2019 Kia Optima vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2019 Kia Optima, while not as revolutionary in design as its 2011–2015 predecessor, still managed to capture attention with its signature tiger-nose grille, stylish fender-vent trim, and optional black panoramic glass roof. The variety of trim levels allowed buyers to find a look that suited their taste and budget. However, the limited availability of interior colors, except for black, made it challenging to find the perfect combination. Prices ranged from $22,900 for the base LX to $35,790 for the SX Turbo with the Limited Package, with the plug-in hybrid model topping $42,000. The SX Turbo trim, without the Limited Package, featured a blacked-out exterior, 18-inch aluminum wheels, red brake calipers, and white pearl paint, giving it a sporty appearance. Inside, black leather with red inserts, a flat-bottom steering wheel, and upgraded instrumentation added to its racy look. Despite its appeal, the Limited Package upgrade was preferred for its luxurious touches and better interior materials.

The 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, evolved into its own model by 2015. The 2020 version retained the aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and functional air intake. The STI version added a large rear wing and aerodynamic components, making it the most aggressively styled Subaru. Despite its sporty appearance, the non-STI WRX could be a sleeper, surprising those unaware of its performance capabilities. The cabin, however, was considered pedestrian for a new car in 2021. Trim levels included Base, Premium, and Limited, with the Base offering 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. The Premium added 18-inch wheels, fog lights, and a power moonroof, while the Limited featured leather upholstery and a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The WRX STI, available in STI and Limited trims, boasted 19-inch wheels, leather-and-suede upholstery, and advanced safety features.

The 2019 Kia Optima offered five different engines, including hybrid powertrains. The base LX and sporty S trims had a 185-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, while the mid-grade EX Turbo featured a 1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder with 178 hp. Hybrid models provided 41 mpg in combined driving, and the plug-in hybrid offered up to 28 miles of electric range. The SX Turbo trim, tested with a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, delivered 245 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque. The 6-speed automatic transmission powered the front wheels, with four driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. The SX Turbo trim had a unique rack-mounted steering system, providing better feel at the wheel. However, the steering lacked crispness on mountain roads, and the brakes, though effective under normal conditions, faded under heavy use. The sport-tuned suspension offered a firm ride, but excess body motion reduced confidence on twisty roads. Overall, the Optima SX Turbo was enjoyable to drive but not a true performance sedan.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came with a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was sent to symmetrical all-wheel drive through a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The CVT featured Subaru’s SI-DRIVE with multiple drive modes and paddle shifters. The AWD systems varied based on transmission, with the manual offering a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution and the CVT providing a 45:55 split. The manual transmission was preferred for its precise feedback and smooth clutch pedal. The WRX delivered minimal turbo lag and excellent power delivery, making it fun to drive. The STI version, with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine, produced 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension. The WRX excelled in cornering, with precise steering and no body lean. However, the stiff suspension resulted in a rough ride, especially on imperfect roads. Despite the noise and stiffness, WRX loyalists appreciated its corner-carving abilities.

The 2019 Kia Optima provided comfort, simplicity, and ample storage for daily commuting. Controls were logically laid out and easy to use, with buttons and knobs limiting interaction with the touchscreen. The spacious interior included a 15.9-cubic-foot trunk and numerous storage cubbies. Front seats offered various power adjustments, heating, and ventilation, with the Limited Package adding Nappa leather and other luxury features. Backseat legroom was impressive, with good thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. Rear air-conditioning vents and quick-charging USB ports were also provided. The Smart Trunk feature automatically opened the trunk lid when standing behind the car with the key fob, though it could be turned off if needed. Overall, the Optima was easy to live with, offering comfort, practicality, and a touch of luxury with the Limited Package.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a simple sedan layout with excellent sightlines, thanks to its large windshield, slanted hood, and quarter windows. The straightforward dash layout provided easy-to-use controls and ample storage compartments. The WRX offered plenty of first-row seating space with adequate head- and legroom. Rear-seat space was sufficient for full-size adults on short trips, though not ideal for long journeys. The WRX’s 12 cubic feet of cargo space was low compared to other compact sedans but comparable to sports cars. The cabin’s practicality and visibility made it a functional choice for daily driving.

The 2019 Kia Optima came standard with an 8-inch touchscreen display, UVO technology, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, voice recognition, a USB port, and a reversing camera. The S and EX Turbo trims added satellite radio and UVO eServices, which used the smartphone’s data plan. The UVO eServices included a smartphone app for remote access to vehicle functions and remote start. The SX Turbo trim featured a navigation system, HD Radio, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with easy-to-find commands and flexible voice-recognition technology.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an optional 7-inch screen. The Starlink infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing easy navigation between menus. The WRX also had a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash. While not the latest Subaru infotainment system, it offered essential tech features without being overwhelming.

The 2019 Kia Optima included standard driver-assistance and collision-avoidance systems, making it a great value for a family-size car. Standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking-assist sensors, and a driver-monitoring system. Upgrades included adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system. The Optima received top crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with only minor exceptions.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Other optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic emergency braking. The WRX earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a safe choice for performance enthusiasts.