Subaru Crosstrek vs. The Competition

2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs. HR-V, CX-30, and Corolla Cross: Capability in a Class of Its Own

Where Everyday Practicality Meets Adventure-Ready Engineering

Stoic as granite yet more refined for 2025, the Subaru Crosstrek continues to anchor itself as one of the most versatile compact crossovers available today. Among urban commuters, weekend adventurers, and drivers navigating New England's unpredictable weather, the Crosstrek remains a standout. Its rivals, the 2025 Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30, and Toyota Corolla Cross, each offer strengths, but none combine capability, durability, and real-world usability quite like Subaru's uniquely engineered crossover.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. The Competition

Vehicle Comparison

 Subaru CrosstrekHonda HR-VMazda CX-30Toyota Corolla Cross
Warranty3 yr./ 36,000 mi.3 yr./ 36,000 mi.3 yr./ 36,000 mi.3 yr./ 36,000 mi.
Seating Capacity5555
Fuel Economy (City/Hwy/Combined)27 / 33 / 29 MPG25 / 30 / 27 MPG26 / 33 / 29 MPG31 / 33 / 32 MPG
Engine Power182 hp @ 5,800 rpm158 hp @ 6,500 rpm191 hp @ 6,000 rpm169 hp @ 6,600 rpm
Engine Torque178 lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm138 lb-ft @ 4,200 rpm186 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm151lb-ft @ 4,400 rpm
Engine ConfigurationFlat 4Inline 4Inline 4Inline 4
TransmissionContinuously variable-speed automaticContinuously variable-speed automatic6-speed shiftable automaticcontinuously variable-speed automatic
DrivetrainAll-Wheel DriveAll wheel driveAll wheel driveFront wheel drive
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*These estimates reflect new EPA methods beginning with 2008 models. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle. Actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition. Mileage estimates may be derived from the previous year's model.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V

Honda's HR-V brings value and comfort to the compact crossover segment, but it struggles to match the Crosstrek's confidence on variable terrain. The HR-V's standard front-wheel-drive architecture feels adequate in ideal weather, yet it becomes limiting when faced with snowy roads, muddy trailheads, and steep driveways. The Crosstrek's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive creates balanced traction from the moment the wheels begin to turn. For regions that experience winter, this alone is a deciding factor.

Performance also leans toward Subaru. While the HR-V's naturally aspirated engine prioritizes efficiency, the Crosstrek's available 2.5-liter engine produces 182 horsepower and noticeably more responsive acceleration. Merging onto highways or overtaking slow-moving traffic feels more effortless in the Crosstrek.

The HR-V offers good ergonomics, but Subaru's interior is more thoughtfully designed for long-term use-larger door openings, supportive seats, and flexible cargo expansion. Factor in 8.7 inches of ground clearance-nearly unmatched in the segment-and the Crosstrek becomes the more capable daily companion for drivers who do more than commute.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Mazda CX-30

Mazda's CX-30 excels in aesthetics and sporty handling, appealing to those who want a premium-feeling small SUV. However, its lower ride height and tighter interior dimensions create limitations for drivers who regularly carry equipment, passengers, or pets. The Crosstrek, with its wagon-like practicality and higher stance, is built around versatility.

The Subaru's long-travel suspension smooths out rough pavement and gravel roads in ways the CX-30's athletic tuning simply can't. While Mazda's cabin is beautifully trimmed, it lacks the Crosstrek's spaciousness and durability-focused materials ideal for active owners. Subaru also edges Mazda in ease of use, bigger controls, an intuitive vertical touchscreen, and straightforward functionality.

For drivers whose lives include commuting, road trips, outdoor activities, and unpredictable weather, the Crosstrek's balanced approach offers far more utility than Mazda's sport-biased crossover.

Subaru Crosstrek vs. Toyota Corolla Cross

Toyota's Corolla Cross appeals to budget-conscious buyers who want a straightforward, reliable SUV. Where it falls short is capability. While Toyota offers optional all-wheel drive, it is not as advanced or as seamlessly integrated as Subaru's system, which was engineered from the ground up as symmetrical and continuously active.

Performance skews toward Subaru as well. The Corolla Cross's engine, which peaks in the mid-160-horsepower range can feel strained under load, especially with passengers or gear. The Crosstrek's available 182-horsepower setup provides more reassuring power without sacrificing efficiency.

Inside, the Corolla Cross is functional, but its interior lacks the Crosstrek's comfortable seating geometry, larger infotainment interface, and premium option packages. For drivers who want both value and capability, the Crosstrek hits a sweet spot Toyota can't fully replicate.

Why the Subaru Crosstrek Wins

Across every matchup, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek consistently offers the most complete package. Its engineering roots, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, high ground clearance, rugged underpinnings, and exceptional safety ratings give drivers the confidence to explore without hesitation. Even at its most basic trim levels, the Crosstrek delivers capability that competitors require costly upgrades to match.

Where rivals emphasize styling, fuel economy, or entry-level value, the Crosstrek blends all of these with something more meaningful: substance. Highlight features include:

  • Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive on every trim
  • Available 182-horsepower 2.5-liter engine
  • 8.7 inches of ground clearance for real off-pavement readiness
  • Highly comfortable seating and flexible cargo solutions
  • Subaru EyeSight driver assistance standard on all models
  • Durability-backed reputation and strong resale value

The Crosstrek is built not just for today's errands but for a decade of unpredictable seasons, changing lifestyles, and miles of weekend escapes. For buyers who need an SUV that adapts, protects, and endures, the Crosstrek rises above the rest.

Schedule a Test Drive at CitySide Subaru

Contact our dealership to schedule your test drive and see why this compact crossover continues to outperform its rivals where it matters most-real life.

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