2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs Impreza

Subaru produces some great compact vehicles. Both the 2022 Subaru Impreza and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek will appeal to a lot of people. These two models are built on the same platform, which means they have similar underpinnings. While the Impreza is offered in sedan and hatchback body styles, the Crosstrek is a four-door crossover.

Expect the Impreza and the Crosstrek to share quite a few similarities. Many of the same features are available. However, the Crosstrek proves to be a bit more adventurous. It’s a more satisfying option for drivers who enjoy camping and exploring off-road trails. On the other hand, some people will prefer the Impreza’s sportier road manners. Here’s a closer look at how these two Subaru models compare.

Size and Styling

The 2022 Subaru Impreza hatchback and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek are virtually the same length, which is around 176 inches. Because of the Impreza sedan’s trunk, it’s 5.0 inches longer. One of the most noticeable differences between these models is the Crosstrek’s taller height. Both vehicles will be relatively easy to fit into small spaces.

Like the Impreza, the Crosstrek is built to carry up to five passengers. Their interiors have similar dimensions. Regardless of which model a person chooses, front passengers will have a satisfying 43.1 inches of legroom. Excellent headroom also makes these vehicles great options for taller drivers.

Space is similar in the rear. Backseat occupants have 36.5 inches of legroom. Whie most adults will be able to comfortably spread out, six-footers may desire a tad more room to unwind.

The Crosstrek and the hatchback version of the Impreza are able to accommodate more extra stuff. They provide an identical 20.8 cubic feet of storage space in the rear. Of course, drivers can lay down the rear seat to make room for larger items. By comparison, there’s roughly 12.3 cubic feet of space in the Impreza sedan’s trunk.

Over the years, Subaru has developed a reputation for producing vehicles that offer great outward visibility. Both the Impreza and the Crosstrek earn top marks in this category. Unobstructed roof pillars help drivers to obtain a full view of the street, even when making turns. A large back window also minimizes the number of distracting blind spots.

From a styling standpoint, these vehicles have some obvious commonalities. However, the Subaru Crosstrek has a more outdoorsy look. It features rugged fenders and a noticeably higher ground clearance. Cool paint colors, such as Plasma Yellow Pearl and Lagoon Blue Pearl, further lifts this crossover’s curb appeal.

A lower stance makes the Subaru Impreza appear a bit sleeker. This car’s Sport trim looks especially athletic. It receives 18-inch alloy wheels with wider tires and a rear spoiler.

Drivability

Subaru equips every Impreza trim with the same 2.0-liter, Boxer four-cylinder engine. It generates around 152 horsepower. The Impreza’s acceleration is best described as merely adequate. A 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds puts it on the slow side.

Both a five-speed manual gearbox and continuously variable automatic transmission are available for the Impreza. While the CVT is a decent, performance is livelier with the manual gearbox. A short-throw shifter is available on the Impreza Sport hatchback, which ultimately speeds up shifting for more driving fun.

An identical 2.0-liter, Boxer four-cylinder engine with 152 hp also comes standard on the Crosstrek. Drivers should anticipate experiencing a similar level of performance. Buyers can pick from a six-speed manual and a continuously variable automatic transmission. With a tested 0-60 mph time of 9.4 seconds, the Crosstrek definitely takes its time getting up to speed.

Luckily, a more inspiring powertrain is available for the Crosstrek. Its larger 2.5-liter, Boxer four-cylinder engine kicks out a pleasing 182 horsepower. Substantially more torque also helps this engine to enhance responsiveness. Expect a more rapid 0-60 mph time of around 7.8 seconds. Keep in mind that Subaru only offers this engine with a continuously variable automatic transmission.

Another option is the Crosstrek’s hybrid powertrain. The combination of a 2.0-liter Boxer engine and two electric motors enables it to produce 148 horsepower. Road tests show the Crosstrek Hybrid can accelerate to 60 mph in as briskly as 8.3 seconds, thus making it noticeably quicker than trims equipped with the standard powertrain. This is partly because of the extra low-end torque.

To no surprise, Subaru does not advise using the Impreza for towing. An upgraded rear differential makes the Crosstrek more suitable for the task. Drivers can trust the crossover to pull up to a 1,500-pound load.

A lighter curb weight enables the Impreza to offer slightly better fuel economy. It can return up to 28 mpg in urban areas and 35 mpg on the open highway. While the Impreza’s manual gearbox may improve performance, efficiency drops to around 24 mpg town/31 mpg freeway.

When equipped with its standard engine and automatic transmission, the Crosstrek can deliver up to 28 mpg town/33 mpg freeway. Fortunately, selecting the Crosstrek’s larger 2.5-liter engine boosts performance without hurting fuel economy. The EPA gives the more powerful Crosstrek a rating of 27 mpg town/34 mpg freeway. Not only does the Crosstrek Hybrid return a combined 35 mpg, but it also has an all-electric mode that allows drivers to travel up to 17 miles on purely battery power.

