2021 Honda Civic vs 2020 Subaru WRX

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 took it further with a large rear wing and additional aerodynamic components. Despite its sporty exterior, the non-STI version maintained a somewhat understated look, surprising those unfamiliar with its performance capabilities. The interior, however, was considered a bit plain for a new car in 2021.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Civic, available in sedan, hatchback, and performance-tuned Type R formats, continued to impress with its futuristic design. The Civic sedan, in particular, offered a range of trims from LX to Touring, with prices starting at $21,250. The Touring trim, with its Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels, stood out aesthetically. However, the interior, once daring in 2016, began to show its age, especially with a maximum infotainment screen size of 7 inches. Despite this, the cabin featured quality materials and thoughtful design, maintaining its role as a trend-setter.

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, though a CVT was also available. The manual transmission provided a 50:50 front:rear torque distribution, while the CVT offered a 45:55 split. The WRX STI variant 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 stiff ride and significant road noise.

The 2021 Honda Civic offered two engine options. The LX and Sport trims featured a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 158 hp and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. The EX, EX-L, and Touring trims came with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, delivering 174 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque. While the turbo engine provided a spirited drive, the CVT was less satisfying, often droning and feeling unsophisticated. Despite this, the Civic's fuel economy was impressive, averaging 34.8 mpg on a 140-mile loop, surpassing the EPA estimate of 33 mpg.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility, thanks to its simple sedan layout and large windshield. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. The front seats provided plenty of space, while the rear seats were adequate for 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 Honda Civic, though low to the ground, provided comfortable seating once inside. The driver's seat offered eight-way power adjustment, but the front passenger seat lacked height adjustment. The rear seats were spacious, with excellent thigh support and a comfortable backrest angle. The center console was highly practical, offering ample storage space. The Civic sedan's trunk was generous, with 15.1 cubic feet of space, though the Touring trim reduced this to 14.7 cubic feet due to the premium sound system.

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.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology was somewhat dated. The LX trim offered a 5-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth, and a basic USB port. The Sport trim upgraded to a 7-inch touchscreen, eight-speaker sound system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a more powerful USB port. The EX trim added HD Radio and SiriusXM, while the Touring trim included navigation and a 10-speaker premium audio system. However, the voice recognition system was unsophisticated, and the premium sound system, while nice, was not a significant upgrade over the eight-speaker setup.

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 Honda Civic was equipped with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The Civic also featured LaneWatch, a camera-based blind-spot monitoring system. However, it lacked a traditional radar-based blind-spot warning system and rear cross-traffic alert. The Civic earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and five-star ratings in every NHTSA assessment.