2020 Subaru WRX vs 2020 Toyota Prius

The 2020 Toyota Prius maintained its iconic shape, influenced by aerodynamics to achieve an optimal drag coefficient. Over the years, Toyota subtly evolved its styling to give it a more sedan-like appearance while retaining its hatchback functionality. The Prius's futuristic design remained contemporary, with its most distinctive feature being the centrally located instrumentation and gauges, a hallmark since its inception. The Prius offered various trims, starting with the L Eco, which included essentials like 15-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims like the XLE and Limited added features such as synthetic leather upholstery, a larger touchscreen, and advanced driver-assistance technologies.

The 2020 Subaru WRX, originally a performance variant of the Impreza, stood out with its aggressive styling, including a wider stance and functional air intake. Despite its sporty appearance, the WRX's cabin was straightforward, with a focus on practicality. The WRX offered trims like Base, Premium, and Limited, each adding features such as larger wheels, heated seats, and advanced infotainment systems. The WRX STI variant took performance further with a more powerful engine and enhanced handling features. While the WRX's interior might have seemed basic to some, its design prioritized functionality and visibility, making it a practical choice for performance enthusiasts.

The 2020 Toyota Prius featured a hybrid powertrain with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 121 horsepower. It offered both front-wheel drive and an all-wheel-drive variant, the Prius AWD-e, which used a second electric motor for the rear wheels. The Prius provided smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and conventional power. It offered three drive modes—EV, Eco, and Power—each catering to different driving preferences. The unique shifter design and engine braking mode added to its distinctive driving experience. While not a sports car, the Prius's low center of gravity contributed to its engaging handling and smooth ride.

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 and an optional CVT with paddle shifters. The WRX's all-wheel-drive system varied based on transmission choice, offering different torque distribution setups. The manual transmission provided a more traditional driving experience, while the CVT offered quick responsiveness. The WRX excelled in power delivery, with minimal turbo lag and precise steering, making it a joy to drive on winding roads. The WRX STI variant offered even more power and sharper handling, though at the cost of a stiffer ride.

The 2020 Toyota Prius made efficient use of its space, with deep door pockets and a large tray area between the front seats for storage. The front seats were spacious and comfortable, offering good visibility. The rear seats provided ample space, though taller passengers needed to be cautious when entering. The Prius offered 50.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it one of the most spacious options among hybrids. Despite its sedan-like design cues, the Prius's hatchback design facilitated easy loading of large items.

The 2020 Subaru WRX's sedan layout provided excellent visibility, with large windows and a straightforward dash layout. The cabin offered ample first-row seating space, and 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 with similar performance. The WRX's design prioritized practicality and functionality, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a performance vehicle with everyday usability.

The 2020 Toyota Prius came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, featuring Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a WiFi hotspot. The Limited trim upgraded to an 11.6-inch screen with a customizable layout, though it lacked Android Auto. The Prius offered additional features like satellite radio, HD Radio, and a JBL premium audio system. The top-center instrument panel, a defining feature of the Prius, provided hybrid drivetrain status and other critical readouts, with an available HUD for added convenience.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured a standard 6.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, with an available 7-inch screen. The Starlink system was user-friendly, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The WRX also included a digital display in the instrument panel and a digital information screen atop the dash, providing key driver information. While not the latest system, the WRX's infotainment offered essential tech features without overwhelming the user, maintaining a balance between functionality and simplicity.

The 2020 Toyota Prius was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering features like automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Prius earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" accolade from the IIHS, though it fell short of the highest rating due to average scores in certain tests.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came standard with airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. It offered the EyeSight suite of driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic emergency braking. The WRX earned top marks from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, highlighting its strong safety credentials.