2021 Subaru Impreza vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES underwent a significant transformation from its earlier iterations, shedding its "boring" label for a more aggressive design. The introduction of the large spindle grille in 2016 was further expanded in the 2020 model, harmonizing with the car's larger proportions. While the front end was bold and striking, the rear maintained a more subdued elegance with thin taillamps and a distinctive kink in the side windows. Inside, the ES offered a luxurious cabin with soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash, rivaling even Mercedes-Benz in interior execution. The ES 350 came in various trims, each offering a range of features from synthetic leather upholstery and a power moonroof to advanced audio systems and unique styling elements in the F Sport variant.

In contrast, the 2021 Subaru Impreza adopted a more conservative design approach, moving away from its previous bold styling choices. Both the sedan and hatchback versions featured sleek headlights and taillights, with subtle body scalloping for added flair. The Impreza Sport models stood out with specific styling touches like 18-inch alloy wheels. Built on the Subaru Global Platform, the Impreza shared its underpinnings with other Subaru models, contributing to its overall refinement. The interior, while not the most exciting, was practical and functional, with model-specific touches in the Sport and Limited trims. The Impreza offered reasonable legroom, though headroom was slightly below average, and the hatchback provided ample cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Lexus ES was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup allowed the ES to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with a top speed of 131 mph. While not a performance powerhouse, the ES offered confident acceleration and a comfortable, refined ride. The Dynamic Control Shocks contributed to its smooth handling, with the F Sport trim offering an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension for enhanced driving dynamics. The ES's focus was on comfort and ease of driving, with precise steering and a hushed ride.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Most models came with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT), while a five-speed manual was available on select trims. The Impreza Sport offered model-specific suspension tuning and torque vectoring for improved handling. While not as engaging as some competitors, the Impreza provided a solid and refined driving experience. The Sport's suspension struck a good balance between ride quality and handling, though the engine's lack of power and noncommunicative steering limited its appeal as a driver's car.

The 2020 Lexus ES boasted a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The rear-seat headroom was improved in the 2019 redesign, accommodating all but the tallest passengers comfortably. The front doors featured deep pockets, and the center console offered multiple storage options. The ES provided 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was average for its class, though the lack of fold-down rear seats limited its cargo versatility.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza offered reasonable legroom, though headroom was slightly below average. The sedan's trunk space was limited at 12.3 cubic feet, but the hatchback provided 20.8 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, expanding to 55.3 cubic feet when folded. The Impreza also featured a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat and roof rails on higher trims. The interior included practical features like heated front seats and a power moonroof, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2020 Lexus ES featured the Lexus Remote Touch system, controlling either an 8-inch or 12.3-inch display. While not a touchscreen, the system was intuitive with practice, aided by real hard buttons for navigation. The ES came standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhancing connectivity. The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo system and head-up display added to the tech offerings, providing high-quality audio and customizable information displays.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza offered a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on base and Premium trims, while higher trims received an 8-inch screen. An option package for the Limited trim added navigation and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Impreza's infotainment system was user-friendly, with large icons and straightforward menus. A secondary display provided additional information, though it seemed somewhat redundant given the gauge cluster's LCD display.

The 2020 Lexus ES came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional safety features included a full array of airbags, traction control, and stability control.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza received an IIHS "Top Safety Pick" award and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. Subaru's EyeSight safety tech was standard on CVT-equipped models, providing features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, enhancing the Impreza's safety credentials.