What To Know
- The WRX has a few more standard features than the Golf GTI, but the Golf GTI has a more upscale interior.
- The Golf GTI is a better choice for drivers who want a car with a more upscale interior, a faster transmission, and a better fuel economy.
- If you’re looking for a car that’s more luxurious, fuel-efficient, and has a better infotainment system, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a great choice.
The Subaru WRX and the Volkswagen Golf GTI are two of the most iconic compact performance cars on the market. Both cars have a long history of racing and rallying, and they both offer a thrilling driving experience. But which car is the better choice for you?
In this blog post, we’ll compare the Subaru WRX and the Golf GTI in terms of performance, handling, features, and price. We’ll also provide our expert opinion on which car is the better buy.
Performance
The Subaru WRX is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer engine that produces 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Golf GTI is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine that produces 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
On paper, the WRX has a clear advantage in terms of power. However, the Golf GTI is lighter than the WRX, so it has a better power-to-weight ratio. This means that the Golf GTI is actually faster than the WRX in a straight line.
The WRX comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, while the Golf GTI comes standard with a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Both transmissions are excellent, but the dual-clutch automatic in the Golf GTI is slightly faster and smoother.
Handling
The Subaru WRX is known for its excellent handling. The car has a stiff chassis and a well-tuned suspension, which gives it great grip and cornering ability. The Golf GTI is also a very good handling car, but it doesn’t quite match the WRX in terms of agility.
The WRX comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the Golf GTI is only available with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive gives the WRX a significant advantage in terms of traction, especially in wet or snowy conditions.
Features
The Subaru WRX comes standard with a number of features, including:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- STI-tuned suspension
- Brembo brakes
- Recaro front seats
- 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Keyless entry and ignition
The Volkswagen Golf GTI comes standard with a number of features, including:
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Sport-tuned suspension
- Vented brake rotors
- Plaid cloth sport seats
- 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Keyless entry and ignition
The WRX has a few more standard features than the Golf GTI, but the Golf GTI has a more upscale interior.
Price
The Subaru WRX starts at $27,495. The Volkswagen Golf GTI starts at $28,695.
The WRX is slightly cheaper than the Golf GTI, but it also comes with more standard features.
Which Car is the Better Buy?
The Subaru WRX and the Volkswagen Golf GTI are both excellent compact performance cars. The WRX is a better choice for drivers who want a car with more power, all-wheel drive, and a lower price. The Golf GTI is a better choice for drivers who want a car with a more upscale interior, a faster transmission, and a better fuel economy.
Ultimately, the best car for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a car that’s fun to drive, practical, and affordable, the Subaru WRX is a great choice. If you’re looking for a car that’s more luxurious, fuel-efficient, and has a better infotainment system, the Volkswagen Golf GTI is a great choice.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Which car is faster, the Subaru WRX or the Golf GTI?
A: The Golf GTI is faster in a straight line, but the WRX is faster on a track.
Q: Which car has a better interior, the Subaru WRX or the Golf GTI?
A: The Golf GTI has a more upscale interior than the WRX.
Q: Which car is more fuel-efficient, the Subaru WRX or the Golf GTI?
A: The Golf GTI is more fuel-efficient than the WRX.