Subaru Impreza vs Toyota Corolla Hybrid

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received significant updates, including a new all-wheel-drive (AWD) option standard on all trims except the base LE. The hybrid system saw a power increase, and the Corolla Hybrids underwent a subtle style refresh with changes to the grille patterns and rear bumpers. The exterior design was more appealing than previous generations, with a sculpted front end featuring wraparound headlights and sharp creases for a sporty look. The large trapezoidal grille added to its sporty character, while the side and tail remained more conventional. Inside, the Corolla Hybrid's design was minimalistic, with an abundance of hard plastics, though the XSE trim added SofTex synthetic leather for a more upscale feel. Despite these efforts, the Corolla Hybrid's interior fell short compared to competitors like the Honda Civic, Kia Forte, and Mazda 3, feeling less substantial and more focused on efficiency.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza showcased a more aggressive and sporty style compared to its predecessor. It featured a larger, more angular grille and narrower headlights, giving it a serious look. The RS trim added side skirts for a low-slung appearance, while the rear haunches suggested a wider stance. Inside, the Impreza had a modern look with a vertical 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen standard on higher trims. The RS trim added red stitching and seat upholstery accents for a sporty touch. Materials quality was commendable, with soft-touch materials in key areas. The Impreza's design was an evolution rather than a revolution, with the infotainment system playing a significant role in the interior's appeal.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine with hybrid drive, producing 134 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque. This was an increase of 13 hp and 10 lb-ft over the previous model. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) sent power to the front wheels, while an additional 40-hp electric motor provided on-demand AWD. The hybrid powertrain responded quickly from a standstill, but power built slowly, taking around nine seconds to reach 100 km/h. The dedicated EV drive mode was challenging to maintain, as the gas engine would kick in with slight pressure on the pedal. Braking was consistent, and handling was adequate, though not particularly fun in curves. Larger road imperfections sent impacts into the cabin, and road noise was present, though not intrusive.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza offered two engine options. The Convenience and Touring trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, while the RS and Sport-tech models upgraded to a 2.5-litre engine with 182 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, and all trims included AWD with active torque vectoring. The RS model was the sportiest, with responsive acceleration and paddle shifters for manual control over eight simulated gears. Handling was sporty, aided by AWD, and the ride quality remained comfortable over rough surfaces. The Impreza RS was comparable to the Honda Civic Si sedan and base Mazda 3 hatchback, with the added advantage of standard AWD for better traction.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid offered ample front space for taller occupants, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range might be an issue for long-limbed drivers. The large windows provided excellent visibility, and the cloth upholstery and SofTex faux leather were breathable. However, some springs were felt through the seat cushions, potentially causing discomfort on long drives. The cockpit was simple and easy to use, with well-placed steering-wheel buttons and basic climate controls. Interior storage was adequate, with a small tray for phones, cupholders, and a medium-sized centre armrest bin. Rear seats accommodated average adults, though headroom was limited. The trunk had a capacity of 371 litres, with rear seats folding for additional space, though not flat with the floor.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza's front seats offered a spacious cabin with logically placed controls and excellent outward visibility. The large rear hatch glass provided a good rearward view, though rear headrests could obstruct it. Dual-zone climate control was standard. The RS trim included a wireless charging pad, though the hard plastic surface didn't hold phones securely. The rear seats were accommodating, with ample headroom and legroom for six-footers. The cargo area held up to 578 litres, with seatbacks folding down for a total capacity of 1,586 litres. The Impreza accepted various roof racks for active lifestyles, though it wasn't rated for heavier overlanding tent platforms.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid featured an 8-inch multimedia touchscreen with upgrades for 2023, including the removal of physical shortcut buttons in favour of on-screen controls. The system was quick to respond, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity standard. Improved voice commands could control navigation, audio, and temperature, and over-the-air software updates kept the system current. The infotainment system could pair two Bluetooth devices simultaneously, though the JBL audio system available in the U.S. wasn't offered in Canada.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza's 11.6-inch touchscreen multimedia system was visually impactful and easy to use, with large on-screen buttons and physical knobs for volume, tuning, and temperature. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless connectivity in all but the Convenience trim. A native navigation system wasn't available, but phone integration sufficed for most drivers. The Subaru Starlink system offered monitoring and control through a smartphone app, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was included with the RS and Sport-tech trims. The infotainment system prioritized usability, with intuitive menus and no need for the owner's manual.

The 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four stars for rollover protection. The IIHS hadn't published specific results for the Corolla Hybrid, but the standard 2022 Corolla sedan received top scores and a Top Safety Pick+ award. All Corolla Hybrids came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, a traffic-sign reader, and a blind-spot monitor.

The 2024 Subaru Impreza's crash-test results weren't available, but its more rigid chassis suggested it would achieve admirable scores. All Imprezas came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-centring. The Touring model added Starlink communications features, and the top trims included a blind-spot monitor and automatic emergency steering. The safety features performed well, with no false alarms, and the adaptive cruise control maintained a consistent gap smoothly.