2023 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Honda Civic

The 2022 Honda Civic underwent a transformation that made its exterior more conservative and mature, closer in appearance to its larger sibling, the Accord. The redesigned sedan featured a sleek, simplistic design, veering away from the more expressive styling of previous iterations, making it appealing to those preferring subtlety over flash.

On the other hand, the 2023 Subaru WRX presented a bold approach to its design, flaunting a wide-body aesthetic and distinctive body cladding that aligns it with performance-oriented models. Maintaining its iconic hood scoop and aggressive stance, the WRX showcased its roots in rally and performance sports, which gave it a distinct presence on the road—an appeal for drivers seeking a vehicle that communicates power and capability instantly.

Interiors of the Civic highlighted minimalism and improved material quality, especially in the Touring trim, with a metal honeycomb mesh that elegantly concealed air vents and added a touch of sophistication. The WRX, while sporty, opted for a more utilitarian and durable approach, featuring standard Recaro seats in higher trims and a straightforward layout aimed at functionality and longevity.

The 2022 Honda Civic offered two engine choices. The base models packed a 2.0-liter engine providing 158 horsepower, while the upgraded 1.5-liter turbocharged engine available on higher trims offered a more engaging 180 horsepower. These engines, matched with a refined CVT, promoted a balance of efficiency and responsiveness, making the Civic a satisfying daily driver with spirited driving dynamics when required.

Contrastingly, the 2023 Subaru WRX stood out with its 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine, delivering a substantial 271 horsepower. It bridged the gap between high-performance and more subdued cars, offering an exhilarating driving experience amplified by its standard all-wheel-drive system. The WRX continued to cater to enthusiasts with its six-speed manual transmission, although an optional CVT was available, featuring programmed steps to emulate a traditional automatic's shifts.

Technology in the 2022 Civic was notably advanced with a customizable digital dashboard and an infotainment system that included up to a 9-inch touchscreen in the Touring trim, wireless connectivity, and a premium audio system by Bose. Honda emphasized intuitive use and connectivity, aiming to blend technology seamlessly with everyday driving.

Subaru's WRX, however, sported the Starlink system with options up to an 11.6-inch touchscreen. While it integrated essential smartphone features, the interface had mixed reviews concerning user-friendliness and responsiveness, indicating a slight lag behind Honda in terms of in-cabin technology refinement.

Honda's 2022 Civic showcased an upgraded Honda Sensing suite with a comprehensive range of assisted driving aids, improving driver confidence and safety. The incorporation of better camera and sensor technology allowed for more precise and smoother operation of these features.

The WRX provided robust safety credentials too, including Subaru's EyeSight system on CVT-equipped models, which added several advanced safety features. Both vehicles demonstrated strong commitments to safety, with excellent crash-test outcomes and a plethora of driving aids to protect occupants.