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2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs Honda CR-V

2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs Honda CR-V
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

2021 Crosstrek vs CR-V - How do they stack up? Which is Better?

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and Honda CR-V are two iconic SUVs that represent the best of their respective manufacturers. Despite being on the smaller side, these models have what it takes to get you from Point A to B with all your cargo in tow - befitting for those who don't anticipate needing extra power or cabin space. With both automakers having been firmly established over time as trustworthy brands, customers can rest assured knowing they will enjoy a reliable vehicle built to meet their everyday needs.

The Powertrain

Choose between two complete powertrain packages with your Subaru Crosstrek - each boasting a dependable 2.0-liter engine ready to take you wherever life leads. With 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, these efficient engines offer excellent performance regardless if you opt for the manual or automatic transmission. Meanwhile, Honda CRV offers either traditional or hybrid alternatives depending on what fits your lifestyle best.

With the Crosstrek, drivers are presented with two thrilling possibilities for power. Available higher trim models give access to an energizing 2.5-liter engine that can produce up to 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque - all seamlessly paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). An additional option presents itself in hybrid form; utilizing both gas and electric components resulting in 148 net horsepower while also boasting 1,000 pounds of available towing capacity – 500 more than other non-hybrid trims.

The Honda CR-V packs an impressive punch with its 1.5L engine featuring a turbocharger, providing 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque - far more than any Crosstrek versions can offer. Additionally utilizing continuously variable transmission including Sport Mode to increase responsiveness as well as Eco Assist for improved fuel efficiency, the Honda CR-V is designed to deliver powerful performance while maintaining optimum efficiency.

The CR-V has a powerful hybrid option that may be the way of the future. With its 2.0L engine and electric component yielding 212 horsepower, it's proof that eco-friendly energy innovations don't have to come at an expense - in fact, they can provide unexpected benefits for people wanting to conserve natural resources. Both types of CR-V have towing capacities of 1,500 pounds. In this regard, it's on par with the Crosstrek.

With the Subaru Crosstrek, you get peace of mind with its standard all-wheel drive feature. This is an iconic part of Subaru's identity and can help provide superior traction, even when tackling tricky terrain or inclement weather conditions - perfect for winter driving! The Honda CR-V also offers AWD as a standard option for the hybrid model but it can be had in front wheel or all-wheel drive configurations on non hybrids too.

With the Honda CR-V's hill start assist, you can conquer even the most daunting slopes. This feature keeps pressure on your brakes while transitioning from brake to gas - helping maintain control of your vehicle and preventing it from rolling back during this process. Remote engine start comes standard with many trims of the CR-V, so that cold winter mornings will be a breeze when getting behind its wheel.

Our vehicles provide impressive fuel efficiency, especially in the case of our hybrid models. The CR-V Hybrid offers city/highway MPG ratings at 40/35 respectively and provides an overall 38 combined miles per gallon - a remarkable figure for its class. Meanwhile, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasts 35 combined mpg as well as 90 MPGe to ensure your time spent on the road is both efficient and economically sound.

The 2021 Honda CR-V offers an impressive 28/34 mpg city/highway fuel economy when equipped with a non-hybrid drivetrain. An all-wheel set up yields slightly lower results, while the Subaru Crosstrek's estimated efficiency also varies depending on engine size and transmission style; manual versions return 22/29 mpg, but those outfitted with CVTs witness notable improvements in performance – reaching as much as 28/33 or 27/34 respectively for the 1.5L and 2.0L engines.

Drivability

The Subaru Crosstrek and Honda CR-V provide motorists with two distinct choices. Despite having similar dimensions, the standout feature of these small SUVs is their ground clearance; the Crosstrek standing taller at 8.7 inches for those looking to conquer off-roading or rougher terrain compared to its rival's elevation of only 8.2 inches.

By opting for the Honda CR-V, you can give taller passengers a much more comfortable ride. With its generous 41.3/40.4 inches of legroom in front and back respectively - far exceeding Subaru Crosstrek's 43:1 and 36:5 inch measurements - your rear occupants will enjoy the extra space while avoiding feeling crunched up.

