2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 BMW 3 Series

The 2022 Subaru WRX, despite its wider stance, maintained a subtle front end with a small hexagonal grille and sharp LED headlights. The side profile was less busy, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to improve aerodynamics. The rear fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. The overall look was smoother and more streamlined, though the body cladding could be distracting on bright-colored models. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedal covers, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim accents.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series, refreshed for the model year, retained its sporty yet subtle exterior design. It featured a narrow kidney grille, redesigned full-LED headlights, and reshaped lower air intakes. The standard 18-inch double-spoke light alloys could be upgraded to 19-inch wheels. Shadowline trim was standard, with new paint options like Skyscraper Grey. The M340i trim had exclusive design elements like a mesh-design kidney grille and trapezoidal tailpipes. Inside, the 3 Series boasted the new BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, offering a 27.2-inch continuous high-definition screen setup. The minimalist dashboard and driver-centric cockpit added to the modern feel.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It came with a standard all-wheel-drive system and offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The manual transmission provided a 50/50 torque split, while the CVT had variable torque distribution. The new WRX also introduced a GT trim with Recaro seats and electronically controlled dampers. The suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, offered a more forgiving ride quality, making it suitable for both performance and daily driving.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series carried over its powertrains from the previous model year. The 330i had a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The 330e plug-in hybrid combined for 288 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, with a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds and up to 22 miles of electric-only range. The M340i, with a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 4.1 seconds. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with rear-wheel drive standard and xDrive all-wheel drive available.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered a cargo capacity of 12.5 cubic feet, expandable with a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth in base and Premium trims and Ultrasuede in Limited and GT trims. The standard all-wheel drive added to its practicality, making it a strong contender in its price range for those seeking a performance-focused sedan.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series provided a compact yet comfortable interior. Front headroom was 38.7 inches, and legroom was 42 inches, while rear occupants had 37.6 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom. Standard upholstery was SensaTec faux leather, with power-adjustable front sport seats offering good bolstering. The cargo capacity was 17 cubic feet, with a 40/20/40-split rear seat for larger items. Standard features included a power moonroof, with options for a heated steering wheel, heated front seats, and remote start.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in premium trims and higher, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, though the integration was not seamless. The base trim had a dual 7-inch display setup. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series introduced the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 8, combining a 12.3-inch driver information display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen. The system was intuitive, with customizable widgets and voice-activated controls via BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. Standard tech features included USB-C ports, enhanced Bluetooth, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and a 10-speaker HiFi sound system. Optional upgrades included wireless device charging, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a wireless 5G hotspot.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered Subaru’s EyeSight suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on CVT-equipped models, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual transmission models did not have EyeSight due to the risk of stalling during panic stops. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car came with seven airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series received a five-star crash safety rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, LED headlights, BMW Assist eCall, and Active Guard. The Driving Assistance Package added blind-spot detection, lane-departure warning, and park-distance control. The Driving Assistance Professional Package offered semi-autonomous driving features like Extended Traffic Jam Assistance. Additional options included a head-up display, Parking Distance Control, and Drive Recorder.