2022 Dodge Charger vs 2021 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Subaru WRX was often criticized for its youthful and somewhat rebellious design, reminiscent of a teenager with piercings and tattoos. Despite its sedan classification, the WRX's wedge-like front end and short trunk lid gave it a sporty appearance, even when stationary. Its aerodynamic bodywork and functional hood scoop added to this impression. Inside, the WRX's cabin was utilitarian, echoing Subaru's compact cars from the past decade. While functional, the interior was marred by hard plastics, contributing to its less mature reputation compared to rivals like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The WRX offered trims like Base, Premium, and Limited, each adding features such as larger wheels, upgraded infotainment systems, and optional driver assistance technologies.

In contrast, the 2022 Dodge Charger, built on a platform dating back to 2005, had a more modern and menacing exterior, thanks to updates in 2011 and 2015. While the exterior was refreshed, the interior felt dated, with thick bezels and chunky controls reminiscent of older designs. Despite this, the cabin was user-friendly. The Charger offered a wide range of trims, from the V6-powered SXT and GT to the high-performance Hellcat and Jailbreak variants. Each trim added features like sport-tuned suspensions, premium audio systems, and advanced infotainment options, making the Charger a versatile choice for those seeking both performance and practicality.

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. This engine configuration allowed for a low center of gravity, enhancing its all-wheel-drive system. Buyers could choose between a six-speed manual transmission or a CVT, though the manual was often criticized for its vague clutch feel. The WRX's Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring provided precise cornering, but its stiff ride was less comfortable compared to competitors like the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2022 Dodge Charger offered a range of engines, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 292 horsepower in the SXT and 300 horsepower in the GT. The R/T trim introduced a 5.7-liter Hemi V8 with 370 horsepower, while the R/T Scat Pack boasted a 6.4-liter V8 with 485 horsepower. The Hellcat variants featured a supercharged 6.2-liter V8, delivering 717 horsepower, with the Redeye and Jailbreak models pushing output to 797 and 807 horsepower, respectively. All engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the Hellcat's Widebody setup improved handling and traction, making it a formidable performance machine.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering 12 cubic feet of cargo space. While this was more than the Civic Si coupe, it lagged behind the sedan and the VW GTI. The WRX's interior was somewhat dated, lacking modern conveniences like large bottle holders. However, it provided a comfortable driving position and decent rear seat space, accommodating four adults with ease.

The 2022 Dodge Charger, a large sedan, offered ample legroom in both rows, though headroom was limited, especially in the rear. The high center console and performance seats created an intimate front-seat experience. The Charger's trunk provided 16.5 cubic feet of space, but its small lid and high bumper made loading challenging. Despite these limitations, the Charger offered sports-car performance with the practicality of a sedan.

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 user-friendly experience despite dated graphics. The Limited trim added navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, enhancing the audio experience.

The 2022 Dodge Charger featured a 7-inch touchscreen with the Uconnect infotainment system, known for its ease of use. An 8.4-inch version was available on higher trims, offering larger icons and a similar layout. Both screens included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a straightforward user experience. While not the most advanced, the Charger's technology was well-integrated with conventional controls.

The 2021 Subaru WRX lacked standard advanced safety features, with Subaru's EyeSight system available only on CVT-equipped Premium and Limited trims. Options like adaptive high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert were limited to the top trim. All WRX models included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.

The 2022 Dodge Charger showed its age in safety offerings, with only a backup camera and rear parking sensors as standard. Optional features included forward-collision avoidance, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The backup camera's image quality was notably poor, highlighting the Charger's outdated safety technology.