2021 Mazda MAZDA3 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 cabin, however, was considered a bit plain for a new car in 2021.

In contrast, the 2021 Mazda MAZDA3, redesigned in 2019, won the World Car Design of the Year for 2020. Its bodywork exuded drama and sophistication, with the sedan offering a more conservative look compared to the aggressive stance of the hatchback. The 2.5 Turbo model, available in both body styles, featured all-wheel drive and a premium interior with options like Nappa leather. The sedan's white leather interior, though luxurious, was prone to staining from dark clothing. The Mazda3's design focused on driver-centric details, with high-quality materials and a clear, legible gauge set.

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 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 variant featured 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 Mazda MAZDA3 Turbo featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane fuel, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on 87-octane. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda's i-Activ AWD system. The turbocharged powertrain added minimal weight but significantly improved performance. The Mazda3 Turbo offered smooth, predictable power delivery and enhanced cornering capabilities with its G-Vectoring Control Plus system. Despite lacking a manual transmission option, the car provided a thrilling driving experience with excellent handling and a refined ride.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility with its simple sedan layout, large windshield, and well-placed windows. The cabin featured a straightforward dash layout with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. Front-row seating provided plenty of space, while the rear seats were adequate for adults on short trips. The WRX's 12 cubic feet of cargo space was modest compared to other compact sedans but comparable to sports cars.

The 2021 Mazda MAZDA3 2.5 Turbo's interior was lined with Nappa leather and included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel. However, it lacked ventilation for the front seats and had limited rear-seat accommodations, with no air conditioning vents or USB ports. In-cabin storage was adequate but limited, especially if opting for wireless smartphone charging. The sedan's trunk offered 13.2 cubic feet of space, while the hatchback provided significantly more utility with 20.1 cubic feet behind the rear seat and 47.1 cubic feet with it folded down.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came with a standard 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch screen. The Starlink system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a user-friendly interface. 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 Mazda MAZDA3 used the Mazda Connect infotainment system with an 8.8-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a three-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. However, the lack of a touchscreen and poor voice-recognition technology were drawbacks. The system was paired with a 12-speaker Bose premium sound system, which offered good sound quality but struggled with satellite radio. The car also featured a head-up display, visible even with polarized sunglasses.

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 Mazda MAZDA3 featured the i-ActiveSense suite of advanced driving assistance systems, designed to support rather than replace the driver. The Premium Plus trim added a surround-view camera, front and rear parking sensors, low-speed reverse automatic braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The Mazda3 received top five-star ratings from the NHTSA and retained its "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.