2022 Subaru WRX vs 2022 Nissan Sentra

The 2022 Subaru WRX presented a more refined and streamlined appearance compared to its predecessor, though it maintained a subtle front end with its signature hood scoop. The vehicle was two inches wider, featuring a small hexagonal grille and sharp LED headlights. Along the sides, the WRX showcased significant changes with a less busy profile and black plastic cladding, which, despite some detractors, improved aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. The interior saw substantial improvements with better fit and finish, featuring a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents, setting it apart from other Subaru models.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra carried over its 2020 redesign, resembling a downsized Altima with a low-slung, coupe-like, and modern exterior. It was a significant improvement over earlier models, aligning with Nissan's current design language. The interior was a highlight, offering a modern yet simple layout with easy-to-use controls and an upscale look. The Sentra was available in various trims, each adding features like larger touchscreens, premium upholstery, and advanced technology. The Midnight Edition package added dark accents, enhancing its visual appeal. Overall, the Sentra's design was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Despite the slight power increase, some drivers found it lacking compared to competitors like the Volkswagen GTI. The WRX came standard with all-wheel drive and offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT. The manual transmission was praised for its precision and ease of use, while the CVT offered faster shift times. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride quality, even on rough roads, making it a solid performer in various driving conditions.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra was equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 149 horsepower and 146 pound-feet of torque. It came standard with a CVT and front-wheel drive. While not outstanding, the engine provided satisfactory performance for both city and highway driving. The Sentra's steering was well-weighted, and its suspension handled most road conditions well, though it struggled with harsher bumps. Overall, the Sentra offered consistent performance, making it suitable for commuting and occasional road trips.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space, slightly improved from previous models, with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat for additional capacity. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium materials available in higher trims. The WRX's standard all-wheel drive and practical features made it a compelling option for those seeking a performance-focused sedan at a reasonable price.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra provided 14.3 cubic feet of trunk space, surpassing many small sedans. The trunk could be expanded with a 60/40 split-fold rear bench, though the ledge created by the bench could hinder loading larger items. The Sentra's interior offered spacious seating with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The front row featured large in-door cargo trays and bottle holders, enhancing its practicality for everyday use.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen in premium trims, offering a visually impressive interface. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration had some quirks, the system was generally easy to use. Base trims had a unique dual 7-inch display setup. An optional 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available, providing excellent audio quality.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, with SV and SR trims offering an 8-inch version. Both screens included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with easy menu navigation and conventional hard buttons. However, the system lacked wireless connectivity for these features, which was becoming more common in non-luxury vehicles.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered the EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems on CVT-equipped models, including features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual transmission models did not have EyeSight due to potential stalling issues. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The WRX's new platform improved crash energy absorption, and it came standard with seven airbags.

The 2022 Nissan Sentra included a comprehensive list of standard driver-assistance features, such as automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and a surround-view parking monitor were available. The Sentra received high safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, earning a "Top Safety Pick" award.