New Subaru Crosstrek Vs. Toyota RAV4: Compact Crossover SUVs Compared
Selecting your ideal compact crossover SUV means browsing through multiple extremely competitive models, including the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 is well-known and loved for its fuel economy, feature lineup, and impressive cargo space, but we find that the Crosstrek takes the lead, as it's the more affordable SUV with better ground clearance, an equivalent towing capacity, and luxurious front-row legroom and headroom. At Subaru of Naples, we want you to have the most informed opinion, so when you choose between the Crosstrek or RAV4, it's clear why the former is the better option for you and your family.
2026 Subaru Crosstrek vs. Toyota RAV4 at a Glance
- While the RAV4 engine has more horsepower and excellent fuel economy, the Crosstrek matches it in towing capacity and has better torque.
- If you want a comfortable front-row seat, the Crosstrek offers additional legroom and headroom – despite being the shorter model.
- The RAV4 has some technological edges, but the Crosstrek has many of those features at a lower price point.
- The NHTSA rates both automobiles highly, though the agency recalled the 2025 RAV4 two more times than the 2025 Subaru.1,2
- Explore our inventory of Subaru Crosstrek variants available here at Subaru of Naples.
Crosstrek vs. RAV4 Specs
The Toyota RAV4 comes with a hybrid engine as standard, delivering 226 horsepower (236 with available AWD) and an incredible MPG rating. For towing capacity, some versions can handle up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.
The Crosstrek is far from left behind. The most compact SUV of the Subaru lineup comes with standard AWD, and its Continuously Variable Transmission offers an eight-speed (with paddle shifters) or six-speed manual mode for extraordinary control of your ride. It shares the 3,500-pound max towing capacity of the Toyota RAV4,3 and its available hybrid fuel economy rating of 36/36/36 MPG (City/Highway/Combined)4 gives it an equally notable range as the hybrid Toyota RAV4.
2026 Crosstrek vs. RAV4 Performance Specifications
| Subaru Crosstrek | Toyota RAV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Options |
|
2.5L 4-cyl |
| Max Horsepower | 194 (hybrid engine) | 236 |
| Max Torque | 199 lb-ft (hybrid engine) | 163 lb-ft |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD, AWD avail |
| Transmission | CVT w/ 6-speed or 8-speed manual modes | ECVT |
| Max Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs3 | 3,500 lbs5 |
Subaru Crosstrek vs. Toyota RAV4 Dimensions
Let's move from the hood to behind the front seat. At a standard 182 inches long, you might expect the RAV4 to have the edge in spaciousness; however, with 42.9 inches of front legroom, the Crosstrek readily surpasses the 41 inches of legroom in a Toyota RAV4.
Off-road ability also goes to the Crosstrek, with its Wilderness trim featuring a shorter wheelbase and 9.3 inches of ground clearance (versus the 8.5-inch ground clearance of the RAV4 Woodland). Considering its size, the Crosstrek dominates the category of maneuverability.
2026 Crosstrek vs. RAV4 Dimensions
| Subaru Crosstrek | Toyota RAV4 | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 5 |
| Length | 176.4 in | 181 - 182 in |
| Width | 70.9 - 71.7 in | 73 - 74 in |
| Height | 62.8 - 63.6 in | 66.7 / 69.1 in (w/ antenna or roof rails and cross bar) |
| Legroom (Front / Rear) | 42.9 / 36.5 in | 41 / 37.8 in |
| Headroom (Front / Rear) |
|
37.9 / 39.5 in (w/ moonroof) |
| Max Ground Clearance | 9.3 in (Wilderness) | 8.5 in (Woodland) |
Compare Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Crosstrek Technology & Price
Exploring the cabin of the Toyota RAV4 or Subaru Crosstrek (available at your local Florida Subaru dealer) reveals just how accessible the latter model is. The RAV4 provides a comprehensive suite of attractive features, including a panoramic roof, a standard 10.5-inch central touchscreen, available synthetic leather seating, and more.
However, the Subaru Crosstrek matches (or even exceeds) many of the RAV4's aspects at a lower price point. For example, the Subaru Crosstrek can be fitted with leather-appointed seating, an amenity unavailable for the Toyota SUV. You can also access an 11.6-inch Multimedia Plus system on a more competitively priced Crosstrek trim in comparison to a smaller 10.5-inch screen on the more expensive standard RAV4. The optional 10-speaker Harman Kardon® audio system also outdoes the available nine-speaker Toyota offering.
