2022 Dodge Charger vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle aesthetic compared to its predecessors, with a wider stance yet a restrained front end, highlighted by its signature hood scoop. The front fascia maintained a small hexagonal grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The side profile was less cluttered, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal texture to enhance aerodynamics, a nod to its rally heritage. The rear design included flared fenders and a large plastic bumper, with taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the cladding could be distracting on bright-coloured models like the Solar Orange test car. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements in fit and finish, with sporty elements like a D-shaped steering wheel and carbon-fibre-pattern trim, setting it apart from other Subaru models.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, built on a platform dating back to 2005, had undergone significant updates over the years, with a major facelift in 2015 that gave it a modern and menacing look. While the exterior was refreshed, the interior felt dated, with thick bezels and chunky controls reminiscent of older designs. Despite this, the cabin was user-friendly, with straightforward controls. The Charger offered a range of trims, from the base SXT with a V6 engine to the high-performance Hellcat and Jailbreak models, each adding more power and features. The Hellcat Widebody variant, in particular, transformed the Charger into a well-rounded performance machine, with a supercharged V8 engine and enhanced suspension and braking systems.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the standard Impreza with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power increase was modest, the WRX's all-wheel-drive system and choice of a six-speed manual or CVT transmission offered versatility. The manual transmission was particularly praised for its precision and ease of use. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride, even on rough roads, with reduced body roll and improved handling.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 3.6-litre V6 engine in the SXT and GT models, producing up to 300 horsepower. The R/T trim introduced a 5.7-litre Hemi V8 with 370 horsepower, while the Scat Pack 392 featured a 6.4-litre V8 with 485 horsepower. The Hellcat variants, including the Redeye and Jailbreak, boasted a supercharged 6.2-litre V8, with outputs ranging from 717 to 807 horsepower. The Hellcat's acceleration was impressive, with a 0-60 mph time of 3.6 seconds and a top speed of 315 km/h. The Widebody setup improved handling, allowing the Charger to corner with precision, while the SRT Performance Pages menu offered customizable drive modes.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity of 354 litres, expandable with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in various materials depending on the trim. The standard AWD system added to its appeal as a performance-focused sedan in its price range.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, a large sedan, provided ample legroom but limited headroom, especially in the rear. The centre console and storage spaces were smaller compared to modern sedans. The trunk offered 467 litres of space, though accessing it required some effort due to the high rear bumper. Despite these limitations, the Charger combined sports-car performance with practicality, making it a versatile choice.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system, with an 11.6-inch touchscreen in Sport trims and above. While the system was visually impressive, it had quirks, particularly with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. The base trim had a unique dual-screen setup. An optional 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2022 Dodge Charger came standard with a 7-inch Uconnect touchscreen, with an 8.4-inch version available on higher trims. The Uconnect system was praised for its user-friendly interface, with large icons for easy navigation. While not the most advanced, the system effectively blended technology with conventional controls, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto as standard features.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered Subaru’s EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems on CVT-equipped models, including features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform enhanced crash safety, with seven airbags as standard.

The 2022 Dodge Charger lagged in standard safety features, offering only a backup camera and rear parking sensors. Optional features included forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The Charger received a Marginal rating in IIHS crash tests but a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.