Name: 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, Evolution of AWD Performance Cars
Uploaded: 2022-10-05T20:15
Description: 2004 Subaru Impreza WRX vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, Evolution of AWD Performance Cars

Overview
Exterior
Interior
Features
Powertrain
Driving Performance
Ride Comfort
Fuel Consumption
Conclusion

Overview
SUBARU WRX – Overview
The Subaru WRX needs no introduction. Twenty years ago, the Impreza sedan won many rallies around the world and made sports car performance attainable in an everyday sedan.
Today, while Subaru as a works racing team does not enter WRC rallying anymore, it still continues to offer the high-performance sedan, as well as simply calling the model WRX and WRX STI.
The Subaru WRX, fully-imported from Japan, is offered in Sport Lineartronic CVT was last priced at RM 215,000, while the WRX STI cost over RM100k more at RM333,187.
At this price range, as well as performance outputs, the WRX STI has the Honda Civic Type R and the Volkswagen Golf R as direct competitors.
As for the Subaru WRX, there is nothing in Malaysia that comes close to offering such a high PS-to-RM ratio. Perhaps the closest is the Volkswagen Passat R-Line with 190 PS / 320 Nm in a more luxurious appeal and larger size.
Exterior
SUBARU WRX – Exterior
The Subaru WRX is based on the Impreza sedan. Its physical dimensions are similar to a Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla Altis, Mazda 3 and Hyundai Elantra.
However, to communicate the high-performance nature of the WRX brand, the obligatory bonnet scoop is not only highly functional but visible too. Both models share the same bumpers, with the rear bumper perfectly cut-away for two large exhaust mufflers, making a total of four tailpipes.
The WRX STI gets a large rear wing for added high-performance image.
2020 Subaru WRX Dimensions
Length
4,595 mm
Width
1,795 mm
Height
1,475 mm
Wheelbase
2,650 mm
As for lighting units, LED Headlight with DRL and Steering Responsive Headlights (SRH) are fitted to the WRX STI only. Both variants also have sunroof fitted as standard.
18-inch wheels are fitted to both the WRX and WRX STI, with later models having 19-inch wheels in the WRX STI.
Interior
SUBARU WRX – Interior
Dashboard
The dashboard originates from the Impreza sedan, with some changes to the trim to reflect the WRX sporting nature. At the top-centre of the dashboard is a multi-function display measuring 5.9 inches. The turbo boost is proudly displayed here, together with other driving information.
The chunky D-shaped steering wheel is nice to hold, as it is thick and feels high quality.
At the lower console, the WRX STI has the controls for the DCCD system and the dial for the SI-Drive drive mode selector. WRX drivers change their SI-Drive setting from the steering wheel.
Both variants come with aluminium plated foot pedals, but the WRX STI features full carbon fibre-looking inserts on the dashboard and door panels.
A STI or WRX emblem is fitted on the shift lever surround to create some differences between the two variants.
Instrument cluster
The simple-to-read instrument cluster retains the analogue needles for tachometer and speedometer. In between the two meters is a 3.5-inch multi-information display. The meters also perform the sweeping sequence during start-up for that added sportiness.
Similar to previous generation WRX STI models, this version, although only redlining at 6,700 rpm, exclusively includes a driver-customizable upshift light and beep feature.
Space and practicality
Being a C-segment sedan, the Impreza offers decent amounts of storage spaces at the door panels, lower console and armrest console box.
The boot space is rated at 450 litres for both variants. Transportation of long objects can be done by folding down the 60/40-split rear seatbacks.
Legroom and headroom are better than the Mazda 3 and higher hip point makes it feel more comfortable than the Honda Civic.
Features
SUBARU WRX – Features
Safety features
There are seven airbags in the Subaru WRX and WRX STI. There are no ADAS features, or Subaru calles it EyeSight, in both variants.
Both models also come with a rear view camera for parking.
Comfort features
Standard features across both variants are two-zone automatic air-conditioning, SI-Drive drive mode selector, rain-sensing automatic wipers, cruise control and a hand brake lever.
Both interiors feature large bolstered sports front seats but wrapped with different materials. On the WRX STI, it has red highlights and Ultrasuede material plus liberal use of red stitching on the door panels. The WRX just gets black leather upholstery.
Infotainment
The Subaru WRX gets a simple 2-DIN audio system with six-speaker and WRX STI gets display audio with a 7 inch display. Connections include USB and Bluetooth. It is quite basic in the WRX.
Powertrain
SUBARU WRX – Powertrain
Engine
The WRX is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer engine, producing 268 PS and 350 Nm of torque. It features direct injection for better response and power.
Meanwhile, the higher performance WRX STI is powered by a larger 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer engine with outputs of 300 PS and 407 Nm of torque. The STI engine features the characteristic intake manifold in red.
Both engines feature a top-mounted charge-air intercooler, with the scoop on the bonnet feeding cool air for maximum power and response.
Transmission
In the Subaru WRX, power is sent to a highly-tuned Sport Lineartronic CVT unit. It’s the first time a WRX is fitted with a CVT transmission. In manual mode, there is either a 6-speed or 8-speed to be used with the steering wheel paddle shifters.
Meanwhile, the higher performance WRX STI is only made with a six-speed manual transmission.
Chassis
Both variants have aluminium lower front arms paired with an inverted strut-type setup. The rear axle features a double-wishbone with lateral link pillow-ball joint bushing. Sports suspension is standard with the WRX STI featuring significantly firmer damping numbers.
Steering mechanisms are different, with the WRX STI requiring just 2.5 turns lock-to-lock and the WRX a little more at 2.7 turns.
Active Torque Vector (ATV), a function integrated with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), helps the WRX feel even sharper in the corners via selected braking of the inner wheels while cornering.
More powerful brakes are also fitted to the WRX STI, featuring 6-piston calipers from Brembo.
Drivetrain
Power goes to all four wheels via Subaru’s famed Symmetrical AWD. The torque split however differs between the two variants.
In the purebred high-performance WRX STI, it features a Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) system, allowing the driver to adjust the centre differential locking through one manual and three automatic modes. It can vary the torque split from 41/59 to 50/50 front/rear to suit the mood and conditions.

