2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2021 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a reputation for its adolescent aesthetic, often seen as the rebellious member of the Subaru family. While it appeared tamer compared to the racier WRX STI, the WRX still sported a wedge-like front end and a short trunk lid, giving it a speedy look even when stationary. Aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop added to its sporty appearance. Inside, the WRX's cockpit was function-first, featuring hard plastics that contributed to its less refined reputation compared to competitors like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The WRX came in Base, Premium, and Limited trims, with the Limited offering leather upholstery, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and adaptive LED headlights.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, on the other hand, carried a legacy of defining the hot hatch genre since its introduction as the Volkswagen Rabbit GTI in 1983. The GTI shared its basics with the regular Golf but included subtle enhancements like red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip across the grille, and painted brake calipers. The GTI's lowered stance, stainless-steel exhaust tips, and gloss black accents added to its sporty look. Inside, the GTI featured red ambient lighting, a race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel, and heated front sport seats. The interior quality was top-notch, with high-quality materials and well-installed surfaces.

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. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Despite its power, the WRX required precise rev management to extract its full potential. The manual transmission was often criticized for its vague clutch feel, while the CVT, though not ideal for enthusiasts, kept the revs in the powerband effectively. The WRX featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing its cornering precision. However, its stiff ride was less comfortable compared to the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The GTI's performance was highlighted by its great handling, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension and DCC adaptive damping in the Autobahn model. The GTI's variable-ratio steering provided crisp turn-in and excellent feel, while the Golf R front brakes offered strong stopping power. The GTI's ride could be rough on ordinary roads, but its performance-oriented setup shone on the right road or track. The GTI offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a DSG seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, with the manual providing a more engaging driving experience.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While this was more than the Civic Si coupe, it fell short compared to the GTI's 53.7 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The WRX's interior showed its age, lacking modern conveniences like accommodating in-door bottle holders. However, it provided a comfortable driving position with good visibility and decent rear seat space for a compact sedan.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in form and function, thanks to its hatchback design. With a 103.6-inch wheelbase and compact dimensions, the GTI was highly practical for carrying passengers and cargo. It offered 17.4 cubic feet of luggage space behind the rear seats, expandable to 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GTI's compact size and sharp steering made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Inside, the GTI featured clever storage options, including large front door pockets and well-sized cupholders. The mechanical handbrake, though a bit of a throwback, added to the GTI's charm.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen running Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a 7-inch screen available on higher trims. Both screens supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering a sensible layout and easy-to-use controls despite dated graphics. The Limited trim added navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, providing great sound quality. However, the WRX's tech felt outdated compared to newer models.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured the VW MIB touchscreen infotainment system, with a 6.5-inch screen on S models and an 8-inch screen with navigation on SE and Autobahn trims. The MIB touchscreens supported tablet-like gesture controls and capacitive-touch sensors. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink were standard, along with Bluetooth and two USB ports. The SE model included a three-month trial to SiriusXM with 360L. Volkswagen Car-Net offered additional connectivity features, including Remote Access, Safe & Secure, and Hotspot portals. The GTI also came with standard LED lighting, keyless access, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with the latest safety features. Subaru's EyeSight system, including adaptive cruise control, emergency automatic braking, and lane-departure warning, was available only on Premium and Limited trims with the CVT. Adaptive high beams, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and reverse automatic braking were optional on the Limited trim. All WRX trims included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" score in the small overlap front passenger side test and headlights. The GTI came with standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and multiple airbags. The Autobahn trim added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, park distance control, park assist, and high-beam control. The GTI's sharp handling also contributed to its safety by potentially avoiding collisions.