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What is the difference between the Subaru XV and Crosstrek?

In practical terms, there is no fundamental difference between the Subaru XV and the Crosstrek — they are the same compact crossover sold under different names in different markets. The XV is the global or regional designation used outside North America, while Crosstrek is the name Subaru uses for the U.S. market. What changes are mostly branding, trim availability, and regional options rather than core engineering.

Subaru’s naming strategy reflects regional marketing rather than a distinct model lineage. The current generation shares its platform, drivetrain, and safety technology across markets, but buyers may encounter variations in trims, hybrid options, and standard equipment depending on where they buy the car. This article breaks down the branding differences, what sits under the hood, and what buyers should check when comparing XV and Crosstrek in different regions.

Branding and market naming

The way Subaru labels this crossover varies by region, and the naming has shifted a bit over time. Here’s how it has generally played out:

United States and Canada: Crosstrek is the official market name used for all model years sold in North America.

Europe, Asia-Pacific, and many other regions: XV is the common designation for the same Impreza-based crossover family.

Occasional overlap: In some years and marketing materials, Subaru referenced the model with combinations like “XV Crosstrek” or “Crosstrek XV,” especially during transitional branding periods or in early literature, even though the primary regional name varied by market.

In practice, the name you see on the window sticker or brochure should guide you to the correct regional specs, but the underlying vehicle is largely the same generation. When shopping, verify the generation, engine options, and trim package rather than assuming a different model lineage based on the name alone.

Shared engineering and options

Under the skin, the XV and Crosstrek share Subaru’s approach to all-wheel-drive compact crossovers. The core engineering is consistent across markets, with regional variations in trims, powertrains, and optional technology. The following highlights cover what you’re likely to encounter regardless of the name tag:

Current generation snapshot

Platform and architecture: Subaru Global Platform (shared with other modern Subaru models) that emphasizes rigidity and safety integration.

Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive is standard on most trims, with symmetric AWD characteristics Subaru is known for.

Engine and transmission: A 2.0-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) engine paired with a automatic CVT is the typical baseline setup; engine tuning and optional transmissions vary by market and generation.

Hybrid options: A Crosstrek Hybrid is available in the United States and some markets (often branded as a Crosstrek Hybrid or XV e-Boxer in other regions), pairing the 2.0-liter engine with electric assist and battery power for improved efficiency.

Safety and driver aids: EyeSight driver-assist technology and other safety features are commonly offered, though availability and generations of software may differ by trim and country.

Trim and feature variance: Local regulations, emissions rules, and consumer preferences drive differences in infotainment, upholstery, wheels, and equipment packages, even within the same generation.

For shoppers, the practical implication is straightforward: the Crosstrek (U.S.) and XV (elsewhere) are the same family of vehicles, but you should compare the exact generation, trim level, and whether a hybrid option is available in your market rather than focusing on the name alone.

How to compare when shopping across markets

Because branding can obscure minor spec differences, use these guidelines when comparing XV and Crosstrek listings in different regions:

Identify the model year and generation first. A 2023 Crosstrek and a 2023 XV are more alike than their country of origin might imply.

Check the powertrain details: confirm whether you are looking at the base 2.0L engine, or a hybrid option (Crosstrek Hybrid / XV e-Boxer) available in your market.

Review safety features and driver aids as they can vary by trim and market (EyeSight availability and version may differ).

Compare standard vs. optional equipment for the specific market’s trim levels to avoid surprises at delivery.

The bottom line is that the name difference signals regional branding, not a fundamental shift in the vehicle’s design or capability. Always verify the exact generation, drivetrain, and hybrid availability for your location.

Summary

The Subaru XV and Crosstrek are the same compact crossover built on the same platform, with branding that varies by region. In North America, Subaru sells the model as the Crosstrek; in Europe, Asia-Pacific, and other markets it is commonly called the XV. Differences you’ll notice are mostly about marketing names, trim packages, and region-specific options such as the availability of a hybrid or e-boxer variant, rather than a different car altogether. When shopping, focus on the generation, engine option, and trim contents rather than the name alone to find the right fit for your needs.

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

Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?

Subaru is not discontinuing the Crosstrek. However, they have discontinued the Crosstrek Hybrid (Plug-In Hybrid) model in the US to focus on new electrified models using the Subaru Global Platform. In some other global markets, Subaru might be discontinuing the Crosstrek in favor of different models, such as the Forester or XV, to align with regional demand or regulations.
You can watch this video to learn about the changes coming to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek: 1mAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Nov 4, 2024
United States

Focus on new hybrids: The Crosstrek Hybrid was discontinued because of low sales, but Subaru is developing new hybrid models that will use the new Subaru Global Platform.
New platform: This new platform is designed to support future hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric vehicles.

Other markets

Regional product strategy: In some markets, like Malaysia, the discontinuation is a strategic decision to shift focus to models that have stronger local sales, like the Forester or the similar XV.
Market demand and regulations: Decisions are based on local sales figures, adapting to new emissions regulations, or aligning with new energy vehicle strategies.

This video discusses why the Subaru Crosstrek is out-selling other Subarus: 1mAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Jun 9, 2025

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.

Are Subaru Crosstrek and XV the same?

After years of perfecting the Subaru XV, the Crosstrek comes with an updated style, newer and more modern features and tech upgrades, while going big on safety.

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.