2022 BMW 2 Series vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 BMW 2 Series presented a fresh exterior design that deviated from the aggressive front fascia seen in other BMW models. It maintained a sleek and aerodynamic appearance with a wider kidney grille and upright triangular air curtains. The M240i xDrive Coupe, the only version available in Canada, showcased performance-oriented styling with shadowy M-type accents and 19-inch M light alloys. Inside, the 2 Series Coupe offered a driver-focused interior with standard perforated SensaTec upholstery and optional Vernasca leather. The cabin featured a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, ambient lighting, and a larger moonroof, though some materials felt less premium.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX had a more understated exterior, with a subtle front end and signature hood scoop. The vehicle was 5 centimetres wider than its predecessor, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern for improved aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared outward, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements in fit and finish, with a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim accents. The interior was more modern, with comfortable sport seats and a practical layout.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe, specifically the M240i xDrive, delivered impressive performance with its 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six-cylinder engine. This powertrain produced 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, allowing the vehicle to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.3 seconds. The top speed varied between 210 and 250 km/h, depending on specifications. The eight-speed Sport automatic transmission, while smooth and quick, replaced the manual option. The M240i xDrive came equipped with performance features like an aerodynamic kit, adaptive M suspension, and M Sport brakes, providing balanced handling and dynamics. However, the driving experience felt somewhat disconnected, lacking the engagement that enthusiasts might seek.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, featured a 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power increase was minimal compared to the previous generation, the WRX offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT. The manual transmission was precise and satisfying, while the CVT provided faster shift times. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, offered improved ride quality and reduced body roll. Despite its weight, the WRX felt agile and composed, making it a capable performer on challenging roads.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series Coupe was compact, with limited rear seat space suitable for children or short trips. The front seats were relatively spacious, but the slanted roofline restricted rear headroom. The trunk offered 283 litres of cargo space, which could be expanded with the 40/20/40-split fold-down rear seats. The interior featured soft touchpoints and improved ergonomics, though some materials felt less premium.

The 2022 Subaru WRX excelled in practicality, with a cargo capacity of 354 litres, expandable with the 60/40 split-fold rear seats. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in various upholstery options. The WRX's interior was spacious and well-suited for daily commuting, with standard AWD enhancing its versatility.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series boasted a 10.25-inch touchscreen with BMW Live Cockpit Plus, offering over-the-air updates, cloud-based navigation, and connected services. It featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with a 10-speaker Hi-Fi sound system. The BMW Digital Key allowed remote access via the My BMW App, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered an 11.6-inch tablet-style multimedia touchscreen on Sport trims and higher, with physical controls for essential functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration had some quirks, the system was visually impressive. The base trim featured a dual 7-inch display setup. An optional 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system was available for enhanced audio quality.

The 2022 BMW 2 Series came equipped with a suite of driving assistance systems, including active blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included adaptive front LED headlights and BMW Drive Recorder. However, the 2 Series had not yet been rated by safety organizations.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered Subaru's EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems on CVT-equipped models, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual transmission models did not have EyeSight due to technical limitations. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash energy absorption, and it featured seven airbags as standard.