2021 Subaru Crosstrek vs 2021 Lexus RX

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was a testament to Subaru's strategy of adapting to the crossover trend by enhancing its Impreza hatchback with rugged aesthetics, standard all-wheel drive, and a higher driving position. This transformation was marked by black body cladding, model-specific 17-inch wheels, and an increased ride height, providing 8.7 inches of ground clearance. These changes gave the Crosstrek a more SUV-like appearance and character, distinguishing it from the base Impreza hatchback. The interior, while functional, remained somewhat plain, with the Sport trim featuring clashing color accents and simulated carbon-fiber trim. Despite these quirks, the Crosstrek offered vibrant exterior colors and water-repellant upholstery, making it a practical choice for adventurous outings.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus RX showcased the brand's modern design aesthetic with its large grille, angular headlamps, and floating roof. The RX was available in five variants, each offering a unique blend of luxury and performance. The exterior featured standard 18-inch aluminum wheels and LED lighting, with options for larger wheels and advanced lighting systems. Inside, the RX boasted a well-appointed interior with standard features like NuLuxe-trimmed seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel. The F Sport package added performance-oriented elements, enhancing the driving experience. However, the center console design and infotainment system were criticized for their dated appearance, despite being functional.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline powertrains, with the Sport and Limited trims featuring a 2.5-liter boxer-four engine producing 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. The base and Premium trims continued with a 2.0-liter engine delivering 152 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Crosstrek's standard all-wheel drive and torque vectoring system provided stability, while the X-Mode offered additional traction on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek maintained predictable handling, though the higher center of gravity resulted in noticeable body roll. The new 2.5-liter engine provided adequate acceleration, but the CVT's droning was evident.

The 2021 Lexus RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine generating 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 with three electric motors, producing 308 hp and offering improved fuel efficiency. The RX's suspension and handling adjustments made it more dynamic, with the F Sport Handling package adding adaptive suspension and sport seats. The RX's acceleration was respectable, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain. However, the RX's top speed was limited to 124 mph, and the hybrid models were slightly slower.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek provided competitive passenger space, with front and rear legroom matching the Impreza hatchback. It offered 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded. While the Crosstrek excelled in passenger space compared to some rivals, its cargo capacity lagged behind others like the Honda HR-V and Kia Seltos. The interior featured a practical layout with a cubby hole for phones and two USB ports, though rear-seat passengers lacked connectivity options. The driving position was higher than the Impreza's, but visibility remained excellent.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a spacious interior, with the two-row models seating five and the three-row RXL accommodating six or seven passengers. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while the third row was cramped. The RX's cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The three-row RXL offered even less cargo space, with just 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Despite these limitations, the RX featured a power liftgate and optional hands-free liftgate for added convenience.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered a Multimedia Plus setup with WiFi and SiriusXM radio, while the Limited trim included an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog knobs and buttons for essential functions. The Crosstrek also included EyeSight driver-assistance features, controlled via steering wheel buttons.

The 2021 Lexus RX came standard with dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a premium audio system. The infotainment system, while functional, was criticized for its complexity and lack of wireless smartphone integration. The Remote Touch controller offered an alternative to touchscreen interaction but occupied valuable console space.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick" award from the IIHS for the 2020 model. It featured standard EyeSight driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the EyeSight system's cameras were susceptible to obstruction, limiting functionality in certain conditions.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good ratings in crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA awarded it four out of five stars overall. The RX came equipped with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. While comprehensive, the RX's safety suite lacked the advanced hands-off capabilities found in some competitors. The RX also included LATCH connectors for child safety seats.