Mitsubishi Lancer 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 Mitsubishi Lancer does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mitsubishi Lancer lines up producing 125kW and 226Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a front-wheel drive 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 125kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mitsubishi Lancer measures 4,625mm long on a 2,635mm wheelbase, 45mm shorter than the Subaru WRX at 4,670mm (2,675mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Subaru WRX generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 377L in the Mitsubishi Lancer and 414L in the Subaru WRX, giving the Subaru WRX a 37L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.0m to 11.2m
Based on 10.0m 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 $2,423/year for the Mitsubishi Lancer and $2,822/year for the Subaru WRX. That is a $399 annual difference in favour of the Mitsubishi Lancer.
Estimated annual total: $2,423 (Mitsubishi Lancer) vs $2,822 (Subaru WRX). The Mitsubishi Lancer saves you roughly $399 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 100,000km (Mitsubishi Lancer) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru WRX). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mitsubishi Lancer if: You want lower running costs, or prefer Mitsubishi's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Subaru WRX if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Subaru's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Mitsubishi Lancer and Subaru WRX trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Mitsubishi Lancer will save you roughly $399 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Subaru WRX 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, Mitsubishi Lancer and Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX is the cheapest at $48,190 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mitsubishi Lancer uses the least fuel at 8.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mitsubishi Lancer all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Subaru WRX has the largest boot at 414L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mitsubishi Lancer has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,000kg.
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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