Impreza vs. corolla cross showdown: which compact crossover reigns supreme?

In the fiercely competitive compact crossover segment, the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross stand out as two of the most popular options among discerning drivers. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of practicality, efficiency, and performance. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll pit the Subaru Impreza vs. Toyota Corolla Cross head-to-head to determine which one reigns supreme.

Exterior Design

The Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross display distinct exterior designs that reflect their respective brand identities. The Impreza boasts a sleek and sporty silhouette with sharp lines and angular accents. Its bold grille and aggressive headlights give it a commanding presence on the road. In contrast, the Corolla Cross exudes a more conservative and refined aesthetic. Its rounded curves and flowing lines create a harmonious and approachable look.

Interior Comfort and Convenience

Inside, both vehicles offer well-appointed and spacious cabins. The Impreza features a driver-centric dashboard with intuitive controls and a high-resolution touchscreen display. Its comfortable seats provide ample support and bolstering. The Corolla Cross, on the other hand, offers a more upscale and sophisticated interior. Its premium materials and attention to detail create a luxurious ambiance. Its seats are equally comfortable and offer excellent visibility.

Performance and Handling

The Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross offer different powertrain options to cater to a wide range of driving preferences. The Impreza comes standard with a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provides smooth and efficient gear changes. The Corolla Cross, on the other hand, offers both gasoline and hybrid powertrains. The gasoline-powered model uses a 2.0-liter engine that generates 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque, while the hybrid system combines a 1.8-liter engine with two electric motors to produce a combined 194 horsepower. Both powertrains are mated to a CVT.

In terms of handling, the Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive system gives it an edge over the Corolla Cross, which offers front-wheel drive as standard. The Impreza’s precise steering and responsive suspension provide a sporty and engaging driving experience, while the Corolla Cross’s more comfortable suspension and lighter steering make it better suited for urban commutes.

Safety Features

Both the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. The Impreza includes standard EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes pre-collision braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The Corolla Cross offers Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes similar features such as pre-collision braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, and adaptive cruise control.

Technology and Connectivity

The Impreza and Corolla Cross offer a range of advanced technology features to keep you connected and entertained on the go. The Impreza features a standard 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Corolla Cross offers a larger 9-inch touchscreen display with the same smartphone integration capabilities. Both vehicles also offer optional features such as navigation, satellite radio, and a premium audio system.

Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency is an important consideration for compact crossover buyers. The Impreza’s 2.0-liter engine returns an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The Corolla Cross‘s gasoline-powered model achieves 31 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the hybrid model boasts an impressive 52 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.

Key Points: The Perfect Match for Your Needs

Whether you’re looking for a sporty and capable all-wheeler or a fuel-efficient and comfortable daily driver, the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross offer compelling options. The Impreza’s all-wheel drive system, sharp handling, and advanced safety features make it an excellent choice for adventure enthusiasts and those living in areas with challenging weather conditions. The Corolla Cross, on the other hand, offers a more refined and upscale interior, impressive fuel economy, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters and those looking for a practical and reliable vehicle. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Corolla Cross with the gasoline engine produces 169 horsepower, while the Subaru Impreza produces 152 horsepower.

Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Corolla Cross hybrid model offers the best fuel economy at 52 mpg in the city and 51 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Corolla Cross offers more interior space than the Subaru Impreza, with 102.3 cubic feet of passenger volume compared to 91.9 cubic feet.

Q: Which vehicle offers all-wheel drive?
A: The Subaru Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive, while the Toyota Corolla Cross offers it as an optional feature.

Q: Which vehicle has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Subaru Impreza and Toyota Corolla Cross have earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).