The Toyota Corolla Cross is an appealing new choice for the small crossover SUV segment. However, it faces stiff competition from other models, such as the Subaru Crosstrek. Here are four reasons to buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek, not a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross.

2022 Subaru Crosstrek offers a more powerful engine than the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

The first reason to buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek instead of a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is the Crosstrek offers a more powerful engine than the Corolla Cross. The Crosstrek has a range of engine options, and the most powerful one is the available 2.5-liter 4-cylinder horizontally-opposed boxer engine. It produces 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque.

In comparison, all Corolla Cross models have a weaker 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. It generates only 169 hp and 150 lb-ft of torque.

The more powerful engine for the Crosstrek translates to quicker acceleration. It has a 0-60 mph time as low as 7.5 seconds, compared to 9.2 seconds for the Corolla Cross.

Unlike the 2022 Corolla Cross, the 2022 Crosstrek offers a hybrid model

The second reason to buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek instead of a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is that, unlike the Corolla Cross, the Crosstrek offers a hybrid model. Also, the Crosstrek Hybrid is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), with the ability to drive on electric-only power for up to an estimated 17 miles.

For efficiency, the Crosstrek Hybrid gets an estimated fuel economy of up to 35 combined mpg in hybrid mode and 90 MPGe in electric mode. In comparison, the Corolla Cross has an estimated fuel economy of up to 32 combined mpg.

Subaru Crosstrek provides more passenger space than the Toyota Corolla Cross

The third reason to buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek instead of a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is the Crosstrek provides more passenger space than the Corolla Cross. Both crossover SUVs can seat up to five passengers. However, the Crosstrek has a total passenger volume of 100.9 cu-ft, compared to 88.4 cu-ft for the Corolla Cross.

The greater passenger space makes the biggest difference for the rear seats. The Crosstrek has 36.5 cu-ft of rear legroom, compared to 32.0 inches for the Corolla Cross.

2022 Crosstrek has better off-road capabilities than the 2022 Corolla Cross

The fourth reason to buy a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek instead of a 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross is the Crosstrek has better off-road capabilities than the Corolla Cross. If you want a crossover SUV that you can take on wilderness adventures, then the Crosstrek is the better choice for you.

For one, all Crosstrek models come standard with a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. However, the Corolla Cross has a standard front-wheel drive system. An all-wheel drive system is optional for the Corolla Cross, so you have to pay extra.

Also, the Crosstrek has higher ground clearance than the Corolla Cross (up to 8.7 vs. 8.0 inches). Higher ground clearance enables the Crosstrek to more effectively and safely drive over uneven terrain. Plus, unlike the Corolla Corolla Cross, the Crosstrek has side cladding to protect the vehicle from the rigors of off-road use. 

Even if you never take your vehicle off-road, these attributes are beneficial for driving in adverse weather and road conditions, such as snow, ice, and rain. Also, the Crosstrek is better for driving on low-quality roads, such as ones with potholes and cracks. 

Advantages that the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek has over the 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross include a more powerful available engine, a hybrid model, passenger space, and off-road capabilities. These are four key reasons for crossover SUV shoppers to buy a 2022 Crosstrek, not a 2022 Corolla Cross.

For reasons to buy a Toyota Corolla Cross instead of a Subaru Crosstrek, continue reading below.