2023 Honda Accord vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX, despite its wider stance, 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 texture to enhance aerodynamics, reminiscent of its rally heritage. The rear showcased dramatic fender flares, a large plastic bumper, and 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 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 2023 Honda Accord adopted a more technical and conservative appearance, moving away from the shiny chrome of its predecessor. The EX trim, priced at $37,000 in Canada, featured a dark grille, LED headlights, and a Canyon River Blue paint that garnered compliments. The pewter wheel finish was a compromise over the popular black wheels. Inside, the Accord EX offered durable cloth seats with contrast stitching and a stylish metal mesh dashboard trim. The digital instrumentation paired with a touchscreen infotainment system, and the switchgear reflected attention to detail and refinement, making the Accord EX nicely outfitted for its price and class.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, slightly more powerful than its predecessor. Despite the minimal power increase, the WRX's all-wheel drive system and choice between a six-speed manual or a CVT transmission offered versatility. The manual transmission was particularly praised for its notchy and precise handling, while the CVT provided faster shift points. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, reduced body roll and improved ride quality, making it agile even on challenging mountain roads.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX was equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 192 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque. The CVT, powering the front wheels, mimicked the feel of a traditional automatic under hard acceleration. The Accord's MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension managed its weight distribution effectively, while the dual-pinion steering system offered good response. The Accord's fuel efficiency was rated at 7.3 litres per 100 kilometres, though real-world testing showed 8.2 L/100 km. The Accord's ride quality was communicative yet quiet, with precise steering and capable brakes, though the tires were a weak point during spirited driving.

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

The 2023 Honda Accord EX came with heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a 60/40-split folding rear seat. However, it lacked a power-adjustable front passenger seat, rear air conditioning vents, and rear USB ports. The Accord's rear seat provided excellent leg support and legroom, and the 473-litre trunk offered ample storage space. The power sunroof was a notable feature, though some might prefer more practical amenities.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in Sport trims, with physical controls for essential functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity had limitations, the system was visually impressive. The base trim had a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo was available on higher trims.

The 2023 Honda Accord EX included a 10.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It offered Bluetooth, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and HondaLink services. The eight-speaker audio system lacked SiriusXM, but streaming via Apple CarPlay was seamless. Physical controls for the stereo were user-friendly, though the tuning knob was misleading.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. Manual models lacked EyeSight but offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform enhanced crash safety, and the car included seven airbags.

The 2023 Honda Accord featured Honda Sensing, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The system performed well, though lane-centring could waver. The Accord earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, ensuring robust protection in a collision.