The Subaru WRX and WRX STI have long been icons in the performance sedan world, offering rally-bred DNA and exhilarating driving experiences. For 2019, both models continued to refine their offerings, but the fundamental question remains: which one is right for you? Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the Subaru performance family, understanding the nuances between these two legendary machines is crucial.
The 2019 WRX provides a potent blend of everyday usability and sporty capability, making it a compelling choice for those who want thrilling performance without sacrificing practicality. On the other hand, the 2019 WRX STI represents the pinnacle of Subaru’s performance engineering, delivering a more track-focused and raw driving sensation for the ultimate enthusiast.
This comparison will dive deep into what sets these two performance titans apart. From engine performance and handling dynamics to interior features and overall driving feel, we’ll break down the key differences to help you make an informed decision between the 2019 WRX and the formidable 2019 WRX STI.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | 2019 WRX | STI |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L Turbocharged Boxer-4 | 2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 |
| Horsepower | 268 hp | 310 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 290 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Manual | 6-Speed Manual |
| Drivetrain | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive |
| Suspension | Independent Front/Rear | Front: MacPherson Strut, Rear: Double Wishbone |
| Brakes (Front) | Ventilated Discs | Ventilated Discs |
| Brakes (Rear) | Ventilated Discs | Ventilated Discs |
| Wheelbase | 104.2 inches | 104.2 inches |
| Length | 179.4 inches | 179.4 inches |
| Width | 70.7 inches | 70.7 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 5.4 inches | 5.9 inches |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine Performance
- 2019 Wrx: Features a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine offers a good balance of power for daily driving and spirited performance, with a responsive turbocharger that spools up quickly. However, it’s not as potent as the STI’s larger engine.
- Sti: Powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, delivering 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides significantly more raw power and a more aggressive sound, making it ideal for track use and enthusiasts seeking maximum acceleration. It can feel a bit more laggy at lower RPMs compared to the WRX.
- Winner: sti
Transmission
- 2019 Wrx: Comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, offering a precise and engaging driving experience. An optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is also available for those who prefer automatic shifting, providing smoother acceleration but sacrificing some driver involvement.
- Sti: Exclusively offered with a 6-speed manual transmission. This is a hallmark of the STI, renowned for its robust construction and driver-focused feel, allowing for precise gear changes during aggressive driving. The lack of an automatic option might be a drawback for some buyers.
- Winner: sti
All-Wheel Drive System
- 2019 Wrx: Equipped with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, providing excellent traction and stability in various conditions. It utilizes an electronically controlled center differential for variable torque distribution. This system is highly capable for everyday driving and light off-road situations.
- Sti: Features Subaru’s Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. This advanced system allows the driver to manually adjust the center differential’s locking action, offering more control over torque distribution for optimal performance on different surfaces and in specific driving scenarios. This offers superior adjustability for performance driving.
- Winner: sti
Suspension and Handling
- 2019 Wrx: Boasts a sport-tuned suspension that provides a good balance between comfort and performance. It handles well for its class, offering composed cornering and responsive steering for spirited drives. However, it can feel a bit softer than the STI’s more track-focused setup.
- Sti: Features a more performance-oriented suspension with stiffer springs and dampers, along with larger sway bars. This setup delivers razor-sharp handling, minimal body roll, and exceptional grip during high-performance driving. The ride quality is significantly firmer, which can be less comfortable for daily commuting.
- Winner: sti
Braking System
- 2019 Wrx: Comes with a capable braking system designed for everyday driving and occasional spirited use. While adequate for most situations, it may show signs of fade under prolonged track abuse.
- Sti: Equipped with a significantly upgraded braking system, typically featuring larger Brembo calipers and rotors. This system offers superior stopping power, better heat dissipation, and improved resistance to fade, making it ideal for track days and demanding driving conditions.
- Winner: sti
Interior and Comfort
- 2019 Wrx: Offers a functional and driver-focused interior with supportive sport seats. While it has decent materials for its price point, it leans more towards practicality than luxury. The infotainment system is generally user-friendly.
- Sti: Also features a driver-focused cockpit with supportive sport seats, often with STI branding. The interior materials can feel slightly more premium in higher trims, and the overall ambiance is geared towards performance enthusiasts. It still prioritizes function over outright luxury.
- Winner: wrx
Exterior Styling
- 2019 Wrx: Presents an aggressive and sporty exterior design with its signature hood scoop, sharp lines, and wide stance. It looks purposeful and performance-oriented, appealing to a broad range of enthusiasts.
- Sti: Often features more aggressive styling cues than the WRX, such as a larger rear wing, unique badging, and sportier wheels. These visual enhancements further emphasize its track-bred heritage and performance capabilities, giving it a more distinct and imposing presence.
- Winner: sti
Price and Value
- 2019 Wrx: Generally priced lower than the STI, making it a more accessible entry point into the Subaru performance sedan lineup. It offers a strong performance package for its cost, representing good value for those who don’t need the absolute highest performance.
- Sti: Commands a higher price tag due to its enhanced performance components and more powerful engine. While it offers more capability, the premium cost positions it as a more specialized performance vehicle for dedicated enthusiasts.
- Winner: wrx
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Engine Power | STI |
| Handling & Agility | STI |
| Braking Performance | STI |
| Everyday Usability | WRX |
| Value for Money | WRX |
| Ultimate Performance | STI |
What They Have in Common
- Performance-Oriented Drivetrain: Both the 2019 WRX and STI come standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, renowned for its ability to provide exceptional grip and stability in various driving conditions. This system is a cornerstone of their sporty character.
