5 Differences Between the Impreza and the Crosstrek

While the Subaru Impreza and the Crosstrek are incredibly similar vehicles, they're certainly not the same. While some of the biggest differences come down to the physical appearance of the two vehicles, that's not where they end.

So, if you're interested in an Impreza or a Crosstrek or just want to learn a little bit more about the two vehicles, we'll highlight a few of the key differences for you here.

1. The Ground Clearance

This might be the most noticeable and important difference between the two vehicles. The Impreza sits 5.1" off the ground, which is higher up than most compact cars, but with 8.7" of ground clearance the Crosstrek sits much higher up. There's no right or wrong choice here, but it's definitely a difference.

2. Towing Capacity

While neither the Impreza nor the Crosstrek can compete with trucks when it comes to towing, if you need something that can pull a smaller trailer a Crosstrek is the way to go.

That's because Subaru upgraded the rear differential in the Crosstrek, enabling towing up to 1,500 pounds. Meanwhile, because the Impreza doesn't have the upgraded differential you shouldn't tow anything with it.

3. The Exterior Appearance

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.

4. The Available Powertrains

One of the first things you often read is that the Impreza and the Crosstrek have the same engine - a 2.0L DOHC BOXER inline-four. And while this is true, it's not the only engine option for the Crosstrek while it is the only engine option for the Impreza.

Because of this it's more accurate to say that the Impreza and the Crosstrek can have the same engine. However, the Crosstrek has two engine options that are not available with the Impreza.

The first engine option is a 2.5L DOHC Boxer 4-cylinder engine that's a clear upgrade over the 2.0L engine. The second engine option that's only available with the Crosstrek is a 2.0L BOXER plug-in hybrid engine that's only available with the hybrid trim level for the Crosstrek.

You can't find either of these engine options on the Impreza no matter what trim level or package you go with.

5. Available X-Mode

If you get a Crosstrek Sport or higher, there's an available X-Mode that you can cycle to. This mode optimizes the engine output and improves the all-wheel-drive performance.

This increased performance does a phenomenal job of giving the Crosstrek traction on low-friction surfaces. While there's talk that this feature might find its way onto future Imprezas, right now it's only available for the Crosstrek.

Final Thoughts

Whether you have more questions about the differences between the Crosstrek and the Impreza or if you want to get behind the wheel of each one to try them out, the friendly experts at Granite Subaru would love to help you out. Reach out today and they'll answer any questions you might have and help you get behind the wheel.