2021 Toyota Camry vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX broke away from its origins as a performance variant of the Subaru Impreza, becoming its own unique model. With updates last seen in 2019, the 2020 WRX carried aggressive styling elements making it a standout in Subaru's lineup. Its wider stance, lower front splitter, rear deck spoiler, and functional air intake defined its aggressive look, while the STI version added a large rear wing and extra aerodynamic components. Despite these bold design choices, the non-STI WRX could act as a sleeper, surprising those unaware of its performance under the hood. The interior, while functional, was rather pedestrian and might not impress those looking for modern cabin flair in a 2021 vehicle. The model offered trims from Base to Limited, each adding more features like 18-inch wheels, a power moonroof, and leather upholstery as you moved up the ladder.

The 2021 Toyota Camry aimed to shed its past image as a generic sedan by incorporating bold styling details. Flared wheel arches, slim headlights, and taillights gave it a wider, more aggressive stance, especially on the SE, XSE, and TRD trims, though faux vents added unnecessary visual clutter. The LE and XLE trims had a slightly more conservative but still massive grille. Built on Toyota’s TNGA-K platform, shared with the Avalon sedan and RAV4 SUV, the Camry's design was refreshed for 2021 with subtle updates, while the TRD model maintained unique elements like a larger rear spoiler. The Nightshade Edition added blacked-out trim and wheels for an extra sporty appearance. However, the interior's mix of diverse materials and chaotic design elements lacked a cohesive theme, potentially detracting from its refined exterior look.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer-four engine producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT, though typically seen as efficiency-focused, offered multiple drive modes and paddle shifters with manual-shift modes that mimicked actual gears. The manual transmission provided a more engaging driving experience, with a 50:50 front-to-rear torque distribution, while the CVT featured a 45:55 split. The WRX’s sharp handling, minimal turbo lag, and precise steering made it a joy for spirited driving, though its stiff suspension and road noise could be challenging on less ideal surfaces.

For those seeking more power, the WRX STI packed a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine delivering 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque, accompanied by Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension. The more aggressive setup enhanced cornering but also brought a firmer, often uncomfortable ride quality, particularly on rough roads.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered a diverse range of powertrains. The base 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in most trims with front-wheel drive (FWD), slightly less with all-wheel drive (AWD). The XSE trim featured a dual-exhaust system, bumping output to 206 horsepower. The naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 provided 301 horsepower and 267 pound-feet, paired exclusively with FWD, ensuring robust acceleration and robust performance in a family sedan. A hybrid option combined a 2.5-liter engine with electric assistance for a total output of 208 horsepower.

The SE Nightshade Edition model we tested came with the base four-cylinder engine and AWD. The Dynamic Force engine offered a lively, eager-to-rev experience, providing a surprising amount of fun for a midsize sedan. The chassis was finely tuned to balance handling and ride quality, delivering an enjoyable drive without compromising comfort. The TRD model took performance further with chassis upgrades like stiffer suspension and bigger brakes, enhancing its driving dynamics further.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a practical sedan layout with excellent visibility, benefiting from Subaru's function-first design philosophy. The cabin interior was straightforward, with easy-to-use controls and ample storage. Both front and rear seats provided generous space, accommodating full-size adults quite comfortably for short trips, though longer journeys might expose the tight backseat space. However, with just 12 cubic feet of cargo space, the WRX fell short compared to other compact sedans, but was comparable to performance-oriented sports cars.

The 2021 Toyota Camry, designed as a midsize sedan, offered superior rear headroom and legroom at the expense of slightly cramped front seats. Nevertheless, the front seats were adjustable and comfortable, ensuring a suitable driving position. The spacious trunk provided 15.1 cubic feet of cargo space, placing it in the middle of its segment, but smaller compared to the Honda Accord's 16.7 cubic feet. In-cabin storage was limited, with small cupholders and door bottle holders that trapped items. Larger controls for audio and climate functions were a welcome touch, despite some challenging reaches from the driver's seat.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch Starlink infotainment touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch screen. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless integration and user-friendly navigation between applications. The setup, though not the latest, covered all necessary tech features without overwhelming users. An additional digital display in the instrument panel and another atop the dash ensured critical information was accessible from multiple angles.

The 2021 Toyota Camry offered an infotainment system starting with a 7-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and more. Higher trims featured a 9-inch screen, WiFi capabilities, navigation, and a premium JBL audio system. The addition of a 10-inch head-up display on XSE and XLE trims enhanced driver convenience. Standard USB ports and a 12-volt outlet provided necessary connectivity, but additional plug-in options were unavailable on higher trims. Toyota’s system was functional with easily navigable menus, though arguably not as visually impressive as some competitors.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came equipped with essential safety features, including a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features added forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control. Other options included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The WRX earned a 2020 IIHS Top Safety Pick award and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA, solidifying its strong safety performance.

The 2021 Toyota Camry received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA with top marks in front, side, and rollover tests. Standard across the range was the TSS 2.5+ suite, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and more. New features for 2021 included enhanced adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning capabilities, and a Rear Seat Reminder to prevent leaving children or pets unattended. Optional features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert provided additional safety layers, particularly on higher trims.