The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek raises the bar by featuring a standard 2.5-litre SUBARU BOXER® four-cylinder engine delivering 180 horsepower, combined with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and generous ground clearance. In contrast, the Trax is powered by a 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, and is only offered with front-wheel drive.

The 2026 Subaru Crosstrek delivers strong technology features including an available 11.6-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive which supports its tech-forward design. The Trax offers features like an 11-inch touchscreen in upper trims and wireless smartphone integration, but lacks some of the advanced standard systems present in the Crosstrek.

Safety is a strong suit for the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek, which includes standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, available DriverFocus® Distraction Mitigation, standard all-wheel drive, and a strong safety reputation. Meanwhile the Trax includes the Chevy Safety Assist suite — covering forward-collision warning with automatic braking, lane-keeping assist, etc. — which is solid but more typical for its class.

On the interior front, the 2026 Subaru Crosstrek impresses with up to 120.5 cubic feet of interior space, 60/40 split-folding seats, rugged upholstery options (in the Wilderness trim), and a cabin designed both for daily driving and active lifestyles. The Trax offers up to approximately 54.1 cubic feet of cargo space (with seats folded) and decent rear legroom — generous for the sub-compact class — but lacks the adventure-ready design and standard all-wheel drive of the Crosstrek.