Are you shopping around for a subcompact crossover SUV? Two leading choices are the Honda HR-V and Subaru Crosstrek. See how they compare in this 2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek competition. With its many advantages, the Crosstrek beats the HR-V. 

2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek

For our 2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek head-to-head comparison, we analyzed several different factors. This includes performance, efficiency, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, interior features and technologies, warranty coverage, reliability, and price.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Performance and efficiency

On the performance front, the 2022 Honda HR-V features a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 141 hp. In comparison, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek offers two engine options — and both of them generate a greater output than the engine in the HR-V: a base 2.0-liter flat-four engine (152 hp) and a 2.5-liter flat-four engine (182 hp). 

The Crosstrek offers buyers the choice of either a manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), while all HR-V models come standard with a CVT.

For efficiency, the HR-V and Crosstrek are evenly matched. Both crossover SUVs get an estimated fuel economy of up to 30 combined mpg.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Towing

If you want a crossover SUV that can tow, then the Crosstrek is the best choice for you. While the HR-V is not rated for towing, the Crosstrek has a maximum towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Off-road capabilities

The Crosstrek boasts better off-road capabilities than the HR-V. While a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system is an optional feature for the HR-V, it’s standard for all Crosstrek models. Also, the Crosstrek has higher ground clearance than the HR-V (up to 8.7 vs. 7.4 inches). Furthermore, the Crosstrek has cladding to protect the vehicle from the rigors from off-road use.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Safety

For safety, the Crosstrek has the advantage. Unlike the HR-V, the Crosstrek earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Passenger and cargo space

The HR-V and Crosstrek provide a similar amount of space for people and cargo. The HR-V has a total passenger volume of 100.1 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 55.9 cu-ft. In comparison, the Crosstrek has a total passenger volume of 100.9 cu-ft and a maximum cargo capacity of 55.3 cu-ft.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Interior features and technologies 

For interior features and technologies, the Crosstrek has the advantage. Unlike the HR-V, the Crosstrek offers a navigation system, a premium sound system, a telematics system, and a power driver’s seat. Both crossover SUVs offer a sunroof/moonroof.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Warranty coverage and reliability 

For warranty coverage, both the HR-V and Crosstrek have the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. However, the Crosstrek is a slightly more reliable vehicle than the HR-V. It earned a J.D. Power reliability rating of 79/100, compared to 78/100 for the HR-V.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Price

Which crossover SUV costs more: the 2022 HR-V or the 2022 Crosstrek? The starting prices of the 2022 HR-V range from $21,870 MSRP for the LX trim up to $26,670 MSRP for the EX-L trim. In comparison, the starting prices of the 2022 Crosstrek range from $22,445 MSRP for the Base trim up to $28,295 MSRP for the Limited trim.

2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek: Which crossover SUV is better?

As you can see in our 2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek comparison, the 2022 Crosstrek has most of the advantages. This includes advantages for performance, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, interior features and technologies, and reliability. Conversely, the only advantage that the 2022 HR-V has is its slightly lower price.