- Turbocharged Boxer Engines: Powering both models are Subaru’s signature turbocharged boxer engines. These engines are designed to deliver a thrilling driving experience with a distinctive sound and a broad powerband, making spirited driving enjoyable.
- Manual Transmissions: For enthusiasts who crave a direct connection to the driving experience, both the WRX and STI come exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission. This allows for precise gear changes and a more engaging feel behind the wheel.
- Sporty Exterior Styling: Both cars feature aggressive and aerodynamic exterior designs that clearly communicate their performance capabilities. Expect prominent hood scoops, sporty body kits, and performance-oriented wheel and tire packages.
- Driver-Focused Cockpits: Inside, both the WRX and STI prioritize the driver with supportive seating, performance-oriented gauges, and a layout designed for easy access to controls. The focus is on providing a comfortable and engaging environment for spirited driving.
2019 WRX vs STI Buying Guide
Performance and Handling
The 2019 WRX offers a thrilling driving experience with its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While agile and capable, it’s designed to be a more accessible performance sedan. The STI, on the other hand, takes performance to another level with its more potent 2.5-liter engine, delivering 305 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This power advantage, coupled with its standard Active Torque Vectoring and Driver-Controlled Center Differential, provides superior grip and track-ready handling capabilities. (See Also: Nintendo Switch Vs Switch Lite )
Engine and Drivetrain
Both models feature Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, ensuring excellent traction in various conditions. The WRX comes with a standard 6-speed manual transmission, known for its engaging feel. An optional CVT is available for those prioritizing comfort over outright engagement. The STI exclusively offers a 6-speed manual transmission, designed to handle the increased power and torque. The STI’s drivetrain is more performance-oriented, with a focus on maximizing acceleration and cornering prowess.
Interior and Features
Inside, both the 2019 WRX and STI offer a sporty yet functional cabin. The WRX generally features comfortable seating and a straightforward dashboard layout, with available upgrades like leather upholstery and a larger infotainment screen. The STI often boasts sportier seats with enhanced bolstering, red accents, and premium materials to reflect its higher performance pedigree. While both offer modern amenities, the STI leans more towards a driver-focused cockpit experience.
Price and Value
The 2019 WRX typically presents a more budget-friendly entry point into Subaru’s performance sedan lineup. Its lower starting price makes it an attractive option for enthusiasts seeking spirited driving dynamics without the premium cost of the STI. The STI, with its more powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and enhanced features, commands a higher price tag. When considering value, it’s crucial to weigh the performance gains and additional capabilities of the STI against your budget and intended use. (See Also: Pixel 6a Vs Iphone 12 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy 2019 WRX If…
- You’re looking for a spirited and engaging daily driver with all-wheel drive capability.
- You want a significant step up in performance and handling over a standard sedan without the higher price tag of the STI.
- You appreciate a sharp, responsive chassis and the thrill of a turbocharged engine.
Buy STI If…
- You demand the absolute pinnacle of Subaru’s performance engineering in a compact sedan.
- You prioritize track-day capability, superior braking, and a more robust suspension system.
- You are a dedicated enthusiast who appreciates the history and heritage of the STI badge and its motorsport roots.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between the 2019 WRX and STI?
The most significant difference lies in their performance. The 2019 STI boasts a more powerful 2.5-liter engine (305 hp) compared to the WRX’s 2.0-liter engine (268 hp). The STI also features a more advanced all-wheel-drive system with a Driver-Controlled Center Differential and Active Torque Vectoring, offering superior handling and track-focused capabilities.
Is the 2019 WRX or STI better for daily driving?
For daily driving, the 2019 WRX often proves to be the more practical choice. Its ride is generally more compliant, and its power delivery is more manageable for city commuting. While the STI’s performance is exhilarating, its firmer suspension and more aggressive tuning can make it less comfortable for everyday use, especially on rougher roads.
Which model is better for track use?
The 2019 STI is unequivocally the better choice for track use. Its significantly more powerful engine, enhanced braking system, advanced all-wheel-drive system with adjustable differentials, and sport-tuned suspension are all designed to excel in a high-performance track environment, offering superior grip, control, and lap times. (See Also: Galaxy Watch 6 Vs Active 2 )
Are there manual transmission options for both?
Yes, both the 2019 WRX and STI come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission. The WRX also offered an optional Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for those who prefer an automatic. However, the STI exclusively offers the manual transmission, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature.
Which car offers better fuel economy?
Generally, the 2019 WRX offers better fuel economy than the STI. The WRX’s smaller engine and often lighter overall weight contribute to slightly more efficient consumption. The STI’s higher-output engine and more performance-oriented tuning typically result in lower MPG figures, particularly when driven aggressively.
Final Verdict
Choosing between the 2019 WRX and STI hinges on your priorities. The WRX offers an exhilarating performance bargain, delivering a thrilling driving experience with accessible power and agile handling for daily enjoyment. The STI elevates this with significantly more power, advanced drivetrain technology, and track-ready capabilities, making it the ultimate choice for performance enthusiasts. If budget is a key factor and daily drivability is important, the WRX shines. For uncompromising performance and track prowess, the STI is the undisputed champion.
Winner: 2019 WRX STI