2021 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Toyota Corolla

The 2021 Subaru WRX was often critiqued for its youthful and somewhat rebellious design, characterized by a wedge-like front end and a short trunk lid that suggested speed even when stationary. Its aerodynamic bodywork and functional hood scoop added to this impression. Inside, the WRX shared a similar design language with other Subaru compacts from the past decade, focusing on functionality over aesthetics. This utilitarian approach resulted in a cabin filled with hard plastics, which contributed to its less mature reputation compared to competitors like the VW GTI and Honda Civic Si. The WRX offered trims such as Base, Premium, and Limited, each adding more features and options, including larger wheels, upgraded infotainment systems, and driver assistance features.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Corolla aimed to shed its reputation for blandness with bold exterior styling, including aggressive LED headlights and a wide grille. The Corolla offered different styling elements across its trims, with the SE and XSE models featuring a sportier front fascia. The Apex Edition added a subtle body kit and unique wheels, enhancing its street-racer appeal. Inside, the Corolla's design was simpler but maintained Toyota's high standards for fit and finish. However, the interior lacked the sporty flair of the exterior, with standard cloth upholstery and some less practical design choices, such as piano black trim that easily showed smudges.

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 handling, making it a joy on winding roads, albeit with a stiffer ride compared to rivals like the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla offered two engine options: a 1.8-liter four-cylinder with 139 horsepower for the L, LE, and XLE trims, and a 2.0-liter engine with 169 horsepower for the SE and XSE trims. The Apex Edition featured the same engine with a sport exhaust system and a manual transmission option, enhancing its sporty appeal. The Apex Edition also boasted a model-specific suspension, improving handling but at the cost of ride comfort. Despite these enhancements, the Apex Edition wasn't a full performance model, lacking significant upgrades to tires, brakes, or engine power.

The 2021 Subaru WRX featured a traditional 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 of the sedan and the VW GTI's spacious cargo area. The WRX's interior design showed its age, with limited storage solutions for modern needs, such as accommodating large water bottles. However, it provided a comfortable driving position with good visibility and enough rear seat space for four adults.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's interior felt roomy, aided by a low beltline for better visibility, though the steep windshield design limited forward visibility. The driver's seat was positioned for optimal comfort, but taller drivers might find knee space lacking. The Corolla offered 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, less than some competitors, but included a 60/40 split-folding rear seat for added versatility. Storage for smaller items was limited, with a thin center console and shallow cupholders.

The 2021 Subaru WRX came with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, upgradeable to a 7-inch on higher trims, both supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the graphics appeared dated. The Limited trim offered an optional package with navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, enhancing the audio experience despite the system's age.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla's infotainment system was starting to show its age, with a 7-inch touchscreen on the base model and an 8-inch on higher trims. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a six-speaker audio system, with a nine-speaker JBL system available on select trims. While the interface was easy to use, the graphics were outdated, and some tasks were less intuitive compared to competitors. The Corolla lacked advanced tech features like wireless smartphone integration or digital key functionality.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with advanced safety features, but the EyeSight system was available on Premium and Limited trims with the CVT. This system included adaptive cruise control, emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional safety options like blind-spot monitoring and reverse automatic braking were available only on the Limited trim.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla received top safety ratings, including an IIHS "Top Safety Pick+" and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive suite of standard driver-assist features under Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring was available but not standard on all trims.