Subaru Crosstrek vs. Honda CR-V

2025 Subaru Crosstrek Vs. 2025 Honda CR-V: Why the Crosstrek Shines

If you're searching for a compact SUV in Sarasota, FL, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and 2025 Honda CR-V are two top contenders. While both vehicles offer excellent features, the Crosstrek stands out as the superior choice for Venice, FL and Vamo, FL drivers who value versatility, off-road capability, and value.

Price and Value

The Subaru Crosstrek boasts a more accessible starting price, ranging from $25,695 to $32,495, compared to the 2025 Honda CR-V 's higher range of $30,100 to $41,100. For budget-conscious buyers, the Crosstrek delivers excellent value without compromising on features like all-wheel drive (AWD), which comes standard on every trim level. Conversely, AWD is only optional on most 2025 Honda CR-V trims, adding to its already higher cost.

Off-Road Capability

For outdoor enthusiasts around Lakewood Ranch, FL, the Crosstrek is the clear winner. With standard AWD and rugged trims like the Wilderness, which includes: 

• Raised suspension for improved ground clearance. 
• All-terrain tires for superior grip. 
• Hill descent control and X-Mode for optimized handling in challenging conditions.

While the 2025 Honda CR-V offers a hybrid option, it lacks the off-road focus and features that make the Crosstrek perfect for exploring areas like Myakka River State Park or Oscar Scherer State Park.

Performance

The Crosstrek offers two engine options:

• 2.0-liter Engine (Base trim): 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. 
• 2.5-liter Engine (Premium and above): 182 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque.

Both engines pair with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and provide responsive performance for both city driving and rougher terrains. The 2025 Honda CR-V 's turbocharged 1.5-liter engine offers slightly higher horsepower (190 horsepower), but its hybrid models sacrifice performance, particularly on hills, where they feel sluggish.

Interior Features and Space

The Subaru Crosstrek features a straightforward, spacious interior designed with practicality in mind. Its simple layout ensures easy access to controls, and there's ample headroom and legroom for passengers. Highlights include: 

• Premium trims and above: 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated seats. 
• Sport and Limited trims: Leather-wrapped steering wheel, upgraded upholstery, and advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring.

The 2025 Honda CR-V offers a slightly larger cabin, but its limited small-item storage space can be a drawback for families or adventurers needing space for essentials.

Safety

Both the Crosstrek and 2025 Honda CR-V come equipped with advanced safety features. Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is standard across all trims and includes: 

• Adaptive cruise control. 
• Lane departure warning with lane centering. 
• Forward collision warning with automatic braking.

The Crosstrek also offers additional features on higher trims, such as rear automatic braking and evasive steering assistance, which enhance safety further. While the CR-V includes similar features, the Crosstrek's safety tech, paired with its standard AWD, makes it better suited for unpredictable Florida weather.