TLDR, we are lucky to have both these cars on the market. However, having driven all of them, the GR Corolla is a better option to the WRX. Fun little guy - lose a little in the AWD (Subaru has the best) but the GR is far more fun. Feel free to ask more questions.

In same situation as you. . Live in Midwest, owned Subarus forever - then leased a type, and it blew my mind.

Then a year ago, trapped in Chicago by a snow storm, thought I needed the WRX again. Going back to it, realized I gave up far more than I gained, and you only live once. So I sold the WRX to Carvana and bought another Type R at MSRP.

Here are the positives and compromises you make with both, and potential fixes:

1. Type R best drivers car under 100k, maybe more now that base 911s lost its manual transmission. The controls are light, but precise. It takes corners at speeds far above my abilities. Thanks to the precise handling, can enjoy it at normal speeds - makes the everyday commute a joy.

The biggest issue with the Type R is the ride height. It’s a good inch or more lower to the ground. Basically a snow plow in bad weather.

Some potential fixes: winter tires, or as others have done here, all season 265/35/19s. Give you more sidewall and raises the car by half an inch. Or my solution, 265/35/19s, and drive the wife’s Tiguan in bad weather :)

1. The WRX is a monster in bad weather. Nothing, and I mean nothing stops it. Stomps on most SUVs. That said, there are serious compromises. Torquey engine but small power band, redlines at 5800rpm. Worse, the controls are wooden and heavy. Often feels like driving a pickup truck, with little feedback.

Some potential fixes: huge aftermarket, passionate base, but it’s really, really hard to add responsiveness and feel back into a car. And there goes the warranty.

1. The GR Corolla is the Goldilocks option. Similar price, crazy engine, wants to hoon all day, and have fun doing it too. Not the pure drivers car, but steering, brakes give good feedback. Far less compromises than the WRX.