Toyota GR Corolla vs Subaru WRX MT Comparison & 0-60 / Reality Check

[@milesclark6914]

Correction: The WRX does not have a Torsen center- it's a viscous LSD.

[@Realistick]

You’re definitely right!

[@rlscott1251]

and its does not cost 70k like gr:D

[@panderalexander]

Also WRX has no front and no rear LSD, just open

[@illyack5593]

Active Torque Vectoring

[@panderalexander]

@@illyack5593 yes it's what non-sports cars that don't have LSD have, it uses the brake pads haha, our minivan has it

[@ibrahimalghamdi94]

Both are great cars. The WRX has a larger engine running at a lower boost compared to the GR Corolla, and people are already getting impressive numbers from the FA24 engine with a simple tune. The GR is more hardcore than the WRX out of the factory, but considering how difficult it is to secure one, I think I would rather go with the WRX.

[@iamblamb501]

Toyota is supposedly ramping up production so maybe it won't be as hard to get in a little while. I picked one up without much hassle for MSRP.

[@ShaiyanHossain]

@@iamblamb501 that was for the circuit trim afaik, i just want the core with the performance package, but no luck. do you mind disclosing where you got yours from?

[@seveng86sg]

What dealership are selling GR corolla for msrp

[@LAdumpsterbaby]

@@seveng86sg none it’s bs. Core is marked up to 45k around me. Fa24 makes conservative 350whp with an intake and protune only….easy choice for me

[@iamblamb501]

@@ShaiyanHossain John Harvey in Louisiana. I also got a call from Granbury in Texas and they wanted to sell me one at MSRP as well.

[@abebibobub]

The Corolla would probably be fun on the track but the Subaru is hands down easier to live with. Plus it’s got loads of tuning potential that’s been proven already. Not to mention the price difference. All of that being said, good on Toyota for making a fun and capable Corolla.

[@fougetube]

Loving my WRX. Totally stock hardware, but with Drunkmann OTS 93 octane tune for $150. Putting down over 317 whp and 348 wtq. Faster than my old B8 S4 :)

[@aaromon43]

brother picked up a 22 wrx few months ago, it's an excellent car to drive. trunk is a dealbreaker though after living with a liftback the past 10+ years. will keep waiting for a GRC at msrp.

[@fullboost]

@@aaromon43 The Corolla has a tiny hatch area.

[@stevethomas760]

@@fullboost Yes, same footprint as my '05 WRX wagon/hatch, but smaller interior

[@anthonyi2221]

Sorry to burst the bubble, the gr Corolla is already proven.. the gr Yaris that has been in Europe the past couple years is the exact same engine and awd. 500 hp stock block capable.

[@noelsharp]

I wanted the GR Corolla but have some concerns about long term reliability. Pushing the smaller displacement engine to make high output should be fine if it’s not modded. Buying a “fully loaded” Premium WRX saved me $7K and the old school rawness of it is great fun. That said, I have a Lexus RC 350 that could get swapped out for a GR Corolla in the future. Also note, I am over 50 years old. Life is too short to drive boring cars! 🙂

[@pinnnkyton]

The old school rawness ? 😅 The new WRX has the same awd system as the outback lol 😅 the same steering from other models lol My 2018 STi base model felt “numb” , not at all “old school” My GRC feels like a modded 11:36 2005 STi 😅, as mechanical in the clutch/brakes/steering/suspension as my base model c6 targa vette . All my 2018 STi had over the GRC is it’s brakes and it’s ability to hold a line under hard braking . The GRC needs to approach with an oversteer attitude because if it slips under braking , it’s going straight … So best to flick it through turns , which is more fun than the STi’s approach Oh and doing an oil change in a car SHOULD NOT require removing 6 screws , 5 body clips , and having road debris dropped on your face to take a plastic shield off the bottom of your car 😅 FU Subaru Also the multimedia is better in GRC , interior materials were better in the STi , and the interior space was leaguessss better in the Subie

[@Align700nitro]

I think you are confused between the wrx and the discontinued sti.

[@johndodo2062]

So no back seat in the corolla? That alone might double the insurance cost. That's considered a roadster

[@johndodo2062]

​@Align700nitro it will come back. The most ridiculous thing is that they got rid of the manual in the wrx for 2024. That is the dumbest thing they could have done

[@pinnnkyton]

@@johndodo2062 not really , the wrx is not a car that needs a standard trans It’s like a sporty Volvo or something Real enthusiasts know the wrx have been shit since 2010

[@billisdewillis5]

The CAD list price for the base model here (that includes a the diffs and brakes and a couple other things) is $48,000 plus delivery etc. (if you can get it in the first place considering how few we are getting) The base WRX that I got was $31,000 plus delivery etc. The GR Corolla is nice and all but…

[@Realistick]

Agreed, Canada makes the difference far too large.

