Subaru Crosstrek Vs. Honda HR-V: Side-by-Side Comparison
Quick Crosstrek vs. HR-V Details
- Nearly identical starting MSRPs
- Crosstrek has standard AWD; the HR-V is FWD
- Nearly identical gas MPG ratings
- Both offer cloth and leather upholstery
- Both have wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Only the Crosstrek is equipped for off-roading and towing
- Crosstrek has higher KBB® ratings1
Crosstrek & HR-V Model Overviews
If you've boiled your SUV search down to these iconic competitors, let us help you bring your Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V comparison to its conclusion. Sutherlin Subaru of Huntington Beach put together this guide on these small SUVs. Let's begin with a quick overview of each.
- 2026 Subaru Crosstrek: Larger passenger space, higher engine output, hybrid-boosted trim levels, multiple off-road features, towing-capable strength, and USB phone charging. Ranked #3 in the KBB® Best Subcompact SUVs of 2026.1
- 2026 Honda HR-V: Larger trunk, lower engine power, no hybrid powertrain, zero off-road supports, no towing capability, and wireless phone charging. Ranked #5 in KBB® Best Subcompact SUVs of 2026.1
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V Performance
All new Subaru SUVs, including the Crosstrek, have standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Unfortunately, the HR-V is a FWD crossover, meaning you'll need to spend more to gain AWD traction – and lose fuel economy while you're at it.
As for Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Crosstrek specs, you'll gain more horsepower, the ability to tow, and all-terrain-ready appointments. Plus, it has slightly higher maximum gas fuel ratings, even with standard AWD. All of these factors make the Crosstrek the clear champion of performance. Schedule a test drive of the 2026 Crosstrek to see its specs in action.
Winner: Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V Dimensions
Even with similar length and width dimensions, the Crosstrek and HR-V don't allocate interior space in the same ways. New Subaru Crosstrek vehicles focus on occupant comfort, providing the most passenger volume, front headroom, and front legroom. It's also worth noting that the Subaru SUV comes with roof rails capable of holding up to 700 pounds of static weight,2 which is perfect for a two- or three-passenger tent, which expands your "passenger space" even further. The HR-V feels more cramped inside, but its trunk can fit one more suitcase than its Subaru rival.
Winner: Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V Safety
Next up is a look at Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Crosstrek safety systems. Both provide advanced driver aids as standard and available equipment, with the Subaru EyeSight and Honda Sensing suites each giving driver assists like Lane Departure Warning, Pre-Collision Braking, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, and a Rear-Vision Camera (names vary by OEM) in every trim.
However, there are also differences in their offerings. For instance, the Crosstrek comes standard with Automatic Emergency Steering, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, and Trailer Sway Warning – three things you won't find anywhere in the HR-V lineup. The HR-V has its own unique inclusions, too.
Winner: Tie
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V Features
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V: Which Offers the Best Driving Experience?
The Crosstrek is extremely capable in adverse weather conditions thanks to its standard Symmetrical AWD. Plus, with 8.7 inches of ground clearance, it can tackle city streets, highways, or tree-lined trails with equal grace. The Crosstrek Wilderness sits at an even higher 9.3-inch ride height and adds shorter gearing, unique cladding, an off-road driving mode, and a more robust suspension for even greater trail-conquering prowess.
In stark contrast, the HR-V shares a platform with the Civic sedan, giving it a smooth, but definitely not all-purpose driving quality. It's a solid choice for drivers who stick to the pavement and rarely encounter extreme weather, but it's not nearly as dynamic as the Crosstrek.
Winner: Your driving habits choose the victor in this category!
Go Anywhere in the New Subaru Crosstrek for Sale
No one knows what the next two, five, or ten years of life will hold: Most people will commute to work and family activities, and some might take up hiking or camping. If you're in the market for a new SUV, we recommend setting yourself up for success with a versatile model like the Crosstrek. Reach out today to see how our Subaru financing packages could help!
Our dealership team is also available to answer questions about Subaru safety systems, technology updates, and cabin amenities. Contact us for more information on the Crosstrek, such as a gas vs. hybrid comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which SUV offers better standard all-wheel drive?
Only the Crosstrek comes in standard all-wheel drive; if you want AWD in an HR-V, you'll need to pay extra. The Crosstrek also creates more horsepower and torque, has a higher ground clearance in every variant, and is fundamentally designed for better on- and off-road experiences. If you plan to only drive in mild conditions, the HR-V can suffice.
How do the Crosstrek and HR-V compare for outdoor and active use?
The HR-V is not recommended for the same active use, like camping, overlanding, and towing, as the Crosstrek. The HR-V is built for city and suburban commutes, not outdoor adventures. If you're interested in exploring trails, sleeping under the stars, or towing watersport equipment with your SUV, the Crosstrek is more than capable of rising to the challenge.
Are there major differences in safety technology between the two?
Both SUVs provide similar modern driver aids, but there are some Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V safety differences. For example, each offers some form of Lane Departure Warning, Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control, and Pre-Collision Braking as standard. However, the Crosstrek does have some unique offerings, such as Automatic Emergency Steering, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, and Trailer Sway Warning.
1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-subcompact-suvs/
2When properly equipped.
3EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
4Based on 2026 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, and other factors.
5Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
