New 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides more power.More standard driver assist features on automatic-equipped Crosstreks.Part of the second Crosstrek generation introduced for 2018.
Pros High ground clearance for enhanced off-road capability Spacious seating for a hatchback of its size Comfortable ride quality Easy to see out of
Cons Slow acceleration on the highway with base engine Mediocre cargo space Handling isn't as precise as that of some rivals
The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek flexes a more potent available powertrain but still prioritizes safety and capability.
Pros Excellent CVT Off-road capable, rugged looks Standard AWD New Sport trim Standard safety tech
Cons Cramped USB ports Limited-release hybrid Manual transmission omits more than it adds Limited trim not a value
Along with a light visual refresh that includes new front bumper and grille designs, the 2021 Crosstrek gains a Sport model and a more powerful engine option. The new 2.5-liter flat-four has been lifted from the mid-size Legacy sedan and Outback station wagon and plopped under the hood of Sport and Limited models of the Crosstrek; the languid 2.0-liter engine is still in the mix, but relegated to the base and Premium models only.
The Santa Fe receives a visual freshening for 2021 that includes bolder front-end styling and improvements to its interior. Three new powertrains are offered: A 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the standard 2.4-liter unit, a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder replaces the optional turbocharged 2.0-liter, and a hybrid variant powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor joins the lineup. The Santa Fe gains a push-button shifter, several new optional driver-assistance features including a semi-autonomous driving mode, larger 8.0-inch and optional 10.3-inch infotainment displays, an optional 12.3-inch digital gauge display, and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Following in the larger Palisade's footsteps, the Santa Fe also gains a fancy Calligraphy trim level with quilted leather upholstery, a color head-up display, standard all-wheel drive, unique exterior accents, and more upscale interior embellishments.
The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe pushes efficiency with a new hybrid model.
PROS Larger standard and available touchscreens Hybrid and plug-in hybrid models More efficient, potent powertrains Revised transmission
CONS Expected price increase Calligraphy edges into Genesis turf Unknown standard features Unknown value
Pros Comfy, spacious, clever tech
Cons Not very interesting, not as cheap as it was, lack of choice RE engines
