2023 Kia Forte vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle exterior design compared to its predecessors, despite being 5 centimetres wider. Its front end maintained a low-key appearance, highlighted by a signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille flanked by sharp LED headlights. The side profile was less cluttered, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal texture to enhance aerodynamics, reminiscent of the car's rally heritage. The rear showcased dramatic fender flares and a large plastic bumper, with taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the body 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, distinguishing it from other Subaru models.

The 2023 Kia Forte retained some of the carmaker's older design cues while incorporating newer styling elements. Its double-tab grille and angled cutouts hinted at Kia's latest design language, with LED headlights and taillights standard from the EX+ trim. The GT trims added excitement with LED fog lights and bold red accents. The Forte's side and rear design was typical for its class but more graceful than some competitors. The interior held onto Kia's older layout, with a touchscreen atop the dash and traditional climate controls below. Despite this, the Forte's interior materials were notably nicer than its rivals, with soft-touch surfaces and sturdy construction. Cloth seats were standard, with synthetic leather on GT models. The Forte's cabin aged well, remaining competitive against newer sedans.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the standard Impreza and previous WRX models with a new 2.4-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Despite the slight horsepower increase from the previous model, 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 favoured by 85% of buyers, offering a notchy and precise experience. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough roads, thanks to its creative tuning and longer suspension strokes.

The 2023 Kia Forte offered two engine choices: a base 2.0-litre four-cylinder with 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, and a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 201 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque in the GT Limited trim. The base engine, paired with a CVT, provided adequate acceleration, while the GT Limited's turbocharged engine and sport-tuned suspension offered more excitement. The GT Limited's dual-clutch transmission kept power readily available, though it could be jumpy at lower speeds. The Forte's handling was sportier than expected, with precise steering and a comfortable ride quality, despite some road noise.

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 AWD was a standout feature, making it a compelling choice for a performance-focused sedan in its price range.

The 2023 Kia Forte provided ample front seat space, with basic adjustments and a comfortable driver's seat. The dashboard layout placed controls within easy reach, and heated front seats and keyless entry were standard on the LX trim. The rear seats offered enough room for average-sized adults, with higher trims featuring heated rear seats and additional air conditioning vents. The trunk held up to 433 litres of cargo, surpassing some competitors, though the cargo floor's flimsy fabric covering seemed out of place.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in Sport trims and higher, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, their integration was less than seamless. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system in higher trims.

The 2023 Kia Forte came with an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, while the GT-Line and GT Limited received a 10.25-inch display with navigation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a wireless charging pad available from the EX grade. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with sharp graphics and quick responses. A premium eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on the GT Limited.

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 more. Manual models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on Sport trims and higher. The WRX's new platform absorbed more crash energy, and it came with seven airbags as standard.

The 2023 Kia Forte received four out of five stars from the NHTSA, with some base collision avoidance features not meeting performance criteria. The IIHS awarded it "Good" in most evaluations, except for "Poor" in updated tests. In Canada, most safety features were available from the EX trim, including forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added advanced collision assist and adaptive cruise control.