2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to traditional SUV styling, with its tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and prominent grille. While its exterior design was considered generic, it was appreciated for its clean and handsome look, which some found more appealing than competitors like the Toyota Highlander or Hyundai Palisade. The Traverse's restrained styling allowed for distinct trim level differentiation through cosmetic elements, such as blacked-out trim on the RS model and chrome accents on the High Country model. Inside, the Traverse maintained a similar understated style, with the optional Dual SkyScape sunroof being a standout feature. The materials in the RS model were decent, though not entirely justifying its $50,000 price tag.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek embraced the crossover trend by transforming the Impreza hatchback into a more rugged vehicle with standard all-wheel drive and a taller ride height. This gave the Crosstrek a more SUV-like appearance and character, enhanced by vibrant color options like Plasma Yellow Pearl. The Crosstrek shared its platform with other Subaru models, offering a refined design. Inside, the Crosstrek's interior was functional but plain, with some questionable design choices like the clashing color accents in the Sport trim. Despite these quirks, the Crosstrek provided practical features like water-repellant upholstery, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the powertrain didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse excelled in highway comfort, offering a quiet cabin and smooth ride, though it lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system, which required manual activation, could distribute torque between wheels but didn't noticeably enhance handling. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, which was average for its class.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline engine options: a 2.0-liter boxer-four with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, and a 2.5-liter boxer-four with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The Crosstrek's boxer engine design contributed to a lower center of gravity, improving handling. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on lower trims, while a CVT was available and standard on higher trims. All models featured standard AWD with torque vectoring and X-Mode for enhanced traction. The Crosstrek's handling was predictable, with noticeable body roll due to its higher center of gravity, but it offered a comfortable ride and low wind noise.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all three rows. It excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats down. A power liftgate and power-folding third row were available on higher trims. However, interior storage options were limited, typical of midsize crossovers.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity. It provided 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder and a convenient front cubby with USB ports, though rear passengers had limited access to charging ports. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but visibility was good due to ample side glass.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse featured a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, WiFi hotspot, and a Bose audio system. The Traverse's infotainment system was user-friendly, with analog controls for audio and climate. A rearview camera mirror and HD surround-view camera system enhanced visibility. Each row had two USB ports, but wireless charging was limited to top trims.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek used the Starlink infotainment system, with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Higher trims added WiFi, SiriusXM, and an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. Subaru's unique dual-screen setup displayed redundant information. The Crosstrek's infotainment was easy to navigate, with analog controls for essential functions. EyeSight driver-assistance features were controlled via steering wheel buttons.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. However, it had mixed headlight ratings and limited standard driver-assist features compared to rivals. Adaptive cruise control was only available on the top trim, with other safety features offered as options.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model. EyeSight driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, were standard on CVT-equipped models. The system's cameras were well-protected but had limitations in certain conditions.