This high-tech AWD system also includes a limited slip differential (LSD) in the front and rear axle, making a triple-LSD set-up that is completely unique.
The more touring focused WRX meanwhile uses a Variable Torque Distribution setup in the centre differential. Under most conditions, the front/rear split is 45/55, with a 50/50 ratio when the road conditions deteriorate. There is also a viscous self-locking rear differential in the WRX for maximum traction out of corners.
Driving Performance
SUBARU WRX – Driving Performance
Engine performance
The Subaru WRX with CVT-type transmission is said to be able to hit the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in just 6.3 seconds. The higher performance WRX STI with a six-speed manual transmission meanwhile shaves over a second more, registering just 5.2 seconds to sprint from standstill to 100 km/h.
The 2.0-litre engine suffers from the low-speed turbo lag, all too familiar in WRX engines of yesteryears. However, once above 3,000 rpm, the engine revs smoothly to its redline.
As for the 2.5-litre engine in the WRX STI, the experience is very different due to the high levels of torque.
Transmission performance
While it looks totally disheartening on paper, Subaru seems to have calibrated the CVT to work really well with the WRX with 350 Nm of torque. In manual mode, the shifts feel natural, providing a sense of sportiness. In S-Sharp drive mode, the ratios are programmed even closer with 8 ratios.
However, at this price range, many cars would have a newer dual-clutch system that shifts faster as well as perceived to have better durability and strength versus CVT.
As for the six-speed manual transmission in the WRX STI, the shift action is disappointing, feeling rather imprecise. Apart from that, the engine needs to be dialled up relatively more to bite the clutch on first gear.
The WRX STI felt tiring to drive during traffic congestion, while the WRX surprisingly does “performance flavour” very well with a CVT.
Steering and handling
Both vehicles are legends in the steering and handling department. They turn-in sharply with the tail following without protest.
The stiff suspension setting in the WRX STI means it’s really difficult to feel comfortable on daily drives, but it shines when one brings it for drives in Sepang circuit.
Ride Comfort
SUBARU WRX – Ride Comfort
Soundproofing
Intrusion of tyre roar is similar to other Japanese vehicles in the segment, with the exhaust note more pronounced for that sporting feel.
Passenger comfort
The WRX STI with its stiff suspension setting is uncomfortable. It certainly feels dated given that the majority of its rivals have electronically controlled adaptive suspension systems.
As for the WRX, its sports tune but still rides harshly. Definitely softer than the STI but not by much. As a family sedan, occupants will definitely be unhappy if it is an outstation trip, unless they are also a bunch of motoring enthusiasts.
Fuel Consumption
SUBARU WRX – Fuel Economy
The WRX with the 2.0-litre engine with CVT is rated at 8.6 litres per 100 km (11.6 km/L). As for the WRX STI with the 2.5-litre engine, fuel economy is rated at 11.2 litres per 100 km (8.2 km/L).
Conclusion
SUBARU WRX – Conclusion
The WRX STI, while has a large engine with over 400 Nm of torque output, is still quite a demanding car to drive. It requires the driver’s full focus on the throttle, clutch and gear change controls. Some might call it ‘manly’, while others might label it ‘involving’.
The WRX is much more liveable, with relatively softer suspension and a pretty convincing CVT transmission. Unfortunately, the WRX is so focused on just going fast, without treating the driver or occupants with any toys.
The pair certainly feels dated given what the Honda Civic Type R and Volkswagen Golf GTI / R can deliver.

Fuel Type

Transmission

Manufacturers Claim

Petrol(1998cc)

CVT

8.6 L/100km

Petrol(2457cc)

10.4 L/100km

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Variants	2017 Subaru WRX WRX 2.0 CVT	2017 Subaru WRX WRX STI 2.5 MT
Rpm at Max torque	2400	4000

Variants	2017 Subaru WRX WRX 2.0 CVT	2017 Subaru WRX WRX STI 2.5 MT
Segment	C-Segment	C-Segment

Variants	2017 Subaru WRX WRX 2.0 CVT	2017 Subaru WRX WRX STI 2.5 MT
Steering	Rack and Pinion (Electric Power Steering)	Rack and Pinion (Hydraulic Power Steering)

2020 Subaru WRX Dimensions
Length	4,595 mm
Width	1,795 mm
Height	1,475 mm
Wheelbase	2,650 mm

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2004 Subaru Impreza WRX vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf R, Evolution of AWD Performance Cars

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SUBARU WRX – Overview

SUBARU WRX – Exterior

SUBARU WRX – Interior

Dashboard

Instrument cluster

Space and practicality

SUBARU WRX – Features

Safety features

Comfort features

Infotainment

SUBARU WRX – Powertrain

Engine

Transmission

Chassis

Drivetrain

SUBARU WRX – Driving Performance

Engine performance

Transmission performance

Steering and handling

SUBARU WRX – Ride Comfort

Soundproofing

Passenger comfort

SUBARU WRX – Fuel Economy

SUBARU WRX – Conclusion

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