2022 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more understated design compared to its predecessor, with a subtle front end featuring a small hexagonal grille and sharp LED headlights. The car was 5 centimetres wider, and its side profile was less cluttered, although the black plastic cladding divided opinions. This cladding, textured with a hexagonal pattern, was not just for aesthetics but also improved aerodynamics. The rear of the WRX was marked by flared fenders, a large plastic bumper, and taillights designed to resemble magma when lit. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the cladding could be distracting on brightly coloured models like the Solar Orange test car. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements in fit and finish, with features like a D-shaped steering wheel, carbon-fibre-pattern trim, and black cloth seats with red stitching, giving it a modern feel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class combined elements from other Mercedes models into a cohesive and stylish sedan. The front end resembled the CLA-Class, while the rear took cues from the S-Class, resulting in a design that was unmistakably Mercedes. The cab-rearward proportions emphasized its rear-wheel-drive platform, distinguishing it from the front-wheel-drive CLA-Class and A-Class. Standard LED headlights and taillights could be upgraded to the Mercedes Digital Light system, which adjusted to curves and projected warning icons. Inside, the C-Class aimed to emulate the luxury of the S-Class with features like a freestanding touchscreen, ambient lighting, and intricate speaker grilles. The interior felt luxurious, though standard upholstery was synthetic leather, with Nappa leather available as an upgrade.

The 2022 Subaru WRX was powered by a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This was a slight increase in horsepower from the previous model, but torque remained the same. The WRX came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The manual transmission was favoured by 85% of buyers and was praised for its precision and ease of use. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough roads, and reduced body roll in corners.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class C300 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The C300 could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The C300's power delivery was not always smooth, with some turbo lag and rough shifts noted. However, the ride quality was up to luxury standards, with muted impacts from bumps and potholes. The C-Class offered good body control and precise steering, though it required a deliberate approach to cornering.

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 cloth, premium cloth, or Ultrasuede, depending on the trim. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive made it a compelling option for those seeking a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 to $40,000 range.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan was longer and wider than its predecessor, providing more interior space. Headroom increased by 2.5 mm in front and 10 mm in back, with rear-seat legroom up by 20 mm. The C-Class led its segment in front-seat headroom and rear-seat legroom, though front legroom was less competitive. The seats were comfortable with good bolstering, and the trunk offered 455 litres of space, with a wide opening for easy loading. A 40/20/40 split-folding rear bench allowed for longer items, though Mercedes did not provide a cargo-space figure with the seat folded.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in Sport trims and higher, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the integration was not seamless. The base trim had two 7-inch displays stacked vertically. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo was available, though not tested.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.9-inch touchscreen, angled towards the driver. Standard features included keyless entry, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the MBUX infotainment system with a "Zero Layer" setup. Optional features included a Burmester 3D surround-sound system, head-up display, and augmented-reality navigation. The voice recognition system and touch controls on the steering wheel were user-friendly, and the augmented-reality navigation provided clear guidance.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered the EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems on CVT-equipped models, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models did not have EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on Sport and Sport-tech trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the WRX came with seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz C-Class received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Standard safety features included automatic emergency brake assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre-Safe systems. Optional features included lane-keep assist, a 360-degree camera system, and adaptive cruise control. The C-Class also offered Car-to-X communication, which provided warnings based on information shared between vehicles.