2021 Honda Civic vs 2020 Subaru WRX

The 2020 Subaru WRX, a performance-oriented offshoot of the Subaru Impreza, maintained its aggressive styling with a wider stance, lower front splitter, and a functional air intake. Despite its sporty exterior, the WRX's cabin was considered somewhat plain for a new car in 2021. The model offered various trims, including the base, Sport, Sport-tech, and Sport-tech RS, each adding features like larger wheels, leather upholstery, and advanced audio systems. The WRX STI variant further enhanced performance with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda Civic, available in sedan, hatchback, and Type R formats, continued to be a staple in the compact car segment. The Civic sedan, particularly in the Touring trim, featured a striking Cosmic Blue Metallic paint and 18-inch wheels. While the exterior design was polarizing, the interior offered quality materials and thoughtful detailing. The Civic's cabin, though not as dramatic as when first introduced, remained functional and comfortable, with a focus on practicality and space.

The 2020 Subaru WRX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre boxer-four engine, delivering 268 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It offered a choice between a six-speed manual transmission and a CVT, both paired with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. The manual transmission provided a 50:50 torque distribution, while the CVT offered a 45:55 split, enhancing responsiveness. The WRX STI variant boasted a 2.5-litre engine with 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, along with Brembo brakes and a stiffer suspension for sharper handling.

The 2021 Honda Civic, in its LX, EX, and Sport trims, featured a 2.0-litre i-VTEC engine producing 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT driving the front wheels. The Touring trim came with a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine, offering 174 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. While the Civic's CVT contributed to excellent fuel economy, it was criticized for its droning noise and lack of engagement. The Civic's suspension and steering provided a balanced ride, but the absence of a manual transmission was noted.

The 2020 Subaru WRX offered excellent visibility thanks to its simple sedan layout and large windows. The cabin featured a straightforward design with ample storage and comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. However, its 340 litres of cargo space was limited compared to other compact sedans, though comparable to sports cars.

The 2021 Honda Civic sedan, despite its low seating position, provided a spacious interior akin to a midsize car from a decade ago. The front seats offered power adjustments, while the rear seats accommodated adults comfortably. The Civic's centre console was highly practical, with abundant storage options. The sedan's trunk offered 428 litres of space, slightly reduced in the Touring trim due to the premium sound system.

The 2020 Subaru WRX came with a 6.5-inch or 7-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring the Starlink system, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly and complemented by a digital display in the instrument panel and an additional information screen atop the dash.

The 2021 Honda Civic's technology was somewhat dated, with a standard 5-inch LCD screen and a 7-inch touchscreen available only in the Touring trim. The Civic offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and HondaLink services, but its voice recognition system was less sophisticated. The Touring trim included a 10-speaker audio system and navigation, but the overall tech package lagged behind competitors.

The 2020 Subaru WRX featured standard airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. The optional EyeSight suite added advanced safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. The WRX earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Honda Civic came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. The Civic's LaneWatch system provided right-side blind-spot monitoring, but lacked a traditional radar-based system. The Civic received high safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with the Touring trim offering the best LED headlights.