2020 Honda Civic vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance-oriented offshoot of the Impreza, maintained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, and a functional air intake. Despite its sporty exterior, the WRX's cabin was somewhat understated, which might have surprised those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The model offered three trims: Base, Premium, and Limited, each adding features like larger wheels, upgraded infotainment systems, and optional performance packages. The WRX STI variant further enhanced the sporty appeal with a more powerful engine and additional aerodynamic components.

In contrast, the 2020 Honda Civic was celebrated for its sharp design and engineering excellence, available in sedan, coupe, and hatchback forms. The Civic's exterior was visually stimulating, with a sleek roofline, wide stance, and distinctive LED taillights. The 2019 updates to grilles, bumpers, and wheels carried over to 2020, enhancing its modern look. The Civic's interior was simple yet high-quality, with soft-touch materials and a well-organized dashboard. The Si and Type R variants added sporty touches like revised seats and unique styling elements, making the Civic a visually appealing choice without compromising on quality.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured symmetrical all-wheel drive and a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional CVT offering multiple drive modes. The manual transmission provided a satisfying driving experience, with precise feedback and smooth clutch operation. The WRX's power delivery was impressive, with minimal turbo lag and excellent cornering capabilities. The WRX STI variant boasted a 2.5-liter engine with 310 horsepower, Brembo brakes, and a stiffer suspension, enhancing its performance but resulting in a rougher ride.

The 2020 Honda Civic offered a range of engines, starting with a 2.0-liter inline-four producing 158 horsepower. Higher trims featured a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine with up to 180 horsepower in hatchback models. The Civic Si and Type R variants offered even more power, with the Si producing 205 horsepower and the Type R delivering 306 horsepower. The Civic's engines were smooth and responsive, with the manual transmission providing a tight, enjoyable shifting experience. The Si's adaptive dampers improved handling, while the Type R's performance was exhilarating. Despite some turbo lag, the Civic's powertrains were praised for their balance and efficiency.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility, thanks to its simple sedan layout and large windows. The cabin featured a straightforward design with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. Front-row seating was spacious, with adequate rear-seat space for adults on shorter trips. However, the WRX's 12 cubic feet of cargo space was limited compared to other compact sedans, though comparable to sports cars with similar performance.

The 2020 Honda Civic provided a roomy interior, with the sedan offering 15 cubic feet of trunk space and the hatchback providing up to 46 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Civic's interior was well-equipped, with a configurable center console and comfortable seating. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space, though the lack of rear air vents was a notable oversight. The Civic's interior was practical and versatile, accommodating various storage needs.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a user-friendly Starlink infotainment system with a 6.5-inch or 7-inch touchscreen, supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was straightforward and functional, with additional digital displays providing key driver information. While not the latest technology, the WRX's infotainment met essential needs without overwhelming users.

The 2020 Honda Civic's infotainment system was considered outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen standard on most models. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing users to bypass the factory interface. The Civic Si introduced Active Sound Control, while LaneWatch provided a live feed of the blind spot. Honda Sensing offered advanced safety features, enhancing the Civic's technology suite despite its dated interface.

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

The 2020 Honda Civic included Honda Sensing, with features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Improved LED headlights helped the Civic earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, while the NHTSA awarded it five stars in most categories. The Civic's comprehensive safety features and strong ratings made it a secure option for drivers.