What To Know
- The WRX is a rally-bred performance machine, while the Corolla is a more fuel-efficient and practical daily driver.
- The WRX and Corolla offer a range of features, with the WRX being the more performance-oriented car.
- The WRX is a more performance-oriented car with better handling and acceleration, while the Corolla is a more fuel-efficient and affordable daily driver.
When it comes to compact performance cars, two names immediately come to mind: the Subaru WRX and the Toyota Corolla. These two vehicles have been battling it out for decades, each offering its own unique blend of power, handling, and affordability. But which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the Subaru WRX vs. Toyota Corolla, comparing their performance, features, and overall value. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision.
Performance: WRX vs. Corolla
The Subaru WRX and Toyota Corolla offer vastly different driving experiences. The WRX is a rally-bred performance machine, while the Corolla is a more fuel-efficient and practical daily driver.
Engine and Power:
The WRX boasts a turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine that produces 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The Corolla, on the other hand, offers a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque.
Transmission and Drivetrain:
The WRX comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive. The Corolla is available with either a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and it comes with front-wheel drive only.
Acceleration and Top Speed:
The WRX can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, while the Corolla takes 8.1 seconds. The WRX has a top speed of 145 mph, while the Corolla’s top speed is 125 mph.
Handling: WRX vs. Corolla
The WRX and Corolla handle very differently, with the WRX being the more agile and responsive car.
Suspension and Steering:
The WRX features a sport-tuned suspension and quick-ratio steering, giving it excellent cornering ability and precise handling. The Corolla’s suspension is more geared towards comfort, and its steering is less responsive.
Body Roll and Grip:
The WRX has less body roll than the Corolla, thanks to its stiffer suspension and wider tires. This gives it better grip and stability in corners.
Braking:
Both the WRX and Corolla have four-wheel disc brakes, but the WRX’s brakes are larger and more powerful. This gives it shorter stopping distances and better overall braking performance.
Features: WRX vs. Corolla
The WRX and Corolla offer a range of features, with the WRX being the more performance-oriented car.
Infotainment System:
The WRX comes with a 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The Corolla comes with a smaller 8-inch touchscreen with the same features.
Driver Assistance Features:
The WRX offers a variety of driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Corolla also offers a range of driver assistance features, but they are not as comprehensive as the WRX’s.
Interior Comfort and Space:
The WRX has a more spacious interior than the Corolla, with more headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats. The WRX also has a larger trunk than the Corolla.
Value: WRX vs. Corolla
The WRX and Corolla offer different levels of value, depending on what you’re looking for.
Price:
The WRX starts at $30,605, while the Corolla starts at $21,350. The WRX is more expensive, but it also offers more performance and features.
Fuel Economy:
The Corolla is more fuel-efficient than the WRX, with an EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined compared to the WRX’s 25 mpg combined.
Resale Value:
The WRX typically holds its value better than the Corolla, thanks to its strong performance and enthusiast following.
Which One Should You Choose?
The Subaru WRX and Toyota Corolla are both excellent cars, but they offer very different driving experiences. The WRX is a more performance-oriented car with better handling and acceleration, while the Corolla is a more fuel-efficient and affordable daily driver.
If you’re looking for a fun and engaging driving experience, the WRX is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more practical and fuel-efficient car, the Corolla is the better option.
Final Verdict: A Matter of Preference
Ultimately, the best choice between the Subaru WRX and Toyota Corolla depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a performance-oriented car, the WRX is the way to go. If you want a more practical and affordable car, the Corolla is the better choice.
Top Questions Asked
Q: Which car is faster, the WRX or the Corolla?
A: The WRX is faster than the Corolla, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.4 seconds compared to the Corolla’s 8.1 seconds.
Q: Which car gets better gas mileage, the WRX or the Corolla?
A: The Corolla gets better gas mileage than the WRX, with an EPA-estimated 32 mpg combined compared to the WRX’s 25 mpg combined.
Q: Which car is more reliable, the WRX or the Corolla?
A: The Corolla is generally considered to be more reliable than the WRX, according to Consumer Reports and J.D. Power.