Home FAQ

Is Subaru XV same as Crosstrek?

The succinct answer: yes—the Subaru XV and the Crosstrek refer to the same compact crossover, with the difference lying mainly in regional branding. In the United States and Canada the model is marketed as the Crosstrek, while in Europe, Asia, Australia, and some other markets it is commonly known as the XV.

Beyond the badge, the two names describe the same vehicle generation and core engineering. Subaru builds the Crosstrek/XV on the same platform, with similar engine options, drivetrain layouts (notably all-wheel drive as standard on many trims), and overall features. Variations you’ll notice are usually tied to market-specific equipment, emission regulations, and trim availability rather than a fundamentally different model.

Naming by market

The naming split is historical and regional. When Subaru launched the model, several markets referred to it as the Subaru XV, while the United States and Canada branded it as the Crosstrek. Over time, Subaru has maintained the Crosstrek name in North America and kept XV in many international markets. In practice, a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek sold in the U.S. and a 2024 Subaru XV sold in Europe are the same car at heart, wearing different badges and tied to market-specific packages.

Generations and regional variants

First generation (2012–2017)

During its initial years, North America marketed the model as the XV Crosstrek, whereas Europe and other regions used Subaru XV. The vehicles shared the same underlying platform and drivetrain, with differences rooted in local equipment and regulations rather than distinct models.

Second generation (2018–present)

The second-generation model continued the regional naming pattern: Crosstrek in the United States and often XV in Europe and other markets. Subtle differences in standard equipment, hybrid variants, and option packages reflect regional preferences and regulatory requirements, but the core vehicle remains the same.

What to look for when shopping

When shopping for a Subaru XV or Crosstrek, focus on the model year, trim level, and market-specific features rather than assuming a different vehicle. The badge is mainly a branding choice; the underlying Crosstrek/XV is built on the same platform and shares the same drivetrain lineage. Availability of features such as the Crosstrek Hybrid or region-specific safety and infotainment options may vary by country.

Summary

In short, Subaru XV and Crosstrek are the same family of vehicles, with naming differences driven by regional markets. The Crosstrek is the name used in North America, while XV is the designation common in Europe, Asia, and Australia. For buyers, the important details are model year, trim, and equipment rather than the badge alone, since the core vehicle is essentially the same across markets.

What is the difference between Subaru XV and Crosstrek?

The Subaru Crosstrek Specifications and Features
Sharper LED headlights flow into the redesigned grille. The cabin's layout remains similar to the XV but with a little modern twist. It now features a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen instead of the previous dual-screen. Newer seats = new user experience.

Did the Crosstrek replace the XV?

Initially, the vehicle was marketed as the XV globally, and as the XV Crosstrek in the United States and Canada. In 2015, Subaru dropped the XV moniker in the United States and Canada, marketing it simply as the Crosstrek for the 2016 model year and onward.

What does XV mean on a Subaru Crosstrek?

"Crosstrek XV" means the vehicle is a Subaru XV, which is marketed as the Crosstrek in the United States and Canada. "XV" is a global name for the compact crossover SUV, short for "Crossover Vehicle". Subaru phased out the "XV" name in the U.S. for the 2016 model year and onward, simply calling it the Crosstrek.

XV Crosstrek (United States and Canada, 2013–2015): The vehicle was initially named the XV Crosstrek in North America.
XV (Global Markets): The vehicle was marketed as the XV in most other countries during the same period.
Crosstrek (United States and Canada, 2016–present): Subaru dropped the "XV" from the name in the U.S. and Canada for the 2016 model year, and it has been sold as the Crosstrek ever since.
XV Crosstrek (Global Markets): The "XV" name is still used in many other markets today, but is starting to be phased out in favor of the Crosstrek nameplate.

Is a Subaru Crosstrek the same size as a Honda CRV?

The Honda CR-V is larger than the Subaru Crosstrek, both in exterior dimensions and interior/cargo space. The CR-V is longer, wider, and taller, and offers significantly more cargo room with the rear seats up and down. The Crosstrek has a smaller, subcompact size, but provides greater ground clearance.

This video compares the interior space of the Crosstrek and the Honda HR-V, another smaller SUV: 1mBen HardyYouTube · Jun 16, 2024
Exterior dimensions

	Honda CR-V	Subaru Crosstrek
Length	184.8 in	176.4 in
Width	73.5 in	70.9–71.7 in
Height	66.2–66.5 in	62.8–63.6 in
Ground Clearance	7.8–8.2 in	8.7–9.3 in

	Honda CR-V	Subaru Crosstrek
Front Headroom	40 in	39.8 in
Rear Headroom	38.2 in	38 in
Front Legroom	41.3 in	42.9 in
Rear Legroom	41 in	36.5 in
Cargo Space (behind rear seats)	39.3 cu ft	19.9–20 cu ft
Cargo Space (rear seats folded)	76.5 cu ft	54.7–54.9 cu ft

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.