2025 Honda HR-V LX vs 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base
On paper, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base wins on 2 MPG better, 22 more hp, 40 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Honda HR-V LX has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $95 price gap, 158 vs 180 hp, 27 vs 29 MPG.
The Crosstrek Base leads on 2 MPG better, 22 more hp, 40 more lb-ft torque. 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 LX | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $26,900 | $26,995 |
| 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 | 3,276 lbs | 3,296 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 104.5" | 105.1" |
| Length | 179.8" | 176.4" |
| Width | 72.4" | 70.9" |
| Height | 63.4" | 62.8" |
| 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 LX and 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX starts at $26,900, $95 less than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base at $26,995. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Honda HR-V LX?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V LX covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base 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 LX or 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Honda HR-V LX or 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base produces 180 hp, 22 more than the 2025 Honda HR-V LX at 158 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft. The 2025 Honda HR-V LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2025 Honda HR-V LX bigger than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base?
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX is 3.4″ longer at 179.8″ vs 176.4″. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base 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 LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The HR-V–Crosstrek Decision
Cross-shopping subcompact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the HR-V and Crosstrek compare. The $95 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Honda HR-V LX runs a 2.0L I4; the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base has 22 more hp (180 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base adds 40 more lb-ft of torque (178 vs 138), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base costs more upfront but recovers some of that gap through lower running costs. At $108/year in savings, it takes about 0.9 years to close the $95 sticker difference.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Honda HR-V LX when you want to keep $95 in your pocket and the 2025 Honda HR-V LX covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Base when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $108/year less on fuel.
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.