Compared: 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek
City vs. country — and price — define the differences between these two small crossovers.
Chevrolet | Subaru
The market for entry-level crossovers is filled with diverse and affordable choices. The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer makes a compelling case for a by-the-numbers daily commuter, while the Subaru Crosstrek was redesigned for 2024 to bolster its image as a strong choice for buyers with an active lifestyle.
Here's how the Trailblazer and the Crosstrek compare when looking at their prices, features, and fuel economy.
Chevrolet
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek: Price
There are four trim levels available for the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer. The base LS checks in at about $23,000, followed by the LT ($26,000), the Activ ($27,000) and the RS ($27,000). The latter two are priced identically, but represent different visual takes on the small SUV, with the Activ emphasizing outdoorsy styling and the RS edging toward a performance look.
The first two trims are equipped with a standard 1.2-liter, 137-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine, while the latter two upgrade to a 155-hp, 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo (which is optional on the LT). All-wheel drive can be added to any model, and it brings the larger motor along with it. Front-wheel-drive models are paired with a CVT, while AWD models get a nine-speed automatic .
Subaru
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is an all-new design. Larger than the Trailblazer, the Crosstrek is also significantly more expensive. The base Crosstrek is priced around $26,000, followed by the Premium ($27,000), the Sport ($30,000), and the Limited ($32,000). That's a $4,500 price gap above the Chevy at the top end.
Despite its larger proportions, the Crosstrek isn't necessarily more powerful. The base and Premium trims are propelled by a 152-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (which is a little less stout than the top-tier Trailblazer motor), while the Sport and Limited gain a 2.5-liter 182-hp motor. All-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission are standard with the Subaru.
Chevrolet
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek: Features
There are two bright spots on the Trailblazer's otherwise modest equipment list. The first is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability, making it possible to leave your cables at home while still enjoying the navigation, entertainment, and other apps made available by this feature. Then there's the Chevrolet's fold-flat front seat, which lets you stuff large gear such as a surfboard under the Trailblazer's roof instead of tying it on top.
Subaru
Befitting its higher price, the Subaru Crosstrek is a bit more generous with appealing features. For starters, all trim levels provide 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which, combined with standard all-wheel drive, brings light off-roading into the realm of possibility.
The Crosstrek also makes its full suite of active safety equipment standard, while the Trailblazer requires buyers to step up to higher trims or add it as an option. Smartphone connectivity is supported on all Crosstrek models, but buyers must upgrade to the available 11.6-inch infotainment system to get wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Chevrolet
2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. 2024 Subaru Crosstrek: Fuel Economy
The Trailblazer sips fuel at a rate of 30 mpg in combined driving for front-wheel-drive versions outfitted with its 1.2-liter engine. Pairing the 1.3-liter unit with FWD nets 31 mpg, and when paired with AWD it gets 28 mpg.
Subaru
Subaru has yet to publish EPA fuel-efficiency estimates for the 2024 Crosstrek with the larger 2.5-liter engine, but 2.0-liter models are rated at 29 mpg. The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek was rated at 29 mpg when paired with the 2.5-liter engine.
Written by humans.
Edited by humans.
Benjamin HuntingBenjamin Hunting is a writer and podcast host who contributes to a number of newspapers, automotive magazines, and online publications. More than a decade into his career, he enjoys keeping the shiny side up during track days and always has one too many classic vehicle projects partially disassembled in his garage at any given time. Remember, if it's not leaking, it's probably empty.
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