Why More Adventurers Choose the Subaru Crosstrek Over the Honda HR-V

Adventure-ready? Compare the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V to see which compact SUV brings more AWD capability, rugged style, and cargo space to every drive.

In February 2025, compact SUVs made up 18% of all vehicle sales. Their rise in popularity is fueled by drivers who want the best of both worlds: car-like fuel efficiency and maneuverability, combined with the extra space and utility of an SUV. These vehicles appeal to first-time buyers, young families, empty nesters, and weekend warriors alike. While fuel efficiency, safety tech, and cargo flexibility top the list of priorities, so does the ability to handle life’s unpredictable moments, whether that’s a rainy-day commute or a last-minute camping trip.

In a category as popular and competitive as compact SUVs, the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V matchup stands out among active drivers who want comfort, versatility, and confidence on any road.

Let’s break down the key features that matter most, from all-wheel drive to ground clearance, tech features, and off-road capability, to see how these two compact SUVs compare.

Built for More Than the Commute: Standard All-Wheel Drive vs. Front-Wheel Drive

The first significant difference in the Crosstrek vs. Honda HR-V debate? How they handle the road — asphalt, dirt, gravel, and beyond.

• The Subaru Crosstrek offers standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across all trim levels, enhancing stability on rain-soaked Corpus streets or dusty campground trails.
• The Honda HR-V offers front-wheel drive on base models, with all-wheel drive only available as an upgrade.

Key takeaway: If you want a compact SUV that’s ready for real adventure, regardless of the trim level, the Crosstrek delivers confidence without compromise.

Clearance for Takeoff: Ground Clearance and Off-Road Capability

Whether you’re navigating city curbs or rugged park trails, ground clearance plays a critical role in where you can go and where you can’t.

• The Crosstrek offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance, among the best in its class.
• The Honda HR-V offers just 7.3 inches of ground clearance, which is better suited for urban roads than backcountry routes.

Want to level up? The Wilderness trims of the Crosstrek include even more off-road enhancements, such as upgraded suspension and all-terrain tires — features the HR-V simply doesn’t match.

Interior Versatility for Everyday and Adventure

Both SUVs seat five comfortably. But differences emerge in cargo flexibility.

• The Crosstrek’s rear seat folds flat for a wide, usable cargo area, perfect for dog crates, coolers, or camping gear. Standard roof rails add storage flexibility for bikes or cargo boxes.
• The HR-V has a flexible layout and good passenger room, but it features fewer of the outdoor-ready details that make weekend getaways smoother.

Key takeaway: Whether you’re hauling groceries or gear, the Crosstrek makes loading and unloading easier and more practical.

Fuel Efficiency That Keeps You Moving

Both models have impressive city and highway mpg ratings. But Subaru’s efficiency stands out, especially considering that it comes with standard all-wheel drive.

• Crosstrek base models offer up to 34 mpg highway and 27 mpg city.
• HR-V models with front-wheel drive offer up to 32 mpg highway and 26 mpg city.

Key takeaway: If you want a compact SUV that saves you money at the pump and performs year-round, the Crosstrek delivers on both accounts.

Tech and Safety Built for Confidence

Modern adventurers want convenience and peace of mind. Both of the models in this matchup deliver here, though not equally.

• The Crosstrek offers standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Subaru STARLINK® infotainment across all trims.
• The HR-V offers similar features, but some of them are reserved for higher trims.

When it comes to safety, both come with strong driver-assist tech:

• Crosstrek: EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology with automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and adaptive cruise control standard on most trims.
• HR-V: Honda Sensing® suite with blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and emergency braking, but features may vary by trim level.

Key takeaway: You shouldn’t have to pay extra for peace of mind. With the Crosstrek, you won’t.

Towing Capacity and Trail Confidence

Need to haul bikes, kayaks, or a small trailer?

• The Crosstrek offers up to 1,500 lbs of towing capacity when properly equipped.
• The HR-V is not rated for towing.

Key takeaway: Whether you’re hauling a utility trailer or weekend gear, the Subaru Crosstrek gives you options HR-V doesn’t.

Which Compact SUV Is Built for More?

Not sure which SUV fits your needs best? Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide based on your driving habits, priorities, and lifestyle.

Choose the Subaru Crosstrek if you:

• Want standard all-wheel drive without the upgrade
• Need best-in-class ground clearance for daily or off-road use
• Prefer a stylish, rugged design that fits your lifestyle
• Haul gear often and want towing capacity as an option
• Value strong safety features and seamless connectivity in base models

Choose the Honda HR-V if you:

• Mostly drive in the city
• Prefer a lower starting price with a sleek, minimalist design
• Don’t need AWD on every drive
  

Test Drive the Subaru Crosstrek at Hicks Family Subaru

When you’re choosing your next compact SUV, you want more than just a daily driver. You want something that fits your active lifestyle. The Subaru Crosstrek brings bold style, standard all-wheel drive, and trail-friendly capability to every journey. 

At Hicks Family Subaru, you can see in person how the Crosstrek compares to the Honda HR-V and explore available Crosstrek models designed to keep up with every mile.