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If the AWD capability is more important, then It's a Subaru.
I would go with a third option: a Volkswagen.
VW models (the Golf "R", Golf Alltrack, and Golf Sportwagen, for example) offer the driving dynamics you're looking for and 4Motion AWD capability.
The best of both worlds.
Which Mazda is more fun to drive than a Subaru WRX or STi? I don't think the MX-5 is what the OP is looking for, so we'll just ignore that little Mazda
I can’t decide tas far as Japanese cars go they are both my favorite. Mazda punch in a higher class then others in the same class, also very fun to drive and realible. Think German but with Japanese reliability. As someone else said about Subaru they tend to be in a class of thier own.
We have a Mazda MX-5, and a Mazda CX-9. The CX-9 is 11 years old and we have had virtually no problems with it. Both cars have the most comfortable, to me, seats. A comfortable ride and safety are my main concerns. My SIL’s Subie is noisy and uncomfortable. And yes - The Mazdas are fun.
How is VW's reliability? I've heard mixed opinions. They where on my list at one point, but kind of fell of for a couple of reasons. May still consider them though.
You'll want to set up a gofundme account if you buy a VW. You'll need it once the warranty expires.
Subarus are not the flashiest cars on the road, no. But that wasn't the question.
The 'power sapping AWD' is about 75% of the reason to buy one.
And the newer ones in particular are hardly clunky to drive. It's not a tradeoff between a sports car and a station wagon; it's a tradeoff between "handling" you're likely not a good enough driver to appreciate anyway and decent driving with the advantages of a bulletproof AWD system.
I've never seen Volkswagen come up #1 in any category. They are just a little expensive, just a little overengineered and just a little bit more conservative and tucked in than most of their competition. A true #2 all the way.
I winter at a ski resort. I drive a 6 cylinder Outback with Nokians. The car is boring. It has tons of body roll in corners. It’s not at all engaging to drive. Still, it checks all my key checkboxes. It I totaled this one, I’d buy another. It does what I need it to do.
I bought two VW GTIs in October as leftovers. With the big discount, they were a very competitive price. The interior is way better than a Japanese econobox. They’re engaging to drive. Mine were reliable.
Well, I don't really see why anyone who doesn't live in a snow area would buy a Subaru. Sure, they're good cars, but the price, complexity, and mileage penalty you pay for the AWD doesn't make sense if you don't need it.
On the other hand I'd really hate to reward Mazda for that idiotic "zoom zoom" jingle.
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