2025 Subaru Crosstrek Vs. Honda HR-V: SUV Comparison Guide
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If you're shopping for a compact SUV that offers rugged capability, proven performance, and everyday comfort, a Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V review is no doubt at the top of your list. While the Honda HR-V delivers solid practicality, our Wallace Subaru of Johnson City team will show you how the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek takes center stage with standard all-wheel drive, better fuel economy, and trusted reliability.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V at a Glance
- The Subaru Crosstrek offers two engine choices, including a powerful 2.5-liter option whereas the HR-V has a single 2.0-liter engine across all trims, with less power overall.
- Every Crosstrek comes standard with AWD, while the HR-V starts with FWD and offers AWD as an upgrade.
- The Crosstrek tows between 1,500 – 3,500 pounds,1 whereas the Honda HR-V isn't rated or recommended for towing.
- The Crosstrek delivers better MPG and includes a larger 16.6-gallon fuel tank compared to the HR-V's 14 gallons.
- 97% of Crosstreks sold in the last 10 years are still on the road,2 while ranking higher in Consumer Reports3 and J.D. Power4 reliability scores than the HR-V.5,6
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V: Trim Levels & Configurations
Kicking off our Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V comparison is a look at the available trim levels and configurations offered by each SUV. Both the Crosstrek and HR-V are two-row SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. Select trims on both models also offer premium features such as a moonroof, leather-trimmed seats, and 18-inch wheels.
The new Subaru Crosstrek for sale gains a clear advantage in its variety, as it offers five trim levels, including the adventure-focused Wilderness trim, which boasts the highest ground clearance and towing capacity – features we'll explore further below. In contrast, the Honda HR-V offers only three trims, and trim variety isn't the only area where it falls short.
Next, we compare Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Crosstrek powertrain specs to show how the Crosstrek comes out ahead.
| Specifications | 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | 2025 Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Trims | 5 | 3 |
| Engine |
|
2.0L 4-cyl |
| Transmission | CVT | CVT |
| Horsepower | 152 -182 | 158 |
| Torque | 145 lb-ft - 178 lb-ft | 138 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | Standard AWD | Standard 2WD |
| Towing Capacity | 1,500 lbs - 3,500 lbs1 | Not Rated For Towing |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) | Up to 27 / 34 / 297 | Up to 26 / 32 / 288 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 14 gal |
| Seating | 5 | 5 |
| Passenger Volume | 100.5 cu ft | 98.7 cu ft |
| Cargo Space | 54.7 cu ft | 55.1 cu ft |
| Ground Clearance | 8.7 - 9.3 in | 7 - 7.3 in |
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V: Specs & Performance
Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Honda HR-V come standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. While the Honda HR-V offers slightly more horsepower than the Crosstrek at 158 horsepower versus 152 horsepower, the difference is minimal – and lags behind when it comes to torque output.
Digging deeper into the specs reveals a key advantage for Subaru: the 2.0-liter engine is only standard on the Base trim. All other models upgrade to a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque – significantly more than what the HR-V offers. In contrast, the Honda HR-V features no available engine upgrade.
Additionally, like most Subaru models, the Crosstrek comes equipped with standard AWD across the entire lineup. The Honda HR-V, on the other hand, comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive offered as an available option.
Wrapping up our Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V performance section is towing capacity. The Subaru Crosstrek towing capacity offers a maximum of 1,500 pounds1 across most trims, while the Wilderness trim stands out with an impressive 3,500-pound rating.1 The Honda HR-V isn't rated for towing, forcing drivers to leave their small camper or boat at home.
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V: Fuel Economy
The Crosstrek and HR-V are nearly evenly matched when it comes to fuel efficiency, but once again, the Crosstrek edges ahead. It achieves up to an EPA-estimated 27/34 MPG (City/Highway).7 In comparison, the Honda HR-V offers up to an EPA-estimated 26/32 MPG (City/Highway)8 with its standard FWD configuration.
Noted earlier, the HR-V does have available AWD, but choosing this drivetrain results in even lower fuel economy, whereas the Crosstrek gives drivers both efficiency and enhanced traction. Adding yet another advantage to the Crosstrek is that it comes equipped with a larger fuel tank – 16.6 gallons- compared to the HR-V's 14-gallon capacity.
