2021 Lexus ES vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance-oriented offshoot of the Subaru Impreza, was known for its aggressive styling and sporty features. With a wider stance, lower front splitter, and a functional air intake, the WRX stood out as the most aggressively styled vehicle in Subaru's lineup. Despite its racy exterior, the non-STI version maintained a sleeper appeal, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. Inside, the WRX offered a straightforward cabin design, which some might have found pedestrian for a new car in 2021. The Canadian trims ranged from the base model with a six-speed manual transmission to the Sport-tech RS, which included Brembo brakes and a 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus ES presented a more luxurious and refined aesthetic. The ES lineup expanded to include the ES 250 with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and AWD, alongside the ES 350 with a 3.5-litre V6 and FWD. The ES 300h hybrid version offered improved fuel efficiency. The Black Line Edition, a limited-production model, featured unique styling elements like black wheels and a black and white interior. The ES's design was marked by its dramatic grille and artful detailing, with the F Sport trim adding sporty touches like 19-inch alloy wheels and a rear spoiler. Inside, the ES boasted a striking cabin design with quality materials, offering a luxurious experience that was distinctly Lexus.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre boxer-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was sent to all four wheels through a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional CVT available. The manual transmission provided a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution, while the CVT offered a 45:55 split, making it more responsive. The WRX's performance was characterized by minimal turbo lag and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The WRX STI variant took performance further with a 2.5-litre engine producing 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for sharper cornering.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The ES offered Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a fuel efficiency rating of 9.4 L/100 km. The Black Line Edition felt quicker than its official acceleration time, though it lacked the AWD system found in competitors like the Acura TLX. The ES 350's performance was marked by a firm ride, flat cornering stance, and overall athleticism, though it remained a sporty sedan rather than a full-fledged sports sedan.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility thanks to its simple sedan layout, with large windows and thin pillars. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. Front-row seating provided plenty of head- and legroom, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on shorter trips. The WRX's cargo space was 340 litres, which was modest compared to other compact sedans but comparable to sports cars.

The 2021 Lexus ES boasted a daring interior layout that was both unusual and useful. The ES 350 F Sport and Black Line Edition featured sport-bolstered front seats with 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good legroom and comfort, with rear air conditioning vents and an available power rear window sunshade. The trunk offered 394 litres of space, slightly more than a Toyota Corolla, with a hands-free power trunk available. Visibility was excellent, and storage was plentiful, though the wireless smartphone charger was tucked under the centre armrest.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 7-inch screen. The Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The WRX also featured a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash, providing key driver information in multiple locations.

The 2021 Lexus ES faced criticism for its touchpad interface, which required drivers to look away from the road. However, the ES offered separate climate and stereo controls, dynamic voice command technology, and an optional 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment display. The larger screen replaced the standard 8-inch display and included a dynamic navigation system and connected services. The ES also featured a 10-speaker premium sound system, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features was available, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus ES included Lexus Safety System 2.0, which bundled advanced driving assistance systems like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all but the base trim. The ES was a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.