Mazda 6 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.
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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 Mazda 6 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mazda 6 lines up producing 140kW and 252Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed automatic to a FWD layout.
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 140kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mazda 6 measures 4,865mm long on a 2,830mm wheelbase, 195mm longer than the Subaru WRX at 4,670mm (2,675mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mazda 6 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 474L in the Mazda 6 and 414L in the Subaru WRX, giving the Mazda 6 a 60L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.2m diameter
Average
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
Interactive simulator — U-turns, parking & towing
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns are easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
Average
Needs a 3-point turn (one reverse)
Needs about 9.8 m to swing round without stopping. Road is 9.0 m.
U-turn on a wide street
≥ 10 m — clears in one
U-turn on a standard street
7 m — 3-point turn
Standard parking bay
1.8 m wide — fits with room
Tight carpark aisle
6 m — swings in
Narrow laneway
3.5 m — no room to turn
Turning circle ratings
Standard widths: AU local streets carry ~5.5–7 m of carriageway; main roads ~9–12 m. AS 2890.1 carpark aisles are ~5.8–6.6 m for 90° bays (2.6 m wide × 5.4 m deep).
Road, aisle, swing and off-tracking figures are indicative estimates from the published turning circle. Verify in person before relying on them.
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,995/year for the Mazda 6 and $2,822/year for the Subaru WRX. That is a $827 annual difference in favour of the Mazda 6.
Estimated annual total: $1,995 (Mazda 6) vs $2,822 (Subaru WRX). The Mazda 6 saves you roughly $827 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mazda 6) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru WRX). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mazda 6 if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Mazda's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru WRX if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Mazda 6 takes 3 of 4 key spec categories. The Mazda 6 will save you roughly $827 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mazda 6 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mazda 6 and Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX is the cheapest at $48,190 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mazda 6 uses the least fuel at 7L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Mazda 6 and Subaru WRX carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mazda 6 has the largest boot at 474L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mazda 6 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Subaru WRX makes the most power at 202kW.
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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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