2022 Subaru WRX vs 2021 Volkswagen Passat

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat retained its exterior styling from the previous year, following a significant facelift in 2020. This update marked the first major design change for the sedan in nearly a decade. Volkswagen maintained the same basic body shell but altered every panel except the roof, resulting in a strong familial resemblance to the smaller Volkswagen Jetta. This gave the Passat a more understated appearance compared to its more radically styled competitors like the Hyundai Sonata, Kia K5, and Toyota Camry. With its rounded-off corners, the Passat evoked the aerodynamic efficiency of the jellybean sedans from the 1990s, boasting a drag coefficient of 0.28. Standard features included LED headlights and taillights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and an Adaptive Front-lighting System on Execline models. Inside, the Passat's interior was clean and functional, with analog controls and excellent visibility, though some buyers might have found it a bit plain due to the use of plastic materials and leatherette upholstery.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle front-end design, despite being 5 centimetres wider than its predecessor. The front fascia featured a small hexagonal grille, sharp LED headlights, and the signature hood scoop. Along the sides, the WRX showcased significant changes, including black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to improve aerodynamics and airflow. The rear fenders flared dramatically, complemented by a large plastic bumper and multifaceted taillights. The WRX's interior saw substantial improvements, with better fit and finish, a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim accents. The seats, available in cloth, premium cloth, or Ultrasuede, offered ample support and comfort, making the WRX a viable commuter vehicle.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat was equipped with a single powertrain option: a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. This engine produced 174 horsepower and 206 pound-feet of torque. While the horsepower was slightly below average compared to rivals, the torque output was impressive, providing enough power to spin the wheels when pulling away from a stop. However, power delivery felt uneven at higher speeds, requiring the use of Sport mode or manual gear selection for better acceleration. The Passat's driving experience was unremarkable, lacking the sportiness or comfort found in competitors like the Honda Accord and Mazda 6. On the highway, ride quality and cabin noise levels were adequate but not exceptional.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, featured a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power increase was minimal compared to the previous generation, the WRX's all-wheel drive system and available six-speed manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience. The manual transmission was precise and easy to handle, with a satisfying clutch pedal. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, offered improved ride quality and reduced body roll, making it more forgiving on rough roads. The CVT option, though not tested, promised faster shift times and variable torque distribution.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat offered 993 millimetres of rear legroom, slightly less than the Honda Accord and Subaru Legacy. However, this came at the expense of front legroom, which was below average for the segment. The front seats lacked thigh support, and the driving position was uncomfortable for many drivers. The Passat provided 450 litres of cargo space, more than some competitors but less than the Accord and Sonata. In-cabin storage was limited, with improperly shaped door bottle holders and a small smartphone cubby. The layout of controls was a highlight, with big buttons and knobs within easy reach, and an easy-to-read instrument cluster.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while no longer offering a hatchback option, increased its cargo capacity to 354 litres, with a 60/40 split-fold function for the rear seats. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in various upholstery options. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive and comfortable interior made it a practical choice for a performance-focused sedan in its price range.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat came with the MIB2 infotainment system, featuring a 6.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto capability, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Execline models included built-in navigation and an eight-speaker Fender premium audio system. The touchscreen was small by modern standards but included pinch-to-zoom capability. The Passat lacked advanced tech features like the Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and newer MIB3 infotainment system, focusing instead on simplicity and ease of use.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX offered a more advanced infotainment system, with an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in Sport-trim and higher models. The system, shared with newer Outback and Legacy models, featured physical controls for essential functions and touchscreen controls for everything else. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity were not fully optimized, with Android Auto displaying only on the top half of the screen. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system, though it was not available in the tested Sport-trim vehicle.

The 2021 Volkswagen Passat received top "good" scores in all crash tests from the IIHS, but its standard headlights earned a "marginal" rating. The NHTSA had not published crash-test ratings for the Passat. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Execline grade added lane-keep assist and lane departure warning. VW's Automatic Post-Collision Braking System and Intelligent Crash Response System were also standard.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied depending on the transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-tracing assist. The system also featured an electronic brake booster and automatic steering assist. Manual transmission models did not include EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. However, blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on Sport and Sport-tech trims. The WRX's Subaru Global Platform offered improved crash energy absorption, and the car came with seven airbags, including a driver's-side knee airbag.