2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a testament to Subaru's strategy of adapting to market trends by transforming the Impreza hatchback into a crossover. It featured rugged aesthetics, standard all-wheel drive, and a higher driving position, which were key attractions for crossover enthusiasts. The Crosstrek distinguished itself from the Impreza with black body cladding, model-specific alloy wheels, and a taller ride height, offering 22 centimetres of ground clearance. This design allowed the Crosstrek to mimic an SUV's appearance while maintaining the vibrant colour options Subaru was known for, such as the Plasma Yellow Pearl. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek retained the Subaru Global Platform, ensuring a refined driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, giving it a rugged front appearance. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, which some found added unnecessary visual weight. The rear design echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall body felt disjointed compared to more cohesive designs from competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured an asymmetrical dash with a metallic styling element, creating a functional and visually interesting interior. The Bronze Edition introduced unique elements like bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, though the latter was prone to dirt and stains. While the Softex synthetic leather was standard, genuine leather was reserved for higher trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.0-litre boxer-four engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, and a new 2.5-litre boxer-four engine delivering 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The boxer engine's design provided a lower centre of gravity, enhancing handling, although the SUV-like ride height somewhat negated this benefit. The Crosstrek came with a six-speed manual transmission for the 2.0-litre engine, while the Sport and Limited trims were CVT-only. All trims featured standard AWD, with X-Mode for better traction on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV aspirations, the Crosstrek was more suited for pavement, offering predictable handling and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a CVT and standard AWD, with an electric motor powering the rear axle for additional traction. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine taking over for sustained acceleration. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension effectively smoothing out road imperfections. While not sporty, the Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort, maintaining a quiet cabin on highways.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered the same front and rear legroom as the Impreza hatchback, with slightly more rear headroom. It provided 588 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,565 litres with them folded. While competitive in passenger space, the Crosstrek lagged behind some rivals in cargo capacity. It featured a rear-seat reminder system and a handy cubby hole for phones, but storage space was limited. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but visibility was excellent due to the large side glass.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with ample adjustments for drivers of all sizes. Storage options were plentiful, with trays, shelves, and large door pockets. The second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added versatility. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space was 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed. Higher trims included a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims received an 8-inch touchscreen, with navigation standard on the Limited. Subaru's unique dual-screen setup displayed redundant information, but the system was easy to navigate. Large analog knobs and buttons controlled vital functions, ensuring ease of use.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on higher trims. Navigation and a premium audio system were standard on the Limited and Platinum trims.

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 EyeSight driver-assist technology with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included automatic high beams, reverse automatic braking, and blind-spot monitoring. However, EyeSight's cameras were susceptible to obstruction and sunlight interference.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid achieved a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. A surround view camera and head-up display were exclusive to the Platinum trim. The safety systems generally performed well, though some features required fine-tuning.