2025 Honda HR-V EX-L vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on 2 MPG better, 22 more hp, 40 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,995 price gap, 158 vs 180 hp, 27 vs 29 MPG.
The HR-V EX-L leads on $1,995 less. The Crosstrek Limited leads on 2 MPG better, 22 more hp. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,000 | $32,995 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 180 hp |
| Torque | 138 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 26 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 33 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 29 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.0 gal | 16.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,600/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,333 lbs | 3,349 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 179.8" | 176.4" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 63.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L starts at $31,000, $1,995 less than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited at $32,995. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $35/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,995 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited produces 180 hp, 22 more than the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L at 158 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L bigger than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L is 3.4″ longer at 179.8″ vs 176.4″. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has a 0.6″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Honda trims, Honda HR-V trims, Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims
- 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
HR-V vs Crosstrek: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited sit in the subcompact SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $1,995 gap is about $35/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has 22 more hp (180 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited adds 40 more lb-ft of torque (178 vs 138), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: HR-V vs Crosstrek
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L when you want to keep $1,995 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Limited when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel. At $35/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Honda or Subaru or any dealership.