Subaru WRX tS vs Toyota GR Corolla: Back-to-Back Test of Japan’s AWD Performance Rivals
- Marc Gonzalez
- 5 days ago
- 5 min read
The performance rivalry between Subaru and Toyota is legendary. Subaru has championed the WRX for over thirty years, while Toyota is now promoting the GR Corolla, its current flagship performance car in North America. To settle the score, we drove these two contenders back-to-back. Here's how they stack up: the Subaru WRX tS, priced at $47,995, was built at the Gunma, JPN, plant, and the Toyota GR Corolla Premium AT, priced at $58,992, was built in Aichi, JPN.
We were eager to get behind the wheel of a manual Subaru WRX, having found the CVT version underwhelming. While the WRX tS is not a full STi, it represents Subaru's compromise: a model tuned by STi to inject more zest for enthusiasts. As for Toyota, the world's largest automaker only had two performance offerings in North America: the collaborative Toyota 86 (shared with Subaru as the BRZ) and the soon-to-be-discontinued Supra. This left a huge gap, which the GR Corolla finally filled when it was launched in 2022, generating immense excitement for a new, modern hot hatch.
The Subaru WRX exhibits minimal changes since our initial drive of this generation. It retains a notably aggressive front and rear aesthetic, characterized by extensive plastic body cladding and a signature quad-exhaust system. The tS trim builds upon this with exclusive external features, including lightweight 19-inch aluminum wheels, Brembo brakes, and distinctive red front and rear badges. The Toyota GR Corolla evolves from the standard Corolla hatchback, with Gazoo Racing implementing a range of performance-focused modifications. The exterior receives a revised, larger front bumper designed to enhance engine air intake, improve downforce, and provide additional brake cooling. Notably, the hood scoops are fully functional. To accommodate wider 18-inch wheels, the car features a slightly broader stance. GR badges are present on all four sides, and side skirts carry the "GR-FOUR" designation, signalling its all-wheel-drive configuration.
Moving to the interior, the WRX and GR Corolla share significant commonality with their base models, a strategy used to manage costs.
Inside the GR Corolla, elements like the central infotainment screen, wireless charger, climate controls, window switches, and air vents remained. The primary upgrades include heated sport seats with leather and suede upholstery, which are large enough to necessitate the removal of the center armrest, and a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster. This display prioritizes performance data like a boost gauge and G-meter alongside a prominent tachometer, and it changes layout in Track mode. Our test model included an 8-speaker JBL audio system, which is only available on the top trim. Apart from these features, the cabin remains nearly identical to that of a standard Corolla. You can check out our review of the Corolla Hybrid for more details.
Inside the Subaru WRX tS, the cabin is nearly identical to its standard counterpart, with the key distinctions being blue interior accents specific to the tS package and an updated digital gauge cluster. The control layout, including the large, upright 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the steering wheel, and window switches, is consistent with the model we tested before. It is also equipped with an 11-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system, which includes a subwoofer and amplifier. This audio system is superior in sound quality to the JBL system found in the GR Corolla.
In terms of ergonomics and cargo space, both vehicles offer seating for five passengers and practical luggage capacity. The WRX tS is equipped with Recaro front seats, while the rear bench accommodates three passengers and includes ISOFIX ports and top tether anchors near the rear window. The cabin offers slightly more room, and the two front and two outer rear seats are heated. A noted limitation is the trunk space, which is rated at 354 litres, sufficient for daily needs, though not class-leading. The GR Corolla features sport front seats upholstered in a combination of leather and suede, with GR embroidery on the headrests. The rear seating area is more compact but still fits three across, with no basic amenities aside from cupholders. ISOFIX ports and rear anchors are also present for child seats. Given its hatchback design, the GR Corolla holds a clear advantage in cargo capacity, offering 503 litres of space.
We now reach the core focus of this comparison: performance and driving dynamics. Beginning with the Toyota GR Corolla, it uses a 1.6L turbocharged three-cylinder engine, designated the G16E-GTS, rated at 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GR-FOUR all-wheel-drive system manages this power. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual, available on both the Core and Premium trims, or an eight-speed automatic offered exclusively on the Premium model. Additional performance features contributing to its capability include front and rear limited-slip differentials, a sport-tuned suspension, a forged carbon-fibre roof, auxiliary cooling via a sub-radiator, four-piston front and two-piston rear brakes, and red GR-branded callipers. This equipment collectively explains the vehicle's higher price point. Turning to the Subaru WRX tS, it does not feature an increase in power, retaining the standard WRX's 2.4L turbocharged boxer-four engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Output remains at 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, which, while competitive, leaves room for improvement. All WRX models come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical full-time all-wheel-drive system. The tS trim distinguishes itself with upgrades such as Brembo brakes, a manual handbrake, and a performance-tuned suspension featuring adaptive electronic dampers.
In terms of driving dynamics, the Toyota GR Corolla and Subaru WRX tS offer distinct experiences. Focusing on the GR Corolla, its engine note is immediately distinctive. While the three-cylinder design has faced scrutiny regarding thermal management, the engineering focus on this vehicle is evident. Acceleration is linear and fast, and in Track mode, the car demonstrates remarkable stability, aided by the substantial grip of the Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. This grip translates to exceptional composure through high-speed corners on both dry and wet surfaces. While the six-speed manual is the enthusiast's preferred transmission for maximum engagement, the available eight-speed automatic offers a practical alternative for drivers who prioritize daily usability. The GR Corolla's character leans more towards balanced steering and agile handling than outright straight-line speed, a trade-off that many enthusiasts appreciate. Its braking performance is also noteworthy, offering consistent stopping power without perceptible fade.
The Subaru WRX tS benefits from a manual transmission, which adds a welcome layer of engagement absent from the automatic version we previously tested. However, its character still feels like an incremental step rather than a full successor to the STI lineage. Crucially, there is no increase in engine power over the standard WRX, so its straight-line acceleration remains unchanged. That said, the clutch is user-friendly, and gear changes in the lower ratios are smooth and responsive during everyday driving. The addition of Brembo brakes, a performance-tuned suspension, and adaptive dampers effectively reduces body roll and enhances maneuverability. As an accessible performance sedan, the WRX continues to offer reassuring grip and predictable handling. Its engineering aims at track readiness, but it feels conservative compared to the more dedicated performance of its rival. This represents a shift for Subaru, a former benchmark in this category.
In a competitive market, the new contender must make a strong impression, and the Toyota GR Corolla has achieved this. The Subaru WRX tS remains a capable vehicle, but the manual GR Corolla, priced approximately a thousand dollars higher, offers superior performance and engagement in nearly every area. While the GR Corolla is the more performance-oriented option, it carries a premium price tag of $60,000. The WRX delivers solid enjoyment in the $40,000–$45,000 range, but the GR Corolla is the definitive choice for enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision comes down to budget: how much are you willing to invest in a practical yet spirited Japanese performance car?
