Skip to main content
a gold 2021 subaru Crosstrek subcompact crossover SUV off-roading with a loaded bike rack up top.

Don’t Make the Mistake of Choosing a Honda HR-V Instead of a Subaru Crosstrek

The 2020 Honda HR-V is a prominent choice in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. According to Consumer Reports, however, it may actually not be as great a buy as it seems. So what should buyers look at instead? Is there an obvious better option? Consumer Reports reviews say, yes, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is a …

The 2020 Honda HR-V is a prominent choice in the subcompact crossover SUV segment. According to Consumer Reports, however, it may actually not be as great a buy as it seems. So what should buyers look at instead? Is there an obvious better option? Consumer Reports reviews say, yes, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is a better buy. It may be wise to avoid the Honda HR-V subcompact crossover SUV and buy the Subaru Crosstrek instead.

Is the Honda HR-V a good sub-compact crossover SUV?

The Honda HR-V isn’t a bad vehicle. However, according to the Consumer Reports reviews, it is “really showing its age.” Apparently, it “feels underpowered.” In addition, if you want a nice quiet engine, this subcompact SUV is a little loud in the moment when the driver is pushing it to accelerate.

2020 Honda HR-V Sport
2020 Honda HR-V Sport | Honda

“The Honda does have some strengths, such as good fuel economy, strong reliability, and a roomy cargo area… but the flaws outweigh the advantages.”

Consumer Reports

It hasn’t improved much since the new generation hit the market in 2016. Today, the 2020 Honda HR-V crossover has a “stiff ride” combined with seats that leave passengers and driver both wishing for more support. In addition, children find it difficult to open the rear doors because of the strangely designed handles. Overall, despite of its positive traits, the Honda HR-V subcompact crossover SUV just isn’t at the top of its class. Though it has decent predicted reliability scores, owner satisfaction isn’t good.

Honda HR-V driving in rain storm
Honda HR-V | Honda

The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek is clearly a better SUV

The Subaru Crosstrek subcompact crossover SUV is #1 in its class according to Consumer Reports reviews. This spritely SUV returns an average of 29 mpg. The Crosstrek employs a continuously variable transmission and a 2-liter 4-cylinder engine.

“Ride comfort is impressive and the Crosstrek has competent and enjoyable handling.”

Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports remarks that it’s easy to learn and utilize the infotainment system. In addition, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek has the option to get Subaru’s available and highly recommended driver assistance system. This system includes modern safety technology such as lane keeping assistance and automatic emergency braking.

A green Subaru Crosstrek on display at an auto show
A Subaru Crosstrek on display | FREDERIC J. BROWN/AFP via Getty Images

The Crosstrek still has some flaws

In spite of its number one ranking, the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek subcompact crossover SUV isn’t perfect. According to Consumer Reports reviews, this little crossover “isn’t very quick. Plus, if you push down the throttle to accelerate you will hear loud engine noise in the cabin.

While it is a great crossover, no vehicle is flawless. There is usually something to love and something to hate about every car, truck, or SUV. However, according to Consumer Reports the Crosstrek is the better option.

A light blue 2020 Subaru Crosstrek on the track.
2020 Subaru Crosstrek | Subaru

The best crossover

Between these two subcompact crossover SUV options, Consumer Reports clearly recommends one over the other. So if you find yourself choosing between the 2020 Honda HR-V and the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek, you’ll likely see more to love in the Subaru Crosstrek.

But any available vehicle can surprise you. Buyers can shop with favorites in mind only to discover that something originally not even on their radar turns out to be the winner. Still, you should probably test drive them both. The final decision truly lies with the buyer’s personal preference. That said, Consumer Reports concludes that choosing the HR-V instead of the Crosstrek could be a mistake you don’t want to make.