2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was designed to capture the essence of a rugged crossover, building on the Impreza hatchback's foundation. It featured standard all-wheel drive, black body cladding, and model-specific 17-inch wheels, giving it a distinct SUV-like appearance. The Crosstrek's taller ride height provided 8.7 inches of ground clearance, enhancing its off-road capability. Despite its SUV mimicry, the Crosstrek retained the Impreza's interior, which was functional but somewhat plain. The Sport trim added unique touches like Plasma Yellow Pearl accents and water-repellant StarTex upholstery, though some elements like the simulated carbon-fiber trim appeared less refined.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, with a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia, giving it a rugged look. However, its design included a character line that added unnecessary visual weight, making it appear disjointed compared to competitors. Inside, the Highlander featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element, creating a functional storage tray. The Bronze Edition introduced light grey fabric upholstery with a triangle motif, which was less practical for families due to its tendency to attract dirt. The Softex synthetic leather substitute was less convincing compared to genuine leather options available in higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline powertrains. The Sport and Limited trims featured a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The base and Premium trims retained the 2.0-liter engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek's boxer engine provided a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling, though the SUV-like stance reduced some benefits. A six-speed manual was standard on lower trims, while a CVT was available and standard on higher trims. All models included AWD with torque vectoring and X-Mode for improved traction on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV aspirations, the Crosstrek excelled on pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 horsepower, paired with a CVT. It featured standard front-wheel drive, with optional AWD via an electric motor on the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only rivals. The hybrid powertrain provided a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power, though the CVT's drone was noticeable under heavy acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing road imperfections. The Highlander Hybrid maintained a quiet cabin, enhancing comfort during highway travel.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. It provided 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder system and a convenient front cubby with USB ports, though rear passengers lacked charging options. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but visibility remained excellent due to ample side glass.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options were plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining capabilities, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog controls for audio and climate functions. A secondary screen displayed additional information, though it seemed redundant.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid included an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL premium audio system.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" from the IIHS for the 2020 model. It featured EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The system's cameras were well-protected but could be obstructed by wipers or sunlight.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid also earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The systems generally performed well, though adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist required some fine-tuning.