2022 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while wider than its predecessor, maintained a subtle front-end design, highlighted by its signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille. The side profile was less cluttered, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to enhance aerodynamics, reminiscent of its rally heritage. The rear showcased dramatic fender flares and a large plastic bumper, with taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. Despite the body cladding being somewhat distracting on bright colours like Solar Orange, the overall look was smoother and more streamlined. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, featuring a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim, setting it apart from other Subaru models.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback aimed to capture the dwindling hatchback market, offering a design that mirrored the Civic sedan from the front doors forward, with unique grille and wheel designs. The rear, however, maintained a stubby appearance. Inside, the Civic hatch mirrored the sedan's interior, with Sport Touring trim adding sophisticated digital displays and a modern appearance. The dashboard featured metal honeycomb detailing, and controls were high-quality, though the CVT shifter operation was slightly janky. The Civic hatchback was positioned as a practical and enjoyable alternative to small crossovers, with the potential to spark a hatchback renaissance.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the Impreza and previous WRX models with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Despite the slight horsepower increase, the torque remained unchanged, which might have disappointed performance-focused customers. The WRX's all-wheel drive system came standard, with a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT. The manual transmission was praised for its notchy and precise handling, while the CVT offered faster shift points. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough mountain roads, making it a capable performer despite its weight.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback offered a choice between a 2.0-litre engine with 158 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with 180 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque. The latter provided accessible torque from 1,700 to 4,500 rpm, making it a lively performer. The Civic hatch was front-wheel drive, with a CVT that worked well with the turbo engine, offering paddle shifters for a more traditional feel. The Sport Touring trim with a six-speed manual transmission was a favourite among driving enthusiasts. The Civic's suspension was firm yet comfortable, and the steering and brakes provided a satisfying driving experience, though the car was more suited for daily driving than spirited back-road romps.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity increase to 354 litres, expandable with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, available in various upholstery options. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive made it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 to $40,000 range.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback excelled in functionality, with a generous 693-litre trunk and a two-piece cargo shade. The back seat featured a 60/40-split folding design, though the load floor was not flat. Seating was comfortable, with the Sport Touring trim offering an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front and rear seats. The Civic's interior was well-designed, with automatic climate control and various upholstery options, making it a practical and comfortable choice for daily use.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in Sport trims and higher, with physical controls for essential functions. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was not seamless. The base trim had a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo was available, though not tested.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback offered a new infotainment system, with a 7-inch touchscreen in LX and Sport trims, and a 9-inch display in Sport Touring. The latter included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Civic's infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical knobs for sound controls and a shelf for touchscreen stability. Digital instrumentation varied by trim, with a comprehensive 10.2-inch display in Sport Touring.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT models included Subaru's EyeSight suite, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. Manual models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX's platform absorbed more crash energy, and it came with seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag.

The 2022 Honda Civic Hatchback featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. New features included low-speed following and Traffic Jam Assist, available only with the CVT. Blind-spot warning was standard, with rear cross-traffic alert on Sport Touring. The Civic earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, thanks to its advanced safety engineering and new airbags designed to reduce head injuries.