Proton Persona 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 Proton Persona does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Proton Persona gets leather upholstery while the Subaru WRX offers cloth.
Drivetrain
The Proton Persona uses a Petrol producing 82kW and 148Nm of torque, sent through a 5 speed manual to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 11.5 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 82kW. In the real-world sprint, the Subaru WRX is 5.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Proton Persona measures 4,477mm long on a 2,600mm wheelbase, 193mm 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 430L in the Proton Persona and 414L in the Subaru WRX, giving the Proton Persona a 16L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
5.4m to 11.2m
Based on 5.4m 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 cars1 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 $1,881/year for the Proton Persona and $2,822/year for the Subaru WRX. That is a $941 annual difference in favour of the Proton Persona.
Estimated annual total: $1,881 (Proton Persona) vs $2,822 (Subaru WRX). The Proton Persona saves you roughly $941 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 3 years (Proton Persona) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Subaru WRX). The Subaru WRX has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Proton Persona if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Proton'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 Proton Persona will save you roughly $941 a year in fuel. 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, Proton Persona and Subaru WRX?
The Subaru WRX is the cheapest at $48,890 before on-road costs.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Proton Persona uses the least fuel at 6.6L/100km on the combined cycle.
What are the ANCAP safety ratings?
None of Proton Persona and Subaru WRX carry a published ANCAP rating yet — check back as they are tested.
Which has the most boot space?
The Proton Persona has the largest boot at 430L.
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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