2020 Mazda MAZDA3 vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, had evolved into its own distinct model by 2015. By 2020, it retained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and a large functional air intake. The WRX STI version took it further with additional aerodynamic components and a large rear wing. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI version maintained a somewhat understated look, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The interior, while functional, was considered a bit plain for a new car in 2021.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 offered both sedan and hatchback body styles, with the hatchback standing out due to its unique curves and silhouette. The sedan, while more traditional, aimed to compete with upmarket models. Both body styles featured a sculpted design with minimal straight lines, setting them apart from competitors like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla. Inside, the Mazda3 embraced simplicity and minimalism, with high-quality materials and a driver-focused design. However, the sheet metal felt less sturdy, lacking the solid construction found in more expensive luxury sedans.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came with a standard six-speed manual transmission, with an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT) featuring Subaru’s SI-DRIVE and paddle shifters. The AWD system varied based on the transmission, with the manual offering a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution and the CVT providing a 45:55 split. The manual transmission was preferred for its precise feedback and smooth clutch pedal, making it ideal for performance driving. The WRX STI version boasted a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for enhanced cornering abilities.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3, on the other hand, featured a 2.5-liter SkyActiv four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. This engine, while reliable, lacked the immediate punch of a turbocharged motor. Mazda offered a six-speed manual transmission, but only for the front-wheel-drive hatchback model with higher trim levels. Most models came with a six-speed automatic transmission. The switch from a multi-link rear suspension to a torsion beam setup in the 2019 redesign affected the ride quality, making it less smooth over road imperfections. However, the steering remained precise, and the car handled well through corners.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility thanks to its simple sedan layout, large windshield, and well-placed quarter windows. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage compartments. The front seats provided plenty of head- and legroom, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on short trips. However, the 12 cubic feet of cargo space was limited compared to other compact sedans, though comparable to sports cars.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan measured 183.5 inches in length with a 107.3-inch wheelbase, while the hatchback was more compact at 175.6 inches. Despite its size, the interior offered ample headroom and supportive front seats with plenty of adjustments. The rear seats were a bit tight on legroom, but the soft front seatbacks made it manageable. The trunk provided 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space in the sedan and 20.1 cubic feet in the hatchback, both on the smaller side for the segment.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch screen. The Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The WRX also featured a digital display in the instrument panel and an additional information screen atop the dash, providing key driver information in multiple locations.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display integrated into the dashboard, avoiding the tacked-on look. However, it lacked touch functionality, relying on a rotary dial controller and dedicated buttons for navigation and infotainment. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and Sirius XM satellite radio. The head-up display (HUD) reflected off the windshield, enhancing the premium feel of the cabin.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also available. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2020 Mazda MAZDA3 was a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, scoring Good in all crash tests and receiving a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered advanced driver assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features were increasingly common in mass-market vehicles but often optional in luxury segments.