Fuel economy showdown: tacoma vs crosstrek – which is the clear winner?

What To Know

  • It features a robust frame, a high ground clearance, and a sophisticated four-wheel drive system with a locking rear differential.
  • The Crosstrek, on the other hand, offers superior fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
  • The Tacoma excels in off-road performance and towing capacity, while the Crosstrek offers superior fuel efficiency and a more refined driving experience.

In the realm of rugged adventure and versatile performance, two formidable contenders emerge: the Toyota Tacoma and the Subaru Crosstrek. These vehicles offer a unique blend of off-road capability, daily practicality, and modern amenities. Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to determine which one reigns supreme.

Engine and Performance

The Toyota Tacoma boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 278 horsepower and 265 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides ample power for towing and hauling, making it a capable workhorse. The Tacoma is available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

In contrast, the Subaru Crosstrek features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. This engine is less powerful than the Tacoma’s, but it offers excellent fuel efficiency and a smooth ride. The Crosstrek comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Off-Road Capability

The Toyota Tacoma is renowned for its exceptional off-road performance. It features a robust frame, a high ground clearance, and a sophisticated four-wheel drive system with a locking rear differential. Additionally, the Tacoma offers a variety of off-road packages, including the TRD Pro, which enhances its capabilities even further.

While the Subaru Crosstrek is not as capable off-road as the Tacoma, it still offers impressive performance for light trails and unpaved roads. It features a standard all-wheel drive system, a raised suspension, and X-Mode, which optimizes the vehicle’s settings for off-road driving.

Interior and Comfort

The Toyota Tacoma’s interior is spacious and practical, with comfortable seating for five passengers. It offers a wide range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium audio system.

The Subaru Crosstrek’s interior is also spacious and well-equipped. It features a comfortable and supportive seating position, as well as a user-friendly infotainment system. The Crosstrek offers a panoramic sunroof, which enhances the cabin’s ambiance.

Safety Features

Both the Toyota Tacoma and the Subaru Crosstrek are equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Tacoma comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense P, which includes lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking.

The Crosstrek also features Subaru’s EyeSight suite of safety technologies, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additionally, the Crosstrek offers blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Towing and Payload Capacity

The Toyota Tacoma has a maximum towing capacity of 6,800 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,620 pounds. This makes it an excellent choice for towing trailers, boats, and other heavy loads.

The Subaru Crosstrek has a lower towing capacity of 1,500 pounds and a payload capacity of 1,100 pounds. While it is not as capable as the Tacoma in this regard, it can still handle light towing tasks.

Fuel Efficiency

The Toyota Tacoma’s fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway with the V6 engine. The Crosstrek, on the other hand, offers superior fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 28 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.

Wrap-Up: The Ultimate Choice

The Toyota Tacoma and the Subaru Crosstrek are both excellent vehicles that offer a unique blend of capabilities. The Tacoma excels in off-road performance and towing capacity, while the Crosstrek offers superior fuel efficiency and a more refined driving experience.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize off-road capability and towing, the Toyota Tacoma is the clear winner. However, if you value fuel efficiency and a comfortable ride, the Subaru Crosstrek is the better option.

What People Want to Know

Q: Which vehicle has a more powerful engine?
A: The Toyota Tacoma has a more powerful engine than the Subaru Crosstrek.

Q: Which vehicle has a better towing capacity?
A: The Toyota Tacoma has a better towing capacity than the Subaru Crosstrek.

Q: Which vehicle has a more spacious interior?
A: The Toyota Tacoma and Subaru Crosstrek have similarly spacious interiors.

Q: Which vehicle has better fuel efficiency?
A: The Subaru Crosstrek has better fuel efficiency than the Toyota Tacoma.

Q: Which vehicle is better off-road?
A: The Toyota Tacoma is better off-road than the Subaru Crosstrek.