2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a clever adaptation of the Impreza hatchback, designed to capture the growing market for crossovers with its rugged appearance, standard all-wheel drive (AWD), and elevated driving position. Subaru's strategy mirrored that of the Outback, which had successfully outlasted many station wagons in the U.S. market. The Crosstrek distinguished itself from the Impreza with black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and a higher ride height, offering 22 centimetres of ground clearance. This transformation gave the Crosstrek a more SUV-like character, enhanced by vibrant colour options like Plasma Yellow Pearl. Despite its SUV mimicry, the Crosstrek retained the Subaru Global Platform, ensuring a refined driving experience, although the interior remained functional but somewhat plain.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota RAV4 embraced a rugged SUV aesthetic with its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and assertive front end, setting it apart from previous generations and other compact crossovers. While the exterior exuded toughness, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with sedans and minivans. Toyota offered options like the RAV4 Trail model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road package with matte black wheels and all-terrain tires. Inside, the RAV4 featured functional touches like large rubberized knobs and SofTex upholstery, though material quality didn't match the price of higher trims. The RAV4's interior was practical but lacked the luxury of real leather, even on the top-tier Limited trim.

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, standard on the Outdoor and Limited trims, and a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque for other trims. The boxer engine's low profile contributed to a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling, although the SUV-like 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 mandatory for the Sport and Limited trims. All trims featured standard AWD, with X-Mode for improved traction on loose surfaces and additional modes for the Outdoor trim. Despite its SUV aspirations, the Crosstrek excelled on pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride, though the new 2.5-litre engine didn't significantly enhance acceleration.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came with a single 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with optional AWD. The engine boasted 40% thermal efficiency, akin to racing engines, and revved eagerly, but the transmission struggled to keep pace, resulting in delayed shifts. The steering was responsive but lacked feedback, and the "Sport" mode only added weight to the steering. While the RAV4's engine was lively, the overall driving experience was ordinary, prompting consideration of the RAV4 Hybrid or Prime for more power and refinement. On highways, the RAV4 excelled with low cabin noise and a smooth ride. Off-road, the Trail and TRD Off-Road models offered torque-vectoring AWD and 21.7 centimetres of ground clearance, but lacked the capabilities of traditional off-roaders.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its front and rear legroom with the Impreza hatchback, offering slightly more rear headroom. Cargo space was 588 litres with rear seats up and 1,565 litres with them folded, competitive with small crossovers but trailing some rivals. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder and a convenient cubby with USB ports, though rear passengers lacked USB access. Storage was limited, reflecting its compact car roots, but visibility was excellent due to ample side glass.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a tall roof for ample headroom and good visibility, though legroom lagged behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but rear seats were less so. Cargo space was 1,059 litres with seats up and 1,977 litres with them folded, above average but behind the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior had oversized knobs and a large centre-console bin, but lacked large cupholders and loose change storage, reminiscent of old-school SUVs.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek utilized Subaru's Starlink infotainment system, featuring a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen, with navigation on the Limited trim. A secondary screen displayed redundant information, while large analog knobs and buttons facilitated control of audio and climate functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were accessible via steering wheel buttons.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 7-inch touchscreen on most trims, and an 8-inch screen on Trail and Limited models. The RAV4 Prime had a 9-inch screen option. Up to five USB ports were available, with a JBL audio system and SiriusXM as options. The infotainment system was user-friendly but unremarkable, lacking the head-up display found in the RAV4 Prime. The interface was straightforward, catering to those seeking simplicity.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with top scores in side crash tests and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS. EyeSight driver-assist features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. However, EyeSight's cameras were susceptible to obstruction, limiting functionality in certain conditions.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. A 360-degree camera system was available in certain packages.