Lexus NX Hybrid vs Subaru Crosstrek

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek was designed to capture the appeal of crossovers with its rugged looks, standard all-wheel drive, and elevated driving position. By adapting the Impreza hatchback, Subaru created a vehicle that mimicked the SUV style, much like the successful Outback. The Crosstrek stood out with its black body cladding, model-specific 17-inch wheels, and a ride height offering 8.7 inches of ground clearance. This design gave it a more adventurous character compared to the Impreza, enhanced by vibrant color options like Plasma Yellow Pearl. Inside, the Crosstrek retained the Impreza's functional but plain interior, with some questionable design choices like clashing color accents and cheap-looking trim.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, positioned between the UX and RX, featured sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Built on the previous-generation Toyota RAV4 platform, it lagged behind in engineering despite its luxury badge. The F Sport Black Line model added sporty elements like a larger grille and dark-finish wheels, complemented by the striking Grecian Water paint. Inside, the NX's design, once radical, had become familiar, with a high-rising dashboard and door sides. The Black Line package added sporty touches, but material quality felt more mainstream than luxury.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek offered two gasoline powertrains. The Sport and Limited trims featured a new 2.5-liter boxer-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, while the Base and Premium trims continued with a 2.0-liter engine producing 152 hp and 145 lb-ft. The Crosstrek's standard all-wheel drive included torque vectoring and X-Mode for better handling on loose surfaces. Despite its SUV-like stance, the Crosstrek's handling was predictable, with noticeable body roll but a comfortable ride. The new 2.5-liter engine provided adequate acceleration, though the CVT's droning was evident.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 194 horsepower and standard all-wheel drive. Despite its sporty appearance, the NX Hybrid prioritized fuel efficiency over performance, with a 0-60 mph time of 9.1 seconds. The Black Line package's sport-tuned suspension improved handling without sacrificing comfort. However, the steering felt numb, and the drivetrain struggled with power delivery. Drive modes offered minimal impact, with Eco mode further dulling acceleration and Sport mode providing only a slight liveliness.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek shared its interior dimensions with the Impreza hatchback, offering competitive passenger space but limited cargo capacity at 20.8 cubic feet with seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with seats down. The Crosstrek included a rear-seat reminder and a convenient front cubby with USB ports, though rear passengers lacked USB access. Visibility was good, but the driving position didn't offer the commanding view typical of larger SUVs.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited front and rear headroom, with rear legroom being the worst in its class. The Black Line seats provided excellent support, and front seats offered 10-way power adjustment. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility, but exterior mirrors helped. Cargo space was limited to 16.8 cubic feet with seats up and 53.7 cubic feet with seats down. A power-folding second row and power liftgate were available but not standard.

The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek featured the Starlink infotainment system with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen with navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large analog controls for essential functions and steering wheel buttons for driver-assistance features.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and an awkward Remote Touch Interface touchpad. Despite compatibility with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the system felt dated, with difficult-to-read menus. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

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

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid received a "Top Safety Pick+" from IIHS and a five-star overall rating from NHTSA. It came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The NX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, though it lacked a 360-degree camera system.