Most automotive journalists consider the Crosstrek to be a stable vehicle. However, its handling is not as athletic. A taller ride height causes the Crosstrek to experience more body roll on twisty roads. On the bright side, automotive journalists do applaud this crossover for its communicative steering system.

The Impreza’s more precise handling gives drivers more confidence. To further aid the Impreza Sport’s ability to tightrope around curves, Subaru equips it with a sports-tuned suspension and Active Torque Vectoring.

Both vehicles promise to deliver a comfy, quiet ride on the interstate. They also do a commendable job keeping things smooth when traveling over city streets. Like the Crosstrek, the Impreza is a good vehicle for taking long-distance trips.

Subaru’s standard Symmetrical full-time AWD system makes these models especially great for cold-weather regions. Commuters will appreciate the extra grip when the weather turns ugly.

While the Impreza delivers a sportier driving experience on the road, the Crosstrek is the best pick for folks who may decide to take their adventure off-road. The Crosstrek provides an extra 3.6-inches of ground clearance, which will come in handy when hitting the trails. When the terrain becomes a bit more challenging, drivers can engage the Crosstrek’s X-Mode system for enhanced traction and greater control.

The Crosstrek’s braking system responds well during emergencies. When braking at 60 mph, this SUV takes around 124 feet to come to a complete halt. According to tests, the Impreza’s braking system is just as effective.

Comfort, Options and Performance

These two models offer a similar level of everyday comfort. While many testers consider the front seats in the Impreza and the Crosstrek to be a bit firm, few people will complain about a lack of cushioning. Travelers will be able to relax when taking extra-long road trips.

While even the base Crosstrek receives automatic climate control, this popular feature is found on the Impreza’s range-topping Limited trim. Adjusting the temperate settings will be a quick and easy task.

Neither vehicle offers ventilation functions for the front seats. However, the available heated front seats do a fine job of keeping passengers warm. Leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat are offered as well.

Keep in mind that only the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek offers water-resistant StarTex upholstery. This feature will benefit outdoor lovers who often travel on rural trails. With the use of a damp cloth and mild soap, they will be able to easily wipe away mud.

In regard to in-vehicle technology, Subaru’s Starlink multimedia system is the main attraction. It's seamless to operate and enables drivers to easily access their smartphone’s apps. While the standard 6.5-inch touchscreen is a tad small, it does provide Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers can upgrade to a wider 8.0-inch touchscreen with enhanced voice control technology. Meanwhile, Starlink connected services with Wi-Fi access enables passengers to browse the internet at 4G speeds.

Like the Crosstrek, the Impreza receives a basic stereo system with four speakers. Music fans who crave better sound quality will want the eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system.

When comparing the prices of these models, car shoppers will notice the Impreza has a lower starting MSRP of $19,295. Prices for the Crosstrek begin at around $23,145.

Safety

Both the 2022 Subaru Impreza and the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek managed to score a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, only the Impreza earned a perfect rating in the frontal crash category. A flawless rollover rating gives the Impreza another edge over the Crosstrek. Because of the Impreza’s lower center of gravity, it feels more stability when making quick driving maneuvers

When equipped with an automatic transmission, these vehicles receive Subaru’s EyeSight safety system as standard equipment. Pre-collision warning with auto emergency braking, smart cruise control, and lane-keeping technology are all included in the system. Subaru also equips every trim with Rear Seat Reminder, which helps drivers to remember about children and pets sitting in the backseat.

Climbing the trim ladder gives buyers access to blind-spot monitoring. This advanced driving aid will certainly boost the driver’s confidence. Subaru’s available LED Steering Responsive Headlights are also highly recommended for drivers who spend a lot of time traveling after dark. They swivel to provide enhanced visibility around corners. Reverse auto braking is found on the higher trim levels.

Which Model to Choose?

Drivers who aren’t looking to hit the trails will be happy with the 2022 Subaru Impreza. It has a lower MSRP and has the potential to save drivers a bit more money at the pump. While the Impreza may not offer an engine upgrade, many people will enjoy its sharper handling. With Subaru’s full-time Symmetrical AWD system being standard across the board, commuters will always have maximum traction.

The 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is a more adventurous model. It’s the best option for drivers who like to explore the wilderness. A higher ground clearance and a rugged X-Mode system help the Crosstrek to conquer light off-road trails. Another perk is this crossover’s 1,500-pound towing capability.

While the Crosstrek’s base engine doesn’t pack a big punch, upgraded to the larger four-cylinder engine results in a marked improvement in terms of performance. Furthermore, only the Crosstrek offers a hybrid powertrain.

When it comes to passenger and cargo space, there’s not a big difference between these vehicles. This is especially true when comparing the Impreza hatchback to the Crosstrek. Furthermore, many of the same amenities and safety features are offered.