2025 Audi A4 vs 2025 Subaru WRX
Comparison Overview
The most significant quantitative divergence between the 2025 Audi A4 and the 2025 Subaru WRX is the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), with the A4 commanding a $6,350 premium at $44,100 compared to the WRX's $37,750 base. Performance metrics are closely matched, although the WRX delivers slightly more peak power with 271 hp versus the A4's 261 hp, while the A4 counters with superior torque delivery at 273 lb-ft. Fuel economy represents another major split; the A4 achieves a 26 combined MPG, significantly better than the WRX's 22 combined MPG, saving operational costs despite the A4 requiring premium fuel. Dimensionally, the A4 is longer at 187.5 inches and offers slightly less cargo space at 12 cu ft versus the WRX's 12.5 cu ft. Both vehicles utilize standard All-Wheel Drive, but the A4 employs a 7-speed automated manual while the WRX sticks to a 6-speed manual.
Size Comparison
Performance
Fuel Efficiency
Full Specifications
Our Verdicts
2025 Audi A4
The Audi A4 is the winner for commuters due to its superior fuel efficiency, achieving 26 combined MPG versus the WRX's 22.
2025 Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX offers marginally more functional storage space with 12.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity compared to the A4's 12.0 cubic feet.
2025 Subaru WRX
Enthusiasts will favor the WRX for its driver-focused 6-speed manual transmission and higher peak horsepower rating of 271 hp.
2025 Subaru WRX
The Subaru WRX presents superior value by offering 271 horsepower for $6,350 less than the Audi A4's starting price.
Choose the Audi A4 if...
- Your priority is operational economy derived from better fuel efficiency, netting 26 combined MPG.
- You prefer the shifting convenience of a 7-speed automated manual transmission.
- You require the slightly higher torque output of 273 lb-ft for responsive everyday driving.
Choose the Subaru WRX if...
- You seek the highest power output, rated at 271 hp, in the most affordable package.
- A traditional, engaging driving experience via a 6-speed manual transmission is essential.
- You need slightly greater utility with 12.5 cu ft of cargo volume.
Key Dimensions
| Dimension | Audi A4 | Subaru WRX |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 187.5" | 183.8" |
| Width | 72.7" | 71.9" |
| Height | 56.2" | 57.8" |
| Wheelbase | 111.0" | 105.2" |
Features Comparison
Safety
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Lane Departure Warning | โ | โ |
| Lane Keeping Assist System | โ | โ |
| Pre-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Post-Collision Safety System | โ | โ |
| Dual Front Side-Mounted Airbags | โ | โ |
| Front Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Rear Head Airbags | โ | โ |
| Passenger Airbag Occupant Sensing Deactivation | โ | โ |
| Electronic Stability Control | โ | โ |
| Traction Control System | โ | โ |
| LATCH System | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Child Safety Locks | โ | โ |
| Anti-lock Brakes (ABS) | 4-Wheel | 4-Wheel |
| Front Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilated Disc Brakes | โ | โ |
| Brake Preparation System | โ | โ |
| Brake Assist | โ | โ |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring System | โ | โ |
| Automatic Headlights | โ | โ |
| Headlight Delay-Off | โ | โ |
| LED Headlights | โ | โ |
| Daytime Running Lights | โ | โ |
| Integrated Turn Signal Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Front Headrests | 2 | 2 |
| Front Multi-Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Headrests | 3 | 3 |
| Rear Height Adjustable Headrests | โ | โ |
| Rear Center 3-Point Seatbelt | โ | โ |
| Engine Immobilizer | โ | โ |
| Driver Attention Alert | โ | โ |
| Self-Leveling Headlights | โ | โ |
| Front Fog Lights | โ | โ |
| Anti-Theft Alarm System (Remote) | โ | โ |
Engine
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Base Engine Displacement | 2.0 L | 2.4 L |
| Number of Cylinders | inline 4 | flat 4 |
| Base Engine Type | mild hybrid | gas |
| Horsepower | 261 hp @ 6300 rpm | 271 hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 273 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm | 258 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm |
| Number of Valves | 16 | 16 |
| Camshaft Type | Double overhead cam (DOHC) | Double overhead cam (DOHC) |
| Variable Valve Timing | Variable | Variable |
| Fuel Injection Type | โ | โ |
Drive Train
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Transmission Type | 7-speed automated manual | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain Type | all wheel drive | all wheel drive |
| Center Differential Type | Limited Slip | Limited Slip |
Fuel
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | premium unleaded (required) | premium unleaded (recommended) |
| EPA Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 23/32 MPG | 19/26 MPG |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Combined) | 26 MPG | 22 MPG |
| EPA Driving Range (City/Highway) | 351.9/489.6 mi. | 315.4/431.6 mi. |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 15.3 gal. | 16.6 gal. |
Comfort & Convenience
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Push Button Start | โ | โ |
| Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Transmission Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Audio Controls on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Electric Power Steering | โ | โ |
| Rear View Camera | โ | โ |
| Front Parking Sensors | โ | โ |
| Rear Parking Sensors | โ | โ |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | โ | โ |
