporty car for your off-road adventures, the Subaru WRX is the better choice.
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5. Honda Civic Type R
Although it lacks an all-wheel drive, the Honda Civic Type R also makes an excellent alternative to the Subaru WRX. They are both four-door cars with a spacious cabin, comfortable seating for five individuals, and several drive-aid features. Under the hood, both vehicles have a four-cylinder engine paired with either a manual transmission or a CVT gearbox.
However, the Honda Civic Type R has better fuel economy, quicker acceleration, and more engine power than the WRX. But the Subaru sedan is more practical and cheaper than the Honda.
6. Volkswagen Golf GTI
The Volkswagen Golf GTI is another sporty car you’ll want to consider when looking for an alternative to the Subaru WRX. Like the WRX, it is a four-door vehicle with ample interior space, a seating capacity of five people, and many of the latest technology features. They also offer a turbo four-cylinder engine and an option of manual or automatic transmission.
But while the Subaru WRX is an all-wheel-drive sedan, the Volkswagen GTI is a hatchback that comes as a front-wheel-drive only. The Subaru is also more spacious, less pricey, and more capable off-road than the GTI. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has a nicer interior, better quality ride, and higher fuel economy than the Subaru WRX.
7. Mitsubishi Evolution
The Mitsubishi Evo has been a fierce rival of the Subaru WRX for many years. They are both four-door sports sedans with a spacious cabin, welcoming seats for passengers, and an array of popular technology features. Both vehicles also offer a turbo four-cylinder engine, automatic or manual gearbox, and an all-wheel-drive system, making them excellent off-road machines.
However, the Subaru WRX is slightly bigger than the Mitsubishi car, so it provides more room for passengers and their luggage. It’s also quicker, cheaper, and more fuel-efficient than its close competitor. But if you just need a high-performance car that can go anywhere, the Mitsubishi Evolution is the ideal choice.
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8. Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy is another model from the Japanese brand that can be compared to the WRX. Like the WRX, it is also an all-wheel-drive sedan with a roomy interior, a seating capacity of five people, and plenty of desirable tech features. Additionally, both vehicles are equipped with a four-pot engine and automatic transmission, which ensures a more comfortable drive.
While the Subaru WRX is a compact vehicle, the Legacy is a midsize sedan, so it offers more cargo space and is more comfortable to be in during long drives. The Subaru Legacy also has better fuel economy and a lower starting than its competitor, but it’s no match for the WRX when it comes to engine and acceleration.
9. Hyundai Veloster N
Although the Hyundai Veloster N looks nothing like the WRX, the two vehicles are more similar than you may think. They are both performance sports cars with a spacious cabin, comfy seats, and several technology features to give you peace of mind while on the road.
Both vehicles come with a four-cylinder engine and manual transmission, although the WRX also offers a CVT automatic gearbox for those who want a more comfortable drive.
But while the Subaru is a four-door sedan with room for five people, the Veloster N is a three-door hatchback that seats only four passengers. The WRX is also faster, cheaper, more spacious, and more suitable for off-road use than the Honda hatchback. However, if you want a fuel-efficient car that can haul a lot of cargo, go for the Hyundai Veloster N.
10. Ford Mustang GT
The Ford Mustang GT also has a lot of similarities with the Subaru WRX. They are both four-door sports cars with a roomy cabin, welcoming seats, and a bevy of comfort and convenience features. The two vehicles also come with a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine and an option of an automatic or manual transmission.
However, the Mustang also boasts a more powerful V8 engine. It’s also faster, more spacious, and offers a bigger cargo room than its rival. But the Subaru WRX has better fuel economy, lower base price, and a higher seating capacity (5) than the Ford Mustang (4). Plus, it’s better suited for off-road driving than the Mustang, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system.