2021 Toyota Camry vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, had evolved into its own distinct model by 2015. By 2020, it retained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, and a functional air intake, making it the most boldly designed vehicle in Subaru's lineup. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI version maintained a somewhat understated cabin, which might have seemed basic for a new car in 2021. The WRX offered various trims, including the base, Sport, Sport-tech, and Sport-tech RS, each adding features like larger wheels, leather upholstery, and advanced audio systems.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to shed its past image of a generic sedan by incorporating more dynamic styling elements. While some features like flared wheel arches and thin headlights enhanced its appearance, others, such as fake vents on the SE and XSE trims, added unnecessary visual clutter. The Camry's interior mirrored its exterior's chaotic design, with a mix of materials and trim elements that lacked a cohesive theme. Despite this, the Camry provided a comfortable and supportive seating experience, with excellent outward visibility and a decent amount of cargo space.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre boxer-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional CVT that included Subaru’s SI-DRIVE with multiple drive modes. The WRX's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system varied based on transmission choice, offering a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution with the manual and a 45:55 split with the CVT. The WRX STI variant boasted a 2.5-litre turbocharged engine with 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for enhanced cornering capabilities.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a base 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque with FWD, slightly less with AWD. The XSE trim's dual-exhaust system increased output slightly. A 3.5-litre V6 engine, available only with FWD, delivered 301 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The Camry Hybrid combined a 2.5-litre engine with electric assist for 208 hp. The Camry's chassis provided a balance between handling and ride quality, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. The TRD package, available since 2020, added performance enhancements like a lowered suspension and bigger brakes.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility thanks to its simple sedan layout, with large windshields and minimal blind spots. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. Front-row seating provided plenty of space, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on short trips. However, its 340 litres of cargo space was limited compared to other compact sedans, though comparable to sports cars.

The 2021 Toyota Camry provided generous rear headroom and legroom, though front space was slightly below average. The front seats were adjustable and comfortable, with excellent outward visibility. Cargo space measured 428 litres, average for a midsize sedan but less than competitors like the Honda Accord. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bottle holders. The Camry featured analog controls for key functions, though some were awkwardly placed.

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

The 2021 Toyota Camry's standard infotainment system included a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen, navigation, and a nine-speaker JBL audio system. A 10-inch head-up display was available on XSE and XLE trims. The system was functional but lacked standout graphics. USB ports and a 12-volt outlet were standard, though no additional ports were available on higher trims.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured standard front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Camry received a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The TSS 2.5+ package was standard, offering adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. New features included enhanced forward-collision warning and a Rear Seat Reminder. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available as options.