| Universal Remote Transmitter | โ | โ |
| Front Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Rear Cupholders | โ | โ |
| Front Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Rear Door Pockets | โ | โ |
| Front Seatback Storage | โ | โ |
| Leather Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Heated Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Three Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts with Fan Control | โ | โ |
| Interior Air Filtration | โ | โ |
| Sun Sensor | โ | โ |
| Dual Vanity Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror | โ | โ |
| Turn Signal Indicators in Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Cargo Floor Mats | โ | โ |
| Cruise Control on Steering Wheel | โ | โ |
| Dual Zone Climate Control | โ | โ |
| Rear Ventilation Ducts | โ | โ |
In Car Entertainment
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Infotainment Display | 10.1 in | 11.6 in |
| AM/FM Stereo | โ | โ |
| Stereo Power | 180W | โ |
| Speaker System | 10 | 6 |
| Subwoofer Count | 1 | โ |
| Android Auto (Wired) | โ | โ |
| Apple CarPlay (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| USB Port | โ | โ |
| Auxiliary Audio Input | โ | โ |
| USB Port with External Media Control | โ | โ |
| Memory Card Slot | โ | โ |
| Android Auto (Wireless) | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio | โ | โ |
| Satellite Radio Trial Length | โ | 4 months |
Power Feature
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| One-Touch Power Windows | 4 | 4 |
| Moonroof Type | 1st Row Power Glass | โ |
| Remote Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
| Heated Mirrors | โ | โ |
| Keyless Entry | โ | โ |
Frontseats
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Front Head Room | 37.3 in. | 39.8 in. |
| Front Leg Room | 41.3 in. | 43.1 in. |
| Front Shoulder Room | 55.9 in. | 56.7 in. |
| Seat Material: Leather | โ | โ |
| Front Seat Type: Sport | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | โ |
| Driver Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Lumbar Support | Power | โ |
| Passenger Seat Power Adjustments | 8-way | โ |
| Passenger Seat Height Adjustment | โ | โ |
| Passenger Seat Lumbar Support | Power | โ |
| Driver Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Passenger Seat Heating | Multi-level | Multi-level |
| Front Hip Room | โ | 54.1 in. |
| Seat Material: Premium Cloth | โ | โ |
| Driver Seat Manual Adjustments | โ | 6-way |
| Passenger Seat Manual Adjustments | โ | 4-way |
Rearseats
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Rear Head Room | 37.4 in. | 36.7 in. |
| Rear Leg Room | 35.7 in. | 36.5 in. |
| Rear Shoulder Room | 54.5 in. | 55.6 in. |
| Split-Folding Rear Seatback | โ | โ |
| Folding Rear Seat Feature | โ | โ |
| Pass-Thru Center Armrest | โ | โ |
| Rear Hip Room | โ | 49.3 in. |
| Folding Center Armrest | โ | โ |
Tires and Wheels
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Finish | Painted Alloy | Painted Alloy |
| Wheel Diameter | 18 in | โ |
| Tire Type | All Season | Performance |
| Tire Size | 245/40R H | 245/40R |
| Spare Tire Type | Temporary | โ |
| Spare Tire Location | Inside Mounted | โ |
| Wheel Size | โ | 18 x 8.5 in |
Suspension
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Four-Wheel Independent Suspension | โ | โ |
| Front Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
| Rear Stabilizer Bar | โ | โ |
Warranty
| Feature | Audi | Subaru |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
| Drivetrain Warranty | 4 yr./ 50000 mi. | 5 yr./ 60000 mi. |
| Corrosion/Rust Warranty | 12 yr./ unlimited mi. | 5 yr./ unlimited mi. |
| Roadside Assistance | 4 yr./ unlimited mi. | 3 yr./ 36000 mi. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about comparing the 2025 Audi A4 and 2025 Subaru WRX.
What is the primary difference in mechanical engagement between these two AWD sedans?
The most significant difference lies in the transmission setup; the 2025 Audi A4 uses a 7-speed automated manual, whereas the 2025 Subaru WRX exclusively offers a 6-speed manual transmission for a more direct driver connection.
How does the fuel cost impact the long-term ownership of the A4 versus the WRX?
The Audi A4 offers a substantial advantage by achieving 26 combined MPG, which is 4 MPG better than the WRX's 22 combined MPG, resulting in lower annual fuel expenditure despite both requiring premium fuel.
Which vehicle offers better immediate performance based on published metrics?
The Subaru WRX technically delivers 271 hp, topping the A4's 261 hp; however, the A4 pulls ahead in torque, producing 273 lb-ft against the WRX's 258 lb-ft.
Is the price difference of $6,350 justified by any key luxury or size advantages in the Audi A4?
The $6,350 price gap is not supported by obvious size advantages; the A4 is only 3.7 inches longer (187.5 inches vs 183.8 inches) and offers slightly less cargo space at 12.0 cu ft versus 12.5 cu ft.
Are both vehicles built for inclement weather driving?
Yes, both the 2025 Audi A4 and the 2025 Subaru WRX come standard with All-Wheel Drive (AWD) systems, providing enhanced traction capabilities.
How does the required fuel type differ between the two models?
The 2025 Audi A4 specifically mandates the use of premium unleaded fuel, whereas the 2025 Subaru WRX recommends premium unleaded, though the latter is often run on regular without explicit manufacturer instruction.
More Mid-Range Sedans ($30k-$50k)
View allVehicle Details
Compare More Vehicles
Use our interactive comparison tool to compare up to 4 vehicles at once
Open Comparison Tool