The Honda HR-V subcompact crossover SUV received a complete redesign for the 2023 model year, which should help boost sales. One of the crossover SUV competitors of the HR-V is the Subaru Crosstrek. Find out how the two models compare in this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek analysis. With a wide range of advantages, the Crosstrek beats the HR-V.

2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek

In this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek comparison, we evaluated several areas. This includes performance, gas mileage, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, passenger and cargo space, warranty coverage, and price.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Performance and gas mileage

For performance, the 2023 Honda HR-V has a higher horsepower output for the base engine, but the 2023 Subaru Crosstrek has a higher maximum horsepower output. 

While the HR-V offers a hybrid version in the European market, in the United States, all models have a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which generates 158 hp. In comparison, the Crosstrek offers three engine options: a 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder engine (152 hp), a 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder engine (182 hp), and a plug-in hybrid (148 hp).

For efficiency, the Crosstrek has the advantage. The gas-powered 2023 Crosstrek has an estimated gas mileage of up to 30 mpg, while the Crosstrek Hybrid has a fuel economy of up to 35 mpg in hybrid mode and 90 MPGe in electric mode. Also, the Crosstrek Hybrid has an estimated electric-only driving range of 17 miles.

In comparison, the HR-V has an estimated gas mileage of up to 28 combined mpg.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Towing

If you have towing needs, then the Crosstrek is the better choice for you. It can tow up to 1,500 pounds, but the HR-V is not rated for towing.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Off-road capabilities

The 2023 Crosstrek is also better for off-road use. For one, while a traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system is an optional feature for the HR-V, all Crosstrek models come standard with all-wheel drive. Also, the Crosstrek has higher ground clearance than the HR-V (up to 8.7 vs. 7.3 inches). Furthermore, the Crosstrek has cladding around parts of the exterior to protect it from the rigors of off-road use.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Safety

Both crossover SUVs offer a strong roster of safety and driving assistance features, such as lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, and electronic stability control. However, given its safety history, the Crosstrek has the edge. For the 2022 model year, unlike the HR-V, the Crosstrek earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick award.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Passenger and cargo space

Both crossover SUVs can seat up to five passengers, but the Crosstrek has a total passenger volume of 100.9 cu-ft, compared to 98.7 cu-ft for the HR-V. However, the HR-V provides more storage space, with a maximum cargo capacity of 66.8 cu-ft, compared to 55.3 cu-ft for the Crosstrek.

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Warranty coverage

For warranty coverage, both the HR-V and Crosstrek have the backing of a 3-year/36,000-mile warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. 

HR-V vs. Crosstrek: Price

Which crossover SUV costs more: the 2023 HR-V or the 2023 Crosstrek? The starting price of the 2023 HR-V ranges from $23,650 MSRP for the LX trim up to $27,450 MSRP for the EX-L trim. In comparison, the starting price of the 2023 Crosstrek ranges from $23,645 MSRP for the Base trim up to $36,845 MSRP for the Hybrid trim.

2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek: Which crossover SUV is better? 

In this 2023 Honda HR-V vs. 2023 Subaru Crosstrek crossover SUV comparison, the 2023 Crosstrek has most of the advantages. This includes advantages for maximum horsepower, gas mileage, towing, off-road capabilities, safety, and passenger space. Conversely, the 2023 HR-V has advantages for base engine horsepower and cargo space.