Which Subaru Fits You Best: The 2024 Impreza or Crosstrek?

The Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek, two of Subaru’s most popular and versatile models, are known for their practicality, capability, and value. Both vehicles offer a unique blend of features that appeal to many buyers. The Impreza, a compact car, is perfect for city driving and commuting, while the Crosstrek, a compact crossover SUV, is built for adventure and light off-roading. This article will explore the key differences and similarities between these two models, helping you make an informed decision when choosing your next Subaru.

Exterior Design

At first glance, the 2024 Impreza and 2024 Crosstrek may look quite similar, but their exterior designs have some notable differences. The Impreza hatchback has a sleek, sporty look with a low profile and aerodynamic lines. The Crosstrek SUV has a more rugged, adventurous appearance, with a taller ride height, black plastic cladding around the wheel arches and lower body, and standard roof rails for carrying extra gear.

In terms of dimensions, the Impreza is slightly smaller than the Crosstrek. The Impreza hatchback is 176.2 inches long, 70.1 inches wide, and 58.3 inches tall, while the Crosstrek measures 176.4 inches long, 71.7 inches wide, and 63.6 inches tall. The Crosstrek also has a higher ground clearance of 8.7 inches, compared to the Impreza’s 5.1 inches, increasing its ability to navigate rough roads and light off-road trails.

Performance

The Impreza and Crosstrek share the same engine options. The base engine is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. If you want more power, both models offer a 2.5-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine that produces 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. This engine is also paired with a CVT and all-wheel drive.

Regarding fuel economy, the Impreza and Crosstrek are both quite efficient for their respective classes. The Impreza gets an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway with the base engine, while the Crosstrek receives 27 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the road. With the larger 2.5-liter engine, the Impreza gets 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, while the Crosstrek receives 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the road.

Regarding driving dynamics, the Impreza and Crosstrek provide similar experiences. Both vehicles offer a comfortable, composed ride with responsive steering and confident handling. The Impreza’s lower center of gravity gives it a slightly sportier feel, while the Crosstrek’s higher ride height provides a more commanding view of the road. Both models offer Subaru’s X-MODE system, which optimizes the all-wheel-drive system for better traction in slippery conditions or light off-road use.

Interior Comfort and Features

Inside, the Impreza and Crosstrek offer spacious, well-appointed cabins with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. Both models seat up to five people, with comfortable front seats and a rear bench accommodating three adults. Both vehicles offer 42.9 inches of legroom in the front and 36.5 inches in the rear.

The 2024 Impreza features 20.4 cubic feet of cargo space, while the 2024 Crosstrek offers up to 54.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down and 19.9 cubic feet with the seats up. Both models also offer a variety of storage solutions throughout the cabin, including door pockets, center console bins, and cup holders.

The Impreza and Crosstrek feature a similar range of standard and available amenities. Both models come standard with a 7-inch multimedia system and four speakers. All trims above the base level feature an 11.6-inch multimedia plus screen and six speakers. A Harman Kardon premium audio system is optional for the top-level Impreza RS and the Crosstrek Limited and Wilderness.

Safety Features

The Impreza and Crosstrek scored well with the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The 2024 Crosstrek received a good rating for all but the side crash test, which received an acceptable rating, and the moderate overlap front crash test, which ranked marginal. The 2024 Impreza scored “good” on all but the moderate overlap front crash test, which had a marginal rating.

Both vehicles include a well-rounded selection of driver-assistance and safety technologies, including a rear-vision camera, EyeSight driver-assist technology, high beam assist, and brake assist.

Off-Road Capability

While the Impreza is primarily designed for on-road use, the Crosstrek is built to handle more adventurous driving conditions. With its higher ground clearance, rugged exterior design, and standard all-wheel drive, the Crosstrek can easily tackle light off-road trails and rough roads.

The Crosstrek offers an X-MODE system with hill descent control for even more off-road capability. This system optimizes the all-wheel drive for better traction in slippery conditions and can automatically apply the brakes to maintain a constant speed when descending steep hills.

Pricing and Trim Levels

The Impreza and Crosstrek offer a range of trim levels to suit different budgets and preferences. The 2024 Impreza starts at an MSRP of $22,995 for the base model. The Sport, which adds Subaru Intelligent Drive and a larger multimedia screen, starts at $24,995. The top-level RS comes standard with a 2.5-liter engine, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and illuminated vanity mirrors with a starting price of $27,885.

The 2024 Crosstrek’s base model has an MSRP of $25,195. Higher trims offer features such as a moonroof, upgraded upholstery, heated front seats, and USB-C charging ports. Prices range from $26,345 for the Premium to $32,195 for the Wilderness. The 2024 Crosstrek is available in five trim levels.

Experience the Subaru Difference at Huffines Subaru Corinth

If you’re in the market for a new Subaru, we invite you to visit Huffines Subaru Corinth to experience the 2024 Impreza and Crosstrek firsthand. Our knowledgeable sales staff can help you find the perfect model to suit your needs and answer any questions about these impressive vehicles.