2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs Honda CR-V

Shopping for a new small SUV doesn't have to be overwhelming. With the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek and Honda CR-V vying against each other, consumers are offered an abundance of features and options when it comes to deciding which model best suits their needs. Whether they're looking for power or fuel economy, technology advances such as adaptive cruise control make either vehicle incredibly attractive choices in this highly competitive market segment.

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is a dynamic and versatile SUV, perfectly suited to an adventurous lifestyle. With its impressively high ground clearance – 8.7 inches – the vehicle effortlessly tackles off-roading tracks with ease. And for those who value interior space, this hatchback offers plenty of roominess in both passenger seating areas.

The thing with the Crosstrek is that the base engine is noticeably lackluster in terms of power. That means you will have to spend more money to get the turbo XT engine. Also, the Crosstrek's handling could stand to be stronger and more refined. You also get less cargo space than you do in other crossover SUVs.

The 2022 CR-V is raising the bar for crossover SUVs. It boasts quick acceleration and outstanding fuel efficiency, giving drivers the power they want without compromising on economy. Drivers can expect a thrill from its sporty yet refined ride and agile handling, plus plentiful interior space with convenient storage options – all amplified by top-of-the line Touring trim's standard AWD feature. Put simply: it offers both style and substance in one superior package.

The downside is that there is no separate tuning knob, which makes the already-finicky touchscreen infotainment display troublesome to use. On top of that, the CR-V's 1,500-pound max towing capacity slates way below industry average.

Which one of these two small SUVs is going to hit the sweet spot? Does one offer more all-around value than the other? Which price tag best fits your budget? Read through this comparison review to find out.

The Powertrain

The possession of a robust powertrain can elevate the experience of driving a compact SUV, allowing for seamless merging and passing on highways without extensive planning. Conversely, an anemic powertrain can render one feeling left behind by other vehicles on the road.

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek offers drivers the ability to customise their ride with two distinct powertrains: a robust 2.0L four-cylinder engine for those who prefer an efficient driving experience, or an enhanced 2.5L option with increased horsepower and torque output available on Sport and Limited trims - ensuring that all needs are met while out on the road. For flexible transmission options, every trim comes equipped with a Continuously Variable Automatic Transmission (CVT), whilst Base and Premium models provide discretionary manual functionality too.

With the base engine, you can expect a less-than-thrilling 0 to 60 miles per hour experience. But with the upgraded XT model, get ready for an 8.4 second ride that rivals its competitors! This pint sized SUV offers rugged off road capabilities due to it's top notch ground clearance and intuitive steering system - but let’s be honest here; handling isn't quite up to par given its stature and lack of tire grip on certain roads.

Subarus have always been known for their adept handling and rugged designs, but the 2022 Crosstrek proves to be particularly impressive in its class. Featuring an optional XT engine that boasts a combined fuel economy of 29 mpg - lower than predicted by EPA-estimated tests, yet still noteworthy - it also features one of the largest tanks among comparable SUVs.

Beneath its stylish exterior, the 2022 Honda CR-V is equipped with a powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 190 horsepower and 179 lb.-ft. of torque paired to a CVT transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard while all trims excluding Touring offer AWD as an option; however, on the Touring trim it's now included by default. Looking for even better fuel economy? The Hybrid variant may be just what you need.

The turbo engine provides swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.2 seconds, a noteworthy feat for its class. The CVT is refined in its gear shifts, offering superior fuel efficiency compared to a conventional automatic transmission. The handling is stable, even exhibiting a slightly sporty demeanor, while the steering feels precise and responsive.

The EPA estimates that the FWD equipped 2022 CR-V can get 30 mpg in combined driving while the AWD models are able to draw about 29 mpg combined. While this puts the CR-V near the top of its class, achieving these numbers depends on your driving style. If you have a heavy foot, you will probably see lower numbers. But if you are gentle on the gas pedal, you might see a return that is closer to these estimates - maybe even slightly better.

Drivability

Drivability is an umbrella term that we use to describe how well-rounded a vehicle is as a daily driver. How comfortable is a vehicle to ride around in? Is the ride quality comfortable and smooth enough without coming off as too drifty? Are the interior materials of a high enough quality? Are the cabin's controls logically laid out? Are the tech features user-friendly How much cargo space is available, and how easy is it to use? These are some of the major factors we talk about when discussing a vehicle's drivability status.

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek offers a quiet and smooth ride, and the 2.5-L XT engine generates much less noise inside of the cabin. When you press down on the throttle, though, you will get a growl to come out. It's actually quite satisfying - and much less grizzly than the base engine's howl. Road trips are fun and comfortable thanks to the well sculpted front seats. They could use a bit more bolstering though, as evidenced while rounding through turns. Some of the air vents are awkwardly positioned, but the air flow is even and the temperature stable.

