2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 Nissan Versa

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a subtle yet refined exterior, with a wider stance than its predecessor. The front end maintained a modest 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 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 in fit and finish, with sporty elements like a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fibre-pattern trim, setting it apart from other Subaru models.

The 2023 Nissan Versa adopted the design language of its larger siblings, the Sentra and Altima, giving it a more upscale appearance. The "floating" roof effect, created by a strip of black trim on the rear roof pillar, and the prominent V-Motion grille contributed to its modern Nissan identity. The Versa's sleek profile and wide stance made it look more like a traditional sedan than an econobox. The 2023 model received styling updates, including a more elaborate grille and new wheel designs. Inside, the Versa displayed creativity with large round air vents and an elaborate dashboard. While the interior was primarily plastic, the fit and finish were commendable. The SR trim added red stitching and upholstery inserts, enhancing its appeal. The Versa offered a comfortable ride, with a suspension that absorbed bumps well, and a cabin quieter than expected for an entry-level model.

The 2022 Subaru WRX distinguished itself from the standard Impreza 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, some enthusiasts found the power improvement minimal. 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 praised for its precision and ease of use, while the CVT offered faster shift times and variable torque distribution. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride and reduced body roll, making it agile on challenging roads.

The 2023 Nissan Versa, with its 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 122 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. While not a performance powerhouse, the Versa's CVT was responsive, and the car handled daily driving tasks competently. The Versa exhibited notable grip and nimbleness, despite some body roll in corners. Its suspension provided a comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively. The Versa felt more substantial than typical subcompact stereotypes, offering a refined driving experience for an entry-level model.

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 various upholstery options. 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 Nissan Versa, available only as a sedan, provided 416 litres of trunk space in the base S trim and 425 litres in SV and SR trims. While the rear seat's 60/40 split-folding feature was not standard, the Versa offered ample front-seat headroom and legroom. The interior felt spacious, with good outward visibility. However, storage space for small items was limited, and the shifter's raised platform was not the most efficient use of space.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in Sport trims and higher, offering a visually impressive interface. Physical controls for essential functions complemented the touchscreen. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was not seamless, with Android Auto displaying only on the top half of the screen. The base trim had a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harman Kardon stereo system was available on higher trims.

The 2023 Nissan Versa's base S trim included a 7-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth connectivity, and keyless entry. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on SV and SR trims, with the SR adding an 8-inch touchscreen and a six-speaker audio system. While the touchscreens were small, the digital instrument cluster display added a touch of sophistication. The Versa's tech offerings, though basic, were functional and user-friendly.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight but offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert on higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash energy absorption, and it came with seven airbags as standard.

The 2023 Nissan Versa impressed with its standard driver-assist features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and high beam assist. The SV trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Versa received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high marks in side-impact crash testing.