Looking for a reliable and feature-packed SUV? We pit the Subaru Crosstrek against the Toyota RAV4 in a battle of interior space, performance, safety, design, and value.
Interior Space and Comfort
When it comes to interior space and comfort, both the Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are designed to provide a comfortable and convenient ride for drivers and passengers alike. But how do they stack up against each other?
Seating Capacity and Legroom
One of the most important considerations for many car buyers is seating capacity and legroom. After all, who doesn’t want to stretch out on a long road trip or have plenty of space for friends and family? The Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are both five-seat SUVs, making them ideal for small families or groups of friends. However, the RAV4 has a slight edge when it comes to legroom, with 41 inches of front legroom and 37.8 inches of rear legroom, compared to the Crosstrek’s 40.9 inches of front legroom and 36.5 inches of rear legroom. That being said, both vehicles offer plenty of space for passengers to get comfortable, and the Crosstrek’s seatbacks fold flat to provide a spacious cargo area.
Cargo Space and Storage Options
Speaking of cargo space, both the Crosstrek and RAV4 offer ample room for gear, groceries, and other essentials. The Crosstrek boasts 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, while the RAV4 offers 27.5 cubic feet. However, the Crosstrek’s rear seats fold flat to provide a whopping 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it an ideal choice for road trips or outdoor adventures. Additionally, both vehicles feature a range of storage options, including cup holders, door pockets, and center consoles to keep essentials within easy reach.
Infotainment and Technology Features
Finally, let’s talk about infotainment and technology features. Both the Crosstrek and RAV4 offer a range of advanced features designed to make driving more convenient and enjoyable. The Crosstrek features a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a range of available features like navigation and a Moonroof. The RAV4, on the other hand, boasts a larger 7-inch touchscreen display, as well as available features like a JBL audio system and a 360-degree camera system. However, the Crosstrek’s available heated steering wheel and seats make it a great choice for drivers who prioritize comfort and convenience.
Performance and Handling
When it comes to performance and handling, the Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are fierce competitors. Both vehicles are designed to provide a smooth and responsive driving experience, but which one comes out on top?
Engine Options and Power Output
The Subaru Crosstrek offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.8-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 137 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque. On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 also offers two engine options: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine that produces 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. As you can see, the RAV4 has a significant power advantage over the Crosstrek, especially when it comes to the hybrid models.
But power isn’t everything. What about acceleration and responsiveness? The Crosstrek’s engine options may not be as powerful, but they’re designed to provide a more agile and responsive driving experience. The RAV4’s engine options, on the other hand, are focused on providing raw power and acceleration. So, which one is right for you? Do you prefer a more agile and responsive driving experience, or do you need a vehicle that can accelerate quickly and merge onto highways with ease?
Transmission and CVT Performance
Both the Crosstrek and RAV4 use Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) to provide smooth and efficient power delivery. However, the Crosstrek’s CVT is designed to mimic the feel of a traditional automatic transmission, with simulated gear shifts and a more responsive driving experience. The RAV4’s CVT, on the other hand, is designed to provide maximum fuel efficiency and smoothness, but can sometimes feel sluggish and unresponsive. Again, it comes down to personal preference: do you prioritize fuel efficiency or driving excitement?
All-Wheel Drive Capabilities
Both the Crosstrek and RAV4 offer all-wheel drive (AWD) capabilities, but they differ in their approach. The Crosstrek’s Symmetrical AWD system is designed to provide maximum traction and control in a wide range of driving conditions, from snow-covered roads to rocky trails. The RAV4’s AWD system, on the other hand, is designed to provide improved traction and stability on paved roads, with a focus on cornering and handling. So, if you plan on venturing off the beaten path, the Crosstrek’s AWD system may be the better choice. But if you prioritize on-road handling and stability, the RAV4’s AWD system may be the way to go.
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, both the Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are designed to provide a secure and protected driving experience. But, how do they compare in terms of crash test results, advanced safety features, and optional safety packages?
Crash Test Results and Safety Scores
Both the Crosstrek and RAV4 have undergone rigorous testing by reputable organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The results? The Crosstrek has earned a perfect 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, while the RAV4 has received a 5-star rating in every category except for rollover, where it earned 4 stars. The IIHS has named both vehicles as Top Safety Pick+, the highest honor awarded by the organization.
