The Subaru Impreza and the Impreza WRX are often confused, and with good reason: they share a similar lineage and body style. However, beneath the surface lies a significant difference in performance and capabilities. This detailed comparison will illuminate the key distinctions between these two popular Subaru models, helping you decide which one best suits your needs.
What are the Key Differences Between a Subaru Impreza and a WRX?
The most fundamental difference lies in their powertrains. The standard Impreza is designed for everyday driving, prioritizing fuel efficiency and comfortable handling. The WRX, on the other hand, is a performance-tuned variant, built for speed and exhilarating driving experiences. This translates to significant disparities in engine power, all-wheel drive system tuning, and suspension setup.
What Engine Does Each Car Have?
The Impreza typically comes equipped with a naturally aspirated engine, offering decent power for everyday driving but lacking the raw punch of the WRX. The WRX, conversely, boasts a turbocharged engine, delivering considerably more horsepower and torque. This turbocharger significantly boosts the engine's power output, resulting in significantly quicker acceleration and higher top speeds. Specific engine options vary by model year, so checking the specifications for the year you're interested in is crucial.
How Does the All-Wheel Drive System Differ?
Both Imprezas utilize Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. However, the WRX's AWD system is tuned for performance. It features a more aggressive torque split, providing superior handling and grip, especially during spirited driving or in challenging conditions. The Impreza's AWD system, while still capable, prioritizes fuel efficiency and predictable handling, making it ideal for daily commutes and less demanding driving situations.
What About Suspension and Handling?
The WRX's suspension is significantly firmer than the Impreza's. This firmer setup provides sharper handling and reduces body roll during cornering, enhancing the overall driving experience for performance enthusiasts. The Impreza's suspension prioritizes comfort, resulting in a smoother ride over bumps and imperfections in the road. The choice between these two setups depends entirely on your driving preferences: comfort versus performance.
What are the Interior and Exterior Differences?
While sharing a similar overall design, subtle exterior styling cues distinguish the WRX from the standard Impreza. The WRX typically features more aggressive bumpers, side skirts, and spoilers, reflecting its performance-oriented nature. Interior differences might include sportier seats, different trim materials, and possibly unique instrumentation. Again, these details can vary across model years.
What is the Impreza best used for?
The standard Impreza is an excellent choice for drivers seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient, and practical vehicle for daily driving. Its comfortable ride and user-friendly features make it ideal for commuting, family trips, and everyday errands.
What is the WRX best used for?
The WRX is designed for driving enthusiasts who crave performance and an exhilarating driving experience. Its powerful engine, responsive handling, and all-wheel-drive system make it a thrilling option for twisty roads and demanding driving conditions. However, its firmer ride might be less comfortable for long-distance driving.
Is the WRX more expensive than the Impreza?
Generally, yes. The WRX's performance enhancements and added features command a higher price tag compared to the standard Impreza.
Which model is better for fuel economy?
The standard Impreza will almost always deliver better fuel economy than the WRX due to its less powerful, naturally aspirated engine. The WRX's turbocharged engine consumes more fuel, especially under hard acceleration.
Which model has better safety features?
Both the Impreza and WRX typically offer a comprehensive suite of safety features, often including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance system. Specific features might vary across model years and trim levels, so it's important to check the specifications of the specific vehicles you are considering.
By carefully considering these key differences, you can make an informed decision about whether the Subaru Impreza or the Impreza WRX is the right vehicle for your individual needs and preferences. Remember to test drive both models to experience their distinct characteristics firsthand.
