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Hatchback car comparison

Volkswagen GOLF vs Subaru IMPREZA

Both are hatchback vehicles on New Zealand roads. Based on NZTA fleet data.

Volkswagen GOLF 46,669 on NZ roads
VS
Subaru IMPREZA 37,204 on NZ roads
$3/week cheaper to fuel — Volkswagen GOLF at $53/wk vs $56/wk
8 kW more power — Subaru IMPREZA at 125.4 kW
Volkswagen GOLF 46,669 in NZ
Subaru IMPREZA 37,204 in NZ
Registered in NZ
46,669 ✓
37,204
Fuel Economy
6.7 L/100km ✓
7.1 L/100km
Power
117.4 kW
125.4 kW ✓
Weight
1,714.1 kg
1,586.6 kg ✓
Fuel Type
Petrol
Petrol
Body Type
Hatchback
Hatchback
Seats
5
5
Year Range
1963–2026
1992–2026
Imported New
36%
16%

NZ Registrations Over Time

Registration trend for Volkswagen GOLF vs Subaru IMPREZA: comparing annual new registrations in NZ from 2020 onwards. Volkswagen GOLF has more total registrations.

Regional Popularity

Region Volkswagen GOLF Subaru IMPREZA
AUCKLAND 18,731 11,743
CHRISTCHURCH CITY 4,537 4,429
WELLINGTON CITY 2,468 1,205
HAMILTON CITY 1,809 1,386
TAURANGA CITY 1,764 1,055
DUNEDIN CITY 1,195 1,187
LOWER HUTT CITY 976 761
SELWYN DISTRICT 700 676

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more popular in NZ — the Volkswagen GOLF or Subaru IMPREZA?

The Volkswagen GOLF is more common with 46,669 registered in New Zealand compared to 37,204 for the Subaru IMPREZA. A larger fleet means more mechanics familiar with the car and easier access to parts.

Which is cheaper to run — Volkswagen GOLF or Subaru IMPREZA?

Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Volkswagen GOLF uses less fuel at 6.7 L/100km compared to 7.1 L/100km. At current fuel prices of approximately $2.80/L, that difference adds up over a year of typical driving.

Are Volkswagen GOLF and Subaru IMPREZA the same body type?

Both are classified as Hatchback vehicles in the NZTA fleet data. The Volkswagen GOLF is primarily a petrol vehicle while the Subaru IMPREZA runs on petrol.

Are these cars typically imported new or used?

36% of Volkswagen GOLF models were imported new to NZ, while 63% came as used imports. For the Subaru IMPREZA, 16% were new and 81% were used imports.

Where does this data come from?

All figures are sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026. This covers 3,678,722 registered passenger vehicles in New Zealand.

Data sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) Motor Vehicle Register, current as of 31 March 2026.

View Model Details

Volkswagen GOLF Subaru IMPREZA

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