2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 Cadillac CT5

The 2022 Subaru WRX, while wider than its predecessor, maintained a subtle front design with its signature hood scoop and small hexagonal grille. The side profile was less busy, featuring black plastic cladding with a hexagonal pattern to improve aerodynamics. The rear showcased dramatic fender flares and a large bumper, with taillights designed to resemble illuminated magma. The overall look was smoother, though the cladding could be distracting on bright colors like Solar Orange. Inside, the WRX saw significant improvements with better fit and finish, featuring a D-shaped steering wheel, aluminum-alloy pedals, and carbon-fiber-pattern trim.

In contrast, the 2023 Cadillac CT5-V turned heads in Southern California with its unique light gray metallic color, Rift, and 19-inch aluminum wheels. The CT5-V was the sporty version of the midsize luxury sedan, positioned between the standard CT5 and the high-performance Blackwing. The CT5-V's design was praised for its proportions and details, with a mix of black, chrome, and body-colored trim. Inside, the CT5-V offered a mix of high-quality materials and some less impressive details, with standard ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured a new 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, producing 271 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It 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, while the CVT offered faster shift points. The WRX's suspension, built on the Subaru Global Platform, provided a forgiving ride on rough roads, with a stabilizer bar reducing body roll.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V housed a twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 engine, delivering 360 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and featured a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. The CT5-V offered multiple driving modes, including Tour, Sport, and Track, with a performance-tuned Magnetic Ride Control suspension. Despite its resonant exhaust note and some road noise, the CT5-V excelled in balance, body control, and braking, though the steering lacked feedback.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered practicality with a cargo capacity of 12.5 cubic feet, expandable via a 60/40 split-folding rear seat. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery. Standard all-wheel drive made it a compelling choice for a performance-focused sedan in its price range.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V, built on the same platform as the CT4 and Camaro, provided a roomy interior with 18-way power-adjustable front seats. Genuine leather and heated options were available. The rear seat offered good thigh support and knee clearance, though the trunk space was limited to 11.9 cubic feet. The CT5-V included functional storage areas and an optional hands-free power trunk lid.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch touchscreen display with physical controls for climate and audio functions. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration had some quirks, the system was visually impressive. The WRX also offered an 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system on higher trims.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V excelled in technology with its Cadillac User Experience (CUE) system, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CT5-V included a Bose 15-speaker audio system, wireless charging, and optional navigation. The Super Cruise 1 Package offered hands-free driving assistance on approved highways, with a driver monitoring camera and surround-view camera.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered the EyeSight suite of driver assistance systems on CVT models, including automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. Manual models lacked EyeSight but included blind-spot monitoring on higher trims. The WRX's platform absorbed more crash energy, enhancing safety.

The 2023 Cadillac CT5-V came with the Cadillac Smart System, featuring forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The Super Cruise 1 Package added hands-free driving assistance, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The system required driver attention but offered impressive automated lane changes.