The brakes are smaller if i remember correctly, the gearing is most definetely shorter, and the N/A 2.5 liter supposedly gets worse gas mileage than a wrx! Honestly, if i were you, i would consider spending a little more on a WRX wagon, cause my wrx has been pretty reliable, and at least it can get out of its own way! I think the suspension is different, at least shocks and springs arent "tuned" as well, and the steering rack is different also! Plus, you dont get the hood scoop!! Not trying to sell you on something here, but if you like subarus, the WRX wagon is probably the way I would go IMO, simply because the resale and desire is greater for the WRX, than the 2.5 TS... However, if you want a 2.5 TS Im not saying they aren't good cars, you just might get a little more car for your money with the WRX wagon! its a damn shame no STi wagon, or i would already own one!