2020 Subaru WRX vs 2021 BMW 2 Series

The 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance variant initially derived from the Subaru Impreza, had evolved into its own distinct model by 2015. By 2020, it retained the infotainment updates introduced in 2019. The WRX was characterized by its aggressive styling, featuring a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and a functional air intake. The STI version took this further with a large rear wing and additional aerodynamic components. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI WRX maintained a somewhat understated presence, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The interior, while functional, was considered somewhat basic for a new car in 2021.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe marked a departure from BMW's traditional rear-wheel-drive setup, offering a front-wheel-drive platform in the U.S. market. Despite its name, it was a four-door sedan with a conventional trunk, lacking the utility of its larger sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe. The 2 Series Gran Coupe was an entry-level BMW, appealing to those aspiring to own a vehicle with the iconic kidney grille. It was available in 228i and M235i models, with xDrive all-wheel-drive optional for the 228i and standard for the M235i. The car's design included visual tricks to balance its proportions, such as large LED headlights and a tapering roofline, culminating in a busy rear end. Inside, it adhered to BMW's modern design language, featuring geometric shapes, a neatly integrated touchscreen infotainment system, and upscale materials.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 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 continuously variable transmission (CVT) that included Subaru’s SI-DRIVE with multiple drive modes. The manual transmission offered a 50:50 front-to-rear torque distribution, while the CVT had a 45:55 split, providing a more responsive rear-wheel-drive bias. The WRX's power delivery was impressive, with minimal turbo lag and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The WRX STI variant offered a more hardcore experience with a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for enhanced cornering capabilities.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, specifically the 228i xDrive model, featured a 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. BMW quoted a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds for the 228i xDrive, offering a lively driving experience. The car included performance-enhancing technologies such as brake-fade compensation, cornering brake control, and three driving modes. The M Sport Package added M Sport steering, which was swift, sharp, and direct, enhancing the driving experience. The suspension was firm but manageable, and the car felt well-planted on the road, although the all-season run-flat tires tended to squeal at the limit of adhesion.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility thanks to its simple sedan layout, with large windshields and slanted hoods providing clear sightlines. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. The first-row seating was spacious, with adequate head- and legroom, while the rear seats could accommodate adults on short trips. However, the WRX's 12 cubic feet of cargo space was limited compared to other compact sedans, though comparable to sports cars.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was practical for transporting two people, with sport-bolstered, 10-way power-adjustable front seats that were snug yet comfortable. However, entry and exit were challenging due to the car's low-slung design. The rear seats were cramped, with limited headroom and legroom, making them less suitable for adults. The trunk offered 15.2 cubic feet of space, including a storage compartment under the load floor, and the 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added some utility. However, the car lacked the sportback design of the 4 Series Gran Coupe, limiting its cargo-carrying capabilities.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch version, both featuring the Starlink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly and provided essential tech features without being overwhelming. The WRX also included a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash, offering key driver information in multiple locations.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe featured Live Cockpit Plus with a 5.1-inch display between analog gauges, upgradeable to Live Cockpit Pro with a 10.25-inch digital display. The infotainment system included an 8.8-inch touchscreen with iDrive 7.0 technology, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and navigation. The system was responsive and easy to use, with multiple control options, including voice recognition. The car also had a premium sound system with ten speakers and an optional Gesture Control feature, though its accuracy was inconsistent. A full-color head-up display was available, though it was less effective with polarized sunglasses.

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

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a Driving Assistance Package with adaptive cruise control and a parking-assistant feature, though it was not included in the test car. The Active Driving Assistant suite included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, active blind-spot warning, and a speed limit information system. The lane-keeping assistance was effective but could be aggressive. The IIHS rated the 2 Series Gran Coupe highly for crash protection, though it missed a Top Safety Pick designation due to headlight performance and vehicle-to-pedestrian test results.