2016 Subaru WRX vs. Its Competition

2016 Subaru WRX image
Martin Padgett Martin Padgett Editorial Director

The Subaru WRX flogs its rally-ready hardware with the best of the compact-sport segment.

The Ford Focus and Mazda 3 are the two most interesting alternatives to the WRX; the Focus ST is a rorty blast to drive, bristling with edgy performance and styling, while the Mazda 3 has a flowing look and good road manners, though it doesn't yet have a new Mazdaspeed3 variant to battle the other high-performers.

There's also the new VW GTI, with its adult looks and excellent steering and ride quality, not to mention an upright cabin that manages to be both sporty and spacious.

While the WRX models have always been linked with the Mitsubishi Evolution, the Lancer-based all-wheel-drive sedan is taking its final bow in 2015.

2016 Subaru WRX image2016 Subaru WRX
Browse Used Listings		2016 Ford Focus image2016 Ford Focus
Browse Used Listings		2016 Mazda MAZDA3 image2016 Mazda MAZDA3
Browse Used Listings		2015 Mitsubishi Lancer image2015 Mitsubishi Lancer
Browse Used Listings
Quick Specs
8.0
The 2016 Subaru WRX and WRX STI lineup offers an all-wheel-drive rocket for just about any budget, and the latest updates help make these performance machines even more livable day to day.
8.4
From efficiency-minded models to the high-performance ST, the 2016 Ford Focus remains one of the best-driving small cars on the market.
8.4
The 2016 Mazda 3 is one of the best-driving and best-looking small cars, with a more premium feel than its (now even lower) price might suggest.
7.4
A lack of refinement and a poor interior will limit shoppers' interest in lower-trim Lancer models, but the Ralliart and Evolution cars both offer thrilling performance for any climate.
MSRP From   
$26,595$17,225$17,845$17,395
Gas Mileage   
17 MPG City / 27 MPG Hwy19 MPG City / 38 MPG Hwy25 MPG City / 41 MPG Hwy17 MPG City / 34 MPG Hwy
Engine   
Intercooled Turbo Premium Unleaded H-4Regular Unleaded I-4Regular Unleaded I-4Regular Unleaded I-4
EPA Class   
Compact CarsCompact CarsCompact CarsCompact Cars
Style Name   
4-Door Sedan Manual Premium4-Door Sedan S4-Door Sedan Manual i Sport4-Door Sedan Manual ES FWD
Drivetrain   
All Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel DriveFront Wheel Drive
Passenger Capacity   
5555
Passenger Doors   
N/AN/AN/AN/A
Body Style   
SedanSedanSedanSedan
Transmission   
Manual w/ODManual w/ODManual w/ODManual w/OD
Detailed Spec Comparison
 2016 Subaru WRX vs. 2016 Ford Focus2016 Subaru WRX vs. 2016 Mazda MAZDA32016 Subaru WRX vs. 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer