2022 Subaru WRX vs 2021 BMW 2 Series

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe, introduced as a new model the previous year, marked a departure from BMW's traditional rear-wheel-drive setup by offering standard front-wheel drive in the U.S. market. Despite its name, the Gran Coupe was a four-door sedan with a conventional trunk, lacking the utility of its five-door sportback sibling, the 4 Series Gran Coupe. As an entry-level BMW, it was an attractive option for those aspiring to own a vehicle with the iconic kidney-shaped grille and blue-and-white roundel. The 2 Series Gran Coupe was available in 228i and M235i models, with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system optional for the 228i and standard for the M235i. The 2021 model year saw the addition of standard equipment, a sport automatic transmission limited to the M Sport Package or M235i, and a new adaptive damping suspension. The test car, a 228i xDrive Gran Coupe, came equipped with the M Sport Package, Premium Package, and other premium features, bringing the MSRP to $48,595.

The design of the 2 Series Gran Coupe faced challenges due to its front-drive platform, but BMW employed visual tricks like large LED headlights and grilles to improve its proportions. The cabin was pulled back to enhance the dashboard-to-axle ratio, and the tapering roofline extended the car's appearance, culminating in a busy rear end. Inside, the Gran Coupe adhered to BMW's modern design language, featuring geometric shapes, a touchscreen infotainment system, and digital instrumentation. The materials were upscale, with metallic trim adding contrast, and the optional leather upholstery was appealing. Despite being an entry-level model, the 2 Series Gran Coupe, when equipped with premium features, did not look or feel like a basic BMW.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, offered a more subtle styling approach, despite being two inches wider than its predecessor. The front end featured a signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille, flanked by sharp LED headlights. The side profile was less busy, with black plastic cladding that served both aesthetic and aerodynamic purposes. The rear fenders flared outward, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. The WRX's overall appearance was smoother and more streamlined, though the body cladding could be distracting on bright-colored models like the Solar Orange test car. The Premium-trim tester included LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a trunk-mounted lip spoiler.

Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements in fit and finish, with a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents. The black cloth seats with red contrast stitching set the WRX apart from other Subaru models. The interior finally matched the modernity of its stablemates, offering a more refined driving experience.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe posed a question about the credibility of a front-drive platform under a self-proclaimed "ultimate driving machine." While some critics were skeptical, the 228i Gran Coupe's 228-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and optional xDrive AWD, offered a compelling performance package. The car accelerated from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, providing a lively driving experience. The M Sport Package enhanced the driving dynamics with M Sport steering, which was swift, sharp, and direct. The suspension was firm but well-tuned, and the Gran Coupe felt glued to the road, though the all-season run-flat tires squealed at the limit of adhesion. The 228i xDrive Gran Coupe averaged 27.9 mpg, slightly beating the EPA's estimate.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, distinct from the Impreza and previous-generation WRX, featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. While the power improvement was minimal, the WRX's performance was still engaging. The standard AWD system and the choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT provided versatility. The manual transmission was precise and satisfying, with a forgiving clutch, making it a delight to drive. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, offered improved ride quality and reduced body roll. The car handled mountain roads with confidence, never feeling unwieldy despite challenging conditions.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe was practical for transporting two young and limber people. The sport-bolstered, 10-way power-adjustable front seats were snug yet comfortable, and there was adequate storage for everyday items. However, entry and exit were not effortless due to the car's low-slung design. The rear seat, accessible through two extra doors, was cramped, with limited headroom and legroom. The traditional trunk offered 15.2 cubic feet of space, including a generous storage compartment under the load floor. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seat added some utility, but the car lacked the full sportback treatment of its larger sibling.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while lacking a hatchback option, offered a cargo capacity of 12.5 cubic feet, expandable with the rear seat's 60/40 split-fold function. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery, depending on the trim. The seats provided ample bolstering without feeling tight, making the WRX a viable commuter vehicle. The standard AWD system added to its practicality, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a performance-focused sedan in the $30,000 range.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe came equipped with Live Cockpit Plus, featuring a 5.1-inch display between traditional analog gauges. The Premium Package upgraded to Live Cockpit Pro, with a fully digital 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system, using BMW's iDrive 7.0 technology, included an 8.8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite radio, and a navigation system. The system was user-friendly, with responsive software and multiple control options. The premium sound system, though unbranded, delivered satisfactory audio quality. The test car also featured a full-color head-up display, though it was less effective with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, previously lacking in technological advancements, offered an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in premium trims and higher. The system, shared with newer Subaru models, was visually impressive and easy to operate, with physical controls for essential functions. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was less seamless, with Android Auto displaying only on the top half of the screen. The base trim featured a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available, though not tested in the premium-trim vehicle.

The 2021 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe offered a Driving Assistance Package with adaptive cruise control and a parking-assistant feature, though the test car lacked this upgrade. The Active Driving Assistant included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, active blind-spot warning, and a speed limit information system. The lane-keeping assistance was effective but could be aggressive. The IIHS rated the Gran Coupe highly for crash protection, though it missed a Top Safety Pick due to headlight ratings and vehicle-to-pedestrian test results.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came standard with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The system was well-engineered and effective. Manual transmission models lacked EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car featured seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag.