2023 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile offering, available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, a variety unmatched by most competitors. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-litre inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. In Canada, all models came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive. The AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, offered enhanced performance with a more powerful engine. The E-Class was consistently praised for its luxury and performance, though it was not considered cost-effective. The AMG E53 Cabriolet, with its high-end features and striking design, exemplified luxury, albeit at a steep price.

The 2023 Subaru WRX, once part of the Impreza lineup, had evolved into a distinct model with unique styling and a wide-body look. It retained the signature hood scoop and offered a sporty aesthetic that set it apart from the Impreza. The WRX was available only as a sedan, with no hatchback option planned. Its design was bold and performance-oriented, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciated its tuner aesthetic. The interior was practical, with a focus on durability, though it lacked some high-end features. The WRX's design and functionality made it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance car with everyday usability.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 featured a 3.0-litre turbo inline-6 engine with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided robust throttle response across a wide rev range, with a 0-100 km/h time of 4.6 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively delivered to the road. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG Dynamic Select driving modes allowed for a customizable driving experience, from a comfortable cruiser to a spirited performer. The AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced the driving dynamics, while the convertible's design offered a unique blend of luxury and performance.

The 2023 Subaru WRX was powered by a 2.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine, delivering 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It offered more horsepower than some competitors like the Volkswagen Golf GTI but less than the Golf R. The WRX featured AWD and came with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT, known as the Subaru Performance Transmission. The CVT provided quick throttle responses, though it lacked the engagement of a manual gearbox. The WRX was a competent performer, offering confidence-inspiring grip and handling, though its driving experience was described as muted, lacking the exuberance of some rivals.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfort for both front and rear occupants. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system enhanced comfort. The triple-layer acoustic soft top provided insulation from heat and noise. The trunk offered 360 litres of cargo space with the top up, though this was significantly reduced with the top down. The interior featured luxurious touches like multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance fragrance system, making long drives a pleasure.

The 2023 Subaru WRX, as a compact sedan, offered practicality with a spacious interior. It provided slightly more front headroom and legroom than a Honda Civic Si, though the Civic offered more rear-seat space. The WRX's trunk held 354 litres, less than some competitors, but a 60/40 split-folding rear seat added versatility. The WRX maintained good outward visibility, a hallmark of Subaru's design, though it lacked convenient storage for modern smartphones. Despite this ergonomic oversight, the WRX's cabin was functional and durable, suitable for daily use.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system, renowned for its user-friendly interface and advanced capabilities. Two 12.3-inch screens provided high-resolution displays for the touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. MBUX offered multiple interaction methods, including voice commands, touch controls, and steering wheel buttons. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and optional features like Wi-Fi and augmented reality navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, though the digital assistant could be inadvertently activated in a convertible setting.

The 2023 Subaru WRX's Starlink infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Base models had dual 7-inch touchscreens, while higher trims featured an 11.6-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. The larger screen was appreciated for its readability, though physical controls were missed. The interface was generally intuitive, though SiriusXM radio required multiple steps to operate. The top Sport-Tech trim included an 11-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, though the system's startup time was noted as slow.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Cabriolet included pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Mercedes Pre Safe and Pre Safe Sound systems prepared occupants for potential collisions. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The package was praised for its effectiveness, particularly the adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.

The 2023 Subaru WRX offered EyeSight driver assist technology with the CVT, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.