Which Subaru is the most sporty?
The Subaru WRX is widely regarded as the sportiest Subaru in modern production; the BRZ offers the pure-handling sports-car experience, while the performance-focused WRX STI was the brand’s pinnacle in earlier years but is no longer in production.
Subaru’s performance identity centers on all-wheel drive, turbocharged power, and chassis tuning rooted in rally heritage. This article breaks down what makes Subaru’s sporty models stand out and how to choose the one that fits your driving style.
Core sporty models in current lineup
These are the two main models people consider when evaluating Subaru's sporty credentials today, each bringing a different kind of performance emphasis.
- WRX sedan (2022–present): A turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-4 engine delivering about 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, standard all-wheel drive, and a choice of a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission. Its rally-inspired chassis, sharper exhaust note, and agile handling target a balance of speed and practicality.
- BRZ coupe (2022–present): A lightweight, rear-wheel-drive two-door designed for handling and balance, powered by a 2.4-liter flat-4 with around 228 hp and 184 lb-ft. The BRZ emphasizes steering feel, cornering poise, and driver engagement over straight-line speed.
In short, the WRX prioritizes speed and all-weather performance, while the BRZ focuses on nimble handling and a purist sports-car feel.
Historical high-performance flagship: WRX STI
For context, Subaru's most extreme performance model in recent history was the WRX STI. It offered around 300+ hp in various generations, with enhanced turbo power and upgraded suspension and brakes. Subaru discontinued the STI in the U.S. after the 2021 model year, making it a historical reference point rather than a current option.
- WRX STI (historical): The pinnacle performance variant of its era, featuring advanced all-wheel drive and a more aggressive chassis setup; not sold new today, but available on the used market for enthusiasts who want the legacy experience.
Today's lineup is anchored by the WRX and BRZ, with the STI serving as a benchmark from Subaru's rally heritage rather than a current production model.
Choosing based on your goals
To determine which model best fits your idea of “sporty,” consider what kind of driving you value most—straight-line speed, cornering prowess, or a pure sports-car feel.
- For strong all-around performance and daily usability: the WRX is your best bet, offering turbo power, AWD grip, and practical practicality.
- For a lightweight, driver-focused sports car with exceptional handling: the BRZ delivers the purest handling experience, with an emphasis on balance and feedback.
- If you’re chasing a historic high-performance badge and can source a well-maintained used model: look at the WRX STI, understanding it’s not a current-new option and maintenance may be higher.
Bottom line: In the current Subaru lineup, the WRX is generally considered the sportiest model by performance metrics, while the BRZ provides the most engaging pure-handling experience. The STI remains a beloved chapter of Subaru’s performance heritage rather than a current model.
Summary
Which Subaru is the most fun to drive?
Subaru Impreza: The Economical and Sporty Choice
Available in both sedan and hatchback versions, the Impreza offers a sporty feel, good fuel economy, and Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive. It's an ideal car for young professionals or small families looking for a reliable, fun-to-drive vehicle.
Does Subaru have a sporty model?
Subaru WRX and WRX STI
The sporty pair of rally-racing champions, both a new Subaru WRX (when equipped with Lineartronic CVT) and WRX STI come with Subaru SI-DRIVE.
Is the brz or WRX faster?
The WRX is faster in a straight line due to its turbocharged engine with more horsepower and torque, while the BRZ is faster around corners due to its lighter weight and rear-wheel-drive layout. The WRX's all-wheel-drive system gives it superior grip in slippery conditions, making it a more practical all-weather performance car, while the BRZ's RWD setup offers a more agile and fun-to-drive experience, especially on a technical track.
You can watch this video to see a direct comparison between the Subaru BRZ and WRX in a drag race: 35sEdmunds CarsYouTube · Jun 15, 2023
Subaru WRX
- Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L flat-four engine.
- Horsepower: 271 hp.
- Torque: 258 lb-ft.
- Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD).
- Performance: Faster acceleration in a straight line due to more power and torque. The AWD provides better all-weather traction and grip.
- Practicality: A four-door sedan with a larger back seat, making it more versatile.
Subaru BRZ
- Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine.
- Horsepower: 228 hp.
- Torque: 184 lb-ft.
- Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
- Performance: Slower in a straight line but can be faster around corners due to being significantly lighter, making it more nimble.
- Practicality: A two-door coupe with a smaller and less practical back seat.
This video compares the engine characteristics of the Subaru WRX and BRZ, highlighting the torque difference: 57sBen HardyYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
Which one is right for you?
- Choose the WRX if: You need a car that can handle all weather conditions, requires more practicality, and prioritizes straight-line speed.
- Choose the BRZ if: You are looking for a pure, lightweight sports car experience, prioritize cornering, and do not need all-wheel drive or a large back seat.
What is the sportiest Subaru?
The sportiest Subaru depends on your definition of "sporty": the WRX STI is the top performer for all-wheel-drive rally-inspired speed, while the BRZ is a rear-wheel-drive coupe prized for its handling and driver engagement. The WRX STI offers powerful turbocharged acceleration and legendary grip, while the BRZ provides a more traditional, lightweight sports car experience with precise handling.
This video compares the performance of the Subaru WRX and BRZ: 40sEdmunds CarsYouTube · Jun 15, 2023
For all-wheel-drive, rally-inspired performance
- Subaru WRX STI: Considered the pinnacle of Subaru's performance sedans, especially previous generations like the 2021 model. It features a high-output turbocharged engine, advanced all-wheel drive, and Brembo brakes.
- Subaru WRX TR: A current model that enhances the WRX with a focus on handling, including features like Brembo brakes, and removes the sunroof for a purist's experience.
For lightweight, rear-wheel-drive handling
- Subaru BRZ: A rear-wheel-drive coupe that is often called Subaru's sportiest car due to its focus on being a driver's car. It is lightweight and engineered for sharp handling, making it incredibly fun on a winding road.
- BRZ tS: The sportiest trim of the BRZ, it includes upgrades like Brembo brakes, an STI-tuned suspension, and chassis stiffening for even sharper performance.
You can watch this video to learn more about the Subaru BRZ: 1mMotorvision InternationalYouTube · Aug 9, 2025
How to choose
- Choose the WRX STI or WRX TR if you want the traditional Subaru performance that excels in all weather conditions with a turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive.
- Choose the BRZ if you prefer a traditional, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports coupe that is highly engaging to drive and excels on a track or a twisty road.
