The Subaru WRX and WRX STI are legends in the performance car world, offering thrilling all-wheel-drive capabilities and rally-inspired driving dynamics. For the 2017 model year, both the WRX and STI continued to deliver exhilarating experiences, but they cater to slightly different drivers and priorities.
Choosing between the two can be a delightful dilemma for enthusiasts. The WRX often represents the more accessible entry point into Subaru’s performance lineage, while the STI stands as the pinnacle of the lineage, boasting enhanced track-focused features and a more potent powertrain. This comparison aims to dissect the nuances that set these iconic siblings apart.
Whether you’re a seasoned track day participant or a spirited daily driver seeking an engaging commute, understanding the distinctions between the 2017 WRX and its more potent STI counterpart is crucial. Let’s dive deep into what makes each of these machines unique and help you decide which one best fits your automotive desires.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 2017 WRX | STI |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Boxer-4 | 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 305 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual / CVT | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | All-wheel drive | All-wheel drive |
| 0-60 mph | ~5.3 seconds | ~5.1 seconds |
| Top Speed | ~145 mph | ~155 mph |
| Suspension | Independent | Multi-link rear |
| Brakes | Front ventilated discs | Brembo performance brakes |
| Wheel Size | 17-inch | 18-inch |
| Cargo Space | 12.3 cu ft | 11.8 cu ft |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine
- 2017 Wrx: Features a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It offers a good balance of power for daily driving and spirited performance, with a responsive feel and a satisfying exhaust note. The turbo lag is generally well-managed.
- Sti: Equipped with a more potent 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, delivering 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides significantly more outright power and a more aggressive torque delivery, making it ideal for track use or enthusiasts seeking maximum performance. The larger displacement contributes to a more visceral experience.
- Winner: sti
Transmission
- 2017 Wrx: Offers a standard 6-speed manual transmission, known for its precise and engaging feel. An optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is also available, prioritizing fuel economy and comfort over driver engagement for those who prefer an automatic.
- Sti: Exclusively features a 6-speed manual transmission. This is a hallmark of the STI, designed for enthusiasts who value direct control and a raw driving experience. The gearbox is robust and well-suited for aggressive driving.
- Winner: sti
All-Wheel Drive System
- 2017 Wrx: Utilizes Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD). This system offers excellent traction and stability in various conditions, with adjustable front-to-rear torque bias for tailored handling. It provides a confidence-inspiring grip.
- Sti: Employs a more advanced Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) and Active Torque Vectoring. The DCCD allows for finer control over torque distribution, and Active Torque Vectoring actively brakes the inside wheel during cornering to improve turn-in and reduce understeer. This system is geared towards maximizing cornering performance.
- Winner: sti
Suspension and Handling
- 2017 Wrx: Features a well-tuned independent suspension that provides a good blend of comfort and sportiness. It handles well on everyday roads and offers enjoyable agility. However, it can feel a bit softer than the STI during aggressive cornering.
- Sti: Boasts a more performance-oriented suspension setup with stiffer springs and dampers, along with larger sway bars. This results in sharper handling, reduced body roll, and a more connected feel to the road. It’s designed for maximum grip and feedback, though it can lead to a firmer ride.
- Winner: sti
Brakes
- 2017 Wrx: Equipped with four-wheel disc brakes, offering strong stopping power for daily driving and occasional spirited use. The braking performance is competent and reassuring for most situations.
- Sti: Comes standard with larger Brembo brakes, featuring a more aggressive pad compound and larger rotors. These brakes provide superior stopping power, fade resistance, and a more direct pedal feel, essential for high-performance driving and track days.
- Winner: sti
Interior and Comfort
- 2017 Wrx: The interior is functional and driver-focused, with supportive sport seats. While not luxurious, it offers a decent level of comfort for daily commuting. Materials are generally durable but can feel a bit utilitarian.
- Sti: Features more aggressively bolstered sport seats, often with unique stitching and badging. The overall interior feel is similar to the WRX but with a slightly more performance-oriented aesthetic. While still practical, the focus is on holding the driver during spirited driving.
- Winner: wrx
Infotainment and Technology
- 2017 Wrx: Offers a standard 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trims include a larger 7-inch screen with satellite radio and smartphone integration. It’s functional but not cutting-edge.
- Sti: Typically equipped with a similar infotainment system to the WRX, often featuring the larger 7-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration. The focus remains on performance, so the tech is adequate but not a primary selling point.
- Winner: wrx
Exterior Styling
- 2017 Wrx: Features a sporty and aggressive design with a prominent hood scoop and sharp lines. It presents a more understated performance look compared to the STI, making it a more versatile daily driver.
- Sti: Distinguishes itself with a more aggressive front fascia, a larger rear wing, quad exhaust tips, and unique badging. The STI’s styling clearly communicates its higher performance pedigree and track-focused intentions.
- Winner: sti
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Raw Power | STI |
| Handling Precision | STI |
| Everyday Usability | 2017 WRX |
| Value for Money | 2017 WRX |
| Track Performance | STI |
| Comfort | 2017 WRX |
| Transmission Choice | 2017 WRX |
What They Have in Common
- Performance-Oriented Sedans: Both the 2017 WRX and STI are built on Subaru’s rally-bred heritage, offering sporty handling and powerful turbocharged engines in a practical sedan body style. They share the iconic Subaru all-wheel-drive system, providing excellent traction in various conditions.
