
The sole all-wheel competition for the Subaru STI is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, or Evo.
It's a sharper, edgier drive than the STI, notable especially for its superb Twin Clutch automatic manual gearbox.
In most circumstances, though, the extra refinement of the STI is more than welcome--drivers won't end up feeling so ragged after longer journeys where the performance can't actually be used.
Moving down one notch, the WRX competes with the Mitsubishi Ralliart, though the WRX is both faster and much more pleasant inside.
Other competitors, like the Mazda MazdaSpeed3, have to make do with front-wheel drive--and the same applies to the Volkswagen GTI as well.
Both of those vehicles are only offered as five-door hatchbacks; the GTI wins on refinement, the MazdaSpeed3 for sheer fun.
Other, less likely alternatives include the performances versions of the Nissan Sentra (the SE-R Spec.V) and the Honda Civic (Si), all new for 2012.
They're not turbocharged, and return far better fuel economy than the rather thirsty Subarus.
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Quick Specs | ||
Both the 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX and STI are fun, quick, and tractable in any driving situation; they're large enough for a family, remarkably practical, and their only downsides are the lack of an automatic and lousy fuel economy. |
With its new Skyactive powertrains, the 2012 Mazda3 is the eco-conscious choice that sure doesn't drive like one. |
The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer family has a little more panache than most compacts, but it's missing some of the finer details. |
MSRP From | ||
$25,595 | $15,200 | $15,695 |
Gas Mileage | ||
17 MPG City / 25 MPG Hwy | 18 MPG City / 40 MPG Hwy | 17 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy |
Engine | ||
Turbocharged Gas Flat 4 | Gas I4 | Gas I4 |
EPA Class | ||
Sub-Compact | Compact | Compact |
Style Name | ||
4-Door Manual WRX | 4-Door Sedan Manual i SV | 4-Door Sedan Manual ES FWD |
Drivetrain | ||
All Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive | Front Wheel Drive |
Passenger Capacity | ||
5 | 5 | 5 |
Passenger Doors | ||
N/A | N/A | N/A |
Body Style | ||
Sedan | 4 Door Sedan | 4 Door Sedan |
Transmission | ||
Manual | Manual | Manual |
Detailed Spec Comparison | ||
2012 Subaru WRX vs. 2012 Mazda MAZDA3 | 2012 Subaru WRX vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer |