2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid vs 2020 Lexus RX

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid distinguished itself from its gas-powered counterpart with unique visual elements. It featured bright gray inserts along the sides and front lower bumper, as well as blue frames around the upgraded headlight clusters. The exclusive "Lagoon Blue" color added to its eye-catching appeal. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasted blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching, all standard. Despite its well-equipped nature, the hybrid's rear cargo space was compromised due to the battery placement, resulting in a higher cargo floor.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus RX received a refresh that enhanced its stylish presence. The exterior updates included slimmer headlights, L-shaped taillights, and a redesigned grille. The RX offered two new paint colors: Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl. Inside, the RX maintained its reputation for a well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material combinations. The F Sport package added unique elements like a distinctive steering wheel and aluminum pedals. While the center stack appeared dated, the RX's interior remained functional and comfortable for occupants.

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 utilized a CVT and two electric motors, with an 8.8-kilowatt-hour battery pack. The hybrid system allowed for a fully charged electric-only range of 17 miles at speeds up to 65 mph. Despite its hybrid nature, the Crosstrek Hybrid's acceleration was underwhelming, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8 seconds. The hybrid components added 500 pounds, affecting handling, but the vehicle excelled in off-road capabilities with 8.7 inches of ground clearance and X-Mode with hill-descent control. The EPA rated it at 90 MPGe, with a combined fuel economy of 35 mpg.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 450h hybrid variant combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. The RX 450hL offered a slightly different setup with 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's hybrid models featured an electronically-controlled CVT and all-wheel drive. The RX 350 achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, while the RX 450h excelled with 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models offered enhanced handling with adaptive variable suspension and sport modes.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid's interior layout was similar to the conventional Crosstrek, with deep pockets and compartments. The electronic emergency brake allowed for a more efficient placement of cupholders and controls. The driving position was upright, providing good visibility and rear seat space. However, the cargo area was reduced to 41 cubic feet due to the battery pack, compared to 55 cubic feet in the gas-powered version.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior accommodated four adults comfortably in the two-row configuration, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best suited for small children. The cabin offered good visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. The RX's cargo area was smaller than competitors, with a high load floor. The RX 350L and 450hL had even less cargo space compared to rivals like the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models, and standard on RX-L versions.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with Subaru's Starlink infotainment system and an 8-inch touchscreen. Starlink featured easy-to-read icons, a sensible menu layout, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The multi-information display atop the dash provided useful information without unnecessary complexity.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system, though criticized, saw improvements with a touchscreen moved closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay integration alleviated some issues. The RX offered compatibility with Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other apps. The center console touchpad system improved in responsiveness. The RX featured six USB ports and a standard 12-speaker audio system, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. Subaru's EyeSight suite offered advanced driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. EyeSight provided semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities and alerts for inattentive drivers.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, featuring adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The RX also included daytime bicyclist detection, low-light pedestrian detection, road-sign assist, and lane-tracing assist. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Enform Service Connect subscriptions were provided. The RX received good safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models.