2021 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 refined its styling within these constraints, giving the Prius a more sedan-like appearance while retaining its hatchback functionality. The Prius's futuristic design remained contemporary, with its most revolutionary feature being the cabin's central instrumentation and gauges, a hallmark since its inception. The Prius offered various trims, starting with the L Eco, which included 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 systems.

The 2021 Subaru WRX, often seen as having an adolescent aesthetic, presented a more subdued look compared to its racier sibling, the WRX STI. Its wedge-like front end and short trunk lid gave it a speedy appearance, complemented by aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop. Inside, the WRX shared similarities with other Subaru compacts, focusing on function over form, which resulted in a less refined cabin compared to competitors like the VW GTI. The WRX offered trims such as Base, Premium, and Limited, with features like 17-inch wheels, cloth upholstery, and a 6.5-inch touchscreen. The Limited trim added leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and optional navigation and premium stereo.

The 2020 Toyota Prius featured a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 121 horsepower and 105 pound-feet of torque. It offered front-wheel drive, with an all-wheel-drive variant available. The Prius excelled in smooth acceleration and seamless transitions between electric and conventional power. It provided three drive modes—EV, Eco, and Power—each catering to different driving needs. The unique shifter design and engine braking mode added to its distinct driving experience. Despite its focus on efficiency, the Prius offered engaging handling and a smooth ride, making it ideal for daily commutes.

The 2021 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine, producing 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The WRX's power surpassed rivals like the Civic Si and VW GTI, but mastering the revs was crucial to harness its full potential. The CVT, though unconventional for enthusiasts, kept the revs in the powerband effectively. The WRX featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing cornering precision. Its well-weighted steering made winding roads enjoyable, though the ride was stiffer compared to competitors.

The 2020 Toyota Prius made efficient use of its space, with deep door pockets and a large tray area between the front seats. The front seats offered ample headroom and legroom, with good driver visibility. The rear seats were spacious, though taller passengers needed to be cautious when entering. The Prius provided 50.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and up to 27.4 cubic feet with them up, making it one of the most versatile hybrids. Its hatchback design facilitated easy loading of large items.

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While it surpassed the Civic Si coupe, it lagged behind the sedan and the VW GTI in cargo capacity. The WRX's interior packaging felt dated, with limited door storage for larger water bottles. The driving position was comfortable, with good visibility and a decently sized center console. The rear seats accommodated four adults comfortably, highlighting the benefits of a sedan layout.

The 2020 Toyota Prius came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, offering a sensible menu layout and compatibility with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Limited trim upgraded to an 11.6-inch screen with a customizable layout, though it lacked Android Auto. The Prius also featured a WiFi hotspot, satellite radio, and a JBL premium audio system. Its top-center instrument panel, a defining feature, provided hybrid drivetrain status and other critical readouts.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a 7-inch screen available on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering ease of use despite dated graphics. The Limited trim's option package included navigation and a Harman Kardon stereo, enhancing the audio experience. However, the WRX's tech felt less advanced compared to newer models.

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

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with advanced safety features. The EyeSight system, with adaptive cruise control and emergency braking, was available only on CVT-equipped Premium and Limited trims. Other features like blind-spot monitoring were optional on the Limited. All trims included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.