VS
At a Glance
Power
255hp @ 4700
271hp @ 5600
Torque
295lb-ft @ 1600
258lb-ft @ 2000
Fuel
32 mpg est.
22 mpg est.
Engine
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the BMW 3 Series and the Subaru WRX is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The BMW 3 Series delivers 255hp @ 4700 while the Subaru WRX produces 271hp @ 5600. On fuel, the 3 Series returns 32 mpg est. while the WRX uses 22 mpg est. — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at $45,950 for the 3 Series and $44,995 for the WRX. Both vehicles have their merits. The right choice depends on your priorities: fuel economy, performance, towing ability, safety features or total cost of ownership. This comparison covers every specification available so you can make an informed decision.
Performance
Power Output (hp)
255hp @ 4700
271hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
295lb-ft @ 1600
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
2.0 L/122ci
2.4 L/146ci
Cylinders
4
4
Fuel Type
—
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
Turbocharged
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Manual
Number of Gears
8
6
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
32 mpg est.
22 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
28mpg
19mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
35mpg
26mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
15.6gal
16.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
185.7in
183.8in
Width (in)
71.9in
71.9in
Height (in)
56.8in
57.8in
Wheelbase (in)
112.5in
105.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3644lbs
3430lbs
Safety
ABS
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Brake Assist
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Stability Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Traction Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Driver Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Passenger Airbag
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Side Airbags Front
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Curtain Airbags
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Features & Tech
Air Conditioning
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Climate Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Adaptive Cruise Control
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Bluetooth
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Backup Camera
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Rear Parking Aid
✓ Standard
—
Sunroof
✓ Standard
—
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Subaru WRX
2 / 4 categories
Performance
WRX
Fuel Economy
3 Series
Value
WRX
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
BMW 3 Series
Better fuel economy (32 mpg est.)
Higher starting price
Subaru WRX
Lower starting price ($44,995)
Higher fuel consumption (22 mpg est.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is more fuel efficient, the 3 Series or WRX?
The 3 Series gets 32 mpg est. and the WRX gets 22 mpg est. on the combined cycle. The 3 Series is the more fuel-efficient choice. In real-world conditions with a mix of highway and urban driving, actual figures will be slightly higher.
Which has more power, the 3 Series or WRX?
The 3 Series produces 255hp @ 4700 and 295lb-ft @ 1600 of torque while the WRX delivers 271hp @ 5600 and 258lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. The WRX is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the 3 Series and WRX?
The 3 Series starts from $45,950 and the WRX from $44,995. The WRX is cheaper by $955 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the 3 Series or the WRX?
It depends on your priorities. If fuel economy matters most, check the mpg figures above. If you need towing capacity, compare the towing ratings. For day-to-day driving - commutes, school runs and highway trips - consider ground clearance, service network coverage, and total cost of ownership including insurance and maintenance. Use the spec tables above to compare every detail before making your decision.
Also Consider