2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to meet the growing demand for crossovers with rugged aesthetics, all-wheel drive, and elevated driving positions. By incorporating these features, Subaru successfully transformed the Impreza into a more SUV-like vehicle, similar to the strategy that kept the Outback popular in the U.S. market. The Crosstrek stood out with its black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and increased ground clearance, which gave it a more adventurous character compared to the Impreza. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Crosstrek maintained the same Subaru Global Platform, ensuring a refined driving experience.

Inside, the Crosstrek's interior remained largely unchanged from the Impreza, offering functionality but lacking in visual flair. The Outdoor grade featured unique interior accents, though some elements like the simulated carbon-fibre trim appeared less premium. The Crosstrek's water-repellant upholstery was a practical addition for outdoor enthusiasts. Overall, the Crosstrek provided a higher driving position and good visibility, though it didn't offer the commanding view of a traditional SUV.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner, despite its age, retained a design that was both timeless and utilitarian. Its two-box body with flared fenders and trapezoidal wheel arches exuded a sense of ruggedness and practicality. While not conventionally attractive, the 4Runner's design had aged well, and its chrome-festooned Limited version offered a more refined appearance. The 4Runner was available in various trims and packages, catering to different preferences and needs, with prices ranging from $46,200 to $62,430.

Inside, the 4Runner's interior was characterized by hard plastics and an old-school dashboard with large knobs and buttons. The Trail model featured basic amenities, but the 4Runner's simplicity and durability endeared it to its owners. The SUV's high ground clearance and truck-like construction made it a capable off-road vehicle, though it felt slow and cumbersome on paved roads. The 4Runner's charm lay in its authenticity as a true SUV, offering a unique driving experience that appealed to those seeking adventure.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, available on the Outdoor and Limited trims, and a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque for other trims. The boxer engine's design provided a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling, though the increased ride height somewhat negated this benefit. A six-speed manual transmission was available with the 2.0-litre engine, but most buyers opted for the CVT, which was standard on the Sport and Limited trims. All trims featured standard AWD, with X-Mode and hill descent control for improved off-road capability. Despite its SUV-like appearance, the Crosstrek was more suited for on-road driving, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was powered by a 4.0-litre V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. The 4Runner's off-road prowess was evident with features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, Multi-Terrain Select, and Crawl Control, making it a formidable off-road vehicle. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt slow and heavy, with clunky handling and steering. Its truck-like construction contributed to its unique driving experience, but it required frequent stops at the gas station, with an average fuel consumption of 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered the same front and rear legroom as the Impreza hatchback, with slightly more rear headroom. Cargo space was competitive for a small crossover, with 588 litres available with the rear seats in place and 1,565 litres with them folded. While it offered more cargo space than some competitors, it lagged behind others like the Honda HR-V and Kia Seltos. The Crosstrek featured a rear-seat reminder system and a practical front cubby with USB ports, though rear passengers lacked USB access. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but not as elevated as traditional SUVs, though visibility was good.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's high ground clearance posed a challenge for shorter passengers, but once inside, it offered comfortable seating with ample legroom and good visibility. The rear seat featured air conditioning vents and USB ports, and the 4Runner's back bumper served as a convenient seating area. Cargo space was generous, with up to 1,337 litres behind the rear seat and 2,540 litres with it folded, complemented by a large roof rack for additional storage.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen and an 8-inch version on higher trims. It offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth, with navigation standard on the Limited trim. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's entry-level Trail grade offered basic technology, including a windshield wiper de-icer and a cargo area power outlet. The standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Higher trims offered upgraded audio systems and navigation. The system's physical buttons and knobs were designed for easy use, even with gloves, and the navigation map included off-road trails.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. It featured Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. The system's cameras were well-protected but had limitations in certain conditions. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" roof crush strength rating from the IIHS. Its age was reflected in its safety ratings, with lower scores for frontal-impact protection.