[@Kc-kr6qs]

Yea, I am in ontario and while my wrx was on order and i was waiting for it to show up, they released the corolla. I called my local Yota dealer just out of curiosity and they said all of ontario was only getting 70 to 80 cars, whereas you can go to a dealership and buy a wrx the next day. Sure in some aspects its a better car, but whats it matter if you can't actually get one

[@billisdewillis5]

@Kc - if you really want the GR Corolla in Ontario, call around, there seems to be a few available here and there out of the city centers. I have a dealer that has one for me if I want it. Will get more details but I am not sure it is worth the extra money. At least my trade value is top dollar, but it is still about $15,000 CAD on top of my trade. For that price I am also wondering if a 2022 Mustang GT with the track package (on sale for $51,000 CAD) is the better choice, or save some money and get the base GT (for $44,000 CAD)…hell, you can order a new Camaro LT1 with the 6.2L V8, Recaros and brembos for $49,000 CAD…lots of options at this price point. New Tesla 3SR+ or used 3LR AWD…

[@stefantakacs]

I'm on my dealer list for a CE GR. But, man I can get a WRX for under $40k CAD. The GR is in the mid $50k range. It's so basic for a 60k vehicle with taxes.

[@Kc-kr6qs]

@@stefantakacs literally why I bought a wrx.

[@regieds]

Was looking at these two cars, because I was ready to upgrade to a faster vehicle. Ended up going with the 22' WRX, due to availability and pricing 29.5k base model with STi shortshifter. The Corolla, I couldn't even find one available and the ones that I did find were getting marked up by 10-15k on top of the 35k MSRP for the Core model!

[@ericiidx]

These prices and markups... Good lord. I paid 31 out the door for a 2020 WRX with performance package, just before COVID and everything else hit the fan. Even back then, there were supply & demand issues, and the dealer had the upper hand. I feel like I've aged 30 years in the past 3. "Back in my day, gas was under a dollar a gallon!"

[@B0rnToSlay]

Props from a fellow Hoosier! I recently found your channel searching for CX-5 and Forrester videos, but I'm subscribing for the car enthusiast content. I love that, unlike many mainstream car reviewers, you go into detail about the differences in trim levels, that's so helpful to car buyers as researching trim level differences can be a pain

[@doodskie999]

In my preference, for the 7k you saved, you can upgrade the brakes and suspension which will make the WRX feel like a different car You can even buy a piggyback cobb tuner for $750 and have enough money for a decent exhaust. But I gotta admit, the GR corolla looks awesome

[@diallo1347]

The core trim GRC is selling used for 50k. A brand new Limited trim wrx os only 38k. That gives you about 12k to play with.

[@doodskie999]

@@diallo1347 woah talk about price gauging

[@panderalexander]

That's what I went with but it didn't work out, picked up a 23 WRX and after spending $5k on coilovers, sways, bushings, and 200tw, handling still wasn't great, it was good but not great especially compared to my husband's STI at the Willow Springs tracks. Our Subaru engineer friend was at the track event and we asked him and he let us know it's because the new WRX uses open front and open rear diff from the SUV/Crosstrek platform that just uses brake vectoring, where as the STI has front LSD, center DCCD, rear LSD. If the GR Corolla comes with all those then it'll probably handle much better.

[@blakerhodes5024]

the cobb access port is not a piggyback. its a tool to remap your ecu

[@HowTeq]

​@@diallo1347maybe in your area but im getting a circuit for msrp.

[@osielramirez7274]

I got the 22 WRX but probably would have gotten the GR if I was younger. Today, I need space for the occasional passenger and I've got two big doggos. Sure the WRX may be underpowered but I don't need more HP. It gives me joy on a empty street with a quick pull and has more aftermarket support to do a safari build after its paid completely paid off 😊

[@cartere9981]

They’re making 320-350 to all 4 wheels with pretty conservative tuning on ethanol that would make it a completely different beast

[@osielramirez7274]

@@cartere9981 Awesome, that aligns with this engine supposedly being a bit more tuner friendly. Might give it a tune after the warranty falls off 🙂

[@tripg8040]

@@osielramirez7274 have you looked into a JB4? It bypasses the ECU so no worry of voiding the warranty.

[@senseicorey9979]

I've been driving a modded 2002 wrx for the last 15 years. It's been an amazing car. Looking really really hard at these new ones

[@stevethomas760]

Owned a '02 WRX hatch for 17 years. Sold it and bought it's twin '05 to tide me over for the new WRX. Bought a GR. Love the WRX a lot of bang for the buck

[@davidcenciarini8866]

I owned a 1999 impreza gt. I wish they will release a similar one. I miss it.

[@sm0keyyy_]

I personally switched to the Toyota from an 05 STi. Always wanted a hatch STi and this is about as close as I could get. It’s a really great car.

[@k-dog7013]

This is the comparison I was looking for because I’m contemplating which of these to buy right now and drive on bumpy backroads, so thank you for this vid. I really want the GR because of how special it is, but I know the WRX is everything I actually need so I’ll probably end up with one.

[@johndodo2062]

Hope you made the right decision and got the subaru. If not, make sure you get the 2023. No manual in the 2024 model, which is so dumb

[@HAMMER-V100]

@@johndodo2062What do you mean?

[@doctorunicorn5550]

part of the reason the wrx's steering feels imprecise is because subaru intentionally leaves some slop in the steering column. perrin sells a part ("steering dampener lockdown") for about $90 that slots inside that locks all the bits together and removes the slop. i've had one in my impreza for the past 10000 miles with no issues. a lot of people online hype it up way too much, in my opinion. it's a subtle improvement: my car still has economy car electric power steering, but now the front wheels point exactly where i tell them to. it doesn't feel like a sports car, but it does feel like my old corolla, which was much better than the stock impreza.

