When you're buying a car, there's no room for messing around. It's a big—albeit worthwhile—investment, and you need to make sure that your money is going toward a product that will suit your needs, if not exceed them. If you're a daily commuter, you need something dependable that will fit the bill on every level; you need to find the vehicle that provides the best value for your dollar. But what does value look like in a vehicle?
Well, it usually means finding a vehicle that is fuel-efficient so as to save you money in the long term. It also means finding features that maximize convenience and a cabin with agreeable cargo and passenger volume, allowing you to satisfy your family and friends on your travels. If you're researching vehicle options, it can be difficult to cut through the hype and determine which vehicle truly offers everything you need. We recommend looking for a Honda HR-V for sale.
However, the HR-V has capable competition in the Subaru Crosstrek, which may be more tempting. So, let's dig into the details and see which provides a more holistic package of efficiency, utility, and dependability. To help aid your discernment, we've dissected the integral elements of the HR-V and Crosstrek—but before we can talk about their differences...
The Basics of Two Great Models
What role do each of these models play in the modern auto industry? As subcompact SUVs, both the HR-V and the Crosstrek serve a pivotal point on the market; they're in one of the most sought-after segments right now, actually. While commuters formerly sought sedans, more and more drivers are veering toward subcompact SUVs. The reason behind this is that subcompact SUVs essentially offer the same value proposition as sedans and then some; by nature of their larger bodies, they can grant greater capabilities, greater interior volume, and higher safety ratings.
The HR-V and Crosstrek are both beloved subcompact SUVs, to say the least. Both models have developed a great deal of customer loyalty. Honda and Subaru are both industry staples and brand names that, when heard, elicit trust from drivers. They have been staples for commuters and families alike, providing the subcompact appeal of a sedan but the versatile flexibility needed for family life. As we discuss these models side-by-side, it's important to understand that it's not about one being the "good" option while the other is the "bad" option; drivers could, for very plain reasons, be equally satisfied by both models.
Interior Space
Vehicles almost always offer more than meets the eye, and none should ever be judged based on their exterior alone. That said, the exterior does give us some insight into certain key features. Looking at the HR-V and the Crosstrek side-by-side, you'll likely notice that the HR-V has a bit of a bigger build. Subaru's brand image prefers smaller builds in general, and while both the HR-V and Crosstrek are subcompact SUVs, the former is not afraid to take up a little more space.
The result of this slightly bigger body is increased interior volume—and this applies both to passenger volume and cargo volume. With no seats sacrificed, the Crosstrek offers an initial cargo volume of 19.9 cu.ft. while the HR-V offers an initial cargo volume of 24.4 cu.ft.—a difference of almost five cubic feet. Their cargo volumes with their rear seats folded down are closer in number, with the Crosstrek providing 54.7 cu.ft. and the HR-V providing 55.1 cu.ft. Still, knowing what you have for initial cargo volume is more beneficial considering the likelihood of carrying passengers.
Your passengers will also benefit from this increased space as the HR-V provides more rear legroom than the Crosstrek. If you carpool or consistently have passengers, you'll want to make sure they can be comfortable during the time spent in your vehicle. Legroom is one of the most important specs when it comes to passenger comfort as people can often find ways to make themselves comfortable even when other specs (like shoulder room, for example) may be less-than-ideal, but if legroom isn't there, passengers will have a compromised experience. With the HR-V offering more cargo volume and legroom than the Crosstrek, Honda's subcompact SUV has a slight spatial advantage.
Safety Technology
Safety may be the most important aspect when you're considering a vehicle. It doesn't matter how exciting a vehicle is; if it's not safe, it's not worthwhile. Both Honda and Subaru take safety very seriously, so there's no question that drivers will be safe in either vehicle. That said, safety during the drive no longer lies solely in the driver's hands, nor does it lie solely in the vehicle's architecture, suspension, and braking. Safety oversight technology is now a key part of the design for a safe driving experience, as driver assistance features have become standard in vehicles. Thus, you must ensure your next vehicle has a great driver assistance suite.
The whole idea behind a safety suite is to offer unified, streamlined communication between the driver and their vehicle; rather than offering stray safety features, a suite allows drivers to grow accustomed to the cadence of the drive and think ahead of time about things that may cause these assistance features to spring into action. The HR-V is equipped with the Honda Sensing suite, while the Crosstrek has Subaru's EyeSight suite. Both are solid safety suites with many features that perform essentially the same functions, though there are some differences.
The Honda Sensing suite has some key driver assistance features. These include the Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), which applies the brakes when the vehicle senses an imminent collision. It also includes a Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), which adjusts steering to get you back in the right lane if it senses you're veering; this is closely tied to the Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) as well. Features like Blind Spot Information System and Cross Traffic Monitor also provide eyes where you may not have them, making sure you avoid what you can't see.
One of the more innovative and popular features in the Honda Sensing suite is Adaptive Cruise Control. Unlike traditional cruise control, this adaptive system can maintain a set following distance behind the car ahead of you; it will apply the brakes or accelerate as needed to keep this distance, meaning you don't have to manage your pedals. Adaptive Cruise Control means more time enjoying your ride, whether you want to relax your legs or reduce your attention to steering alone.
The Honda Sensing suite is a strong attribute of the HR-V. Not only will it keep you safe, but it will provide greater enjoyment in your travels, knowing that the burden is not solely on you.
A Big Decision
Purchasing a vehicle is a significant decision; there are so many different factors to weigh. While interior space and safety are not necessarily the whole picture, they are two components that have a massive impact on your well-being and overall satisfaction with the vehicle. The HR-V and Crosstrek are both fantastic vehicles, but when it comes to interior space and safety features, the HR-V has some advantages.
If you're looking to maximize your satisfaction with your vehicle, the HR-V is a strong choice. Subcompact SUVs are the future, and the HR-V ensures you'll get there.