2022 Golf GTI vs. 2022 Subaru WRX

We can’t help but marvel at the Volkswagen Golf GTI for always ranking among the best in compact automobiles, and the 2022 model is no different. This hatchback is still one of the most all inclusive cars in its segment. Seating is cozy, handling is lively, and it provides ample space for passengers and cargo.

Above all, the 2022 Golf GTI is fun to drive. Inside, you’ll find an upscale, spacious, stylish setting. The infotainment system is user friendly, and the hatchback body style gives it a sportier look. For 2022, Volkswagen has packed this ride with more standard active safety features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI has increased in popularity as it upgraded the standard Volkswagen Golf while still retaining all of its fancied features. To truly see why drivers swear by the Golf GTI, we’ve found a worthy rival for comparison purposes.

In our 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs. 2022 Subaru WRX comparison, we’ll compare some key features so you can make the choice that’s right for you. 

Design

From the outside, you can already spot some differences. The Volkswagen Golf GTI is a hatchback and the Subaru WRX is a sedan. But the differences become more evident the closer you look. Since the Golf GTI is a hatchback, you might expect the interior to be more spacious, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI indeed has more cargo room than the Subaru WRX.

The Volkswagen Golf GTI boasts 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat and 34.5 cubic feet with the back seat folded down. The rear seat has a fold-down “ski door” in its center, handy for carrying skis or other long objects without having to fold down the rear seats.

Additional stash space, perfect for hiding valuables, is available under the cargo floor and is adjustable at two levels. Two large pockets can hold a half-gallon of water in the rear corners of the cargo area. Another cool feature is the large Volkswagen emblem on the liftgate which, when lifted, doubles as a latch to allow access to the cargo area.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Both the 2022 Golf GTI and 2022 WRX come with powertrains that deliver excellent performance. However, the Golf GTI’s 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine produces 13 pound-feet more torque (271 pound-feet vs. 258 pound-feet) than the WRX’s standard 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine.

Both rides come standard with a six-speed manual transmission. However, the products of their automatic transmissions are different. The Golf GTI has a quick-shift seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, while the WRX has an optional, continuously variable transmission.

If you’re also considering fuel economy, the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI is your best bet because of its state-of-the-art engine design. With a better fuel economy rating on the highway and in the city, the all-new Volkswagen Golf GTI will help you save a considerable amount of money at the gas station than the Subaru WRX. The Subaru WRX comes with standard all-wheel drive and needs premium fuel to run. These two elements have a detrimental effect on the fuel economy of the model. 

Driving Experience

Both cars deliver an enjoyable driving experience. However, the 2022 Subaru WRX doesn’t match the overall quality provided by the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI. Also, both vehicles feature lively handling and robust engines. Despite its front-wheel-drive transmission, the GTI delivers excellent handling. Steering is well-weighted, and the vehicle is enjoyable to drive. However, the Subaru WRX feels weaker and lacks drive mode settings to soften the ride or firm it up for a more lively drive.

The WRX also suffers from a good amount of road and wind noise compared to the Golf GTI. While the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI features sound-deadening technology, the Subaru WRX doesn’t, meaning every road trip has the possibility of being accompanied by excessive noise. 

Its interior of the WRX lacks the swanky features in the 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI. The GTI has one of the nicest interiors of any compact vehicle. The materials and design may have you mistaking this for a luxury car. The WRX has a nice interior but it doesn’t have the same stylish design of the Golf GTI. 

Tech Features

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI offers many comforts and tech features, including:

• A standard 10-inch touchscreen operated via touch-sensitive sliders.
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Integrated navigation system.
• Push-button start.
• Nine-speaker Harman Kardon sound system.
• Bluetooth connectivity.
• SiriusXM unlimited access.
• Proximity keyless entry.
• Heated front seats.

The Subaru WRX also comes standard with most of the highlighted features. However, The infotainment system isn’t as user friendly as the GTI’s, and it feels a bit dated in comparison. Additionally, WRX’s audio system isn’t as robust as the one in the Golf GTI. 

Safety

The Golf GTI also ensures that you’re well-protected on all your drives in San Juan Capistrano, California, with many driver assistance features to help prevent accidents while giving you greater awareness. Volkswagen’s available suite of driver-assist safety tech includes:

• Forward-collision warning.
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Adaptive suspension dampers.
• Automatic emergency braking.
• Adaptive cruise control.
• Volkswagen’s Travel Assist suite.
• Hands-on lane centering.

With these intelligent features and an advanced air bag system, the Golf GTI has been consistently recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the GTI a five-star overall and side-crash rating and four-star rollover and frontal-crash rating. The Subaru WRX offers several of the same feature but hasn’t received the same Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rating.

Warranty

If you’re shopping for warranties, the Golf GTI comes ahead again. You’ll be better off with the 2022 Golf GTI as it offers 72,000 miles and six years of engine and bumper-to-bumper protection. On the other hand, the Subaru WRX only offers 36,000 miles or three years of bumper-to-bumper protection. Its engine warranty offers protection for 60,000 miles or five years.

Volkswagen vehicles are known for their impressive quality, value, and innovative engineering. There’s so much to love about Volkswagen, and we’re excited to help you learn more! Your prudent decision to purchase a Volkswagen can be one of the best in your life if you choose Capistrano Volkswagen as your dealership. We’ve got an inventory of new Volkswagens and certified pre-owned cars that meet the highest reliability and quality standards, all at affordable prices. Don’t hesitate to contact us when you want to learn more about the auto services available for your Volkswagen, our monthly payment calculator, or getting pre-approved for auto financing.