2020 Subaru WRX STI vs. 2020 Kia Optima

The 2020 WRX STI is a more powerful and high-tech automobile that performs even better than its older brother, the WRX. Complete with a six-speed manual and equipped with a robust 2.5-liter flat-four, the WRX STI is quick off the line. With a design that evokes sportiness and aggression, drivers will certainly enjoy a unique driving experience that no rival in its class can compete with.

The 2020 Kia Optima has a stunning exterior design with an interior quality that is elegant and stylish at the same time. Brimming with high-tech features and warm ambient lighting, the Kia Optima offers passengers with a cabin that is comfortable and mellow. The vehicle, however, is not as entertaining to drive and has a lower powertrain than that of the WRX STI.

Design & Style

Like the WRX, the WRX STI provides passengers with a cabin that is made with quality materials and has enough space to sit a family comfortably. Apart from its modern interior design, the STI offers a roomy trunk that is adequate to load several pieces of baggage and a shopping haul as well.

The Optima has an interior design that reflects minimalism. Like the STI, the cabin offers a roomy interior to fit adults comfortably. It is a worthy cargo hauler that is ideal for long road trips and family vacations.

Technology & Safety

The Subaru WRX STI is fitted with a 5.9-inch infotainment display that seats atop the dash. Intuitive and loaded with tons of high-tech features, the Starlink infotainment system can keep you entertain during trips. The WRX STI scores well on the safety tests provided by the IIHS.

With a simple and easy to use the infotainment system, the Kia Optima is equipped with an 8.0-inch touchscreen that is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Like the STI, the Optima earns an excellent rating in the IIHS and has a list of driver-assistance technology.

Performance

With a 2.5-liter engine that is eager to pump out plenty of horsepower, the WRX STI is aggressive when accelerated. It provides drivers with a short and punchy power delivery that makes it quicker than most of its rivals in its class. The six-speed manual gives the car a strong pull with a shift in gear and allows driving enthusiasts to reach maximum acceleration. Equipped with firm suspensions that handle remarkably around corners, the WRX STI is certainly a vehicle that engages its drivers on any occasion.

The Optima is equipped with a less powerful 1.6-liter engine that performs adequately around town. It is, however, less impressive at highway speeds and can be a challenge during highway passes. Still, it demonstrates decent acceleration with a dutiful automatic transmission that is smooth during the upshift.

The Bottom Line

The 2020 WRX STI is certainly a more athletic vehicle that performs well on the highway and twisty back roads. With a jaw-dropping acceleration paired with a smooth manual transmission, the WRX STI makes a statement on the road it dominates upon.

The 2020 Kia Optima is a humble vehicle that has a handsome exterior and interior styling. Though it has uninspired driving experience, still, it performs efficiently to haul a family around town. The Optima is a family sedan that is adequate for its passengers and their haul.

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