VS
At a Glance
Power
311hp @ 6600
271hp @ 5600
Torque
280lb-ft @ 4800
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine
3.5 L/211cc
2.4 L/146cc
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. Pricing starts at $45,500 for the IS and $32,495 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)
311hp @ 6600
271hp @ 5600
Torque (lb-ft)
280lb-ft @ 4800
258lb-ft @ 2000
Engine & Drivetrain
Engine Capacity
3.5 L/211cc
2.4 L/146cc
Engine Layout
V
—
Cylinders
6
4
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Gasoline
Forced Induction Device
—
Turbocharged
Transmission
Automatic w/OD
Manual
Number of Gears
8
6
Drive Wheels
Rear Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Fuel Economy
Fuel Economy - City (mpg)
19 (Est)mpg
19mpg
Fuel Economy - Highway (mpg)
27 (Est)mpg
26mpg
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
3351lbs
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
—
Power Seat Adjustment
✓ Standard
—
Keyless Entry
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
Alloy Wheels
✓ Standard
✓ Standard
The Verdict
Which Wins?
Overall Winner
Subaru WRX
1 / 4 categories
Performance
Tied
Fuel Economy
Tied
Value
WRX
Practicality
Tied
Pros & Cons
Lexus IS
Well-rounded specification
Higher starting price
Subaru WRX
Lower starting price ($32,495)
Few notable weaknesses
Frequently Asked Questions
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. They produce similar power outputs.
What is the price difference between the IS and WRX?
The IS starts from $45,500 and the WRX from $32,495. The WRX is cheaper by $13,005 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