VS
At a Glance
Power
311hp @ 6600
271hp @ 5600
Torque
280lb-ft @ 4800
258lb-ft @ 2000
Fuel
23 mpg est.
22 mpg est.
Engine
3.5 L/211ci
2.4 L/146ci
Choosing between the Lexus IS and the Subaru WRX is one of the most common decisions car buyers in the United States face. The Lexus IS delivers 311hp @ 6600 while the Subaru WRX produces 271hp @ 5600. On fuel, the IS returns 23 mpg est. while the WRX uses 22 mpg est. — important in a market where fuel prices change monthly. Pricing starts at $45,500 for the IS 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.
Specification
Lexus ISIS 350 F SPORT Design RWD 2026 - From $45,500
Subaru WRXGT CVT 2026 - From $44,995
Performance
Power Output (hp)
311hp @ 6600
271hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 4800
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/211ci
2.4 L/146ci
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Automatic
Number of Gears
8
—
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy (Combined, est.)
23 mpg est.
22 mpg est.
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19 (Est)mpg
18mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27 (Est)mpg
25mpg
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal)
17.4gal
16.6gal
Dimensions
Length (in)
185.4in
183.8in
Width (in)
72.4in
71.9in
Height (in)
56.5in
57.8in
Wheelbase (in)
110.2in
105.2in
Curb Weight (lbs)
3913lbs
3560lbs
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
✓ Standard
Heated Seats
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Lexus IS
2 / 4 categories
Performance
IS
Fuel Economy
IS
Value
WRX
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Lexus IS
Better fuel economy (23 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 IS or WRX?
The IS gets 23 mpg est. and the WRX gets 22 mpg est. on the combined cycle. The IS 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 IS or WRX?
The IS produces 311hp @ 6600 and 280lb-ft @ 4800 of torque while the WRX delivers 271hp @ 5600 and 258lb-ft @ 2000 of torque. The IS is the more powerful option.
What is the price difference between the IS and WRX?
The IS starts from $45,500 and the WRX from $44,995. The WRX is cheaper by $505 at this variant level. Final on-the-road pricing varies by dealer and specification.
Should I buy the IS 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