2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2019 Volvo XC40

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was immediately recognizable for its standout styling, borrowing elements from its larger sibling, the XC90, which gave it an upright and commanding presence. This design choice set it apart from competitors like the Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class and BMW X2, which had more hatchback-like designs. The XC40's SUV-based design provided an upright driving position with ample head- and legroom. It was available in three trims: Momentum, R-Design, and Inscription. The Momentum trim, despite being the base model, was well-equipped with features like 18-inch wheels, LED signature headlights, and a 9-inch Sensus touchscreen infotainment display. The R-Design and Inscription trims added unique styling elements and luxury features, enhancing the vehicle's appeal.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid, on the other hand, had distinct visual cues that set it apart from its gas-powered counterpart. It featured bright gray inserts and blue frames around the headlights, with color options like the exclusive "Lagoon Blue." Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasted blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching. Despite having only one trim, it was packed with standard features, including 18-inch alloy wheels, adaptive headlights, and a roof spoiler. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with push-button start, keyless entry, and an 8-inch Starlink infotainment system. However, the hybrid components reduced rear cargo space compared to the conventional Crosstrek.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, delivering 248 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It featured standard all-wheel drive, with power routed through an 8-speed automatic transmission. The unique shifter design, however, was a point of contention, as it could easily lead to accidental shifts into Neutral. Despite this, the XC40 offered brisk acceleration, well-weighted steering, and a balanced suspension. It had multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Eco, Dynamic, Off-Road, and Individual, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. Fuel economy was estimated at 23 mpg city, 31 highway, and 26 combined, though observed fuel economy was slightly lower at 21 mpg.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured a gas-electric powertrain with a 2.0-liter Boxer four-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a CVT and two electric motors, with an 8.8-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The hybrid system provided a 17-mile electric-only range and could be charged in five hours with a standard outlet or two hours with a 240-volt charger. While the Crosstrek Hybrid's acceleration was underwhelming, it excelled in off-road capability, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance. The EPA rated it at 90 MPGe, with a combined gas-only fuel economy of 35 mpg, though observed fuel economy was slightly lower at 33.6 mpg.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 made excellent use of its space, offering ample front-seat head- and legroom. The center console featured a removable trash bin and a wireless charging pad. The rear seats provided generous legroom and included smart trays for storage. The hands-free power liftgate worked efficiently, revealing a decent-sized cargo area with additional storage below the load floor. The XC40 offered 57.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, making it one of the roomiest in its class.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid had a similar layout to the conventional Crosstrek, with deep pockets and compartments for storage. The electronic parking brake allowed for a more spacious center console. The upright seating position provided a commanding view, and the rear seat offered adequate space for taller passengers. However, the cargo area was smaller than the gas-powered Crosstrek, with only 41 cubic feet of space due to the battery pack.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 featured a large portrait-oriented touchscreen, housing most vehicle controls. The Sensus system was intuitive, with a home screen and button for easy navigation. While the system worked well, some functions like heated seats required multiple steps. The XC40 came with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the available Multimedia Package added navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came standard with the Starlink infotainment system and an 8-inch touchscreen. Starlink was user-friendly, with large icons and a sensible menu layout. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the USB port placement could have been more convenient. The multi-information display atop the dash provided useful information without being overly complicated.

The 2019 Volvo XC40 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including airbags, a tire pressure monitoring system, and a rear-collision warning system. The City Safe automatic braking system was standard, and the optional Vision Package added blind-spot detection and Pilot Assist. However, the XC40's design had some safety drawbacks, such as poor rearward visibility due to large C-pillars.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with standard safety features like airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. It also included Subaru's EyeSight suite, offering forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. EyeSight provided semi-autonomous highway driving and had a feature to alert drivers if they were stopped at a light and the vehicle in front moved.