Subaru WRX vs Volkswagen GTI

If you're looking for a practical vehicle with sporty appeal, the Subaru WRX and Volkswagen GTI deserve your attention. Both of these vehicles offer lively engines, sharp handling, and desirable everyday features such as ample cargo space and comfortable interiors.

Drivers near Bristol, Somerset, and Fall River can find out the key differences between these vehicles with our Subaru WRX vs. Volkswagen GTI comparison!

Performance

In terms of performance, the WRX comes with a 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine capable of putting out 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, you'll get AWD and either a 6-speed manual transmission or CVT. You can also choose to upgrade to a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, kicking up your power output to 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The VW GTI, on the other hand, provides you with a 2.0L engine that can only kick out 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, mated with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with FWD.

Along with offering the more powerful engine of the two, the WRX also has better driving dynamics. With the lower weight distribution, standard all-wheel drive, and sport-minded engineering, the WRX is equally as suited for around-town driving as it is for exciting cruises on winding back roads, a feat that the timid GTI just can't match.

Subaru WRX vs VW GTI: Interiors

The Subaru WRX and VW GTI focus on comfort and functionality in the interiors. Soft-touch materials and supportive seating are available in both, as are active sound-deadening materials. The WRX offers more head- and legroom than the GTI, however, especially in the rear seats, easily accommodating tall adult passengers.

Both vehicles include many technology features standard, such as touchscreen infotainment systems and Bluetooth^®connectivity. Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ are included as well, giving you easy access to all your phone's media and apps for virtually endless entertainment opportunities. Of the two, the WRX has a more intuitive infotainment interface, as the GTI uses a menu-intensive system that can be challenging to learn and navigate on the road.

Safety

Both the WRX and GTI fared well on federal and independent safety tests. However, with a TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation from the IIHS, the Subaru WRX leaves nothing to be desired in the way of safety, while the GTI falls a little short of acing its crash tests.

The WRX can be equipped with the EyeSight^®suite of advanced safety features, which includes features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, and a lane departure/sway warning function. The VW GTI offers Lane Departure Warning, park control, and automatic braking, with fewer advanced safety features offered overall.

Test Drive the Subaru WRX

The WRX and GTI offer a lot of appeal, but as this Subaru WRX vs. Volkswagen GTI comparison shows, the WRX has better performance, interior comfort, and safety features.

Drivers near Bristol, Somerset, and Fall River can find out more about the Subaru WRX by visiting Stateline Subaru. Call or stop by our dealership today to browse our inventory and experience the WRX firsthand by scheduling a test drive!