What's the difference between Subaru WRX and WRX STI?
August 13 2021,
The Subaru brand might be most closely associated with feature-packed family SUVs, but they also make a pair of sports sedans with genuine performance chops. What's the difference between the Subaru WRX and the WRX STI? Read on to find out.
First Impressions
Both cars share the same overall appearance, with sleekly swept lines and a raised engine inlet on the hood that adds an air of aggressive intent. However, while the WRX looks perfectly at home on a suburban driveway, the STI is more tailored to the race track with its extra spoilers and larger wheel arches.
High-Performance Engines
The main differences between the WRX and the WRX STI come into play with the powertrain. While both cars offer excellent performance, it's clear that the WRX is aimed at high-powered daily driving while the STI is more focused on track capability.
The WRX is equipped with a 2.0L flat-four turbo engine making a healthy 268 horsepower, combined with either a seven speed automatic transmission or a six-speed manual. This configuration is no lightweight, and can power the WRX from 0-100kmh in a spritely 5.4 seconds.
However, the STI takes things to new heights with a 2.5L turbo pushing out a huge 310 horsepower. The transmission on this sports-oriented model is an old-school, hands-on six-speed manual with ratios optimized for racing rather than highway cruising, and pulls in a 0-100kmh time of just 4.8 seconds.
Brakes and Suspension
The regular WRX handles the high output with disc brakes and independent sports-tuned suspension, providing a solid drive that handles corners with finesse. The STI model upgrades the brakes to high-performance ventilated Brembo models, configured to slow the car as abruptly as you could wish for. The STI suspension is also independent for each wheel, but is tuned to channel every bit of power into performance, resulting in a stiffer, slightly less comfortable but more invigorating ride.
Advanced Technology
The WRX boasts a 6.5" infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard, with a larger 7" screen and in-built navigation available in the higher trims. The STI starts where the high-end WRX trims leave off, and also adds enviable features including dual-zone climate control, push-button start, and steering-responsive LED headlights.
Discover the WRX at the Premier Subaru Dealer in Toronto
Whether you want the high-powered comfort of the regular WRX or the track-oriented performance of the WRX STI, book a test drive from our Subaru dealership in Toronto and experience their quality for yourself.