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V: Dimensions
As already established, both the Crosstrek and HR-V are two-row SUVs with seating for up to five passengers. However, a closer look at the interior dimensions reveals that the Crosstrek offers more overall passenger volume, with 100.5 cubic feet compared to the HR-V's 98.7 cubic feet.
Both models boast up to 38 inches of rear headroom and nearly identical front headroom, with the HR-V offering just under an inch more. Where the Crosstrek truly stands out is in front legroom – delivering nearly 43 inches versus the HR-V's 41.9 inches – as well as offering more shoulder room in both the front and rear seats.
Looking at the exterior, the Honda HR-V is taller, wider, and longer than nearly every Crosstrek trim. While that might sound impressive on paper, it actually makes the HR-V more challenging to maneuver in tight parking spots, narrow city streets, and on rugged trails. In contrast, the more compact footprint on the Crosstrek gives it the edge in agility and ease of handling, especially in tighter off-road paths.
The outdoor-ready design of the Crosstrek is further enhanced by its impressive ground clearance. All models come standard with 8.7 inches, while the trail-ready Wilderness trim boosts that to 9.3 inches. Meanwhile, the Honda HR-V fails to measure up – literally – with a maximum ground clearance of just 7.3 inches.
Honda HR-V vs. Subaru Crosstrek Reliability
Long-term dependability matters, and that's where the Subura Crossrek really shines:
- About 97% of Crosstrek vehicles sold in the last decade are still on the road today,2 outperforming the Honda HR-V and other competitors.
- The Subaru Crosstrek earns a higher overall score from Consumer Reports than the Honda HR-V, with stronger ratings in key areas such as Road Test, Predicted Reliability, and Predicted Owner Satisfaction.3,5
- J.D. Power also ranks the Crosstrek higher in both Quality & Reliability and Driving Experience compared to the Honda HR-V.4,6
- Subaru stands out as the top-ranked brand in Consumer Reports' "Who Makes the Most Reliable New Cars," while Honda takes fourth place9
Surbura Crosstrek Takes the Lead – Experience the Clear Winner Today!
Now that you've explored our Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V comparison, it's clear that the Crosstrek outpaces the HR-V across the board. From stronger performance and better fuel efficiency to superior towing capacity and industry-leading reliability, it's little wonder why drivers are rushing to schedule a test drive with this trusted two-row SUV.
Our Subaru Crosstrek deals at Wallace Subaru of Johnson City include leasing and financing, so check them out today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better engine performance: the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek or the 2025 Honda HR-V?
While the HR-V tops out at 158 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque, the Crosstrek offers up to 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque on all trims except the Base model. Additionally, the Honda HR-V isn't rated for towing, whereas the Crosstrek boasts an impressive maximum towing capacity of 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Which is more fuel-efficient: the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek or the Honda HR-V?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek proves to be more fuel efficient than the Honda HR-V, achieving up to an EPA-estimated 27/34/29 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).7 The Honda HR-V lags behind with up to an EPA-estimated 26/32/28 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)8 and an EPA-estimated 25/30/27 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)8 when configured with AWD.
How do the 2025 Crosstrek and HR-V compare in terms of available trims and performance upgrades?
While both SUVs come equipped with a standard 2.0-liter engine, the Crosstrek has an available 2.5-liter engine that delivers enhanced horsepower and torque. Additionally, all Crosstrek trims are rated to tow up to 1,500 pounds,1 with the Wilderness trim increasing that capacity to 3,500 pounds.1 The HR-V does not offer an upgraded engine and is not rated for towing.
Discover More Subaru Model Comparisons
1Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
2Based on Experian Automotive vehicles in operation vs. total new registrations for MY2015-2024 as of December 2024.
3Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/subaru/crosstrek/2025/overview/
4Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/subaru/crosstrek
5Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/honda/hr-v/2025/overview/
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/honda/hr-v
7EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle’s condition.
8Based on 2025 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.
9Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, Consumer Reports members can visit https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/car-reliability-owner-satisfaction/who-makes-the-most-reliable-cars-a7824554938/
