2022 Subaru WRX vs 2023 Mazda MAZDA3

The 2022 Subaru WRX, despite its wider stance, maintained a subtle front-end 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 fenders flared dramatically, and the taillights had a multifaceted design. 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 Mazda MAZDA3, available in sedan and hatchback styles, showcased a daring design, especially in the hatchback variant. The clean, futuristic design extended into the cabin, with a simple yet elegant layout. The infotainment system rose organically from the dash, and the conventional shifter design was a welcome touch. The steering wheel, though cluttered with controls, had an elegant design. Trim levels ranged from the 2.5 S to the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, each adding more features and luxury.

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 was precise and satisfying, while the CVT provided faster shift times. The new WRX's suspension, mounted on the Subaru Global Platform, offered a more forgiving ride quality and reduced body roll in corners.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3's base engine was a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated inline-four, making 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The optional turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produced 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular fuel, or 250 hp and 320 lb-ft with premium fuel. The turbo engine provided a fantastic sound and engaging driving experience, with well-weighted steering and excellent handling. The Sport mode enhanced the driving dynamics, making the Mazda3 agile and responsive.

The 2022 Subaru WRX offered 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space, with a 60/40 split-fold rear seat for added versatility. The sport seats were comfortable and supportive, with premium cloth or Ultrasuede upholstery. The standard all-wheel drive added to its practicality, making it a viable commuter vehicle.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 sedan provided 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space, while the hatchback offered 20.1 cubic feet. However, the rear seating area was cramped, with limited legroom and headroom. The front seating area had a decently sized center console and helpful ergonomics, but the lid design was frustrating.

The 2022 Subaru WRX featured an 11.6-inch tablet-style touchscreen display in premium trims, with physical controls for climate and audio functions. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the latter was limited to the top half of the screen. The base trim had two 7-inch displays stacked vertically. An 11-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo system was available in higher trims.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came with an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated via a dial in the center console. The system was not user-friendly, with a steep learning curve and confusing menu navigation. Standard features included two USB ports, HD radio, Bluetooth, and voice control. Higher trims added navigation, satellite radio, and a 12-speaker Bose premium stereo system.

The 2022 Subaru WRX's safety features varied by transmission. CVT-equipped models came with Subaru’s EyeSight suite, including automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Manual models lacked EyeSight but had blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in higher trims. The Subaru Global Platform improved crash energy absorption, and the car had seven airbags as standard.

The 2023 Mazda MAZDA3 came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, traffic-sign recognition, and a 360-degree parking camera system. However, the large C-pillar created a significant blind spot, and the infotainment system's layout posed a distraction risk.