The Subaru Crosstrek and the Toyota Corolla Cross are popular picks for the subcompact crossover SUV segment. And the Corolla Cross has some strong points, such as reliability and efficiency. However, the redesigned 2024 Subaru Crosstrek beats the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross in one big way: off-road use, especially with the new Wilderness model.

2024 Subaru Crosstrek is better for off-road use than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross

Drivers increasingly long for adventures out in nature — and desire vehicles that are rugged and capable enough to handle the rigors of off-road use. And with its redesign, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is the most capable off-road vehicle in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. 

There are several reasons why the redesigned Crosstrek is better for off-road use than the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross. This includes its sophisticated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, which provides better traction over challenging terrain than the AWD drive system in the Corolla Cross. 

The greater effectiveness of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is due in part to its ability to detect wheel slippage before it occurs. Also, for even better traction, there’s a selectable X-Mode feature. Plus, while AWD is standard for all Crosstrek models, it’s optional for the Corolla Cross, so customers have to pay extra.

Another element of the Crosstrek is its high ground clearance. It provides up to 9.3 inches of clearance, compared to 8.1 inches for the Corolla Cross. The higher ground clearance enables the Subaru crossover SUV to more safely and effectively drive over obstacles, such as rocks. 

2024 Crosstrek Wilderness is a new off-road model — but the 2023 Corolla Cross doesn’t have 1

In previous years, Subaru introduced the Wilderness off-road trim for its other crossover SUVs, including the Forester and Outback. Now, the automaker gives the Wilderness treatment to the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. However, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross doesn’t have an off-road model.

Along with its more rugged design, the Crosstrek Wilderness has various design elements and features that raise the bar for off-road capabilities. This includes increased approach and departure angles, longer coil springs and shock absorbers, and raised ground clearance.

There’s also a dual-function X-Mode, which provides more settings for different terrain conditions compared to the standard X-Mode in the other Crosstrek models. Other added features in the Wilderness trim include a ladder-type roof rack system, larger wheel arch cladding, and a metal skid plate. 

Also, the off-road capabilities of the Crosstrek have some benefits for on-road travel. This includes driving in inclement weather, such as snow and heavy rain. Additionally, it’s helpful for driving on roads with potholes and cracks. 

Other benefits of the Subaru Crosstrek over the Toyota Corolla Cross

The 2024 Crosstrek has some other benefits over the 2023 Corolla Cross. This includes towing prowess. The Crosstrek can tow up to 3,500 pounds, compared to 1,500 pounds for the Corolla Cross.

Furthermore, while both crossover SUVs can seat up to five people, the Crosstrek has a higher passenger volume. It provides 100.5 cu-ft of passenger space, while the Corolla Cross has 95.0 cu-ft in total.

The redesigned 2024 Subaru Crosstrek beats the 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross in one big way with its off-road capabilities, particularly for the new Wilderness trim. For subcompact crossover SUV drivers that are looking for some nature adventures, the superior off-road capabilities are a factor to keep in mind.