What To Know
- The Corolla achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
- The Corolla comes equipped with a range of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.
- On the other hand, if you value off-road capability, a slightly more rugged exterior, and a higher level of safety features, the Subaru Crosstrek is the better choice.
The Toyota Corolla and Subaru Crosstrek are two popular compact cars that offer a blend of practicality, efficiency, and style. While both vehicles excel in different areas, understanding their key differences can help you make an informed decision when choosing the best car for your needs.
Performance and Fuel Economy
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla offers a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 139 horsepower and 126 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it provides smooth and efficient acceleration. The Corolla achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It features a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional CVT. The Crosstrek’s estimated fuel economy is 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Handling and Off-Road Capability
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla is primarily designed for on-road driving, offering a comfortable and composed ride quality. It handles well in urban environments and provides a stable and predictable driving experience.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek stands out with its enhanced off-road capability, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and raised ground clearance. It can tackle light off-road trails and provides improved traction in slippery conditions.
Interior Space and Comfort
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla offers a spacious cabin with ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior is well-appointed with comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek’s cabin is slightly more cramped than the Corolla’s, especially in the rear seats. However, it provides excellent visibility and a comfortable driving position. The Crosstrek also offers more cargo space than the Corolla.
Features and Technology
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla comes equipped with a range of standard features, including a 7-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth connectivity, and Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 suite of safety technologies. Higher trims offer additional features such as navigation, heated seats, and a sunroof.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek features a similar level of standard equipment as the Corolla, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, and Subaru’s EyeSight safety suite. It also offers available features such as a panoramic moonroof, adaptive cruise control, and lane keep assist.
Safety and Reliability
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla has consistently earned high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes with a variety of advanced safety features as standard, contributing to its reputation for reliability and safety.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek has also received excellent safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Its standard all-wheel drive system enhances stability and control in various driving conditions. Subaru’s reputation for reliability and durability further adds to its appeal.
Price and Value
Toyota Corolla: The Corolla has a starting price of $20,425 for the base L trim. Higher trims offer additional features and amenities, with the top-of-the-line XSE trim starting at $25,550.
Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek has a slightly higher starting price of $23,645 for the base trim. The Limited trim, which offers a comprehensive suite of features, starts at $29,645.
Verdict: Choosing the Best Car for Your Needs
The Toyota Corolla and Subaru Crosstrek are both excellent compact cars, but their strengths and weaknesses differ depending on your priorities.
If you prioritize fuel efficiency, interior space, and a comfortable on-road experience, the Toyota Corolla is an ideal choice. Its impressive fuel economy and spacious cabin make it a great option for daily commutes and family use.
On the other hand, if you value off-road capability, a slightly more rugged exterior, and a higher level of safety features, the Subaru Crosstrek is the better choice. Its all-wheel drive system and enhanced safety suite make it a reliable companion for adventures and challenging driving conditions.
Ultimately, the best car for you depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. By carefully considering the key differences between the Toyota Corolla and Subaru Crosstrek, you can make an informed decision and choose the vehicle that best suits your lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a slightly more powerful engine, with 152 horsepower compared to the Toyota Corolla’s 139 horsepower.
Q: Which car is more spacious?
A: The Toyota Corolla offers more interior space, particularly in the rear seats, compared to the Subaru Crosstrek.
Q: Which car is more off-road capable?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has a clear advantage in off-road capability, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system and raised ground clearance.
Q: Which car is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Corolla has better fuel economy than the Subaru Crosstrek, with an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which car has a better safety rating?
A: Both the Toyota Corolla and Subaru Crosstrek have received excellent safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. They come equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features.