Subaru Crosstrek vs Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek retained much of its predecessor's design, yet introduced new sheet metal, a fresh chassis, and additional colour options like Sun Blaze, Offshore Blue, and Sapphire Blue. While its wheelbase and overall length remained nearly unchanged, the Crosstrek boasted a steeper departure angle, though cargo space was slightly reduced. The base trim featured 17-inch alloy wheels and 22 centimetres of ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road adventures. In Canada, standard roof rails added to its outdoorsy appeal, although crossbars were sold separately. The Crosstrek's front fascia, with its clever wing bar design, gave it a distinctive look, while black plastic cladding with aerodynamic air inlets and outlets improved fuel efficiency and reduced road noise. The split taillight design from the second generation continued, enhancing trunk access. The Wilderness trim offered unique design elements, increased ground clearance, and a ladder-style roof rack, while the interior featured StarTex synthetic leather and all-weather floormats.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid was available exclusively in Sport design grades in Canada, including the base SE, XSE, and the new GR Sport. The sixth-generation RAV4 maintained the same footprint as its predecessor, with buffer bumpers extending the GR Sport's length by nearly five centimetres. The RAV4 adopted a boxy, truck-like presence, with square wheel arches and bulging fenders reminiscent of the Highlander. Daytime running lights and an integrated rear roof spoiler added to its appeal. The Sport trims featured gloss black accents, while the GR Sport showcased racier elements like red brake calipers, 20-inch black alloy wheels, and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen system, with customizable displays and improved graphics. The GR Sport trim sat lower than other grades, enhancing handling and reducing body roll.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offered two engine options: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine delivering 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, and a smaller 2.0-litre engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The latter, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), was standard on the Touring trim. While the 2.0-litre engine lacked quickness, Subaru's CVT provided a smooth driving experience with simulated shift points. The Crosstrek Wilderness trim featured different gearing for tackling uphill terrain and increased towing capacity to 1,587 kilograms. The updated 2.0-litre powertrain reduced vibrations, and the dual-pinion steering rack improved handling. Subaru's X-Mode traction management system, available in all trims, enhanced off-road capabilities. Fuel economy was reasonable for a subcompact crossover, 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 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-litre inline four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. The PHEV's power increased to 324 horsepower, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. All-wheel drive was standard, with a front motor rated at 203 horsepower and a rear motor for assistance and traction. In EV mode, the RAV4 excelled in quiet cruising, while Auto mode delivered impressive acceleration with a 0-100 km/h time in the low five seconds. The hybrid and charge modes optimized battery usage and recharging. The RAV4's handling was enhanced by a strengthened chassis and improved suspension, though its weight affected cornering. The GR Sport trim offered sportier handling with lower ground clearance and 20-inch wheels, providing a more spirited ride.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, built on the Subaru Impreza platform, offered competitive cargo space and utility for a subcompact SUV. Rear-seat legroom and headroom were adequate, though taller passengers might prefer the front seats. The trunk provided 564 litres of space, expanding to 1,549 litres with the rear seats folded. The interior featured robust, easy-to-clean materials, with standard protective cargo trays on higher trims. A heated steering wheel was standard on most trims, and the centre console accommodated large water bottles, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid maintained its dimensions from the previous generation, optimizing interior space with clever storage solutions. The base SE trim included power-adjustable and heated front seats, while higher trims featured SofTex upholstery and ventilated seats. The interior offered ample storage, including a dashboard shelf, centre console storage, and deep door pockets. The RAV4 comfortably seated four passengers, with 960 millimetres of rear legroom. Cargo space was slightly reduced compared to the standard RAV4, with 951 litres available, expanding to 1,798 litres with the rear seats folded. The flat cargo floor and temporary spare tire added practicality.

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek featured an 11.6-inch vertically oriented touchscreen, standard on most trims, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The infotainment system included physical controls for essential functions and a customizable interface. A wireless charger was standard on higher trims, and the Limited trim offered a premium Harman Kardon audio system. Subaru Starlink technology provided various features, though some were challenging to locate.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch screen on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and graphics. The Voice Assistant responded to a wide range of prompts, and the system provided information on charging schedules and range maps.

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

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. The system included automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system on higher trims. The enhancements aimed to improve safety and address previous shortcomings in crash protection.