2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport vs 2026 Toyota Corolla SE
This is not a spec comparison. It is a decision about whether you need a compact SUV or a compact car. Key numbers: 180 vs 169 hp, 29 vs 34 MPG.
The Crosstrek Sport leads on 27 more lb-ft torque, AWD. The Corolla SE leads on $5,260 less, 5 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Subaru Crosstrek Sport | 2026 Toyota Corolla SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $30,625 | $25,365 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L flat 4 | 2.0L I4 |
| Horsepower | 180 hp | 169 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 151 lb-ft |
| Transmission | continuously variable-speed automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 26 | 31 |
| Highway MPG | 33 | 38 |
| Combined MPG | 29 | 34 |
| Fuel Tank | 16.6 gal | 13.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,300/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 3,332 lbs | 3,110 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 105.1" | 106.3" |
| Length | 176.4" | 182.5" |
| Width | 70.9" | 70.1" |
| Height | 63.0" | 56.5" |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE starts at $25,365, $5,260 less than the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport at $30,625. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $92/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted; your priority is passenger space and cargo flexibility.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $213/year less on fuel; your priority is a comfortable daily commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport or 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE rates 34 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport or 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport produces 180 hp, 11 more than the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE at 169 hp. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport also leads in torque at 178 lb-ft vs 151 lb-ft. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses a 2.0L I4. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport, FWD on the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE.
Is the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport bigger than the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE?
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is 6.1″ longer at 182.5″ vs 176.4″. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE has a 1.2″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom. Keep in mind these are different vehicle types (compact SUV vs compact car), so interior layout and cargo access are fundamentally different.
Do the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport comes with AWD, while the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
Can I cross-shop a compact SUV against a compact car?
Yes, and many buyers do. A compact SUV and a compact car solve different problems, so the comparison is less about specs and more about lifestyle. Think about what you need most: cargo room and passenger space. The spec table above helps you compare the numbers, but a test drive is where you will feel the difference in daily use.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain.
Explore more: Subaru trims, Subaru Crosstrek trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Corolla trims
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Crosstrek vs Corolla: What This Matchup Is Really About
A compact SUV against a compact car is not a typical matchup, but buyers with flexible needs compare them more often than you might think. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport ($30,625) and 2026 Toyota Corolla SE ($25,365) solve different problems at similar price points. The $-5,260 gap adds up to $92/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport runs a 2.5L flat 4; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses a 2.0L I4. The 11 hp difference (180 vs 169) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport comes with AWD; the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Running Costs: Crosstrek vs Corolla
The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE saves roughly $213/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,065.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport is designed around passenger space, cargo flexibility, and a higher seating position. The 2026 Toyota Corolla SE is optimized for a comfortable daily commute and a low center of gravity. These are fundamentally different vehicles, so the comparison comes down to what job you need done, not which one is objectively better.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Sport when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE when you want to keep $5,260 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota Corolla SE covers your needs.
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 Subaru or Toyota or any dealership.