2021 Lexus ES vs 2022 Subaru WRX

For the 2021 model year, the Lexus ES lineup expanded to include the new ES 250 series of cars. These models featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD), priced equivalently to the ES 350 with a 3.5-liter V6 and front-wheel drive (FWD). The ES 250 and ES 350 were available in Standard, F Sport, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Additionally, Lexus offered the ES 300h, a gas-electric hybrid version, which commanded a premium of $1,910 and provided significant fuel economy gains. The ES 300h came in Standard, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury trims. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert became standard on all versions except the base trim. A new limited-production Black Line Special Edition of the ES 350 also debuted, featuring unique styling elements and a matching two-piece set of Zero Halliburton luggage.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while not a styling drama queen, presented a more streamlined and subtle look compared to its predecessor. The new model was two inches wider, with a front end that retained its signature hood scoop and a small hexagonal grille. The side profile was less busy, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to improve aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared outward dramatically, and the rear featured a large plastic bumper and quad tailpipes. The taillights had a multifaceted design, and the Premium-trim tester included LED fog lights, 18-inch alloy wheels, and a subtle trunk-mounted lip spoiler. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents, and black cloth seats with red contrast stitching.

The 2021 Lexus ES 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 302 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. Drivers could choose between Normal, Eco, and Sport driving modes, with Sport+ and Custom modes available with the adaptive damping suspension. The ES 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds and had an EPA fuel economy rating of 25 mpg combined. During testing, it averaged 22.9 mpg. The ES 350 F Sport felt quicker than its claimed acceleration time, though it could benefit from a torque-vectoring AWD system. The car's firm ride, flat cornering stance, and overall athleticism were impressive, making it a sporty sedan rather than an outright sports sedan.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine replaced the previous 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. The WRX came standard with AWD and offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT, dubbed Subaru Performance Transmission, had eight shift points and faster shift times compared to the previous generation. The new GT trim, available only with the CVT, included Recaro seats, electronically controlled dampers, and a Drive Mode Select system. The manual transmission was praised for its notchy and precise feel, while the new suspension setup provided a more forgiving ride quality on rough roads.

The 2021 Lexus ES featured a daring interior layout that remained functional. The ES 350 F Sport had sport-bolstered front seats with 10-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation. The NuLuxe synthetic leather provided excellent comfort, and rear-seat passengers enjoyed good foot and legroom, rear air conditioning vents, and an available power rear window sunshade. The trunk measured 13.9 cubic feet, with an optional hands-free power trunk for added convenience. Storage was plentiful but oddly configured, with nooks and crannies rather than wide trays and large bins.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity increase to 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 materials in the base and Premium trims and Ultrasuede in the Limited and GT trims. The seats provided ample bolstering without feeling tight or claustrophobic. The standard AWD added to the WRX's practicality, making it a viable commuter vehicle.

The 2021 Lexus ES had a problematic touchpad interface that required drivers to look at the screen while navigating, making it easy to overshoot intended targets. However, the climate controls and primary stereo controls were separate and easily accessible. The ES featured dynamic voice command technology, an optional 12.3-inch widescreen display, and a standard 8-inch display. The infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, SiriusXM satellite radio, HD Radio, and connected services. A 10-speaker premium sound system was standard, with an available 17-speaker, 1,800-watt Mark Levinson high-end sound system.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's Starlink infotainment system featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in premium trims and higher. The system had physical controls for climate control, power and volume, tuning, and defrost functions. However, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration was not seamless, with Android Auto displaying only on the top half of the screen. The base trim had a dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2021 Lexus ES came standard with Lexus Safety System 2.0 (LSS 2.0), which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, lane-centering assistance, adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and automatic high-beam headlights. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims except the base. The ES received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-tracing assist. The manual WRX did not offer EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on the Limited and GT trims. The WRX's new platform absorbed more energy in a crash, and the car came with seven airbags, including a driver’s-side knee airbag.