[@AdamJayTechnoElectro]

Love my ‘22 Limited in Sapphire Blue. Cladding has helped in gnarly weather and we did a few days in a cabin in Nashville, IN with lots of gravel and old paved pebbly roads between Brown County and Bloomington. From the sounds of the wheel wells, I was happy to have the cladding on those swoopey turns. Just love this car. Taking highway 45 east of Unionville is highly addictive in a WRX.

[@jakethoover]

My GRC come in next week. I’m pretty stoked.

[@Realistick]

Congrats!

[@derrickspenhoff5904]

Drove a new WRX in both the CVT and the 6 speed. Great car, but wasn’t enough to make me want to trade my ‘11 hatch in. Would much rather build the hatch and have fun. Still was a great car. Drove a buddies GR, definitely a fun car. But for the price he and another friend paid because of the demand, I couldn’t justify buying the GR. It was really fun, don’t get me wrong. Just couldn’t personally justify it.

[@TheJines123]

Yeah I've driven a lot of these newer cars I have not driven a gr Corolla yet but I will have to say they do not compare to the experience that you get an older Subaru. I don't care what anybody says. I will say though the GR/GV chassis WRX and STI are the softener ones I still absolutely love that generation. I had a 2012 sti and I still think it's one of my favorites. None of these new cars have very good sounds even with an exhaust on them. They all have similar farty four-cylinder sounds for the most part. They just feel so neutered and lifeless. When you open the hood on these newer ones everything is just black plastic and it's just so sad. As a car guy that was part of the pride and joy of the car you had. Looking under the hood and showing everybody how cool looked was always the fun part but now you just open the hood to a bunch of black plastic and it's just not the same anymore. I will never buy one of these new cars personally because they lack the Enthusiast feel. Everything feels like it was purposely built for the masses instead of just for that group of enthusiasts. I really want to like the new gr Corolla because it has a new different engine in it but I still feel like it's going to be similar and how it feels compared to the other cars in the category. And that includes the new WRX. I know times have to change but that doesn't always make it a good thing.

[@MatteFlips]

Dead wrong on the outside looks, WRX is super sharp in person. Also lol at saying “I wish it had physical HVAC controls” literally seconds before hitting the physical HVAC controls 😂

[@hiyahandsome]

The joy on your face driving your GR Corolla says it all. Great review, Tyler.

[@Realistick]

Thanks, the gr makes for on-demand laughter

[@johnny.3693]

The joy of driving 1 ugly mofo !

[@thealperson3]

Even though there's no markups in Canada, the base price here of the GR Corolla is $15k more than a base WRX. Though the GR Corolla is the overall better vehicle, it is also essentially unobtainable, and the WRX is simply a better value

[@stefantakacs]

2024 pricing jumps the GRC base price close to $60k now. Going to cancel my pre-order, these are not worth that kind of $$$.

[@johndodo2062]

I wouldn't say it's the better vehicle. The mark up shows how asinine Toyota is now, even though the subaru destroys the corolla in overall utility and the awd is leagues ahead of the corolla. Also, a decent driver could get 5 flat to 60 in the subaru. I have one and I have eaten through over a foot of snow here in PA during a state of emergency with zero issues at all. The corolla may have awd, but everyone knows their system is inferior

[@johndodo2062]

​@stefantakacs they aren't even worth 40, let alone 60. That's so dishonest from Toyota, especially when they were bragging about keeping their prices low while other were price gouging. Pretty sure subaru is one of the only car companies that aren't actively screwing customers.

[@alengreen589]

you get more car and engine from Subaru for less money, i would go for the Subi.

[@Realistick]

The Subaru does make more sense for most and you do get physically more car, though the GR is no XSE, it outruns the WRX in basically all measurable ways!

[@alengreen589]

@@Realistick but i´m sure you can put a lot of more miles on the bigger Subi engine as on the tiny 3 Cyl. Corolla engine.

[@jabito17]

I don't think you'll have a hard time getting a WRX, because no one wants one. I'm glad people like you exist to guarantee the existence of clearly inferior competition. Any competition is good for the consumer.

[@deadly134]

Yeah and you get more reliability with Toyota..

[@Philbyyyy]

Subi looks ugly as hell with that rear parcel shelf and black cladding. Let me guess you want the CVT as well

[@stevethomas760]

Long term WRX owner here (21 years). Wanted to like the new WRX but couldn't not get past the overwhelming plastic. The GR could use some color in the interior and an armrest/console. For me the WRX interior was much more interesting. Bought a GR about a month ago, fun car. Solid review

[@LXIXBK]

I have a 22 myself I got over the plastic the first day. Super easy to live with as well as it is a unique design!

[@Philbyyyy]

No physical AC controls is quite annoying

[@CodyTheReactor]

It literally cost me 300$ to paint match…. 😂 hope you love that GR. But then again anyone paying 10k more for a GR because they can’t build deserves it. 💀

[@ChevyFtWss]

@@CodyTheReactor salty lol

[@Al-qn3sj]

@@LXIXBK I think the plastic cladding will also help slow down rust in northern climates

[@g_p_3431]

Love my 22 WRX. Best WRX ever made hands down and I’ve owned every gen released in the US so far including a VA STI. I respect Toyota for trying to back to their sporty roots with their GR line up and this Corolla is very impressive.

[@rookie_breaks]

I have a 22 WRX too. What’s better or worse than the VA STI for you?

[@r.ctravis3250]

@@rookie_breakshe engine is better than sti, that’s about it but it’s a big deal

[@DragonKnightX12]

@@rookie_breaks Kind of mix. The FA24 makes power so much easier than any EJ ever did, but you only get the basic Symmetrical AWD with no LSDs.

[@MandusahRamirez]

The New WRX is really starting to grow on me!❤️

[@oraclemiata845]

The looks are fine, but the performance is back of the pack.

[@diallo1347]

I love it. Plus, us normies don't have to over pay to get into one.

[@xtrekrex]

@@oraclemiata845 luckily an intake and tune will push it to 400whp/wtq.

[@theaman1676]

​@@oraclemiata845 more tunable than any of its competitors

[@NiquidFox]

@@theaman1676 99% of people are not going to tune a brand new car under warranty. If it can’t perform off the lot, it’s nothing more than a money pit at that point. I wouldn’t dare do any custom work to any vehicle with a warranty. Especially not Subaru’s given their known gasket/piston issues

[@StinkySundae]

I got an Elantra N and proud of it. GR Corolla markups outrageous

[@stevethomas760]

Here in the southeast, GR 5K over with some 10K (couple 15K). Got mine for MSRP +$1300 dealer add ons ($40.5K). Elantra N was high on my list

[@NiquidFox]

Good choice. That GR Corolla is priced about the same as the new GR Supra after dealership markups

[@Shabam4895]

One will last longer than the other

[@WitchYuki22]

​@Shabam4895 so you think it's worth paying 10k markup on a corolla when you could just have bought a supra instead Toyota fanboys are so delusional 😂😂

[@amcezm0n3y47]

your dorky banter and obvious joy of driving and explaining the specs got a like a sub from me. Good stuff my man.

[@sutats]

Great point on the unsporty pedal layout of the GR Corolla.

[@My3lilmonsters]

I like my wrx, I just wish the transmission was a bit more stout, especially the clutch. The brakes absolutely need an upgrade, I'll be straightforward, my 2006 ford focus stops better. Anyone have a recommendation for brake swap, I'd be down for caliper swap, but mainly looking at rotors and pads, anyone here know a straight brand that is already out with an upgrade?

[@30H13]

tires are going to make the difference not new pads or rotors.

[@longshanks5531]

What year is your Wrx

[@My3lilmonsters]

@@longshanks5531 2023

[@afanoflafear]

Would Toyota have been better of putting in a 4 cylinder engine instead of 3 inside the Corolla GR?

[@sharkeatinpizza]

Maybe, but the 3 cylinder is great, so no point spending the nights wondering

[@skatbone]

Missed the mark a bit with running costs. noteworthy is two years free oil changes with Toyota, also the WRX tires are actually wider but otherwise the same size so not sure how they’re cheaper to replace? Unless you’re just saying OEM vs OEM tire? As far as noise on the highway I have winter tires on my GRC right now and find it shockingly quiet at 75-80 mph. Quieter than the WRX I test drove for sure. Maybe the PS4’s are just really noisy. Overall I think the steering and brakes on the WRX are awful and a total dealbreaker, but at 31k it’s still a compelling car. The higher trims pushing 40k? Not a chance. Wait a year for a GRC if you have to, it’s worth it.

[@thesuspectguilty3319]

What are drift worth car that may or may not be daily drivers, the drive train and car type

[@bliglum]

3:51 Did you test the supposedly "useless" wireless charging without that big warning card thing in between?

[@Realistick]

warning card? you mean the sticker at the very end of the charger?😂

[@bliglum]

@@Realistick Looked like some sort of a thick cardboard thing in the vid. A sticker? That surely wouldn't make a diff.

[@Realistick]

@@bliglum Yes, only a sticker, it's unfortunate. I think it may work if you had a phone without a big camera bump (that way the charger is closer to whatever conductor is in the phone)

[@keefer88]

that toyota engine blows my mind. cant hate the boxer though

[@vdlion717]

Something to keep in mind... GR Corolla is nearly impossible to find and when you do, it will be 10k plus over msrp. Wrxs can be had for under invoice to be honest.

[@Realistick]

I talked about this pretty extensively in the video, those numbers are not what I found, and I actually considered buying both of these (bought the GR).

[@maximus9401]

GR Corolla is definitely more special. It was designed and tuned to a much higher level, and desirability is evident since so many people are paying over MSRP. Few thoughts as a 2021 and 2022 WRX owner: The WRX has the advantage of being available which is huge when making a purchase. Less dealership hassle, less waiting, and less negotiations needed. Parts availability will also be greater for the WRX than the GR. Aftermarket is insane. The engine is so under stressed because most likely it was intended to carry the STi model until they axed that idea. Can easily get 300-400 WHP with minimal hardware and a tune. Steering lacks feel which is huge letdown. It also feels bigger than the previous generation and less simple to use the interior. Brakes are bad. Offer no confidence and you have to absolutely stomp on it to stop in time. Overall, I'm ok with my purchase decision because this will likely be one of the last affordable manual AWD cars

[@jimmycline4778]

I could not drive that Corolla, I need a arm rest,,that would be so uncomfortable, I’m a delivery driver, I get a brand new Corolla SE every year and they do have arm rest,, I wrap the arm rest in plastic wrap so it stays new when I trade it in!

[@mistamaog]

Theoretically if both were easily available, I'd still go for the WRX. Yeah it has no LSD option, and could use better brakes, but it's more spacious, and adults can actually fit in the backseats.

