For a 2015–2021 Subaru WRX (VA chassis), the Apex VS-5RS is our pick among these three wheels when lower published wheel weight is the priority. Choose the VS-5 for a flow-formed five-spoke design, or the EC-7 for a classic multispoke look. The exact configurations below appear in Apex’s VA WRX fitment guide; tire choice and the car’s modifications still matter.
This is a focused comparison of three Apex wheels with documented VA fitment, rather than a ranking of every wheel on the market. Our recommendations weigh published specifications and buying tradeoffs. We have not road-tested these wheels, measured lap times or verified a fit on your individual car.
Three wheels worth comparing
These are the Anthracite versions. Each selected wheel has a 5×114.3 mm bolt pattern and 56.1 mm center bore. Weights and load ratings are the manufacturer’s figures for the exact configurations shown, per wheel; another size or bolt pattern can have different specifications.
| Wheel | Construction | Diameter × width; offset | Published weight | Load rating | Best reason to choose it |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex EC-7 | Flow formed | 18×9.5 inches; ET38 (+38 mm) | 21.7 lb | 1,550 lb | Classic multispoke design |
| Apex VS-5 | Flow formed | 18×9.5 inches; ET40 (+40 mm) | 20.6 lb | 1,600 lb | Five-spoke styling without choosing a forged wheel |
| Apex VS-5RS | Forged 6061-T6 aluminum | 18×9.5 inches; ET40 (+40 mm) | 18.3 lb | 1,600 lb | Lowest published weight in this shortlist |
Apex VS-5: our flow-formed five-spoke pick
The VS-5 combines a five-spoke design with side-milled spokes and a reinforced inner lip. It is the middle-weight option here, making it a useful starting point if you like the appearance of the VS-5RS but prefer flow-formed construction.
Exact version: VS51895ET40-51143-561-M-AN, Anthracite, 18×9.5 ET40, 5×114.3, 56.1 mm bore. The selected specification lists the OEM center cap as incompatible, so do not budget on transferring the Subaru cap.
- Pros: Published weight sits below the EC-7’s, with the same listed load rating as the VS-5RS.
- Tradeoff: It weighs more than the selected VS-5RS. The styling and construction difference alone does not establish a handling advantage.
Check the exact VS-5 configuration at Apex.
Apex VS-5RS: our pick for lower wheel weight
The forged VS-5RS has the lowest published weight of these three configurations. Its side-milled spokes and unpainted knurled bead seats are worth considering for a build where wheel specification matters more than choosing the simplest purchase.
Exact version: VS5RS1895ET40-51143-561-D-AN, Anthracite, 18×9.5 ET40, 5×114.3, 56.1 mm bore. This selected listing specifically identifies WRX/86/BRZ OEM center-cap compatibility; confirm your cap’s part before transferring it.
- Pros: Forged construction, the lowest listed wheel weight here and a 1,600 lb per-wheel load rating.
- Tradeoff: A lower wheel weight is not a measured guarantee of better lap times, ride or braking. Compare the complete installed quote before deciding the difference is worthwhile.
Check the exact VS-5RS configuration at Apex.
Apex EC-7: our classic multispoke pick
The EC-7 is the choice here if its multispoke design suits your car best. It uses flow-formed construction and the ET38 configuration specifically listed in the VA guide. Its published weight is the highest of this trio, and its load rating is lower than those of the two selected VS wheels.
Exact version: EC71895ET38-51143-561-M-AN, Anthracite, 18×9.5 ET38, 5×114.3, 56.1 mm bore. Its “OEM cap compatible” footnote refers to BMW 5×120 caps, not Subaru caps; use the supplied Apex cap unless the maker confirms another option.
- Pros: A distinct multispoke alternative, with a VA-specific wheel and tire configuration documented by its manufacturer.
- Tradeoff: Choose it for the design and the complete package that works for your car, rather than assuming every 18-inch EC-7 has these dimensions or this load rating.
Check the exact EC-7 configuration at Apex.
Which WRX does this shortlist cover?
- 2015–2021 VA WRX: This is the recommendation scope. Apex lists the selected ET38 EC-7 and ET40 VS wheels in its street/track section, with 265/35-18 tires and a caution about negative camber to avoid rubbing under compression with wider tire compounds. This is not a no-rub guarantee.
- Earlier WRX and WRX STI: Do not order these SKUs from the WRX badge alone. Apex publishes separate guides for the 2002–2007 GD sedan and 2011–2014 GR WRX; this article does not establish fitment for those cars, the 2008–2010 WRX, wagons or any STI.
- 2022-on VB WRX: Use the separate VB guide and obtain confirmation for your exact trim and brake package. Subaru documents 19-inch factory wheels and six-piston front Brembo brakes on both the 2024 TR and 2025 tS. The VA recommendation is not approval to downsize either of those cars.
What to confirm before ordering
- Brake and tire clearance: Give the seller your year, trim, brake kit, suspension changes and intended tire. Apex states that its WRX wheels clear factory four- and six-piston Brembo brakes, but that does not verify every aftermarket kit. Have the installer check the exact combination, including clearance with steering and suspension movement.
- Load rating: Have the installer confirm that the exact wheel’s rating meets your vehicle’s load requirements. Do not treat a higher number as a universal fitment certificate. Apex excludes applications exceeding the wheel’s indicated rating from its limited warranty.
- Hub and hardware: These selected configurations list a direct-fit 56.1 mm bore and 60-degree conical lug seats. Confirm the nuts’ thread, seat and engagement with the installer; follow the vehicle and wheel instructions for installation and torque.
- TPMS: Apex says its wheels accept OEM and aftermarket sensors. Sensor compatibility still depends on the vehicle application. Arrange compatible sensors and any required setup with the tire shop, and retain working pressure monitoring on a car originally equipped with it.
- The full quote: Apex’s FAQ says displayed prices are for one wheel unless specified otherwise. Confirm four matching wheels, tires, valves or sensors, hardware, mounting, balancing, shipping and tax. Availability and total cost should be checked for the selected size and finish.
Frequently asked questions
Is 18×9.5 automatically the best WRX wheel size?
No. It is the size of this documented VA shortlist. Pick a wheel and tire package around your car and intended use; a wider package that needs changes may be a poor choice if you want to retain your current setup.
Does forged construction mean I can ignore potholes or overload the wheel?
No. Follow the wheel’s load limit and installation instructions. Apex’s limited warranty excludes impact damage from hazards such as potholes and curbs, as well as improper fitment and overloading.
Can I select another offset or bolt pattern from the same product page?
Only after checking that exact configuration for your car. The model name covers multiple fitments. Match the complete SKU, finish, diameter, width, offset, bolt pattern and center bore before ordering, and confirm whether the price is for one wheel or a set.
