Toyota Highlander vs Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid distinguished itself from its gas-powered counterpart with unique visual elements. It featured bright gray inserts along the sides and front lower bumper, and blue frames around the upgraded headlight clusters. The exclusive “Lagoon Blue” color added to its eye-catching appeal. Inside, the Crosstrek Hybrid boasted blue inserts and two-tone leather seats with blue contrast stitching, all standard. Despite its well-equipped nature, the hybrid's rear cargo space was compromised due to the battery placement, offering less room than the conventional Crosstrek.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota Highlander presented a more understated exterior with trapezoidal themes and exaggerated creases. The Limited and Platinum trims featured LED running lamps and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Highlander excelled with quality fit and finish, offering a three-tone interior on the Limited trim. The cabin was adorned with silver-painted accents and a multi-layered dash, providing a luxurious feel. The Highlander's interior was noted for its comfort and versatility, with ample legroom and easy access to the third row, although its exterior styling was less inviting.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid combined a 2.0-liter Boxer engine with two electric motors, producing 137 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque. Its AWD system was integrated before the drivetrain split, offering traditional AWD composure. The plug-in system allowed for a 17-mile electric-only range, with a full charge taking five hours on a 120-volt outlet. Despite its hybrid nature, acceleration was underwhelming, with a 0-60 time of around 8 seconds. The Crosstrek Hybrid excelled in off-road capabilities, thanks to its 8.7 inches of ground clearance and rugged suspension, achieving an EPA rating of 90 MPGe.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. Its eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth acceleration, though steering was loose and suspension soft. The Highlander offered selectable driving modes and torque vectoring on AWD models, enhancing its handling. Fuel economy was commendable, with the FWD model achieving 24 mpg combined. The Highlander hybrid variant offered even better efficiency, reaching up to 36 mpg combined. The Highlander provided a comfortable and isolated driving experience, ideal for long road trips.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid's interior layout was similar to the conventional model, with deep pockets and compartments. The electronic emergency brake allowed for better placement of cupholders and controls. The driving position was commanding, with decent rear seat space. However, the cargo area was reduced to 41 cubic feet due to the battery pack, compared to 55 cubic feet in the gas-powered version.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander offered seating for eight or seven with captain's chairs. The second row was versatile, with generous adjustments and easy access to the third row. Cargo space was ample, with 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84 cubic feet with seats folded. The Highlander featured eight cupholders, four bottle holders, and two dash shelves for convenience. Controls were simple and legible, though the wireless charging pad obstructed access to the center armrest cubby.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid came with Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system and an 8-inch touchscreen. It featured Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a user-friendly interface. The multi-information display atop the dash provided useful information, controlled by a steering wheel button.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system was outdated, with low-resolution screens and limited onboard apps. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was underutilized, with climate and driving mode info always present. However, it included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. The Highlander excelled with a 10-inch head-up display and a 7-inch instrument cluster display, offering useful information. The semi-automated driving system and adaptive cruise control were highlights, though the JBL audio system was only decent.

The 2019 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid featured Subaru’s EyeSight suite, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. It also had adaptive high beams, blind-spot detection, and reverse automatic braking. EyeSight provided semi-autonomous highway driving, enhancing safety and awareness.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, offering automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking. The Highlander received a 2020 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top ratings in crash tests and emergency braking performance.