[@stevethomas760]

The GRC is a small car

[@mistamaog]

@@stevethomas760 Exactly, too small to have adults in the back

[@NyrixDerg]

@@mistamaog Yes it's a tight back seat, but it also depends on both front and rear passenger height. Shorter front passengers move the seats forward giving rear occupants more leg room. Also how often do you truthfully have adult rear occupants in your car?

[@mistamaog]

@@NyrixDerg in my case, almost every weekend, and it's going to be more often in the future, if everything goes well haha But yeah maybe if my sister sat in front of me, I could fit, but I was sad to find out that I couldn't sit behind myself ☹️

[@WitchYuki22]

​@@NyrixDerg gr corolla is supposed to be a hot hatch that you can daily Actually with markups, you could just have bought a supra instead which will destroy that souped up corolla in the track and in the streets lmao

[@GeraldPUR]

How do you enable the adaptive cruse on the GR? 😅

[@andrewkolansky5348]

Nice review. I just wish there was an option to get a lsd and brembos on the wrx. I love the new vb engine. Steering feel is also a big drawback. It's still a great daily but leaves something to be desired.

[@stevethomas760]

There is an aftermarket armrest and you can wedge a compact spare in the GR. Spare was a big deal for me.

[@Realistick]

I’ve gotten used to no armrest but I’ll have to look into that, thanks

[@stevethomas760]

@@Realistick I miss the convenience of storage more than the armrest

[@tpphan665]

when will Honda put SH-AWD in the Civic Type R ?

[@devinmathis4548]

Can you compare the corolla and the mk8 gti?

[@jimmytovar2844]

How is the sound system on a GRC? I need a good sound system on my drives !

[@Realistick]

Not great! Id recommend going aftermarket if you want a nice sound system. The JBL is adequate at best.

[@jimmytovar2844]

@@Realistick thank you!

[@KelaBeats]

I just saw a stage 1 cobb tune with 0 other mods gives the wrx 300 whp. $800 for the accessport and you're still $20k less than the GR haha.

[@Realistick]

price difference is closer to $8-9k if you factor in 2k markup on a GR. A tune and light mods should make it just as quick in a straightline but it's still not the driver's car that the toyota is. That's what the STI used to be for and what the new TR is for (which is more expensive than the GR btw)

[@JhoanMiguel360]

Good job man Bloomington In 😎

[@italyonedaysoon3224]

Love the raw emotion in your reviews! Thank you for this comparison.

[@huckleberrymulberry4764]

Could you give some tips how you got your GR with a minimal markup?

[@Realistick]

I actually made a dedicated video on that! You can watch that but if you want a brief synopsis. Get on a local, large dealer’s list and then hop on cars.com and call as many dealers as you can. Most will already be sold or have a big markup but sometimes deals fall through (which happened with mine before i got it) and then you can jump in.

[@_-Ruki-_]

Thanks for this, I’d be interested to know how the gr corolla stacks up to the sti too

[@Realistick]

I’ll try to set that up the moment I can!

[@Reserved_Rogue]

there will be no sti for the new generation WRX.

[@blakerhodes5024]

2023 WRX Premium is like $35k with the STI catback. An ETS intake and custom tune for around $1200 gets you to about 330-340 awhp

[@ontarioman6301]

Has the rtv problems resolved b Subaru?

[@Realistick]

Not to my knowledge, though it doesn’t really cause any problems for a majority of people. The last gen WRX was pretty robust outside of early trans issues and other quirks.

[@fhblake04]

The WRX has a wide body over the Impreza. The wheels are likely made by Enkei as well. The biggest let down is the Recaro seats and the brakes. Which in a couple of years, with a facelift, I bet will be optional fixes in a package.

[@11jcmex11]

Idk about the brakes, but the gt trim (with cvt only) has Recaro seats

[@chrisvanzyl84]

Good review… i went with the WRX!

[@2drpeppersplz]

aren't subaru oem wheels enkei as well?

[@Realistick]

It's what I have been told but I can't find any evidence of it on the new one. Someone said I needed to take off the wheels to find the name, I was just trying to say that I liked the GR wheels more.

[@kristoferfc6525]

Love the GR, I'm sure it'll be a good car if I can get an allocation, absolutely impressed by the mileage

[@AndyDufresne4]

It’s crazy to see hundreds of STI’s for sale, all used, 2 years old, and people are asking over MSRP of the new GRC.

[@joecam7109]

Where’s all those STi’s for sale? 🤣😂🤣 seems to me most owners are hanging on to them as they do not devalue and those will forever be the last STi…at least with a internal combustion engine, rumble and everything that defined them.

[@Thechicagodave]

the issue i have is it is so much harder to get the GR anywhere near msrp

[@ManTheDan]

I don't get it... super unpopular opinion, but im obsessed with the new WRX look lol

[@lytlejj1408]

if subaru would use a DCT for the auto instead of CVT their sales would skyrocket, as well as redesign the block to be a closed block instead of an open design so that the engine won't warp and blow a gasket.

[@savethemanuals1597]

Great review. I feel that the gr is in a totally different league when it comes to performance. It's more of a track focus car. Not a big fan of the wrx's new looks. However I could see why people wouldn't like the looks of the gr Corolla. Good on Toyota for making such a sporty fun little vehicle. Something for Subaru should have done with the new model. The gr Corolla is the new Subaru WRX STI replacement , and some.

