2019 Honda Civic Type R vs. Subaru WRX STI: Which One Should I Buy?

If you are looking for a sporty car, you might wonder what the differences are between the 2019 Honda Civic Type R vs. Subaru WRX. Our Type R-WRX STI comparison seeks to answer your rubber-burning questions. We will evaluate the Subaru WRX STI and Civic Type R, both for sale in Colorado, based on pricing, design, performance, features, and more.

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Pricing: Which One is More Affordable?

Both the Honda and WRX are comparable in pricing. When these models were brand new, the Honda Civic Type R featured an MSRP of $37,255, while the Subaru WRX STI was listed for $37,480. Even from the used car front, both the Subaru and Type R feature a comparable price.

Packages & Configurations: Which One Has More Variety?

As you look at the STI vs. Type R, you will see a variety of options available. The 2019 Honda Civic Type R only comes in this trim level, as part of the regular Civic lineup. However, the 2019 Subaru WRX STI is available as a base or Limited model, offering more options.

Design & Appearance: Which One Has More Eye-Catching Appeal?

Both the Honda Civic and WRX received some exterior styling updates for the 2019 model year. The Honda model added a new blue-gray exterior paint color, which further showcases the sporty appeal. In comparison, the Subaru also offered a new Gray model and some limited-edition variants. The WRX has some exclusive badging, black 19-inch wheels, silver brake calipers, and folding exterior mirrors that further set it apart.

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Interior Features & Comfort: Which One Has a Better Interior?

The 2019 Honda Civic Type R has a seven-inch digital gauge cluster with a red theme. It ties with the WRX STI for cargo capacity, which is more than many of the rivals. Additionally, the WRX STI features red seatbelts, red accents, a 5.9-inch color infotainment screen, and some optional advanced amenities.

Performance & Powertrain: Which One is Faster? More Thrilling?

The most important aspect between the Civic Type R vs. STI is the engine. The 2019 Honda Civic Type R features a turbo-four engine that pumps out 306 horsepower. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission. In comparison, the WRX STI has a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine that outputs 310 horsepower, combined with a six-speed manual transmission. As you can see, both provide superior performance, making it difficult to decide whether the WRX STI or Type R is the better option.

Off-Roading & Weather Conditions: Which One is More Versatile?

When deciding which car is best off-road between the Subaru WRX or Honda Type R, many enthusiasts agree that the WRX STI outperforms the Civic Type R. The WRX STI comes standard with Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Subaru's AWD platform is geared toward handling a variety of road terrain in Colorado.

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Safety & Crash Avoidance: Which One is Safer?

There haven't been safety ratings offered for either the Civic Type R or Subaru WRX. With many rally cars, national safety tests aren't normally performed as they make the vehicles lighter. For this reason, the Type R skips over driver features for performance. However, the WRX STI does offer available rear cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitoring, which is still far less than what is provided on a standard vehicle. It would be safe to compare the safety of the Civic Type R to Civic Hatchback safety ratings, as well as looking at Subaru WRX safety ratings when wondering just how safe the WRX STI will be.

Civic Type R or Subaru WRX: Which One is the Better Buy?

As we look at the 2019 Honda Civic Type R vs. Subaru WRX STI, you can evaluate the winner based on four main criteria.

Affordability (Tie): Both of these cars feature similar pricing, making it a toss-up between the two if you are looking to stick to a budget. Additionally, they both retain their value well, creating a good investment either way.

Performance (Subaru WRX STI): By a minimal margin, the Subaru model provides slightly more power. Besides, it comes standard with all-wheel-drive as well.

Design (Honda Civic Type R): Both of these sports cars have a unique design, making it impossible to choose a winner for someone else. Your personal preferences will dictate which one is the winner. We personally like the Type R design as it flaunts much sharper curves and a break-the-mold exterior shape unlike any other hatchback on the road.

Overall (Subaru WRX STI): By a small lead, we are almost forced to choose the 2019 Subaru WRX STI model as the winner. It offers some additional safety features, a small amount more power, and comes with all-wheel-drive, making it the ideal overall option between the two.

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