2026 Honda HR-V EX-L vs 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited
On paper, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited wins on 2 MPG better, 24 more hp, 40 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $410 price gap, 158 vs 182 hp, 27 vs 29 MPG.
The Crosstrek Limited leads on 2 MPG better, 24 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 | 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L | 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $31,850 | $32,260 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.0L I4 | 2.5L flat 4 |
| Horsepower | 158 hp | 182 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 | 27 |
| 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 | 3,336 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 | 5/5 stars |
| 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 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L and 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L starts at $31,850, $410 less than the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited at $32,260. 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 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L?
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L is the stronger pick when you want to keep $410 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 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 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited rates 29 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L or 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited produces 182 hp, 24 more than the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L at 158 hp. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 138 lb-ft. The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited uses a 2.5L flat 4.
Is the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L bigger than the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited?
The 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L is 3.4″ longer at 179.8″ vs 176.4″. The 2025 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
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 $410 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 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L runs a 2.0L I4; the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited uses a 2.5L flat 4. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited has 24 more hp (182 vs 158), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 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.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited saves roughly $108/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $540. The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited costs more upfront but recovers some of that gap through lower running costs. At $108/year in savings, it takes about 3.8 years to close the $410 sticker difference.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L when you want to keep $410 in your pocket and the 2026 Honda HR-V EX-L covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Limited 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.