Advanced Safety Features and Driver Aids
Both vehicles come equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Crosstrek offers features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and sway warning, while the RAV4 boasts a similar suite of features, including dynamic radar cruise control and lane tracing assist. But, which one takes the lead in terms of innovative safety tech? The Crosstrek’s blind-spot detection system, which uses cameras to detect vehicles in the blind spot, is a standout feature. On the other hand, the RAV4’s 360-degree camera system provides a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings, making low-speed maneuvering a breeze.
Optional Safety Packages and Upgrades
Want even more peace of mind behind the wheel? Both vehicles offer optional safety packages that take safety to the next level. The Crosstrek’s EyeSight Driver Assist System, available on higher trims, adds features such as reverse automatic braking and high-beam assist. The RAV4’s Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 (TSS 2.0) suite, available on all trims, includes features like adaptive cruise control and lane centering. But, which one provides the most comprehensive safety upgrade? The Crosstrek’s EyeSight system is more comprehensive, with a focus on accident prevention, while the RAV4’s TSS 2.0 suite is more geared towards accident mitigation.
Exterior Design and Features
The Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are two of the most popular compact SUVs on the market, and their exterior design features play a significant role in their appeal. When it comes to body style and trim options, both vehicles offer a range of choices to suit different tastes and preferences.
Body Style and Trim Options
The Subaru Crosstrek is available in three trim levels: Base, Premium, and Limited. The Base model comes with a more minimalist approach, while the Premium and Limited trims offer more luxurious features and design elements. The Crosstrek’s body style is characterized by its rugged and angular lines, which give it a more aggressive stance on the road. On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 is available in five trim levels: LE, XLE, XSE, Adventure, and Limited. The RAV4’s body style is sleeker and more aerodynamic, with a focus on smooth lines and a more modern aesthetic.
Wheel Designs and Size Options
When it comes to wheel designs and size options, both vehicles offer a range of choices. The Subaru Crosstrek comes with 17-inch steel wheels on the Base model, while the Premium and Limited trims feature 18-inch alloy wheels. The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, features 17-inch steel wheels on the LE and XLE trims, while the XSE, Adventure, and Limited trims come with 19-inch alloy wheels. The RAV4 also offers a unique wheel design for the Adventure trim, which features a more rugged and aggressive look.
Ground Clearance and Approach Angles
Ground clearance and approach angles are essential features for SUVs, as they determine the vehicle’s off-road capability and ease of use in rough terrain. The Subaru Crosstrek features a ground clearance of 8.7 inches, which is higher than the Toyota RAV4’s 6.5 inches. The Crosstrek also has a more aggressive approach angle of 18.5 degrees, compared to the RAV4’s 16.5 degrees. This makes the Crosstrek a more capable off-road vehicle, especially for those who enjoy venturing into rough terrain. However, the RAV4’s lower ground clearance and approach angle make it a better choice for those who prioritize on-road driving and ease of use in urban environments.
Price and Value Comparison
When it comes to choosing between the Subaru Crosstrek and the Toyota RAV4, one of the most significant factors to consider is the price and value comparison. After all, you want to get the best bang for your buck, right? In this section, we’ll dive into the details of the starting prices, trim levels, fuel economy, running costs, and warranty and maintenance costs to help you make an informed decision.
Starting Price and Trim Levels
The starting price of the Subaru Crosstrek is around $22,000, with the top-of-the-line trim level, the Limited, clocking in at around $28,000. The Toyota RAV4, on the other hand, starts at around $25,000, with the top-tier XSE Hybrid trim level reaching up to $36,000. But what do you get for your money? The Crosstrek’s base model comes with a decent array of features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the RAV4’s base model is a bit more stripped-down, with fewer standard features.
Fuel Economy and Running Costs
When it comes to fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4 takes the lead, with an estimated 26 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The Subaru Crosstrek isn’t far behind, with an estimated 23 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. But what about running costs? According to the US Department of Energy, the RAV4’s fuel economy translates to an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,500, while the Crosstrek’s fuel economy estimates an annual fuel cost of $1,700. Not a huge difference, but every little bit counts, right?
Warranty and Maintenance Costs
Warranty and maintenance costs can add up quickly, but both the Subaru Crosstrek and the Toyota RAV4 offer competitive warranties and maintenance programs. The Crosstrek comes with a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, while the RAV4 offers a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. When it comes to maintenance costs, the Crosstrek’s average annual maintenance cost is around $300, while the RAV4’s average annual maintenance cost is around $250. Not bad for a couple of reliable rides!