What To Know
- The Trailhawk excels in extreme off-road situations, while the Crosstrek offers a more balanced approach with improved on-road performance and fuel efficiency.
- If you prioritize off-road capability and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Jeep Trailhawk is the ideal choice.
- However, if you seek a more versatile vehicle that combines off-road prowess with everyday practicality and affordability, the Subaru Crosstrek is a compelling option.
The Jeep Trailhawk and Subaru Crosstrek are two renowned names in the world of adventure vehicles. Both offer a blend of rugged capability and everyday practicality, making them ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and urban dwellers alike. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key differences between these two formidable contenders to determine which one reigns supreme on the trails and beyond.
Off-Road Prowess
Jeep Trailhawk: The Trailhawk is renowned for its unmatched off-road prowess. Its Selec-Terrain system allows drivers to optimize traction and handling for various terrains, including snow, sand, and rock. The Trailhawk also boasts a 2.0-inch higher ride height, skid plates, and all-terrain tires for enhanced ground clearance and protection.
Subaru Crosstrek: While not as extreme as the Trailhawk, the Crosstrek still offers impressive off-road capabilities. Its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system provides excellent traction on slippery surfaces, and its X-Mode feature enhances stability and control on rough terrain. The Crosstrek’s standard 8.7 inches of ground clearance and all-season tires provide sufficient clearance for most off-road adventures.
On-Road Performance
Jeep Trailhawk: Despite its off-road focus, the Trailhawk also performs admirably on paved roads. Its 3.6-liter V6 engine delivers ample power for highway cruising, while its suspension system provides a comfortable ride on both smooth and rough surfaces. However, the Trailhawk’s larger tires and higher ride height may result in slightly reduced fuel efficiency compared to the Crosstrek.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek shines on the road with its refined handling and fuel efficiency. Its 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter boxer engine provides adequate power for daily driving, while its continuously variable transmission (CVT) ensures smooth and responsive acceleration. The Crosstrek’s lower ride height and more aerodynamic shape contribute to improved fuel economy.
Interior Comfort and Convenience
Jeep Trailhawk: The Trailhawk’s interior is designed for adventure, with durable materials and rugged accents. It offers spacious seating for up to five passengers, a user-friendly infotainment system, and plenty of storage space. However, the Trailhawk’s interior may not be as refined as some competitors.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek’s interior is known for its comfort and versatility. It features high-quality materials, supportive seats, and a spacious cabin. The Crosstrek’s infotainment system is intuitive and well-integrated, providing access to various features and smartphone connectivity.
Safety and Reliability
Jeep Trailhawk: The Trailhawk has received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek has also earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. It boasts an extensive list of safety features, such as EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and pre-collision braking.
Price and Value
Jeep Trailhawk: The Trailhawk is priced slightly higher than the Crosstrek, starting at around $32,000. However, it offers a wider range of off-road features and a more powerful engine.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek is more affordable, with a base price of around $23,000. It provides a good balance of off-road capability, on-road performance, and value for the price.
Which Vehicle is Right for You?
The Jeep Trailhawk and Subaru Crosstrek are both excellent choices for adventure-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Trailhawk excels in extreme off-road situations, while the Crosstrek offers a more balanced approach with improved on-road performance and fuel efficiency.
If you prioritize off-road capability and are willing to pay a premium for it, the Jeep Trailhawk is the ideal choice. However, if you seek a more versatile vehicle that combines off-road prowess with everyday practicality and affordability, the Subaru Crosstrek is a compelling option.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Which vehicle has better ground clearance?
A: The Jeep Trailhawk has a 2.0-inch higher ride height, providing 11.3 inches of ground clearance compared to the Crosstrek’s 8.7 inches.
Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Trailhawk has a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 285 horsepower, while the Crosstrek has a 2.0-liter boxer engine with 152 horsepower or a 2.5-liter boxer engine with 182 horsepower.
Q: Which vehicle is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has better fuel economy than the Jeep Trailhawk, with an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city/34 mpg highway for the 2.0-liter engine and 25 mpg city/34 mpg highway for the 2.5-liter engine. The Trailhawk has an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway.