2022 Subaru WRX vs 2021 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Toyota Corolla, particularly in its SE and XSE trims, was a notable departure from its predecessors in terms of aesthetics. It featured sport-design bumpers, a mesh grille insert, and a matching diffuser panel, complemented by a subtle body kit and twin-outlet exhaust. The 18-inch aluminum wheels added to its sporty appeal, especially when dipped in Celestite metallic paint. However, the design was not without its quirks. The hood shut line, which ran to the headlight assembly, visually truncated the front end, drawing attention to the Corolla’s pronounced overbite. The rear quarter view was its best angle, though even here, the standard Corollas had an over-styled rear bumper. The Apex Edition further amplified these design eccentricities. For those preferring a more understated look, the Corolla L, LE, or XLE offered a more anonymous presence on the road.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle front end, despite being 5 centimetres wider than its predecessor. The signature hood scoop and small hexagonal grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights, maintained its distinctive look. The side profile was less busy, with black plastic cladding that served both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes. The rear fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights featured a multifaceted design. The quad tailpipes and a large plastic bumper added to its sporty appeal. The WRX's interior saw significant improvements, with better fit and finish, a D-shaped steering wheel, and aluminum-alloy pedal covers. The black cloth seats with red contrast stitching set it apart from other Subaru models, giving it a more modern and refined look.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla SE and XSE models were equipped with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 169 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 151 lb-ft of torque at 4,800 rpm. The Dynamic Shift CVT, paired with paddle shifters and a Sport driving mode, offered a decent driving experience, though it sometimes promised more than it delivered. The XSE's CVT was one of the better examples, using a mechanical first gear to eliminate drivetrain slip. The Corolla's TNGA platform provided a low centre of gravity and enjoyable driving dynamics, with electric steering, vented front brakes, and a MacPherson strut front suspension. Despite its modest power, the Corolla XSE offered predictable handling and was engaging enough for spirited driving. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with an average of 7.6 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, featured a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power improvement was minimal, the WRX's all-wheel-drive system and six-speed manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience. The CVT option, though not available during testing, offered faster shift times and variable torque distribution. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, reduced body roll and improved ride quality. Despite its weight, the WRX felt agile and composed on challenging roads, thanks to its creative suspension tuning and forgiving ride.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla XSE offered numerous interior upgrades, including SofTex leatherette seats with striped fabric inserts, heated front and rear seats, and an eight-way power driver's seat. The front passenger seat lacked height adjustment, but the overall seating comfort was commendable. The rear seats provided good support, though headroom and legroom were tight. The Corolla sedan's trunk offered 371 litres of cargo space, with no interior handle to close the trunk lid.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while lacking a hatchback option, offered a cargo capacity of 354 litres, expandable with the rear seat's 60/40 split-fold function. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with various upholstery options depending on the trim. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive and comfortable seats made it a viable commuter vehicle, offering practicality and performance in a single package.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla impressed with its standard infotainment features, including Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth. The SE and XSE trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with the XSE offering additional services like SiriusXM and navigation. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs and buttons for easy operation.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, particularly in the Sport trim, featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display, similar to those in newer Subaru models. While the system had some quirks, it was visually impressive and easy to use. The base trim's dual 7-inch displays were less conventional but functional. The WRX also offered an optional 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2021 Toyota Corolla came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Corolla earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though new ratings were pending due to additional airbags.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, offering features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. However, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash energy absorption, enhancing safety.