2021 Subaru WRX vs 2020 BMW 2 Series

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was a departure from the traditional two-door coupe design, adopting a four-door layout with a sloping roofline. This model shared its platform with the BMW X1 and X2, as well as the Mini Clubman and Countryman, featuring a front-wheel-drive bias. The front end of the 2 Series Gran Coupe echoed the styling of the larger 8 Series, with swooping headlights and an angular twin-kidney grille. However, the rear design struggled to maintain the aesthetic of the two-door coupe, with evident pillars between the doors and awkward window trim. Inside, the Gran Coupe offered a modern cockpit with solid fit-and-finish, though not as elegant as some competitors. The 228i xDrive Gran Coupe came with features like power-folding heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a digital instrument panel.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru WRX had a more youthful and aggressive design, often described as having an adolescent aesthetic. The WRX featured a wedge-like front end and a short trunk lid, giving it a sporty appearance even when stationary. The interior of the WRX was function-first, with a focus on practicality over luxury. The cockpit was reminiscent of other Subaru compact cars, with a straightforward layout but lacking in refinement compared to rivals like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The WRX Limited trim added leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and adaptive LED headlights, enhancing its appeal. Despite its somewhat dated interior, the WRX provided a comfortable driving position and decent rear-seat space for a compact sedan.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series 228i Gran Coupe was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power was delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front wheels or xDrive all-wheel drive. The engine was refined, but turbo lag was noticeable, especially when pulling away from a standstill. The Drive Mode selector offered Sport, Comfort, and Eco Pro modes, with Sport mode providing a more engaging driving experience. The M235i variant offered a more powerful 301 hp engine, while the Coupe and Convertible models featured even more potent options, including a 335 hp inline-six in the M240i. The 228i Gran Coupe's steering was sharp, but its front-wheel-drive layout lacked the natural feel of the rear-wheel-drive Coupe and Convertible. The ride quality was firm, making it less suitable for rough roads.

The 2021 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite being the most powerful in its class, the WRX required precise rev management to extract its full potential. The CVT, while not ideal for enthusiasts, kept the engine in the powerband effectively. The manual transmission, however, was criticized for its vague clutch feel. The WRX featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing cornering precision. The steering was well-weighted, making winding roads enjoyable, but the ride was stiffer compared to competitors like the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered supportive front seats with ample legroom, but this came at the expense of rear-seat space. The rear seats were cramped, making the car more suitable for one or two passengers. The cockpit layout was straightforward, with easy-to-locate climate controls. However, the cupholders and center console were small, limiting storage options. The Gran Coupe provided 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing competitors like the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-Class. The Coupe and Convertible models offered slightly less cargo space, with the Convertible's capacity further reduced when the top was down.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While this was more than the Civic Si coupe, it fell short of the sedan and the VW GTI's impressive cargo capacity. The WRX's interior packaging was less accommodating for larger water bottles, with limited in-door storage. The driving position was commanding and comfortable, with good visibility. The rear seats provided decent space for four adults, highlighting the advantages of a sedan layout over a coupe.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen with touch functionality and Android Auto. It also offered wireless Apple CarPlay, enhancing convenience. The fully-digital instrument panel displayed navigation and other information, with customization options. The available head-up display added to the tech-savvy interior. BMW's infotainment system was user-friendly, with touch functionality and center console buttons for easy navigation.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, while higher trims offered a 7-inch screen. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a sensible layout and easy-to-use controls. The Limited trim added navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, providing excellent sound quality. Despite its dated graphics, the WRX's infotainment system prioritized ease of use over flashy design.

The 2020 BMW 2 Series came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane-departure warning. Additional safety options included adaptive cruise control, automatic parking assistance, and blind-spot monitoring. The driver-assist systems were seamless and customizable, enhancing safety without being intrusive.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with advanced safety features. The EyeSight system, offering adaptive cruise control, emergency automatic braking, and lane-departure warning, was available only on CVT-equipped Premium and Limited trims. Other safety options, like blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking, were exclusive to the Limited trim. All WRX models included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.