2020 Subaru WRX vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, with its smooth, rounded body, harkened back to the design of two generations prior. Despite its streamlined appearance, which some felt could use a few more edges, it maintained a familial resemblance to the larger S-Class and smaller C-Class. Available in sedan, wagon, coupe, or cabriolet, the E-Class catered to a conservative audience with its versatile design. The sedan, in particular, exuded luxury with its traditional hood ornament and chrome grille, while most models sported a large Mercedes emblem on the grille. The LED lighting was a delicate touch, enhancing the car's visual appeal, whether on the Luxury model's higher suspension or the sportier versions with ground effects and quad exhausts.

Inside, the E-Class cabriolet stood out with its contrasting soft top and luxurious interior. The cabin, especially when specified with multi-tone leathers and polished wood, was a delight. Two feet of high-resolution digital screens stretched across the dash, complemented by industrial elements like circular air vents and silver toggles. The ambient lighting, available in 64 colors, added to the ambiance, while features like heated armrests and massaging seats elevated comfort. Even the base model, with leatherette and standard seats, felt a cut above its competitors.

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Impreza, had evolved into its own model by 2015. By 2020, it retained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, and functional air intake. The STI version took it further with a large rear wing and additional aerodynamic components. Despite its sporty appearance, the non-STI WRX could be a sleeper, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The cabin, however, was considered somewhat pedestrian for a modern car.

The WRX offered three trim levels: Base, Premium, and Limited. The Base trim included 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium added 18-inch wheels, heated front seats, and a larger 7-inch touchscreen. The Limited trim 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 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class offered a range of engines, starting with the E350's turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, provided a smooth ride, though it lacked the midrange punch of its predecessors. The E450, with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, offering a more balanced and powerful driving experience. For those seeking performance, the AMG E53 and AMG E63 S models provided 429 and 603 horsepower, respectively, with advanced all-wheel-drive systems.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, generating 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a six-speed manual transmission, offering precise feedback and a smooth clutch. The WRX's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system ensured excellent traction, with different setups depending on the transmission choice. The WRX STI, with a 2.5-liter engine, produced 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque, offering even sharper handling but at the cost of a stiffer ride.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class, while equipped with a complex COMAND infotainment system, offered a spacious and functional interior. The system, though not touchscreen, provided a wealth of features, albeit with a steep learning curve. The E-Class excelled in interior space, with ample room for passengers and clever features like a rear-facing jump seat in the wagon. The coupe's rear seat was surprisingly usable, and the overall design prioritized comfort and visibility.

The 2020 Subaru WRX, with its simple sedan layout, provided excellent visibility and a practical cabin. The straightforward dash layout and ample storage spaces made it user-friendly. The WRX offered generous first-row seating space and adequate rear-seat room for adults. Its 12 cubic feet of cargo space was modest but comparable to other performance-oriented vehicles.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class boasted advanced technology, including a semi-automated driving system and a V2X communication system. The infotainment system, though initially daunting, offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester stereo. The E-Class also included unique features like the Energizing Comfort Package and a Track Pace app for AMG models.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a user-friendly Starlink infotainment system with either a 6.5-inch or 7-inch touchscreen. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a straightforward interface that didn't overwhelm users. The WRX also had a digital display in the instrument panel and a helpful information screen atop the dash.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan and wagon received top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, with innovative features like Pre-Safe Sound and side bolster inflation during a collision. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring, with additional driver-assist features available as options.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a comprehensive array of airbags and traction control. The optional EyeSight suite added advanced safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.