2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI vs 2022 Subaru WRX

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a descendant of the original 1983 Volkswagen Rabbit GTI, continued to uphold the hot hatch legacy with its seventh-generation model. This compact hatchback, available in both three-door and five-door configurations, featured subtle yet impactful enhancements that set it apart from the regular Golf. Red GTI badges, a red horizontal strip across the grille, and painted brake calipers were among the distinguishing features. The GTI also boasted standard LED fog lamps, gloss black side mirrors, and a small gloss black lip spoiler, all contributing to its sporty stance. Inside, the GTI's interior was a blend of sporty and premium elements, including red ambient lighting, a race-inspired flat-bottomed steering wheel, and heated front sport seats available in Clark plaid cloth or leather, depending on the trim level.

In contrast, the 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more subtle exterior design, despite being two inches wider than its predecessor. The front fascia retained a small hexagonal grille and signature hood scoop, while the side profile was streamlined with black plastic cladding featuring a hexagonal pattern for improved aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared outward, and the taillights were designed to resemble illuminated magma. The WRX's interior saw significant improvements, with better fit and finish, a D-shaped flat-bottom steering wheel, and supportive sport seats available in premium cloth or Ultrasuede, depending on the trim. The WRX's cabin was designed to be both comfortable and practical, making it a viable option for daily commuting.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI was all about performance, featuring a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produced 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, delivered a spirited driving experience. The GTI's handling was a standout feature, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension, variable-ratio steering, and Golf R front brakes. The top-of-the-line Autobahn model came with DCC adaptive damping, enhancing its performance on the right roads. However, the GTI's performance-oriented setup resulted in a rough ride on ordinary roads. Fuel economy was respectable, with the manual transmission achieving 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined, and the dual-clutch automatic slightly better at 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway/27 mpg combined.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, on the other hand, featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. While the power improvement over the previous generation was minimal, the WRX's all-wheel-drive system and choice of a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) provided a versatile driving experience. The manual transmission offered a satisfying, precise feel, while the CVT, with its eight shift points, delivered faster upshifts and downshifts. The WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a more forgiving ride quality, even on rough roads. The new GT trim added Recaro seats, electronically controlled dampers, and a Drive Mode Select system, further enhancing the WRX's performance credentials.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI excelled in form and function, with its compact hatchback design offering impressive utility. With a 103.6-inch wheelbase and dimensions of 168.0 inches in length, 70.8 inches in width, and 57.8 inches in height, the GTI provided a small footprint while maximizing interior space. The hatchback offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 24.8 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. The front row was comfortable for taller drivers, while the second row was adequate for average-sized adults. The GTI's tight turning circle of 35.8 feet and excellent outward visibility made it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Clever storage options, such as large front door pockets and grippy cupholders, added to its practicality.

The 2022 Subaru WRX, despite lacking a hatchback option, offered a slight increase in cargo capacity to 12.5 cubic feet, with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat for added versatility. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery depending on the trim. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive and forgiving clutch made it a practical choice for daily commuting. The interior featured ample bolstering and upholstery materials to keep occupants comfortable without feeling claustrophobic. Overall, the WRX provided a good balance of performance and practicality at its price point.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI featured a mix of modern and traditional technology. While it retained analog gauges, the configurable driver information screen provided useful data. The GTI's infotainment system, VW MIB, was available in two versions: MIB2 with a 6.5-inch screen for S models, and MIB3 with an 8-inch screen and navigation for SE and Autobahn models. Both systems supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and MirrorLink, with Bluetooth hands-free and streaming audio as standard. The Car-Net subscription service offered additional features like Remote Access and Hotspot portals. Standard LED lighting, keyless access, and rain-sensing windshield wipers added to the GTI's tech appeal.

The 2022 Subaru WRX saw significant technological upgrades, especially in the Premium trim and higher. The standout feature was the 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display, similar to those found in newer Subaru models. This system, while visually impressive, had some quirks, particularly with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. The base trim featured a more unusual setup with two 7-inch displays. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available, providing excellent audio quality. The WRX's technology package was a significant improvement over the previous generation, making it more competitive in its segment.

The 2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI received high safety ratings, including a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and top "Good" scores from the IIHS, except for an "Acceptable" rating in the small overlap front passenger side and headlights categories. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Autobahn trim added adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and park assist, among other features. The GTI's sharp handling also contributed to its safety by helping drivers avoid potential collisions.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied depending on the transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru's EyeSight suite, which included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. Manual transmission models, however, did not offer EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX's new platform absorbed more energy in crashes, and it came standard with seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag, enhancing its overall safety.