When it comes to small SUVs, the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2021 Mazda CX-30 are both options worth considering. Unfortunately, comparing the two, it’s pretty obvious that one is better than the other. That’s why, if you’re stuck between these two models, we recommend looking no further than the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek. Here’s why:

All-wheel drive is standard on all trims

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the kind of car that’s up for just about anything. Much like other vehicles among Subaru’s lineup, this year’s new Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru’s iconic all-wheel-drive system. Designed to deliver an optimal distribution of power, Subaru says the Crosstrek’s all-wheel-drive system contributes to the vehicle’s improved handling and quicker response to road conditions.

While the 2021 Mazda CX-30 is available with Mazda’s own all-wheel-drive system, that system does not come standard. Instead, it requires a costly upgrade which also makes it more expensive than the base Subaru Crosstrek. While a base Subaru Crosstrek, which is standard with all-wheel drive, will cost you $22,245, a Mazda CX-30 with all-wheel drive will run you about $23,300.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek makes the most out of every gallon

The fact that the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek comes standard with all-wheel drive may have you thinking that the Crosstrek is some sort of gas guzzler. Fortunately, that’s not the case at all. In fact, the Subaru Crosstrek is designed to make the most out of every gallon that you put into it. According to Kelley Blue Book, this year’s Crosstrek delivers a 30 mpg combined fuel economy rating.

As for the 2021 Mazda CX-30? Well, it’s not quite as fuel-efficient as the Subaru Crosstrek. While it certainly won’t have you stopping at the pump for a fill up on a daily basis, its fuel economy ratings just don’t match up to the Crosstrek’s. As Kelley Blue Book reported, the CX-30 is only able to deliver a combined 28 mpg fuel efficiency rating. 

The Subaru Crosstrek holds its value over time

If you’re buying a new car, chances are that you’re going to want it to hold its value for a considerable amount of time. No one wants to leave the car dealership with a new car, only to find out that it’s worth next to nothing down the road. Fortunately, that’s not the case with the Subaru Crosstrek. 

Instead, the Crosstrek has been recognized time and again for its strong resale value. In fact, according to Kelley Blue Book, the Subaru Crosstrek has the Best Resale Value in its class for 2020. That’s not all either. ALG reports that the Subaru Crosstrek has had the highest residual value in its class for four years running.

Unfortunately for Mazda shoppers, the CX-30 has yet to be recognized for its resale and residual value in the same way that the Subaru Crosstrek has. That’s not to say the value of the car will plummet once you drive it off the lot. It does, however, mean that you can expect a CX-30 to depreciate faster than the Subaru Crosstrek.

Is the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek a good fit for you?

For car shoppers in need of a vehicle that boasts all-wheel drive, the Subaru Crosstrek makes for a pretty great fit. Add in its fuel-sipping engine and its long-term value, and this Subaru is hard to pass up.