2021 Subaru WRX vs 2020 Lexus ES

The 2020 Lexus ES had evolved significantly from its earlier iterations, which were often criticized for being "boring." By 2020, Lexus had given the ES a more aggressive look, featuring a large spindle grille that had grown even larger since its introduction in 2016. This grille, which seemed out of place on previous models, fit well with the 2020 ES's larger proportions. The rear of the car was more subdued, with thin taillamps and a pronounced kink at the back of the side windows, adding a touch of rakishness.

Inside, the ES offered a blend of modern technology and an organic aesthetic, featuring soft-touch materials and a large infotainment screen integrated into the dash. The interior was second only to Mercedes-Benz in terms of execution among luxury sedans. The 2020 ES came in various trims, including the base 350 FWD, Luxury, Ultra Luxury, and F Sport, each offering a range of standard and optional features. The F Sport trim, in particular, added unique styling elements and performance features, making it stand out in the lineup.

The 2021 Subaru WRX, often seen as the rebellious sibling in the Subaru family, had a more adolescent aesthetic. Compared to the racier WRX STI, the standard WRX looked relatively tame, lacking the race-ready rear wing. Its wedge-like front end and short trunk lid gave it an appearance of speed, even when stationary. Aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop added to its sporty look.

Inside, the WRX's cockpit was functional but lacked the refinement seen in competitors like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The interior was filled with hard plastics, contributing to its less mature reputation. The WRX came in Base, Premium, and Limited trims, each offering a range of features. The Limited trim added leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and adaptive LED headlights. However, for more powerful engines and performance features, buyers had to look at the WRX STI.

The 2020 Lexus ES was equipped with 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. Lexus claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 131 mph. While not a performance machine, the ES provided confident acceleration and smooth highway driving. The ride was comfortable and refined, thanks to Dynamic Control Shocks, with an optional Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) available on the F Sport trim. The AVS allowed for adjustable dampers and additional drive modes, including Sport+.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its power, the WRX required precise rev management to get the most out of the engine. The CVT, while not ideal for enthusiasts, kept the revs in the powerband effectively. The manual transmission, however, had a vague clutch feel, making it less satisfying to drive. The WRX also featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing its cornering capabilities. However, its stiff ride was less comfortable compared to rivals like the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2020 Lexus ES offered a spacious cabin with ample head- and legroom in both rows. The front seats could slide back significantly without compromising rear-seat legroom. Despite its exterior appearance, rear-seat headroom was generous, thanks to the 2019 redesign. The front doors had deep pockets, and the center console featured multiple retractable panels for storage. The ES had 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space, which was mid-pack for the midsize luxury segment. However, the rear seats did not fold down, limiting its cargo flexibility.

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. This was more than the Civic Si coupe but less than the sedan and far behind the VW GTI's cargo capacity. The WRX's interior showed its age, lacking modern conveniences like in-door bottle holders. The driving position was commanding and comfortable, with good visibility. The rear seats could accommodate four adults comfortably, making it more practical than a coupe or sports car.

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 Remote Touch pad was intuitive once presets were set. The system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which took up the entire screen for easy navigation. The ES also offered a 10-speaker premium audio system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. A head-up display was also available, providing crisp graphics and customization.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen running Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a 7-inch screen available on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a sensible layout and easy-to-use controls. The Limited trim offered an option package with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo. Despite its dated graphics, the system was user-friendly and effective.

Every 2020 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward collision avoidance, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured pedestrian and cyclist detection, lane-keep assist, and lane-tracing assist for limited semi-autonomous driving. Additional safety features included front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, stability control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with advanced safety features. Subaru's EyeSight system, including adaptive cruise control, emergency automatic braking, and lane-departure warning, was available only on Premium and Limited trims with the CVT. Other safety features like adaptive high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking were optional on the Limited trim. All WRX trims included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.