Lexus IS vs Subaru WRX
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Sedans compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Lexus IS
Price TBC
Sedan
Petrol
4GR-FSE 2.5-litre V6 D-4S dual injection
153kW
9.2 L/100km
5★ ANCAP
480L
Subaru WRX
From $48,190
Sedan
Petrol
Petrol
202kW
9.9 L/100km
ANCAP: no data
414L
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Price Breakdown
Pricing for one or both models is yet to be confirmed for the Australian market. We will update this comparison when official RRPs are announced.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems.
The Subaru WRX counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Harman Kardon audio that the Lexus IS does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus IS uses a 4GR-FSE 2.5-litre V6 D-4S dual injection producing 153kW and 252Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.1 seconds.
The Subaru WRX responds with a Petrol making 202kW and 350Nm, paired to a manual driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 6.4 seconds.
The Subaru WRX has the clear power advantage at 202kW vs 153kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru WRX is 1.7s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus IS measures 4,665mm long on a 2,800mm wheelbase, 5mm shorter than the Subaru WRX at 4,670mm (2,675mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Lexus IS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 480L in the Lexus IS and 414L in the Subaru WRX, giving the Lexus IS a 66L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.4m to 11.2m
Based on 10.4m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,622/year for the Lexus IS and $2,822/year for the Subaru WRX. That is a $200 annual difference in favour of the Lexus IS.
Estimated annual total: $2,622 (Lexus IS) vs $2,822 (Subaru WRX). The Lexus IS saves you roughly $200 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 4 years / 100,000km (Lexus IS) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru WRX). The Subaru WRX has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus IS if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru WRX if: You prioritise performance, value a longer warranty, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Subaru WRX takes 3 of 5 key spec categories. The Lexus IS will save you roughly $200 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Lexus IS has a clear edge. The Subaru WRX adds peace of mind with a longer 5-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Lexus IS and Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX is the cheapest at $48,190 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Lexus IS uses the least fuel at 9.2L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Lexus IS all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Lexus IS has the largest boot at 480L.
Which has the best warranty?
The Subaru WRX has the longest warranty at 5 years / Unlimited.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru WRX makes the most power at 202kW. The Subaru WRX is quickest to 100km/h in 6.4s.
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Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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