Subaru Wrx vs Subaru Brz: Which Sporty Subaru Reigns?
Choosing between two sporty Subarus can be a tough decision. The Subaru WRX and the Subaru BRZ both offer thrilling driving experiences, but they cater to different preferences. This comparison aims to dissect the key differences, helping you decide which Subaru best fits your needs and driving style.
The WRX, known for its rally-inspired heritage, packs a punch with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. It’s built for performance and practicality, making it a versatile choice for daily driving and spirited adventures. Meanwhile, the BRZ focuses on pure driving dynamics, prioritizing agility and handling with its rear-wheel-drive configuration.
Whether you crave raw power and grip or a more balanced and responsive feel, this comparison of the Subaru WRX vs Subaru BRZ will provide the insights you need. We’ll explore their performance characteristics, interior features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect match for your driving desires.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | WRX | BRZ |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.4L Turbocharged Boxer | 2.4L Naturally Aspirated Boxer |
| Horsepower | 271 hp | 228 hp |
| Torque | 258 lb-ft | 184 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual or CVT | 6-speed Manual or Automatic |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4-6.1 seconds | 5.8-6.1 seconds |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 4 |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 22/31 MPG | 21/29 MPG |
| Suspension | Sport-tuned | Sport-tuned |
| Steering | Electric Power Steering | Electric Power Steering |
| Body Style | Sedan | Coupe |
| Cargo Space | 12.5 cu. ft. | 6.3 cu. ft. |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Engine & Performance
- Subaru Wrx: Features a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine, producing significantly more horsepower and torque. This results in quicker acceleration and a more powerful driving experience. However, the fuel economy is slightly lower compared to the BRZ.
- Subaru Brz: Powered by a naturally aspirated 2.4-liter flat-four engine, prioritizing a balanced and responsive feel. While less powerful than the WRX, it offers a more predictable power delivery and a focus on handling. Fuel economy is slightly better.
- Winner: WRX
Handling & Driving Dynamics
- Subaru Wrx: Equipped with standard all-wheel drive, providing superior grip and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions. The suspension is tuned for a balance of comfort and performance, suitable for daily driving and spirited runs.
- Subaru Brz: Rear-wheel drive, offering a more engaging and playful driving experience, allowing for more controlled oversteer. The suspension is tuned for sharper handling and responsiveness, prioritizing handling over ride comfort.
- Winner: BRZ
Transmission Options
- Subaru Wrx: Offers both a 6-speed manual transmission and a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with paddle shifters. The manual is preferred by enthusiasts for its direct control, while the CVT provides convenience.
- Subaru Brz: Available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic transmission. The manual is highly regarded for its precise shifts and contribution to the overall driving experience.
- Winner: WRX (Due to wider transmission options)
Interior & Technology
- Subaru Wrx: Features a more modern and tech-focused interior with a larger infotainment screen and available advanced driver-assistance systems. The cabin offers more space, especially in the rear seats.
- Subaru Brz: Prioritizes a driver-focused interior with a simpler, more minimalist design. Technology is present, but less emphasized compared to the WRX. Rear seat space is limited.
- Winner: WRX
Practicality & Utility
- Subaru Wrx: Offers more practicality with its four-door sedan configuration, providing more passenger space and a larger trunk. It’s better suited for everyday use and carrying passengers.
- Subaru Brz: A two-door coupe, prioritizing driving experience over practicality. Rear seats are cramped and the trunk space is limited. Best suited for single drivers or couples.
- Winner: WRX
Fuel Economy
- Subaru Wrx: Generally has lower fuel economy due to its more powerful turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive system. Expect slightly higher fuel consumption in both city and highway driving.
- Subaru Brz: Offers better fuel economy due to its naturally aspirated engine and lighter weight. It’s a more fuel-efficient choice for daily driving.
- Winner: BRZ
Price & Value
- Subaru Wrx: Typically has a slightly higher starting price due to its more complex powertrain and features. However, it offers a lot of performance for the price.
- Subaru Brz: Generally has a lower starting price, making it a more accessible sports car. It provides excellent value for its handling and driving dynamics.
- Winner: BRZ
Styling & Aesthetics
- Subaru Wrx: Features a more aggressive and sporty design, with bold styling cues and a prominent rear wing (on some trims). It projects a more assertive presence.
- Subaru Brz: Boasts a sleek and aerodynamic design, emphasizing its sporty nature with a low-slung profile. It presents a more elegant and focused aesthetic.
- Winner: WRX (Subjective, but generally more aggressive)
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Performance (Acceleration) | WRX |
| Handling | BRZ |
| Practicality | WRX |
| Fuel Efficiency | BRZ |
| All-Weather Capability | WRX |
| Driving Engagement | BRZ |
What They Have in Common:
- Engine Type: Both vehicles utilize Subaru’s signature horizontally opposed “Boxer” engine design, contributing to a low center of gravity.
- Sport-Tuned Suspension: Both the WRX and BRZ come equipped with a sport-tuned suspension, enhancing handling and driving dynamics.
- Electric Power Steering: Both cars feature electric power steering, providing responsive and direct steering feel.
- Standard Safety Features: Both models offer a suite of standard safety features, including airbags, stability control, and traction control.
- Fuel Efficiency: While not the primary focus, both cars provide respectable fuel economy for their performance capabilities.
- Enthusiast Appeal: Both are designed with driving enthusiasts in mind, offering engaging driving experiences.
