The convenience that the modern subcompact SUV brings to the average consumer is truly remarkable. No longer are SUVs only equipped with mammoth V8 engines, nor do they take up a considerable amount of space. No, the modern SUV is easy to drive, efficient, and offers the amenities of a luxury sedan. It’s exciting to see, especially when slating the ever-popular 2022 Honda HR-V vs. 2022 Subaru Crosstrek.
Honda and Subaru are highly regarded among critics and consumers. Their reputations for delivering reliable, versatile, and practical vehicles long precedes them, making them two of the most popular brands in the industry. Both automakers are keenly aware of what drivers want and need in their vehicles and, in turn, take a unique approach to meeting those needs and exceeding expectations to give drivers the quality of life they deserve.
It’s no surprise, then, that Honda and Subaru are friendly rivals. That rivalry pushes each automaker to raise the standards in the segment, which benefits drivers as we’ll see in this comparison between the HR-V and the Crosstrek. The contest, however, doesn’t end there. If this were an old episode of American Gladiators, the theme song would start right about now.
Honda HR-V vs Subaru Crosstrek
Slightly smaller than the CR-V, the Honda HR-V might look diminutive in size, but one glance and the aesthetic of the exterior’s attractive curves make it enticing for just about any consumer. Truth be told, the HR-V appears to have much more in common with a coupe than a subcompact SUV. So, if it’s style you’re after, consider this the better option. The Subaru Crosstrek, on the other hand, looks like the never-ending cavalcade of unshapely offerings from the past. In an age where automobiles are more exciting than ever, the Crosstrek has all the appeal of a station wagon. Unfortunately, it’s far too reminiscent of the Outback to have a unique signature and stand out on its own.
We tell children it’s what’s inside that counts, so why not examine the inner beauty of both? If you’re buying an SUV, you more than likely have a few things to transport from one location to another. The HR-V and Crosstrek are capable of such an undertaking, with the Crosstrek offering 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is not too shabby. However, Honda once again takes the lead with the HR-V’s cargo area measuring 58.8 cubic feet.
In terms of efficiency, both the HR-V and Crosstrek average 30 mpg. This begs a closer look at price to determine which model is the better value. The 2022 HR-V proves to be the more economical option with its starting MSRP of $21,870 compared to the Crosstrek, which starts at $22,645. We put our money on the Honda HR-V since it offers more style and cargo room for less.
Down the Hatch: Honda Civic Hatchback vs Subaru Impreza Sport
The more things change, the more they stay the same. Some designs have been around for decades and continue to hold their ground in terms of popularity and dependability. Among these is the hatchback.
The Honda Civic Hatchback and the Volkswagen Golf are among the most popular, but Subaru is here to challenge Honda’s claims of glory with the Impreza Sport. While the design lacks in the same areas as the Crosstrek, the Impreza Sport’s appeal exists in its standard AWD, which will appeal to anyone who favors having more control in various conditions and terrains. The available five-speed manual transmission takes this control to the next level. However, with only 152 horsepower to its name, the Impreza won’t be winning any high-octane races anytime soon.
Despite its mediocre power, the Impreza Sport earns high praise for its safety and affordability. A five-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gives drivers confidence in their purchase and peace of mind in the driver’s seat. In addition, a starting MSRP of $19,295 makes the Impreza Sport accessible. The question, however, is whether or not there’s a demand for such a model.
Honda doesn’t need to worry about Subaru usurping its crown anytime soon. You don’t become one of the best automakers by sitting idle, and the Civic Hatchback is posh and pristine, inside and out. For those old enough to remember the box-shaped hatchbacks of yesteryear, Honda’s design will seem like a complete facelift. Once again, Honda accentuates the hatchback’s curves, making it look more like a sophisticated sedan. Inside, the Civic’s interior is refined and luxurious, a significant improvement from the lackluster interiors of older hatchbacks.
While the starting MSRP for the Civic Hatchback is slightly higher than the Impreza’s at $23,350, you’re getting a lot more for your money. The Civic Hatchback averages a combined fuel economy of 36 MPG, making it ideal for drivers who use their vehicle for work and play. The 2.0L four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower is plenty capable, or you can join the big leagues with the turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that churns out 180 horses. When paired with an available six-speed manual transmission, you’ll own the road.
Honda gives drivers an array of advanced features that add to the Civic Hatchback’s value. For example, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist come standard. These features and the hatchback’s remarkable style, efficiency, and capability show why the award-winning Civic takes the winner’s circle again.
Honda Accord vs. Subaru Legacy
As far as four-door sedans are concerned, few have surpassed the Honda Accord in terms of popularity and dependability. However, Subaru proudly challenges Honda’s reign with the Legacy. Similar to the price advantage that the Impreza has over the Civic, the Legacy is more affordable than the Accord, with a starting MSRP of $22,995 compared to $26,120. While this contrast seems quite drastic, it’s important to remember the wisdom of Apple founder Steve Jobs who once remarked that he could sell a better computer for a lower price, but his company would go out of business.
The significantly lower-priced Legacy comes standard with AWD and a slightly more appealing design than the rest of the Subaru lineup. The Legacy has curves in the right places, so it certainly doesn’t lack much in terms of style and aesthetic. Its advantages, however, end there. Its 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine delivers 145 lb-ft of torque and a combined fuel economy of 30 MPG, none of which can match the Accord.
While cost and AWD capability are the Legacy’s advantages, Honda equips the Accord with tools necessary for life in the modern world. Standard is a turbocharged 1.5L four-cylinder engine that puts many competitors out to pasture by delivering 192 horsepower. In a truly astounding pairing that’s bound to shock some, Honda equips the Accord with a 10-speed automatic transmission, something you’d typically expect to find in a heavy-duty pickup truck. If that’s not enough, a 2.0L engine silences any further speculation as it churns out 252 horsepower.
While some feel that high performance should come at the cost of fuel economy, Honda proves otherwise. The Accord’s combined fuel economy of 33 MPG outclasses the Legacy, as does its standard adaptive cruise control and the Accord’s five-star safety rating from the NHTSA. These differences and numerous others across the fleet show that Subaru, while a trustworthy automaker, still has some work to do if they ever plan to catch up to Honda.
