Is the Crosstrek based on the Impreza?
Platform history and generations
The Crosstrek’s relationship to the Impreza has evolved over time. Understanding this helps explain why the two models feel related yet distinct on the road.
- The first-generation Crosstrek (introduced as a 2013 model) was developed on the Impreza hatchback platform and shared many underlying components with the Impreza. This meant common drivetrain layouts, AWD geometry, and similar crash-structure engineering, even as Subaru named it a separate crossover.
- The second-generation Crosstrek (starting around 2018) moved onto Subaru’s Global Platform (SGP), a more unified chassis architecture used across multiple models, including the updated Impreza. This shift brought broader platform-wide improvements in rigidity, safety, and ride quality while preserving Crosstrek-specific tuning for its higher ride height and rugged persona.
In summary, the Crosstrek began life closely tied to the Impreza’s platform and later migrated to the Subaru Global Platform, reinforcing its shareable engineering with the Impreza and other models.
Shared components and practical implications
- Common AWD philosophy and chassis layout, enabling Subaru’s characteristic all-wheel-drive performance and traction.
- Shared engine families and transmission concepts, contributing to similar powertrain behavior and service intervals.
- Unified safety architecture and crash-structure principles via the Global Platform, improving rigidity and crash-test results across models.
- Differences in body styling, ground clearance, and suspension tuning that give the Crosstrek its higher ride height and off-road-light personality while maintaining Impreza-like handling on paved roads.
These shared elements help explain why the Crosstrek and Impreza feel related, even as Subaru positions the Crosstrek as a distinct, rugged-crossover option within its lineup.
What this means for buyers
Bottom line
Summary
Is a Crosstrek just a lifted Impreza?
Like the Outback Sport, the Crosstrek is a lifted Impreza hatchback with minor differences, though with a more substantial lift than the Outback Sport. Initially, the vehicle was marketed as the XV globally, and as the XV Crosstrek in the United States and Canada.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek the same as the Impreza?
There's no doubt that when you look at an Impreza and a Crosstrek you can tell the difference between the two. That's because they have completely different exterior appearances. The Impreza is a car that comes in two different body styles, a sedan and a hatchback. Meanwhile, the Crosstrek is an SUV.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?
Subaru is not discontinuing the Crosstrek model line entirely, but the Crosstrek Hybrid (PHEV) was discontinued in the U.S. due to slow sales and Subaru's strategic shift toward new hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) platforms that will be shared with Toyota. Subaru is still producing the standard Crosstrek and is developing new hybrid and EV models based on its new Global Platform, which will offer a new hybrid system for the Crosstrek in the future. The discontinuation of the manual transmission option was also driven by declining demand.
This video discusses the reasons behind the discontinuation of the Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru's future plans for electrification: 46sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Jun 9, 2025
- Hybrid model discontinued: The Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid was dropped after a short run in the U.S. because it only accounted for a small percentage of total sales.
- Strategic shift to new platforms: Subaru is focusing on developing new hybrid and EV models using its new Global Platform, which is designed to accommodate these powertrains. The company is working with Toyota on future EV platforms to improve profitability and innovation.
- Manual transmission phased out: The manual transmission option was discontinued due to declining sales, as a small percentage of buyers opted for it compared to automatic transmissions.
- Standard Crosstrek remains available: The gasoline-powered Crosstrek continues to be a popular and available model.
- Future hybrid return: Subaru has stated that it will launch a new hybrid Crosstrek in the future, likely with a new hybrid system and on the new Global Platform.
This video explains the changes coming to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, including updates to the powertrain options: 55sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Nov 4, 2024
What car is the equivalent of a Subaru Crosstrek?
Major competitors to the Subaru Crosstrek include the Mazda CX-30, Honda HR-V, and Toyota Corolla Cross, which are all subcompact SUVs that compete in a similar class. Other alternatives include the Hyundai Kona, Chevrolet Trax, Nissan Kicks, and Jeep Renegade.
You can watch this video to learn how the Subaru Crosstrek compares to the Toyota Corolla Cross and Chevy Trailblazer: 58sEdmunds CarsYouTube · May 9, 2025
Direct competitors
- Mazda CX-30: Often considered a direct rival, with a strong emphasis on a more premium feel.
- Honda HR-V: Another key competitor in the subcompact SUV space.
- Toyota Corolla Cross: A very close rival, especially in the compact crossover category.
- Hyundai Kona: A popular option with slightly better fuel economy, according to some reports.
Other rivals
- Chevrolet Trax and Chevy Trailblazer: While the Trax is in the same category, the Trailblazer is seen as a closer rival, particularly in its standard all-wheel drive option.
- Nissan Kicks: Competes in the subcompact SUV segment with a focus on practicality and efficiency.
- Jeep Renegade: Competes for the subcompact SUV buyer who may also be considering off-road capability.
- Kia Soul: A competitor if off-road capability is not a priority, focusing more on its unique style and practicality.
- Buick Envista: Offers a comparable amount of cargo space and is another option in the subcompact class.
