The latest Subaru WRX is now available in South Africa, with the automatic version starting at a price of R859,000.
Similarly priced to the WRX is the BMW 3 Series – the most popular model line from the German manufacturer – with the 320i Sport Line coming in at R853,438.
We pit these two cars against one another to see how they compare in the world of sporty sedans.
Power
The WRX runs on a 2.4-litre, turbocharged engine to release a total of 202kW and 350Nm. Making use of a symmetrical four-wheel-drive system, in tandem with an eight-speed CVT transmission, the Subaru averages 8.5l/100km.
While not officially confirmed, the WRX has been shown to be able to reach 100km/h in roughly 5.5 seconds and go on to a top speed of 250km/h.
The BMW, in contrast, is powered by a 2.0-litre, turbo-petrol engine delivering 135kW and 300Nm.
Its rear wheels are connected to the drivetrain via an eight-speed automatic gearbox, which in addition to mild-hybrid technology, allows the BMW to manage a fairly economical 6.5l/100km.
Top speed for the 320i is listed at 235km/h, though its lower output means it has a slower acceleration time of 7.1 seconds.
Features
Buyers of the Subaru can expect standard features such as a suede upholstery, leather multifunction steering wheel, paddle shifters, keyless start and access, heated seats, climate control, a sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, automatic LED headlights, and a vertical 11.6-inch infotainment system with as many as 10 speakers as well as support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The top-spec automatic version additionally comes with a driver assist package which includes an intelligent speed limiter, pre-collision braking system, auto-emergency steering, lane departure prevention, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition.
Moving to the 3 Series, the standard trim consists of a leather multifunction steering wheel, paddle shifters, artificial leather sports seats, keyless start, climate control, rain-sensing wipers, dusk-sensing LED headlamps, and a 10.25-inch infotainment unit with smartphone pairing.
Furthermore, owners can make use of drivers’ aids such as front collision warning, lane departure warning, speed limit assist, and cruise control.
Pricing
The Subaru WRX 2.4DIT tS ES CVT has a South African starting price of R859,000.
This includes a 5-year/150,000km warranty and a 3-year/75,000km maintenance plan.
The BMW 320i Sport Line has a South African starting price of R853,438.
Each purchase comes with a 5-year/100,000km BMW Motorplan.
Subaru WRX
BMW 320i
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