Smartly laid out, the controls inside of the Crosstrek are easy to get used to for the average buyer. There are large fonts found in the touchscreen's high-resolution menus, and the elevated ride height makes it easy to get in and out of this cabin. Space abounds, and this happens to be one of the most spacious cabins you will find in an extra-small crossover SUV. Only the rear seat will feel cramped for taller occupants.

You do not need to be a tech guru to use the features found on the Crosstrek. Subaru makes them simple and streamlined. Standard smartphone app integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto makes for some seamless, user-friendly immersion into the vehicle's capabilities. The center screen offers crisp visuals, and the Limited's eight-speaker Harman Kardon stereo is worth the upgrade for music lovers with its enhanced sound quality and amplified volume.

With a modest 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 55 cubes when folded, you need to think outside the box for storing your gear in this car's cabin - it won't be as easy breezy! But don't worry: by getting creative with how you shape up all sorts of cargo, there are plenty ways to make use of even limited storage areas.

Now, about that 2022 Honda CR-V. This small SUV has a cozy ride quality despite the fact that a minor amount of wind and tire noise make their way in at highway speeds. While riding on rougher road surfaces, the suspension shrugs off bumps and ruts of all sizes, even with the optional 19-inch tires equipped on the Touring trim. The front seats provide supple, sculpted support for longer drives, and the reclining rear seatback adds comfort for backseat occupants. The only downside is that the automatic climate control system does not always maintain the temperature you set it at.

Getting into the CR-V's cabin is easy enough thanks to its wide door sills, and once you're in, you can adjust the steering wheel and driver's seat to your liking. You will feel how spacious the cabin is, and it outdoes a lot of the competition in that regard. The physical controls on the dash are easy to use, but those buried in the touchscreen menus are more difficult. Also, sunlight will wash out the display on the digital temperature gauge.

Honda's technology is straightforward for most people to use. Smartphone app integration is standard on all but the base LX trim level. The higher trims add two USB ports in the rear that are charge-only. The voice controls could stand some fine-tuning, and of course, the touchscreen menus are clunky. The navigation screen generates crisp, clear graphics though.

Given its 9.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, the CR-V offers a lot of space to work with. You can max the cargo volume out to 75.8 cubic feet by folding the rear seats down flat. There are also many small item storage areas located throughout the cabin, with the center console's deep bin and configurable sliding tray coming in handy. The LATCH system makes installing car seats in the back effortless enough, and you will have plenty of space available for those seats. You'll probably just find yourself wishing the CR-V had about 2,000 pounds more in towing capacity, as it sits at a measly 1,500 pounds max.

Safety

Subaru and Honda are taking the road safety conversation to a whole new level with their SUVs. These models boast an impressive selection of advanced emergency features that help drivers stay prepared for any situation on the roads, reassuring them every time they start up their engines.

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is equipped with the EyeSight bundle of advanced driver aids, which comes standard on all trim levels. Forward collision mitigation, a lane keep system, and adaptive cruise control are all included. On the Premium trim level and above, you get Subaru's Starlink connected services suite. If you get the CVT-equipped Premium, you will also have blind spot monitoring with a rear cross-traffic alert. On the Limited, you get adaptive LED headlights and rear automatic braking. For the most part, these features work well, although lane keeping likes to intervene more than it should.

Honda gives the CR-V a bundle of driver aids. These include forward collision mitigation, automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assist. A multi-angle rear-view camera is also standard, with dynamic guidelines coming on the higher trim levels. On the EX and above, you get a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert.

Which Has the Best Value?

As you go about making your buying decision, consider what contributes to a vehicle's value for you. Which vehicle has the most overall value? Test-driving a vehicle can only tell you so much, which is why buyers need to do their research and hear about owners' experiences.

The Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most capable off-roaders in this segment and has been popular for that reason for years now. There are a lot of standard features, so you definitely get what you pay for with this vehicle. The build quality definitely feels up to par with plenty of soft-touch surfaces found throughout the cabin. The three-year/36,000-mile warranty is class average coverage in terms of length, but it includes brake pads, wiper blades, and other minor things that make this type of coverage a much-appreciated rarity.

In addition to its impressive performance, 2022 Honda CR-V owners can also expect to enjoy exceptional value from their vehicles. Honda's attention to interior build quality results in a clean, sophisticated cabin that surpasses other models in this class. The higher trim levels come with stylish leather upholstery, while the standard turbo engine delivers ample power without guzzling too much gas. Warranty coverage and roadside assistance are average for the industry.

Which is Better?

Interested in some off-road adventuring? The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is the perfect choice! Go anywhere with confidence thanks to its all-wheel drivetrain, impressive ground clearance and hill descent control. For journeys on less treacherous terrain, however, consider the versatile 2022 Honda CRV - offering ample interior space and robust performance features.