Subaru Crosstrek vs Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek retained much of its predecessor's design, with subtle updates like new sheet metal and additional colour options such as Sun Blaze, Offshore Blue, and Sapphire Blue. While the wheelbase and overall length remained nearly unchanged, the Crosstrek featured a steeper departure angle and slightly reduced cargo space. The base trim came with 17-inch alloy wheels and 22 centimetres of ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road adventures. In Canada, roof rails were standard, although crossbars needed to be purchased separately. The Crosstrek's front fascia had a distinctive look with LED headlights and a wing bar that gave it a smiling appearance. Black plastic cladding protected the wheel arches, and air inlets and outlets improved aerodynamics. The split taillight design from the previous generation continued, allowing for wider trunk access. The Wilderness trim added unique design elements, including a hexagonal front grille, larger cladding, and increased ground clearance. Inside, the Crosstrek Wilderness featured StarTex synthetic leather upholstery and copper accents, with all-weather floormats and an LED light in the cargo area.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, available in Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, integrated seamlessly into the gas-only Palisade lineup. The base Luxury trim featured 20-inch alloy wheels and a massive grille with LED projector headlights. The Palisade's profile included body-colour, heated side mirrors with power-folding capabilities on the Luxury Hybrid. Acoustic side glass on the windows contributed to a quieter cabin. The rear view was equally appealing, with wide-spaced letters spelling the vehicle's name and stacks of LED taillights. The exhaust was discreetly tucked away, emphasizing the Palisade's focus on efficient driving. Inside, the Palisade impressed with H-Tex synthetic leatherette upholstery, power-adjustable seats, and heating elements for the front seats. Higher trims offered additional features like Nappa leather upholstery and seat ventilation. The interior design was characterized by organic shapes and thoughtful storage solutions, providing a sense of craftsmanship not often found in non-luxury crossovers.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a smaller 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The larger engine was standard on the Wilderness trim, while the smaller engine was tested on the Touring trim. The 2.0-litre engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), provided adequate performance but lacked quick acceleration. Subaru's CVT was refined, with deliberate simulated shift points and minimal droning. The Crosstrek Wilderness had different gearing for tackling uphill terrain and a towing capacity of 1,587 kilograms. The updated 2.0-litre powertrain reduced vibration, and the dual-pinion steering rack improved steering feel. All trims featured Subaru's X-Mode traction management system, with varying levels of capability. Fuel economy was reasonable for a subcompact crossover with AWD, with estimates of 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 7.1 on the highway for the 2.0-litre engine.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.65-kWh battery. The turbo-four engine produced 258 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, while the combined output with the electric motors reached 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. The Palisade Hybrid's performance was impressive, with quick acceleration and responsive handling. The advanced eight-speed automatic transmission and hybrid system contributed to its efficiency. The hybrid system eliminated the starter motor and auxiliary belts, relying on a more capable electric motor. The Palisade could operate on electric power alone in low-speed situations. The cabin was quiet, with noise-absorbing carpet and acoustic glass. The steering was sharp, while the pedals felt slightly soft. Overall, the Palisade Hybrid offered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, built on the Subaru Impreza's platform, offered competitive cargo space and utility for a subcompact SUV. Rear-seat legroom and headroom were good, although taller passengers might prefer the front seat. The trunk provided 564 litres of space, which was less than some competitors, but folding the second-row seats increased cargo capacity to 1,549 litres. The interior featured low-rent but robust materials, with a protective cargo tray standard on higher trims. A heated steering wheel was standard on most trims, and the centre console bin accommodated two 32-ounce Nalgene water bottles, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid offered 2,455 litres of total cargo capacity, trailing some competitors but surpassing others. The battery's position under the front passenger seat slightly reduced second-row legroom, but it remained competitive. The third row offered less legroom and headroom compared to some rivals. The Palisade's cabin was comfortable, with dual-zone climate control, second-row HVAC controls, and multiple USB-C power outlets. The second row was spacious, and captain's chairs were available on higher trims. The Palisade featured numerous storage cubbies, including a rubberized cargo space in the centre console and a small shelf ahead of the front passenger seat.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek featured an 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, previously found on larger Subaru models. The display was crisp and bright, with physical controls for essential functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard on most trims, and a wireless charger was included on higher trims. The Limited trim offered a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Subaru Starlink technology was impressive but had some drawbacks, such as glare in bright sunlight and complex menu navigation.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a matching digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system supported HD and Sirius XM satellite radio, wireless Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. A Driver Talk intercom system facilitated communication between rows. Higher trims featured a 14-speaker Bose stereo and a built-in dashcam. The Palisade introduced "Stay Mode," allowing the climate control and infotainment system to run while the gas engine was off, provided the hybrid battery had sufficient charge.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek had a strong safety record, with previous models receiving a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The 2024 model was expected to maintain these ratings. Subaru's EyeSight driver assist technology was standard, offering features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The system included a wider-angle lens and automatic emergency steering for enhanced safety.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid came standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic assist, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection. The blind-view monitor was standard on higher trims, and the rear doors featured a safe-exit alert indicator. The Palisade's ADAS technology performed well during testing, with no false alerts. The 2025 Palisade received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, and the 2026 model was expected to maintain similar safety standards.