Crosstrek vs. RAV4 Reliability & Safety Features
The battle between the Crosstrek vs. RAV4 safety ratings is somewhat even. At this time, the NHTSA has not rated the 2026 iterations, so we compare a model from 2025, which you might see among our used Subaru Crosstrek selection, to the 2025 RAV4. Both vehicles scored five out of five stars, but the 2025 RAV4 had two NHTSA recalls, while the 2025 Crosstrek had none.1,2
Once we dig deeper, you quickly realize that the Subaru SUV offers a more affordable yet still high-tech collection of safety technology. For example, if you get the add-on 360-Degree Camera for the Subaru Crosstrek Limited Hybrid, you'll be saving more money than if you go for the Toyota and its Panoramic View Monitor on higher trims.
Standard driver-assistance systems are similar, such as the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology suite for the Subaru and Toyota Safety Sense 4.0 for the Toyota SUV. While the Crosstrek versus RAV4 safety feature competition includes some items exclusive to the Toyota SUV, like the Head-Up Display, the Crosstrek shares so many features (at a much better MSRP) that it significantly outvalues the RAV4.
Enjoy the Winner of the Crosstrek vs. RAV4 Comparison at Subaru of Naples
While both the Subaru Crosstrek vs. Toyota RAV4 are excellent candidates for your next compact SUV, our review reveals just how value-driven the Crosstrek truly is. See this nimble automobile today among our selection of new Subaru vehicles.
Alternatively, our inventory of used vehicles allows you to browse other body styles. Contact us now or visit our showroom to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better off-road: the Subaru Crosstrek or Toyota RAV4?
While the Toyota RAV4 can be taken off pavement, the Subaru Crosstrek comes with several features specifically designed for tackling trails. The aptly named Wilderness trim features 9.3 inches of ground clearance, AWD, a tighter wheelbase for improved agility, and exterior features that are more outdoor-focused. The RAV4 only gets to an 8.5-inch ground clearance in its more rugged Woodland edition.
Which has better MPG: the Subaru Crosstrek or Toyota RAV4?
The Toyota RAV4 has better fuel economy, though the matchup gets quite close when you compare it to one of the Crosstrek Hybrid variants. These Subaru models deliver an EPA-estimated 36/36/36 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),4 which is extraordinary for a compact SUV of its size with standard AWD. The Toyota RAV4 shows slightly higher metrics, but the Crosstrek compensates with a larger fuel tank.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek have a 360-Degree Camera?
Yes, the Subaru Crosstrek does offer a 360-Degree Camera. This is an optional feature on the Crosstrek Limited Hybrid, and can be purchased alongside the power moonroof in a grouped package. The 360-Degree Camera is perfect for checking your sides and rear while parking or carefully maneuvering. The Toyota RAV4 has a similar feature, but it's only standard on its higher, more expensive trims.
Do Subaru vehicles hold their value well over time?
According to J.D. Power, the resale value of the Subaru Crosstrek is truly remarkable. The website rates the Subaru Crosstrek with a "Great" score of 89/100 for Resale.6 This is an exceptionally high score – even better than the 2025 Toyota RAV4, which received an 88/100 for Resale.7 While the vehicle will still depreciate, you can expect it to retain much of its value.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek or the Toyota RAV4 more fun to drive?
Both the Subaru Crosstrek and Toyota RAV4 are fun to drive, although the definition of "fun" depends on your preferences. For more nimble handling and a more rally-inspired feel, the Subaru SUV wins in these arenas. This is partly due to Subaru Intelligent Drive, an innovative program that allows you to engage between different drive modes, leading to a more dynamic, tailored ride.
1Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2025/SUBARU/CROSSTREK/SW/AWD
2Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.nhtsa.gov/vehicle/2025/TOYOTA/RAV4/SUV/FWD
3Maximum towing capacity varies by trim level. Trailer brakes may be needed. See your retailer for details.
4EPA fuel economy estimates. Actual mileage will vary with driving conditions and your vehicle's condition.
5Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
6Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2026/subaru/crosstrek
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2025/toyota/rav4