The Honda CR-V boasts almost double the cargo space of its Subaru Crosstrek counterpart, offering 39.2 cubic feet behind the second row and a whopping 75.8 when it's folded down. In contrast, while still generous by most standards, the Crosstrek only offers 55.3 cubic feet at maximum capacity – less than half that of its competitor.

With both models, it's very easy to lower the rear seats. The whole row can be put down, or just one side. The two SUVs have rear benches that have 60/40 configurations.

With the Subaru Crosstrek, modern customers can stay connected and in control wherever their travels take them. From 6.5” touchscreens ideal for everyday tasks to 8" displays with cutting edge infotainment systems accessible through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto - there is a setup perfect for any situation. As an added bonus higher trims also come equipped with SiriusXM as well as Wi-Fi capability if you want to be truly on top of your game! Navigation software and premium sound system are available options too so that your ride experience will never compromise luxury either way you choose it up.

The CR-V base model features a 5" LCD screen and Bluetooth, along with Pandora compatibility. Higher trims have all the creature comforts you could want - 7" touchscreens for Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, HD Radio capabilities plus SiriusXM support. For those seeking truly immersive in-car experiences there's also optional navigation, premium sound systems and wireless charging! These luxurious additions are sure to impress even the most discerning car buyer.

Safety

The lower trims of the Subaru Crosstrek don't automatically come with driver-assist technology, but they do have the option of getting these safety components. The driver-assist systems are part of a package called EyeSight Driver Assist. In this package, the included features are pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with lane centering. This means that the Subaru can look out for problems on the drivers behalf and can actually make adjustments to speed or steering, if necessary. Higher trims, in addition, have automatic high beams, blind spot and rear cross-traffic detection, and reverse automatic braking.

Honda CR-V is the epitome of safety, with multiple driver-assist systems offered in each trim. From forward collision warning and lane departure warnings to automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring - you'll never be without peace of mind! The vehicle uniquely guards from frontal accidents; it also prevents drivers from veering out position as well as alerting them for any cross traffic coming their way.

Which Has the Best Value

Prospective buyers weighing the options between a Honda CR-V and Subaru Crosstrek should be aware that benefits of the former may come with extra costs. The base price for an all wheel drive version of the Honda is $25,350 whereas its counterpart starts at just $22,245 - creating potential financial considerations in favor of purchasing a Crosstrek.

The Honda CR-V and Subaru Crosstrek offer plenty of updated safety mechanisms, modern technologies, and cozy creature comforts like heated seats and premium upholstery. But you can also enjoy a range of price points to suit whatever your budget is! Choose between models ranging from $23K all the way up to (if you're feeling adventurous) an impressive $35K for their Hybrid version. Don't forget that bigger engines are offered at higher trims too - so no matter what route you take here, be sure it's going full steam ahead in style.

The 2021 CR-V is the superior pick for versatility and space, with three trim levels to choose from: EX ($27,860), EX-L ($30,450) or Touring ($33650). Opt for a hybrid version of these trims if desired - they will cost $3000 more than their conventional counterparts.

When looking for the ideal crossover SUV, it may come down to a comparison between Subaru's Crosstrek and Honda's CR-V. Both offer an impressive list of luxuries like leather seating surfaces, LED fog lights and wrapped steering wheels - but if you step up to the top trims on either vehicle then your options expand even further! The CR-V provides powerful features such as navigation guidance, a heated wheel during chilly drives plus accessorize with no hands needed thanks to its power moonroof & liftgate.

Which is Better?

For those seeking a bit more power and interior space than the Crosstrek, the Honda CR-V is an ideal option. Even at its lower trims it offers a superior tech package with driver assist systems - meaning you save money without sacrificing safety. Plus, there's plenty of cargo capacity for all your adventures.

For those concerned about expenses, the Subaru Crosstrek would be the more strategic pick. It's more affordable, and if people are willing to go without some extra features, then the Crosstrek would be an excellent choice. Helping this model appeal to buyers are its high ground clearance, its comprehensive infotainment system, and its standard all-wheel drive.

When selecting a model, the customer must weigh their priorities - do they want maximum performance and features regardless of cost or would they rather find something compact that fits within a budget? It all comes down to what matters most.

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