[@Caleb-he2du]

Ya sucks the 2022 WRX is so damn ugly

[@Al-qn3sj]

In today's market where there are a shortage of parts, making profitable car's which sell in volume is more important for small companies like Subaru. Most people are buying SUV's and CUV's that the market for an STi variant is too small to justify spending development dollars on when automakers are facing the transition to electrification. Enjoy these two cars while there are here because in the very near future you won't be getting any more manual transmission fun to drive cars.

[@johndodo2062]

Your feeling is incorrect sir. Official numbers are.... Wrx 0-60 in 5.3 second Gr 0-60 is 4.99 seconds. Add in the superior awd system in the subaru and there's no way your statement is even slightly accurate. Especially for 60k. It doesn't help that the gr had the typical videos corolla front end

[@johndodo2062]

I mean, if a 0 to 60 improvement of only .31 seconds is that impressive for you, you might want to go drive both. Maybe try them both on a snowy day

[@vlj1133]

Holy crap, I think you may have set a new world record for honest candor in this one. Your face when you did that dig on the GR, it was like watching a teenage Amish dude discovering what's what on his wedding night. Best GR vs WRX comparison review on the internet, by a country mile.

[@matthewwain9958]

Base Price difference: $5295. They are not competitors in the way they are built. At minimum the WRX needs better brakes to make it competive, and obviously the power bump (Which is easy, but warranty breaking). Bottom line, if you can get a GR Corolla, you should probably get that... or... a civic type r lol. You really should be getting only the base model CR though, you want at minimum the perf package. The GR is the better perf car right out the box. If you intend to track the GR you want to tackle the overheating issue. Styling is kinda... meh.. inside and outside on the WRX. Bear in mind I own a 2018 STI Limited.... but I still think the WRX interior is sub par. (Rear seat room SUCCCCCKS in the Corolla. Make sure you test it). There is zero, ZERO chance I would be paying over 40k for the GT. That's just batpoop crazy for what you get. May as well look at a Supra if you are looking in that price range. The GR is an STI competitor, not a WRX competitor. Just a shame they stopped blinkin' making them :( (Also: "oh my god". I'm sorry, you would think that you just were in a Tesla Plaid with that level of surprise. It's a 300bhp hot hatch, it's not a 'fast' car.). ... in short, this is like comparing and WRX to a WRX STI and trying to give an opinion where the WRX might be better... it isn't, ever. lol. The GR is the car to get if you can afford it out of the two :)

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Interesting. I never thought the GRC would be a rival of the regular WRX. I’ve always viewed the GRC as the STI rival, because for the last year+, I’ve been saying the GRC is literally an STI. Everything the GRC does, the STI has been doing for over 20yrs. Especially the ability to change the AWD diff’s…that’s an STI thing and has been for a long time. But now that the STI is not being built, I guess the only other competitor is the WRX. Considering how the GRC is already showing it’s issues on track, most likely due to it being highly tuned straight from the factory, as well as it’s insane price tag (for a Corolla people), I would have to go with the WRX on this one. Not a fan of the WRX either, but the price of the GRC alone is more than enough for me to never be interested…

[@xtrekrex]

The GRC is highly tuned yet the WRX is highly detuned. The VB is already an excellent platform to build off without the FA24DIT killing your wallet. Stock boost maxes out at 13.5 psi while the GRC is already pushing over 20 psi. The biggest weaknesses on the WRX in terms of performance are the brakes and transmission.

[@r.ctravis3250]

@@xtrekrexmagine sti has vb engine 🥶

[@stevestewart1509]

The subi is a better buy. For the price you paid you should have gotten a premium subi and still walk away with money in your pocket and a more practical car. The rev hand in the gr is going to annoy you if you are picky.

[@Realistick]

Subaru is a better value, but a worse car for what I wanted.

[@aaronfehler8816]

Whoa a car review form where I'm from.. heck yea

[@OleSevers]

There is noooo way that is $42k car. That is wild

[@Realistick]

If you consider inflation, that’s cheaper than the evo, which was also a bargain bin car with an awesome powertrain. I guess if you are expecting the usual 42k car interior then it’s bad but that misses the point.

[@bradleyclapper8378]

Spend $1800 on the Wrx rear bumper & I haven’t seen a new front end but sure it’s coming for the same price point. $4000 & you still spent less than the GR if looks are your only deciding factor. 🤷🏻‍♂️ However I do agree the GR looks better. All that black plastic is gross.

[@stevethomas760]

Wanted a WRX but I couldn't get past all of the plastic

[@kinosgarage]

Great video comparing the two models. My take: I daily a 22 WRX 6MT. I get about 24 city and 28 Hwy with a heavy foot (75-80 mph average Hwy speeds). I wish the car had a more responsive steering and a tad more power but it makes up for it with tons of grip and great visibility.

[@stevethomas760]

The GR has poor visibility. Well I think so anyway

[@illyack5593]

Get a steering damper for 80 bucks

[@matt2m]

Get an alignment I'm in the industry no new car comes from the factory properly aligned. Turn in improved drastically along with road manners. Also a drop it filter, a axel back exhaust and a carbon filter delete got me a full pound of boost more while keeping my warranty. I am a Subaru salesman and a former Toyota salesman. Service may be looking the other way on the carbon filter but it is extremely restrictive and the part replacement is cheap if you need to do a warranty claim.