- Turbocharged Boxer Engines: At the heart of both vehicles lies a Subaru Boxer engine, known for its low center of gravity and distinctive sound. Both are turbocharged to deliver exhilarating acceleration and a thrilling driving experience.
- All-Wheel Drive System: A hallmark of Subaru vehicles, the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard on both the WRX and STI. This system continuously distributes power to all four wheels, enhancing grip, stability, and confidence in all driving situations.
- Sporty Exterior Styling: Both models feature aggressive styling cues that set them apart from standard sedans. This includes prominent hood scoops, sporty body kits, and distinct wheel designs that hint at their performance capabilities.
- Driver-Focused Interiors: The interiors of both the WRX and STI are designed with the driver in mind. They typically feature supportive seats, performance-oriented gauges, and driver-centric control layouts to enhance the overall driving experience.
2017 WRX vs STI Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The 2017 WRX offers a thrilling driving experience with its turbocharged Boxer engine, delivering ample power for spirited driving. Its sport-tuned suspension provides sharp handling and impressive grip, making it a joy on winding roads. While incredibly capable, it prioritizes a balance of performance and everyday usability.
The 2017 STI takes performance to a higher level. Featuring a more powerful engine and Subaru’s legendary Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with Active Torque Vectoring, it offers superior traction and agility. The STI’s stiffer suspension and performance brakes are geared towards track-day enthusiasts and those who demand the ultimate in handling prowess. (See Also: Demeyere 5 Plus Vs Atlantis )
Engine and Drivetrain
The WRX is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, though a continuously variable transmission (CVT) was also available. This setup provides brisk acceleration and a responsive feel for daily driving and spirited sprints.
The STI boasts a more potent 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, generating 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. It is exclusively offered with a robust six-speed manual transmission. The STI’s drivetrain is engineered for maximum engagement and control, with a driver-controlled center differential for advanced all-wheel-drive tuning.
Interior and Features
The 2017 WRX features a driver-focused interior with supportive sport seats. While not luxurious, the cabin is functional and offers essential technology like a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration. The materials are durable, suitable for daily use, and the overall design emphasizes practicality for a performance sedan.
The 2017 STI’s interior mirrors the WRX’s sporty aesthetic but often includes more premium touches, such as STI-branded accents and upgraded upholstery. While still prioritizing function, it aims to offer a slightly more refined environment. Both models offer comfortable seating for four adults, with a reasonably sized trunk for everyday cargo. (See Also: Nikon 50 1 8 Vs 1 4 )
Value and Target Audience
The 2017 WRX is an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts seeking a capable and engaging all-wheel-drive sedan at a more accessible price point. It strikes a great balance between everyday drivability and exhilarating performance, making it a fantastic option for daily commuting and weekend adventures alike without breaking the bank.
The 2017 STI is tailored for the hardcore driving enthusiast who craves the pinnacle of Subaru’s performance engineering. It appeals to those who prioritize track performance, advanced drivetrain technology, and the ultimate driving connection, willing to invest more for its enhanced capabilities and prestigious badge.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 2017 WRX If…
- You want a fun-to-drive, turbocharged all-wheel-drive car with sporty handling but don’t need the extreme performance of the STI.
- You’re looking for a more accessible entry point into Subaru’s performance sedan lineup.
- You prioritize a good balance of performance, everyday usability, and potentially better fuel economy compared to the STI.
Buy STI If…
- You crave the ultimate performance experience from a Subaru sedan, with more power and sharper handling.
- You appreciate the heritage and track-focused capabilities of the STI model, including its advanced drivetrain and braking systems.
- You’re a driving enthusiast who enjoys pushing the limits and wants a car that excels on both the street and the occasional track day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the 2017 WRX and STI?
The most significant difference lies in performance. The STI boasts a more powerful engine (305 hp vs. 268 hp), a more advanced all-wheel-drive system with driver-controlled differentials, and a stiffer suspension setup for superior handling. The WRX offers a great performance experience but is generally more comfort-oriented and accessible.
Which car is better for daily driving?
The 2017 WRX is generally considered the better daily driver. It offers a slightly more comfortable ride, a less aggressive clutch engagement, and a more forgiving suspension than the STI. While the STI is still manageable, its performance-focused nature can make it feel more demanding in stop-and-go traffic. (See Also: Samsung Pro Vs Evo 850 )
Is the STI significantly faster than the WRX?
Yes, the STI is notably faster, especially in terms of acceleration and cornering speeds. Its larger engine, more potent power output, and advanced AWD system allow it to achieve higher performance figures. The STI is engineered for a more aggressive driving style and track-oriented performance.
Which model holds its value better?
Both the WRX and STI tend to hold their value well due to their enthusiast following and AWD capabilities. However, the STI, with its higher performance and more exclusive nature, often commands a slightly higher resale value, especially in well-maintained condition.
Which transmission is better in the 2017 models?
Both models exclusively offered manual transmissions in 2017, which is preferred by enthusiasts for maximum engagement. The WRX also had a CVT option, which offers smoother, more convenient city driving but sacrifices some of the sporty feel. For performance purists, the manual in both is the way to go.
Final Verdict
The 2017 Subaru WRX and STI are both exceptional performance sedans, but they cater to different drivers. The WRX offers a fantastic blend of everyday usability and thrilling performance at a more accessible price point. The STI, however, is the ultimate expression of Subaru’s rally-bred engineering, delivering unparalleled handling and power for the dedicated enthusiast.
Winner: 2017 Subaru STI