2021 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a reputation for an adolescent aesthetic, often seen as the rebellious member of the Subaru family. Compared to the racier WRX STI, the standard WRX appeared more subdued, lacking the race-ready rear wing. Its wedge-like front end and short trunk lid gave it a speedy look even when stationary, enhanced by aerodynamic bodywork and a functional hood scoop. Inside, the WRX's cockpit was function-first, featuring plenty of hard plastics that contributed to its immature reputation. The interior design had not significantly changed since its introduction in 2015, making it feel dated compared to competitors like the Volkswagen Golf GTI.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, although claiming all-new body panels, retained a familiar look that might not be immediately distinguishable from its predecessor. The new GTI was longer and lower, with a stable silhouette and a wheelbase of 103.6 inches. Its styling followed the classic GTI form, with a smooth hood and a subtle honeycomb-patterned air intake. The signature red accent line ran between the LED headlights, and an optional light bar added drama to the front end. Aerodynamic enhancements included redesigned side-view mirrors, underbody paneling, and revised wheel-arch linings. The GTI's exterior was complemented by standard LED fog lights and red brake calipers, with wheel sizes varying by trim.

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 layout allowed for a low center of gravity and efficient packaging with the AWD system. 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, making the CVT a curious but effective choice for maintaining powerband revs. The manual transmission, however, was criticized for its vague clutch feel. The WRX featured Vehicle Dynamics Control with Active Torque Vectoring, enhancing cornering precision, though its stiff ride was less comfortable than the Civic Si and GTI.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This updated EA888 engine reached peak horsepower at 5,000 rpm and maintained a broad torque peak from 1,750 rpm. The GTI offered a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG) with paddle shifters. Front-wheel drive was standard, with no AWD option. The GTI's fuel economy was estimated at 24 mpg city, 34 highway, and 28 combined with the manual, slightly better with the DSG. The GTI's retuned suspension and electronic torque-sensing limited-slip differential improved handling and reduced understeer, providing a balanced and comfortable ride.

The 2021 Subaru WRX had a conventional sedan layout with a trunk offering up to 12 cubic feet of cargo space. This was more than the Civic Si coupe but less than the sedan and significantly less than the GTI's 53.7 cubic feet with rear seats folded. The WRX's interior design felt dated, with limited in-door bottle holders and a center console that could obstruct shifting. However, it provided a comfortable driving position and decent rear-seat space for four adults.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI, as a hot hatch, balanced performance and practicality. It offered 19.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 34.5 cubic feet with the 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The GTI's driver-centric interior featured an angled center stack and a unique "light and sight" panel for adjusting headlights and defogging settings. Rear legroom was surprisingly generous, making it suitable for a family of four.

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 despite dated graphics. The Limited trim included navigation and a Harman Kardon premium stereo, providing solid sound quality. However, the WRX's tech felt outdated compared to newer models.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI boasted a fully digital 10.25-inch driver information display, customizable with various gauge layouts and colors. The infotainment system featured an 8.25-inch touchscreen in the S trim and a 10-inch screen with navigation in the SE and Autobahn trims. Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity were standard, with a 9-speaker Harmon Kardon sound system in higher trims. The touch-capacitive controls for volume and climate were less user-friendly. Volkswagen's Car-Net system offered various features, some at additional costs, including remote access, emergency assistance, and WiFi capability.

The 2021 Subaru WRX did not come standard with advanced 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. Standard safety features included a tire-pressure monitoring system and traction control.

The 2022 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured Volkswagen’s IQ.Drive, offering advanced driver assistance systems like Travel Assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear traffic alert. However, IQ.Drive was only available on automatic GTIs. Park Distance Control was standard on all trims, with Park Assist available on the Autobahn trim. Neither NHTSA nor IIHS had crash-tested the 2022 GTI at the time of review.