[@mike63ful]

@@matt2mWhich drop in air filter do you recommend ? K&N ?

[@blakerhodes5024]

1 had a 2015 WRX premium, with an ets intake and protune i was getting 36 mpg highway at 280 hp to the wheels

[@facetiousmonkey5322]

The big “but” in all this? Resale value. If the GR is still hard to get in the next 4-5 years, than it may still be the better buy. Only at or around MSRP though

[@bz2384]

Are you related to teddy baldassarre?

[@Duuhvis]

I love my GR Corolla and same I got mine at a 3k markup mainly by luck though

[@overconstruction]

Subaru has been putting enkei wheels on the wrx for years. They stopped?

[@Realistick]

I didn’t see any enkei logos on the new ones so it seems that way unfortunately.

[@PandaP-]

It is most likely Enkei wheels The stock wheels resemble that of Enkei TD-5 and would be an insane coincidence if it isn’t made by Enkei

[@BahhJustaLamb]

After owning the new WRX I’ve found that clutch dump launches slow it down severely compared to previous WRXs. In the old cars, if you wanted a fast 0-60 you had to rev to 4500 and dump. In the new one, you have to progressively release the clutch. I’ve gotten 5.2 seconds this way, but I’m not the best launcher either 😂 Driving the new WRX quickly requires minimizing drivetrain shock. Once you get used to it, it’s a very potent car.

[@matt2m]

Thank you ive been a salesman for both brands and even though im with Subaru now the wrx is superior even if I was still with Toyota the Subaru wins. It has more headroom for mods. He is launching the car wrong 6500 miles in 3 months of ownership I'm speaking from experience. Ive driven both hard a former tech at Subaru has one and let me go hard on his GR.

[@cliffordhaines6495]

Ehhhh no arm rest .... No buy. If this was a daily driver it needs that.

[@akwurd]

Praying I get my hands on a GR in May.

[@Realistick]

Best of luck!

[@akwurd]

@@Realistick Thank you! LORD knows I will need all the luck I can get!

[@bonifaciomagdiwang1697]

I have got the 2022 Veloster N

[@jayczyzyk9707]

Nice reveiw but living with moving shifter in gear in the wrx is not fun

[@ViaticalTree]

Shifter stop. Easy install. Fixes the slop.

[@yzth3ory630]

The Sube looks beastly. If I couldn’t get a GR Corolla I’d 1000% pass on the WRTreX.

[@janoycresnova9156]

Can you do a comparison between WRX, GTI and Civic hatch or Integra? Corolla GR is cool but it's really unobtainable for most of us.

[@Realistick]

I will give it a shot, should have more press cars circulating here soon and the first one I really want is a Civic or Civic SI.

[@steve8803]

@Janoy Cresnova I just cross shopped all those vehicles and ended up purchasing the wrx back in December. I have had several Civic si's in the past and an integra gsr. This is my first awd car and I can honestly say I'll never go back to front wheel drive. The WRX is an absolute blast to drive in my climate where it's winter 6 months of the year.

[@janoycresnova9156]

@@Realistick thank you! Really curious how civic hatch stacks up with GTI. Is more power in GTI worth it the premium over the space and comfort of the civic hatch.

[@janoycresnova9156]

@@steve8803 Cool! I will likely be cross shopping them soon. Will take a look at WRX definitely. Just wish it came in a hatch.

[@steve8803]

​@@janoycresnova9156 Do yo want an auto transmission or manual?

[@mattmadden3716]

Ya there's no bias here. "Well I own the GR, but........"

[@Realistick]

I drove the WRX first and then bought the GR. Just because I can afford to make a decision between the two, does not imply bias. If I were to ignore the GR's flaws, different story.

[@27Zangle]

Time will tell how well the WRX handles tunes, etc.

[@SkylineLofe]

Already handles tunes well. The FA24 is well known for handling power as there's been a Crosstrek with that engine from I think 2019? that's been making like 500 whp all this time

[@px_gc8]

Gr corolla is very heavy for a small car 3,200lb+! My classic 98-01 impreza 2.5rs weight 2,800lb. After weight reduction it is down to 2,680lb

[@nolram5r288]

I would love to see the GR Corolla compared against the Kona N on the street

[@mark_845]

Gr Corolla would destroy it lol

[@WitchYuki22]

​@Mark Essa and it would also destroy your wallet too lmao Imagine paying 10k markup on a corolla lol you might as well just a supra 😂😂😂

[@dachanist]

In Ontario, the Gr Corolla is 38% more money on a cash purchase. The engine is a bored out version of the reliable FA20 and has less boost and a lower redline. Safe to assume the FA24dit is going to be a reliable engine in stock config. Hot hatches are popular but there's something useful about having a trunk. Maybe I'd be in the market for a 3banger with worse back seats and that gets 1/2 second better 1/4 mile, if I had 38% more money Who knows...

[@joscaro11]

I go for the WRX !!!! 🙌🏼

[@davothegreat9990]

Who cares

[@freddarau]

​@davo the great you do. considering you commented

[@CamApex9]

Currently have an Evo X and daily a 22' stick Impreza. Looking forward to upgrading to a base VB WRX one day for the daily :)

[@CodyTheReactor]

Once you paint the fender flares to match, you get attention everywhere. Great choice!! 👍

[@DennysD123]

Correction - WRX manual recommends 91 octane mid grade, not 93 octane premium gasoline.

