2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a subtle yet slightly wider front end compared to its predecessor, maintaining 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. The overall design 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 with better fit and finish, featuring a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim accents, setting it apart from other Subaru models.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V stood out on Canadian roads, often turning heads with its unique light grey metallic Rift colour and 19-inch aluminum wheels with a Pearl Nickel finish. The CT5-V was the sporty version of the midsize luxury sedan, positioned between the standard CT5 and the high-performance CT5-V Blackwing. The CT5-V's design was praised for its proportions and details, with a mix of black, body colour, chrome, and wheel-like finishes. Inside, the CT5-V offered a mix of high-quality materials and some less impressive details, with a two-tone cabin and simulated carbon fibre trim. The interior featured ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with an available 12-inch digital display.

The 2022 Subaru WRX was equipped with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, slightly more than the previous model. Despite the power increase, some drivers felt it lacked the desired grunt, especially compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf GTI. The WRX came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT. The manual transmission was praised for its precision and ease of use, while the CVT offered faster shift times. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough mountain roads.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V featured a twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque, outperforming base engines in some German rivals. The CT5-V could accelerate to 100 km/h in about five seconds, though it felt slower than it sounded. The 10-speed automatic transmission powered the rear wheels, with optional all-wheel drive. The CT5-V offered various driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Track, My Mode, and V-Mode, allowing drivers to customize the car's performance characteristics. The Magnetic Ride Control suspension and Brembo brakes contributed to the CT5-V's impressive handling, though the steering lacked feedback. The exhaust note was resonant but could be adjusted to Stealth mode for a quieter experience.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity increase to 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 choice for a performance-focused sedan in its price range.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V, built on the same platform as the smaller CT4 and Chevrolet Camaro, provided a roomier and more comfortable interior. The CT5-V featured 18-way power-adjustable front seats with optional genuine leather and ventilated front seats. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed good thigh support and knee clearance, though the door frame design made entry and exit less graceful. The CT5-V's trunk offered 337 litres of cargo space, with some hidden storage options, though it was small and narrow for road trips.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in Sport trims and higher, with physical controls for essential functions. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the integration was not seamless. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system in higher trims.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V excelled in technology with its Cadillac User Experience (CUE) infotainment system, featuring Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and a Bose 15-speaker audio system. The CT5-V offered intuitive controls and optional features like a head-up display and surround-view camera. However, future models would no longer support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, opting for subscription-based services.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT models included Subaru's EyeSight suite with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual models lacked EyeSight but offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trims. The WRX's platform absorbed more crash energy, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V came with the Cadillac Smart System, including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Super Cruise 1 Package offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive.