2023 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2023 Honda HR-V

Performance

Powertrain Lineup

To say that you have options when it comes to your engine choice in the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is a massive understatement. With three powertrain options to choose from, you’ll be able to get exactly what you want out of this respected model. Choosing its 2.5L BOXER four-cylinder will enhance your experience behind the wheel, with 182 hp propelling you forward with excitement and 176 lb-ft of torque, giving you the strength to tow up to 1,500 lbs. Opting for its 2.0L BOXER hybrid engine delivers the efficiency you’re looking for, getting up to 34 MPG on the highway, providing you with 90 MPGe and 480 total miles of driving range. Even its base 2.0L BOXER four-cylinder is mesmerizing, delivering just the right amount of power and efficiency, making any powertrain able to provide the ride you need and want on any roadway.

Unfortunately, you don’t have as many options in the 2023 Honda HR-V. In fact, you don’t have any choices to make at all. You’re stuck with only one engine that sits underneath the hood of every HR-V, a 2.0L four-cylinder, which produces only 158 hp, meaning the ride inside is bound to leave you wanting more. You won’t find a hybrid option either, but fear not, this small traveler can still hold its own on city streets and highways, getting up to 26 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. We would like to see a wider array of engine options when it comes to being able to get more of the ride you desire in the HR-V, but unfortunately, Honda doesn’t provide this, which vastly limits your capabilities on the road and off.

Off-Road Prowess

Speaking of off-roading, drivers love the fact that the Crosstrek is perfectly capable of transitioning from highway driving to off-road exploring in an instant. All Crosstreks feature standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive capabilities, which are some of the best AWD abilities in their class. No matter the terrain it’s navigating, the Crosstrek’s iconic AWD system can add immense control, traction, and stability to your ride. Constantly adjusting to the changes in the terrain, the Crosstrek sends continuous power to all four wheels, allowing you to hug the curves of the road, maneuver over uneven terrain, and safely travel through bad weather without missing a beat.

Another downfall of the HR-V is that it doesn’t offer all-wheel drive capabilities as standard equipment across its trim levels. This is an available feature but a welcomed one if you’re frequently traversing rough roadways or through inclement weather. Coupled with hill descent control, you’ll be able to navigate challenging environments easily; however, it would help if Honda made these features standard.

Unfortunately for the HR-V, it just can’t keep up with all the exciting performance features found in the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek. From an abundance of engine options to standard all-wheel drive capabilities, the Crosstrek has it all. In addition, it showcases a confident ride quality, accentuated by responsive handling, quiet powertrains, and a firm suspension system. If you want to enjoy any type of ride, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is the SUV to have by your side during every mile.

Safety

Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology

It’s no secret that Subaru features some of the most impressive safety scores in the nation. Whether you’re admiring the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek’s durable build or its state-of-the-art safety systems, it’ll be immediately apparent that the Crosstrek is designed to keep you secure behind the wheel. Not only is the Crosstrek excellently balanced, but it also sits on a rigid chassis to ensure maximum control and safety on the road. This level of rugged durability places the Subaru ahead of the rest and makes it a frequent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick.

Through standard EyeSight Driver Assist technology, the Crosstrek acts like a true assistant on the road, whether you’re maneuvering through traffic on the interstate or trekking around obstacles in the wilderness. This award-winning safety technology showcases helpful features to enhance your ride, like Pre-Collision Throttle Management to reduce engine power to mitigate damage when vehicles in front of you quickly hit the brakes. Lane Keep Assist keeps you safely in your lane, alerting you if you’ve crossed the line, while Pre-Collision Braking can apply full braking force to help reduce the impact during an accident. Earning the highest possible front crash prevention rating by the IIHS, this level of safety technology is quite unlike anything you’ll come across in the industry.

The Honda Sensing Suite

If you want a vehicle that will last and provide you with a safe ride for miles, it’s difficult to compete with a Subaru; however, the 2023 Honda HR-V showcases a fine lineup of safety features of its own to intensify the competition between these two rivals. Through Honda Sensing, you’ll be able to take advantage of a set of advanced features to improve security on the road, like a Collision Mitigation Braking System, as well as a Road Departure Mitigation System to help reduce damage caused by the unfortunate instance of a crash. A Blind Spot Information System comes in handy to help provide enhanced visibility in hard-to-see areas, while a multi-angle rearview camera offers clear views behind you, which is especially helpful when you’re attempting to navigate out of parking spaces on packed city streets.

Although the HR-V offers its own set of advanced safety features, it doesn’t come with standard all-wheel drive, like you’ll find in the Crosstrek, which makes it difficult to safely traverse dangerous road conditions. If you want a solid foundation and unmatched reliability, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek will provide this to you. There’s a reason why 97% of Subarus purchased within the last ten years are still faithfully on the road, and this is due to the incredible lineup of safety and assistance features coupled with durability that can’t be replicated, all of which can be found in the 2023 Crosstrek.

Versatility

A Functional Experience in the Crosstrek

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek is as versatile as they come, with a well-laid-out cabin space that provides the perfect blend of style and function. From plenty of legroom for all on board, plus an abundance of space to handle all your gear, 55.3 cu.ft. to be exact, the Crosstrek can take on anything coming your way during the drive. With more interior volume than many of its competitors, the Crosstrek can easily deliver the comfort your passengers need without their travel belongings getting in the way. Configurable seating by way of 60/40-split flat-folding rear seats and a wide rear gate makes it easy to load up and get going, even when you’re hauling around cumbersome cargo. Plus, with standard raised roof rails, carrying everything from mountain bikes to kayaks, camping gear, and more is no sweat for this rugged road tripper.

A Comfortable Experience in the HR-V

The 2023 Honda HR-V showcases a modern interior cabin design, but the biggest downside this year is the elimination of the second-row Magic Seats. This handy feature is configured to create a low cargo floor to accommodate more gear, and unfortunately, it’s gone. That’s a big disadvantage for this small-size traveler, and because of this, it can only handle up to 55.1 cu.ft. of cargo; this is less than rivals, like the Crosstrek, as well as previous HR-V models. Plenty of storage compartments can be found, though, to make up for the lack of a Magic Seat; however, this is a big disappointment for many Honda drivers, one that eliminates the HR-V’s ability to lead its class in versatility and cargo capacity. If you’re looking for a versatile subcompact SUV to offer you the perfect blend of convenience and function, the 2023 Crosstrek outperforms the HR-V here.

Experience the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek for Yourself

Williams Subaru is proud to offer our customers only the best models in the industry, and if you have your eye on a subcompact SUV, the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek won’t let you down. From its durable build to its superior driving dynamics, standard AWD capabilities, and top-notch safety features, there aren’t many others that can compete with this exceptional vehicle.

Like the exciting Crosstrek, there aren’t many dealerships that can compete with us, from our experienced and knowledgeable team to our spectacular inventory and hassle-free shopping experience. For over 80 years, we have been helping Charlotte drivers with all their vehicle needs. From outstanding financing options to a stress-free environment, Williams Subaru provides all the tools you need to find exactly what you’re looking for to make your ride great. So, stop by and test drive a 2023 Crosstrek and see what all the buzz is about and why it’s widely known that once you drive a Subaru, you won’t want to buy another brand ever again.

^[a] MSRP may change without notice. See dealer for complete details.