[@ViaticalTree]

Is 91 considered mid? Where I live it’s 87, 89 (mid), and 93.

[@raymondhachmishvili2483]

best looking WRX to date, minus that rear bumper, the cladding are spot on. loved the new rex since day one

[@mogulmayhem]

the wrx has a better ride on crappy roads than the corolla? good to know, because my wrx would break my back and I'm a fit dude in my late 20s

[@karld4737]

I’m not a fan of 4 door hatchbacks personally. A 2 door hatchback like a 300zx or Supra can look awesome, but a on a wrx sti, gr Corolla, civic type r, or golf gti station wagon style is just not for me. I picked up a wrx premium a few weeks ago since I prefer the traditional sedan body style.

[@sm0keyyy_]

I might be in the minority here, but the infotainment kills the new WRX for me. Ended up buying a GR, and I can’t be happier. Upgraded from an 05 STi, it was time for an upgrade lol

[@mikimenendez]

By the way, congratulations, you really make amazing reviews and comparisons. You have become my favorite reviewer. Hope to see you soon hitting 1M subscribers!

[@Realistick]

Thank you!

[@gs98999]

Wrx starts at $25k in Canada converted to USA funds, but GR Corolla is $35k USD. Wonder why such a big gap, not that it matters since GR is not possible to buy anyways.

[@Realistick]

That’s insane, here they are much closer, especially if you’re buying a premium or limited wrx! In the US, you can buy them like I did, you just have to put in some real effort with your search. I hope Canada gets more for 24.

[@VsG52]

I love all of Japanese Cars . They deserve the leadership

[@oemj7147]

They will always be second.

[@VsG52]

@@oemj7147 what about you first one ?

[@VanCityDLLM]

I like both cars but there’s more availability with the wrx. However, I don’t like how Subaru castrated their “performance” models.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

Considering the GRC is a 1.6L 3cyl, and turbo (which should give the car more efficiency), it’s mpg’s are very bad. I get 25-27mpg’s city/38-42mpg’s hwy in my MK7 GTI 6spd, that also is FBO, IS38 turbo, and custom tuned, pushing almost 400whp and 420tq. This is coming from a bigger 2.0T 4cyl.

[@Realistick]

I get about 24 city, 29-31 in mixed driving and 32 if I am super easy on the highway. It easily beats its ratings so I am happy with its efficiency. I wouldn't compare a modified car to a stock car as a basis for poor mileage or performance though. The new GTI also blows the GR out of the water and runs regular, but that's FWD and geared much less aggressively.

[@JacesOwnWorld]

@@Realistick Okay, we’ll my MK7 GTI when it was stock, did 29 city and 42hwy. There’s the stock numbers for you to compare 🤣. You’re right. The GRC is more aggressive from the factory, BECAUSE IT HAS TO BE USING THAT WEAK LITTLE ENGINE lol. Throw the same amount of boost into any other hothatch, that the CTR is pushing from the factory, and the GTI, for example, is nearing 400hp lol

[@jabito17]

I'm coming from a stock mk7 GTI to a GRC, and the fuel economy isn't all that different. I got 27-28 mixed in the GTI across summer and winter and the GRC is like 23.5-24.5, but I think the economy will go up as it warms. Comparing the GR to the MK7, there are things I like about both. The GTI was definitely overall more comfortable, but the GRC is absolutely on a different planet in terms of performance and rawness. I did not think I would like the engine as much as I do. The GTI actually probably has better low and midrange punch, but the GRC has such a nice linear power band and it revs so freely. It really feels like the mix between a momentum car + AWD hot hatch. It really is good beyond the numbers.

[@ChazzyMcD]

That interior in the GR is blaaaaaand. That’s the problem with cars in this segment. You can’t get it all. Elantra N and Corolla are more track focused but you definitely lose the everyday abilities the wrx has. I really feel Subaru gets it right with the amount of performance and luxury you get for 30-37k

[@DragonKnightX12]

The real problem is the price hikes. This segment was supposed to be the ultimate bang for your buck performance. Now you got hot hatches for the same price as sports car.

[@dougmaverick4108]

Can you do a comparison video between the gr Corolla and the Volkswagen Golf R with a manual transmission? Is the ride quality bearable in the gr Corolla or does it get tiring after a while, does it beat you up at all?

[@Realistick]

Ive put 1500 miles on it 2 weeks and I’ve found it to be bearable, it’s firm but I think if you want a lot of performance, this is a reasonable car to live with. The noise level is more annoying to me than the ride quality but that too is liveable. I’ll definitely try to get the two together asap. Hopefully it will be a manual too!

[@dougmaverick4108]

Thanks. The reason I'm concerned about the ride quality is I purchased a Ford Focus RS without a test drive and it beat the crap out of me every time I drove it, and I had to sell it after only 8 months. I'm hoping the gr Corolla is far less firm than the Focus RS

[@joshuanickoloff2997]

I am 100% picking the gr Corolla

[@Rafflersauce]

Insurance on my 2017 Wrx with the highest for any vehicle I’ve ever paid in my 33 years

[@AustinSamuelF]

FYI- there’s WAY less back seat room in the GR if you plan to haul adults.

[@wild_lee_coyote]

I wish the GR Corolla had a better interior. It would make it more obvious. But it feels like the interior of a $20,000 car not an almost $50,000 one