What To Know
- While both SUVs offer distinct styling cues, the Corolla Cross might appeal to those seeking a more eye-catching and modern design, while the Impreza might resonate with buyers who prioritize practicality and a less ostentatious look.
- The Corolla Cross also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features.
- The Toyota Corolla Cross and the Subaru Impreza are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling combination of practicality, affordability, and reliability.
Choosing the right compact SUV can be a daunting task, with numerous options vying for your attention. Two popular contenders in this segment are the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Subaru Impreza. Both vehicles offer a blend of practicality, affordability, and reliability, making them compelling choices for a wide range of buyers. But which one comes out on top? Let’s delve into a comprehensive comparison to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Styling: A Tale of Two Approaches
The Toyota Corolla Cross boasts a modern and sleek design, embracing a more conventional SUV aesthetic. Its sharp lines, angular grille, and sculpted bodywork convey a sense of dynamism and sophistication. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, adopts a more understated and functional approach. Its rounded edges, symmetrical grille, and compact dimensions give it a more approachable and unassuming appearance.
While both SUVs offer distinct styling cues, the Corolla Cross might appeal to those seeking a more eye-catching and modern design, while the Impreza might resonate with buyers who prioritize practicality and a less ostentatious look.
Interior Comfort and Features: A Focus on Functionality
Step inside the Toyota Corolla Cross, and you’ll encounter a spacious and well-appointed cabin. The dashboard is driver-focused, with easy-to-use controls and a clear instrument cluster. The front seats offer ample comfort, and the rear seats provide generous legroom for passengers. The Corolla Cross also comes standard with a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced safety features.
The Subaru Impreza’s interior is similarly comfortable and functional. It features a user-friendly dashboard, supportive seats, and ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. While the Impreza’s infotainment system is not as advanced as the Corolla Cross‘s, it offers a clear interface and intuitive controls.
Performance and Handling: A Balance of Power and Agility
The Toyota Corolla Cross is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a CVT transmission, providing smooth acceleration and decent fuel economy. The Corolla Cross offers a comfortable ride and responsive handling, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
The Subaru Impreza comes standard with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. It also offers a CVT transmission, but with a more responsive and engaging feel. The Impreza’s handling is more agile than the Corolla Cross’s, thanks to its lower center of gravity and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Safety and Technology: A Commitment to Protection
Both the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Subaru Impreza prioritize safety and technology. The Corolla Cross comes standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also offers optional features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a driver attention monitor.
The Subaru Impreza is equipped with EyeSight, Subaru’s suite of advanced driver-assistance systems. EyeSight includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. The Impreza also offers optional features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a reverse automatic braking system.
Fuel Efficiency: A Focus on Savings
Both the Toyota Corolla Cross and the Subaru Impreza offer respectable fuel economy. The Corolla Cross achieves an EPA-estimated 31 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, and 32 mpg combined. The Impreza, with its standard all-wheel drive, delivers an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 31 mpg combined.
The Verdict: Choosing the Right SUV for You
The Toyota Corolla Cross and the Subaru Impreza are both excellent compact SUVs that offer a compelling combination of practicality, affordability, and reliability. The Corolla Cross excels in its spacious interior, modern design, and extensive safety features. The Impreza, on the other hand, stands out with its agile handling, standard all-wheel drive, and comprehensive safety suite.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space, modern styling, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, the Toyota Corolla Cross might be the better choice. If you value agile handling, standard all-wheel drive, and a more understated design, the Subaru Impreza might be the right fit.
Beyond the Comparison: A Look at the Future
The compact SUV segment is constantly evolving, with new models and technologies emerging regularly. Both Toyota and Subaru are expected to continue refining their offerings, introducing updated designs, advanced powertrains, and cutting-edge safety features.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which SUV is more reliable?
A: Both Toyota and Subaru are renowned for their reliability. However, Toyota consistently ranks higher in reliability studies, with the Corolla Cross being a particularly reliable model.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Subaru Impreza‘s standard all-wheel drive system gives it a slight edge in off-road capabilities. However, neither vehicle is designed for serious off-roading.
Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Subaru Impreza generally has a lower starting price than the Toyota Corolla Cross. However, the price difference can vary depending on trim levels and options.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
A: Both SUVs offer ample space and features for families. The Toyota Corolla Cross might be slightly more spacious, while the Subaru Impreza’s all-wheel drive system can provide added peace of mind in inclement weather.
Q: Which SUV is better for city driving?
A: Both SUVs are well-suited for city driving. The Toyota Corolla Cross offers a more comfortable ride, while the Subaru Impreza‘s agile handling might be preferable for navigating tight spaces.
