2020 Subaru WRX vs 2021 BMW 3 Series

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, evolved into its own model by 2015. By 2020, it retained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and functional air intake. The WRX STI version added even more aerodynamic components, making it the most aggressively styled vehicle in Subaru's lineup. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI version maintained a sleeper appeal, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The cabin, however, was considered somewhat pedestrian for a new car in 2021.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW 3 Series returned to a traditional familial look, reminiscent of the classic E30 3 Series. However, the G20 3 Series appeared stuffy, with a large, oddly-shaped grille that seemed out of place on the smaller sedan. The interior design was nice but marred by unimpressive materials, with plastic trim and fake-looking Ash wood. Leather upholstery was optional, and the M heated steering wheel seemed out of place in the otherwise conservative interior.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The manual transmission provided a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution, while the CVT offered a 45:55 split. 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. The WRX excelled in cornering, with precise steering and minimal body lean, though it had a rough ride and significant road noise.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series offered three powertrains: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque in the 330i, a 330e plug-in hybrid with 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, and a turbo inline-six with 382 hp and 369 lb-ft in the M340i. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The M340i could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds, while the 330i took 5.6 seconds. The 330e matched the 330i's acceleration time but had a clunky transition from electric to gasoline power. The 3 Series offered a comfortable highway ride and excellent handling but lacked engagement in spirited driving.

The 2020 Subaru WRX provided excellent visibility with its simple sedan layout, large windshield, and slanted hood. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. The first-row seating offered plenty of head- and legroom, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on short trips. The WRX had 12 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to other sports cars.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series excelled in rear headroom, leading the segment, while front headroom was above average. Legroom was average, and shoulder room was less generous than the Acura TLX. Gasoline models offered 17 cubic feet of cargo space, but the 330e's battery pack reduced it to 13.2 cubic feet. The trunk's long-and-narrow shape required an awkward reach, though a 40/20/40 split-folding rear seat was standard. The cockpit was driver-focused, with a well-positioned touchscreen and good outward visibility.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came with a 6.5-inch or 7-inch infotainment touchscreen, featuring the Starlink system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly and didn't overdo the tech, providing key driver information through a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series featured the standard iDrive infotainment system with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and two USB ports. Gasoline models included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 330e only had CarPlay. The optional Live Cockpit Professional system added a digital instrument cluster, navigation, and a head-up display. The system was premium, with high-quality graphics and responsive controls. BMW offered multiple control options, including the iDrive controller, steering wheel controls, voice assistant, and gesture controls.

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. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 BMW 3 Series received a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS, with top scores in all crash tests but mixed headlight scores. The NHTSA had not published safety ratings for the 2021 model. Standard driver-assist features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The optional Driving Assistant Professional Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automated lane centering, among other features.