The Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek share a platform and a reputation for dependability, but they’re built for different drivers. Nassau County buyers near Hicksville, Bethpage, and Plainview often find that one fits their lifestyle much more naturally than the other - and the decision typically comes down to how much ground clearance and versatility matter day to day.
Bottom Line: The Impreza is the more affordable, fuel-efficient daily driver; the Crosstrek adds meaningful ground clearance, more power options, and outdoor versatility for roughly $3,000-$4,000 more.
- Impreza starts around $23,695 with 36 mpg highway - a class leader in efficiency
- Crosstrek starts around $26,990 but offers 8.7 inches of ground clearance vs. 5.1 for the Impreza
- Both come with Subaru Symmetrical AWD as standard equipment on all trims
- Sport and Limited Crosstrek trims upgrade to a 2.5L 182 hp engine
At a Glance: Impreza vs. Crosstrek by the Numbers
Both models share Subaru’s global platform and core philosophy - Symmetrical AWD, EyeSight driver assistance, and long-term reliability. The differences show up in clearance, engine options, and intended use.
| Spec | Impreza | Crosstrek |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | ✓ ~$23,695 | ~$26,990 |
| Ground Clearance | 5.1 in | ✓ 8.7 in |
| Base Engine | 2.0L 152 hp | 2.0L 152 hp |
| Upgraded Engine | Not Available | ✓ 2.5L 182 hp (Sport/Ltd) |
| Highway MPG (base) | ✓ 36 mpg | 35 mpg |
| Body Styles | ✓ Sedan + Hatchback | Hatchback only |
| AWD | ✓ Standard (all trims) | ✓ Standard (all trims) |
Both cars share the same Symmetrical AWD system and EyeSight driver assistance suite - so on the technology and safety side, they arrive at the same place. The divergence starts the moment you look at ride height and available engines.
Ground Clearance and Real-World Versatility
The Crosstrek’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance is not just a number for off-road enthusiasts. For Long Island drivers navigating flooded roads after a nor’easter or rutted park-and-ride lots in Syosset or Bethpage, that extra 3.6 inches makes a tangible difference in confidence.
The Impreza’s 5.1-inch clearance is fine for everyday Nassau County roads but limits its composure in anything beyond light gravel or a rough parking lot. It’s a sedan at heart, and a very good one - just not a vehicle that rewards you for taking the road less traveled.
The Crosstrek with its raised stance and optional trail mode also opens up Harriman State Park day trips and hiking trailheads that Long Island Subaru drivers reach via the Palisades. If your weekends look anything like that, the ground clearance difference is worth the price delta. For everything you need to know about Subaru’s AWD performance in winter, see our Subaru Outback in Winter AWD guide.
Engines, Fuel Economy, and Performance
Both vehicles start with the same 2.0L naturally aspirated four-cylinder producing 152 horsepower. On the highway, the Impreza delivers 36 mpg and the Crosstrek returns 35 mpg - a negligible real-world difference.
The Crosstrek’s key advantage is the available 2.5L 182 hp engine on Sport and Limited trims, which gives the car a noticeably more responsive feel without sacrificing much in fuel economy. The Impreza has no equivalent engine upgrade available. For buyers who want more urgency in merging onto the Northern State Parkway, the Crosstrek Sport closes the gap.
The Impreza does carry one practical edge: the available sedan body style. Families in Nassau County who prioritize a conventional trunk over a hatchback - or who prefer the visual profile of a traditional car - will find the Impreza’s body choice a genuine advantage. The Crosstrek offers the hatchback configuration only.
"Buyers who come in debating Impreza versus Crosstrek almost always leave with the Crosstrek once they understand what that extra clearance means for real Long Island driving - it opens up a lot of possibilities."
General Manager, Grand Prix Subaru
Ready to compare both models in person? Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville has both in stock:
Which Should Nassau County Drivers Choose?
The Impreza is the right call for buyers who want to spend less, prefer a sedan option, and prioritize fuel economy above all else. It’s one of the most capable and reliable compact cars in its price range, and standard AWD gives it year-round confidence on Long Island roads.
The Crosstrek makes more sense for buyers who want real crossover versatility - even if they never leave pavement. The additional ground clearance reduces anxiety on degraded roads, the 2.5L engine option adds genuine responsiveness, and the elevated ride height simply makes the car feel more capable. For families considering other Subaru models, our guide to the best Subaru for families in Nassau County provides a broader comparison across the lineup.
For Nassau County buyers comparing the Subaru range overall, the Subaru Outback vs. Forester comparison covers two of the most popular options in the lineup for buyers who want a step up in size from the Impreza or Crosstrek.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper to own long-term - the Impreza or Crosstrek? The Impreza has a lower starting price, but the two vehicles share most of the same powertrain and maintenance intervals. Both carry Subaru’s reputation for strong long-term reliability. Long-term cost difference is minimal - the bigger factor is typically insurance, which runs slightly higher for the Crosstrek Sport.
Does the Impreza come in AWD? Yes. All Impreza trims come with Subaru Symmetrical AWD as standard equipment. There is no FWD-only Impreza option, which is part of what makes it competitive against entry-level crossovers.
Is the Crosstrek good for snowy Long Island winters? The Crosstrek’s 8.7-inch ground clearance and Symmetrical AWD make it one of the best-equipped compact cars for Long Island snow. Federal vehicle safety data for the Crosstrek is available through NHTSA vehicle ratings.
Can the Impreza fit car seats in the back? Yes. The Impreza sedan and hatchback have adequate rear cabin space for two car seats comfortably, though taller passengers in the back may find the hatchback’s roofline slightly tight. For families who need more rear room, the Crosstrek or Outback are worth considering.
How much more does the Crosstrek Sport cost over the base Crosstrek? The Crosstrek Sport typically runs $5,000-$6,000 more than the base trim but includes the 2.5L 182 hp engine, sport styling, and additional interior upgrades. For buyers who want the power boost, the Sport is the most efficient path to the 2.5L engine in the Crosstrek lineup.
Visit Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville
Grand Prix Subaru in Hicksville is your Nassau County source for both the Impreza and Crosstrek, serving buyers from Bethpage, Plainview, and Syosset across the region. The showroom carries current model year inventory alongside a strong selection of certified pre-owned Subaru vehicles.
Drive both back to back - it takes about 30 minutes to feel the real difference between 5.1 and 8.7 inches of clearance. View current new Subaru inventory or check current Subaru specials to find the right model at the right price.