2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 Hyundai Elantra

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, a D-shaped steering wheel, and sporty accents like aluminum-alloy pedal covers and carbon-fibre-pattern trim, distinguishing it from other Subaru models.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra offered a diverse range of options, from the budget-friendly Essential to the upscale Luxury trim, which belied its price with a more premium feel. The Elantra Hybrid, available on the Luxury trim, provided impressive fuel efficiency without altering the car's appearance. For driving enthusiasts, the Elantra N Line Ultimate and the performance-tuned Elantra N offered sportier options. The exterior design was somewhat polarizing, but the interior of the Luxury model impressed with light grey leather seats, ambient lighting, and high-tech displays, though it was marred by hard plastic on the upper door panels. Overall, the Elantra's cabin was far from entry-level, offering a stylish and comfortable environment.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the standard Impreza with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Despite the slight power increase, some drivers found it lacking 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 featured faster shift points. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride and reduced body roll, making it adept at handling challenging road conditions.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Elantra Luxury's 2.0-litre engine delivered 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. While not fast, the Elantra was peppy and achieved commendable fuel economy. The Elantra N Line Ultimate and Hybrid models offered more advanced transmissions and suspensions for those seeking enhanced performance. The Elantra Luxury provided a communicative ride with suitable steering and braking, and it remained quiet on highways. During testing, the Elantra demonstrated consistent handling, aided by 17-inch alloy wheels and a well-tuned suspension, though the steering lacked sharpness and the brakes showed minor shuddering under stress.

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

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra balanced style with practicality, providing ample space for a family of four. The test vehicle featured proximity-sensing keyless entry, a comfortable leather-wrapped driver's seat, and dual-zone climate control. However, rear-seat comfort was compromised by a reclined backrest and lack of amenities like air vents and USB ports. The Elantra's trunk offered 402 litres of cargo space, with a hands-free release feature on some models, and a 60/40-split folding back seat for added utility.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's Starlink infotainment system, while not revolutionary, was user-friendly and featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen on Sport trims and above. Physical controls complemented the touchscreen interface, though Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was less than ideal. The WRX also offered an optional Harman Kardon stereo system, known for its quality in other Subaru models.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra expanded the availability of its 10.25-inch digital displays, offering a range of infotainment features including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a navigation system. While the system was generally easy to use, voice recognition had mixed results. The Elantra Luxury came with a Bose audio system, though it fell short of expectations compared to competitors. Digital Key technology was also available, allowing smartphone-based vehicle access.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT models included the EyeSight suite, offering advanced driver assistance systems 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 WRX's new platform improved crash energy absorption, and it came standard with seven airbags.

The 2023 Hyundai Elantra boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and a driver monitoring system. The Elantra Luxury added features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control with Highway Driving Assist. The Elantra earned high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, underscoring its strong safety credentials.