Subaru WRX vs Subaru BRZ Buying Guide
Performance & Driving Experience
The Subaru WRX prioritizes performance with its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, offering exhilarating acceleration and superior grip in various conditions. Its engine provides significantly more horsepower and torque than the BRZ, resulting in quicker 0-60 mph times and a more dynamic driving experience overall. The WRX’s all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced stability and control, particularly in inclement weather, making it a more versatile choice for daily driving and spirited adventures. The BRZ, on the other hand, focuses on a pure, rear-wheel-drive sports car experience, emphasizing handling and balance.
Engine & Transmission Options
The WRX boasts a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, providing ample power and torque for spirited driving. It’s offered with either a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The BRZ features a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, designed for responsiveness and driver engagement. It’s available with a manual transmission, which is highly praised for its precision, or an automatic transmission. The WRX’s engine generally produces more power, while the BRZ’s engine is known for its linear power delivery and high-revving nature. The choice depends on the driver’s preference.
Interior & Features
The WRX generally offers a more spacious and practical interior, with more rear passenger room and a larger trunk. It often includes more standard features, such as advanced driver-assistance systems and a more sophisticated infotainment system. The BRZ prioritizes a driver-focused cockpit, with a minimalist design and an emphasis on driving essentials. While the BRZ offers a comfortable and functional interior, it typically has less space and fewer features compared to the WRX. Both models have quality materials and modern features, but their focus differs significantly.
Fuel Efficiency & Running Costs
Fuel efficiency varies between the WRX and BRZ, with the BRZ generally achieving slightly better gas mileage due to its smaller engine and lighter weight. However, the difference is not substantial. Running costs, including insurance and maintenance, are comparable for both models. The WRX’s turbocharged engine might incur slightly higher maintenance costs over time, but both cars are relatively affordable to own and operate. Consider your driving habits and budget when making your final decision, looking at the long-term cost.
Price & Value Proposition
The WRX and BRZ offer excellent value for their respective segments. The WRX, with its added performance and features, typically commands a slightly higher price. However, both cars provide a lot of performance and enjoyment for the money. The BRZ’s focus on pure driving dynamics makes it an attractive choice for enthusiasts on a budget. The WRX, with its added practicality and versatility, appeals to drivers who need a car for daily use. Consider what you prioritize when evaluating price and the value proposition.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
The WRX is often the more practical choice for daily driving, thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, more spacious interior, and larger trunk. It’s better suited for handling various road conditions and carrying passengers and cargo. The BRZ, with its rear-wheel-drive layout, is designed more for spirited driving and might not be as practical for everyday tasks. The BRZ is still a capable daily driver, but its focus is primarily on the driving experience. The WRX provides more versatility and comfort for everyday needs.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Subaru WRX If…
- You need the practicality of a sedan with all-wheel drive.
- You value the added power and performance of a turbocharged engine.
- You frequently drive in adverse weather conditions.
- You need more cargo space and the ability to carry more passengers.
Buy Subaru BRZ If…
- You prioritize pure driving dynamics and handling.
- You prefer a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car experience.
- You want a more affordable entry point into the Subaru performance lineup.
- You enjoy the sleek and sporty coupe styling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which car is faster, the WRX or the BRZ?
The Subaru WRX is generally faster in terms of acceleration due to its more powerful turbocharged engine. The WRX’s higher horsepower and torque figures result in quicker 0-60 mph times and overall performance. While the BRZ is nimble and fun to drive, its naturally aspirated engine provides less power, making it slower in a straight line. The WRX’s all-wheel-drive system also contributes to faster acceleration.
Which car is better for daily driving?
The Subaru WRX is usually the better choice for daily driving because of its all-wheel drive, which provides enhanced stability and control in various weather conditions. Its more spacious interior and larger trunk also make it more practical for carrying passengers and cargo. The BRZ, while a capable daily driver, prioritizes the driving experience, and the WRX is more versatile for everyday needs.
Does the WRX have better handling than the BRZ?
The BRZ is engineered for superior handling and a pure driving experience. The BRZ is lighter and has a lower center of gravity, which contributes to its exceptional balance and responsiveness. While the WRX offers good handling with its all-wheel-drive system, the BRZ is specifically designed for cornering and driver engagement, making it the better choice for handling enthusiasts.
Which car is more fuel-efficient?
The Subaru BRZ typically offers slightly better fuel efficiency due to its lighter weight and smaller, naturally aspirated engine. While the difference in fuel economy is not drastic, the BRZ generally achieves slightly higher MPG figures in both city and highway driving. The WRX, with its turbocharged engine, tends to consume a bit more fuel, especially during spirited driving.
Which car is more expensive?
The Subaru WRX generally has a slightly higher starting price than the BRZ, reflecting its added performance and features. The WRX’s more powerful engine, all-wheel-drive system, and often more advanced technology contribute to its higher cost. However, both cars offer excellent value for their price points, providing a lot of performance and enjoyment for the money.
What transmission options are available?
Both the WRX and BRZ offer manual transmissions, which are highly praised for their driving engagement. The WRX also provides a CVT automatic transmission option, while the BRZ has a traditional automatic transmission. The manual transmission is the preferred choice for many driving enthusiasts, while the automatic transmissions provide added convenience for daily driving.
Which car is better for winter driving?
The Subaru WRX is the superior choice for winter driving. Its all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and stability in snowy and icy conditions. This allows for increased confidence and control compared to the rear-wheel-drive BRZ. The WRX’s all-wheel drive is a significant advantage in areas with heavy snowfall.
Final Verdict
Both the Subaru WRX and BRZ offer distinct driving experiences. The WRX excels with its turbocharged power, all-wheel-drive system, and practicality, making it a versatile choice. The BRZ, on the other hand, prioritizes a pure, engaging sports car experience with its rear-wheel-drive layout and focus on handling. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities: performance and practicality favor the WRX, while driving purists will appreciate the BRZ.
Winner: Subaru WRX