2020 Honda Accord Hybrid vs 2021 Subaru Impreza

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid was nearly indistinguishable from its non-hybrid counterparts, with only subtle "Hybrid" badges and aerodynamic 17-inch aluminum wheels setting it apart. This design choice was strategic, avoiding the quirky aesthetics often associated with hybrid models, which can be polarizing for potential buyers. The Accord Hybrid maintained the sleek and sophisticated look of the standard Accord, appealing to those who appreciated its design. Available in four trim levels—Hybrid, Hybrid EX, Hybrid EX-L, and Hybrid Touring—the Accord Hybrid offered a range of features and price points, starting at $25,620. The Hybrid EX trim, priced at $29,520, was particularly recommended for its comprehensive suite of driver-assistance and infotainment technologies, along with comfort features like a 12-way power driver’s seat and heated front seats.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Impreza adopted a more conservative design compared to its predecessors, with sleek headlights and taillights enhancing its width and a tapered front end adding to its appeal. The Impreza Sport models featured specific styling elements, such as 18-inch alloy wheels, while the base models came with 16-inch steel wheels. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, the Impreza shared its underpinnings with other Subaru models, contributing to its overall refinement. Inside, the Impreza's design was typical of compact cars, with a split dashboard housing the infotainment touchscreen and various plastic elements. The Sport trim added contrast stitching and aluminum pedals, while the Limited trim offered leather upholstery and LED headlights, enhancing the interior's appeal.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid delivered impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 42.6 mpg in real-world testing, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 48 mpg. Its 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, combined with a two-motor hybrid powertrain, produced 212 horsepower and 232 lb-ft of torque, surpassing the standard Accord's 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. Despite a 200-pound weight penalty, the Accord Hybrid was quick off the line, especially in Sport mode, though the eCVT's drone was noticeable during hard acceleration. The car's handling was generally predictable and composed, though it could lose some composure on undulating roads. Overall, the Accord Hybrid offered a satisfying driving experience, blending efficiency with performance.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza featured a 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Most models came with a CVT, while a five-speed manual was available on select trims. The Impreza Sport offered unique suspension tuning and torque vectoring for improved handling. While not as engaging as some competitors, the Impreza provided a solid and refined ride. The Sport trim balanced ride quality and handling well, though the steering lacked communication, and the engine's power was modest. For those seeking a more spirited drive, the WRX was recommended.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid offered a spacious interior and trunk, matching the standard Accord's family-friendly design. The backseat provided excellent thigh support and amenities like rear air-conditioning vents and USB ports. However, front-seat track travel was limited, potentially affecting taller drivers. The trunk boasted 16.7 cubic feet of space, accommodating large items with ease. The 60/40 split-folding rear seatback added versatility, though a hatchback design would have been even more practical.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza sedan and hatchback provided reasonable legroom, though headroom was slightly below average. The sedan's trunk was limited to 12.3 cubic feet, but the hatchback offered 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Roof rails were standard on all hatch trims except the base model. Higher trims included features like heated seats, a heated windshield, and a power moonroof, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid, from the EX trim upwards, featured a user-friendly Display Audio infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and other connectivity options. The EX-L trim added a premium sound system, while the Touring trim included navigation, a wireless charger, and a WiFi hotspot. HondaLink services offered additional convenience and safety features, though voice recognition could be improved. The Touring trim also featured a head-up display, enhancing driver information accessibility.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza's base and Premium trims came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen, while higher trims had an 8-inch display. The Limited trim offered optional navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. A secondary display provided additional information, though it seemed redundant. The infotainment system was straightforward, with large icons and easy access to functions, though it lacked advanced features for tech-savvy users.

The 2020 Honda Accord Hybrid came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of ADAS features including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The system was refined, offering smooth operation. The Accord Hybrid also featured automatic high-beam headlights and a multi-angle reversing camera. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, though only Touring versions with LED headlights earned a Top Safety Pick designation.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza received a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, with the Limited trim's headlights rated "Good." It also earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Subaru's EyeSight safety tech was standard on CVT models, offering features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Additional safety options included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.