2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs. 2026 Honda HR-V Near Somerset, NJ
The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek and 2026 Honda HR-V are compact crossovers for drivers who want useful space without parking something the size of a studio apartment. Both seat five and offer modern safety systems. The differences show up when the weather turns, the road gets rough or the driver wants more power.
Subaru brings standard all-wheel drive, more ground clearance and a stronger engine. Honda answers with slightly more cargo room and a simple three-trim lineup.
| Feature | 2026 Subaru Crosstrek | 2026 Honda HR-V |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 180 hp gas | 158 hp |
| Drivetrain | Standard Symmetrical AWD | FWD or available AWD |
| AWD fuel economy | Up to 26 city/33 hwy mpg | 25 city/30 hwy mpg |
| Ground clearance | 8.7 in.; 9.3 in. Wilderness | 7.0 or 7.3 in., depending on trim |
| Passenger volume | Up to 100.5 cu. ft. | Up to 98.7 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo volume | Up to 54.9 cu. ft. | 55.1 cu. ft. |
| Largest central touchscreen | 11.6 in. | 9 in. |
Figures vary by trim, equipment and powertrain and come from Subaru and Honda.
New Jersey Weather Does Not Read the Options Sheet
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is standard on every 2026 Crosstrek. Most trims provide 8.7 inches of ground clearance, and Wilderness increases that to 9.3 inches.
The HR-V offers Honda Real Time AWD on all three trims, but front-wheel drive is standard. Ground clearance is 7.0 inches on LX and EX-L and 7.3 inches on Sport. The Crosstrek gives you more room above ruts, snow and uneven access roads.
Around Route 27, I-287 or a wet morning near Rutgers University, standard AWD removes one decision from the ordering process. New Jersey already hands you enough decisions before coffee.
More Power Without Moving Up a Size
The Crosstrek's 2.5-liter SUBARU BOXER engine produces 180 horsepower. The HR-V's 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 158 horsepower. Those extra 22 horsepower help when merging, carrying passengers or climbing a grade.
With AWD, gas Crosstrek models return up to an EPA-estimated 26 city and 33 highway mpg, depending on trim. Every AWD HR-V is rated at 25 city and 30 highway mpg. Subaru also offers the Crosstrek Sport Hybrid and Limited Hybrid, while the 2026 HR-V lineup does not include a hybrid.
Honda Wins on Cargo by a Hair, Subaru Wins on Passenger Room
The HR-V offers 24.4 cubic feet behind its rear seat and 55.1 cubic feet with it folded. Gas Crosstrek trims provide 19.9 and 54.7 cubic feet, and Wilderness reaches 54.9 cubic feet. Honda takes the cargo win, though the gap against Crosstrek Wilderness is only 0.2 cubic foot.
Subaru offers up to 100.5 cubic feet of passenger volume, compared with 98.7 in most HR-V trims, and 42.9 inches of front legroom versus the HR-V's 41.9. For towing, gas Crosstrek trims are rated up to 1,500 pounds and Wilderness reaches 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. Honda does not publish a towing capacity for the 2026 HR-V on its specifications page.
Screens and Safety
Every HR-V includes a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Most Crosstrek trims feature an 11.6-inch touchscreen with wireless integration, and Base uses dual 7-inch displays.
Standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology helps the Crosstrek with braking, adaptive cruise control and lane guidance. Honda Sensing includes Collision Mitigation Braking, Road Departure Mitigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow and Lane Keeping Assist. Both brands take safety seriously, and availability beyond the core suites varies by trim.
The Somerset Verdict Goes to Crosstrek
The HR-V is a sensible crossover with a bit more cargo room behind the second row. The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek is our pick because it combines standard AWD, 22 more horsepower, better AWD fuel economy, more ground clearance, more passenger volume and real towing capability.
That mix suits Central Jersey drivers whose plans go beyond clean pavement. Visit Victory Subaru at 1233 Highway 27 in Somerset to compare trims and test-drive a Crosstrek, a short drive from Piscataway, Edison, New Brunswick and Princeton.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which model has standard AWD?
Every 2026 Crosstrek includes Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. AWD is optional on each 2026 HR-V trim.
Which crossover has more horsepower?
The gas Crosstrek produces 180 horsepower, while the HR-V produces 158 horsepower.
Does the Crosstrek or HR-V have more cargo room?
The HR-V provides 55.1 cubic feet of maximum cargo volume. Crosstrek Wilderness offers 54.9 cubic feet, a difference of 0.2 cubic foot.
Which model has more ground clearance?
The Crosstrek provides 8.7 inches on most trims and 9.3 inches on Wilderness. The HR-V provides 7.0 or 7.3 inches, depending on trim.
Can the 2026 Crosstrek tow a trailer?
Yes. Most gas trims can tow up to 1,500 pounds, and Wilderness reaches 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
