When it comes to shopping for a compact SUV, two names are bound to pop up: the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2025 Chevy Trailblazer. These two crossovers offer plenty of style, utility, and modern tech—but which one delivers the right balance of performance, versatility, and value for drivers in Milwaukee, Brookfield, Shorewood, and West Bend?
In this 2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs Chevy Trailblazer comparison guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from engine specs and interior space to off-road capability and safety features. Whether you’re navigating city streets or planning weekend getaways into Wisconsin’s great outdoors, this guide will help you decide which crossover truly fits your lifestyle.
If you’re leaning toward adventure-ready capability and all-weather confidence, Sommer’s Subaru is ready to help. Stop by our dealership or contact Sommer’s Subaru today to explore the 2025 Crosstrek lineup in person.
How Do the Crosstrek and Trailblazer Compare in Power and Performance?
When it comes to daily driving and weekend fun, power and performance matter. This crossover comparison guide takes a closer look at what the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek vs Chevy Trailblazer can do on the road.
Let’s break down the Crosstrek Trailblazer specs side by side to see which SUV gives you more confidence behind the wheel.
Engine Options and Horsepower
Both of these Subaru vs Chevy crossovers offer two engine choices, but they’re tuned for different types of drivers.
| Vehicle | Engine | Horsepower | Torque |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | 2.0L flat-4 engine | 152 hp | 145 lb-ft |
| 2.5L flat-4 engine | 182 hp | 178 lb-ft | |
| 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer | 1.2L turbo I3 engine | 137 hp | 162 lb-ft |
| 1.3L turbo I3 engine | 155 hp | 174 lb-ft |
The Crosstrek’s flat-4 engines are built for smooth, stable rides. They help lower the vehicle’s center of gravity. This adds grip and boosts control on turns and hills. The 2.5L engine is especially good for drivers who need more push for merging or highway driving.
Transmissions and Drive Options
Both models come with options that suit city driving or rougher roads. Still, the Crosstrek leads with standard all-wheel drive.
| Feature | Transmission | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 Subaru Crosstrek | CVT | All-Wheel Drive (Standard) |
| 2025 Chevy Trailblazer | CVT (1.2L), 9-speed auto (1.3L) | Front-Wheel Drive (Standard), AWD Optional |
The Crosstrek comes ready for snow, rain, and dirt roads right out of the gate. AWD is standard on all trims. In the Trailblazer, AWD is extra and only on select trims.
Acceleration
- Crosstrek (2.0L): 0–60 mph in about 9.5 seconds
- Crosstrek (2.5L): 0–60 mph in about 8.1 seconds
- Trailblazer (1.3L): 0–60 mph in about 9.4 seconds
The Crosstrek 2.5L offers stronger acceleration, making it the better choice for drivers who want more zip.
This section of the crossover comparison guide shows that if you’re looking for more standard power and better grip on the road, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek takes the lead. Next, we’ll take a look at what each SUV offers in off-road features and all-weather skill.
What Interior and Exterior Features Stand Out in the Crosstrek and Trailblazer?
Interior Features
Both models offer tech and comfort. But how do they feel when you sit inside?
2025 Subaru Crosstrek:
- Standard 7-inch touchscreen (11.6-inch on higher trims)
- Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Durable cloth or optional StarTex® water-repellent seats
- Optional heated front seats and steering wheel
- Up to 100.5 cubic feet of passenger space
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer:
- Standard 11-inch touchscreen
- Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™
- Cloth or available leatherette seats
- Heated front seats on select trims
- Up to 98.2 cubic feet of passenger space
The Crosstrek focuses on durable comfort with a clean, smart layout. StarTex® trim is great for drivers who hike, camp, or have pets. The Trailblazer offers a sleek, modern dash and an edge in touchscreen size at the base level.
Exterior Features
Looks matter too. These crossovers each have a bold, outdoor-ready style.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek:
- Rugged front grille and cladding
- 8.7 inches of ground clearance
- Standard roof rails
- Optional LED fog lights
- Available two-tone paint with black trim
2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer:
- Sleek, sporty profile
- 7.0 to 8.0 inches of ground clearance
- Roof rails on higher trims
- Unique RS trim with bold styling cues
- LED headlamps and tail lamps
The Crosstrek has a more trail-ready look. Its taller stance gives it a clear edge in clearance. The Trailblazer leans more toward city style with sport-like curves.
In the Subaru vs Chevy crossovers battle, both bring value. But if you love clean design, room for gear, and a strong outdoor feel, the Crosstrek stands out. Up next, we’ll look at how they compare in safety and tech.
What Safety Features Come Standard in Each Crossover?
When looking at a new vehicle, safety is one of the top concerns. You want to know your car will help protect you, your loved ones, and others on the road. In this crossover comparison guide, we’ll break down what each model gives you as part of its standard safety package.
Both the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek and the Chevy Trailblazer offer strong protection. But how they do it is a little different.
Standard Safety Systems
Each model comes with a group of tools meant to help drivers stay aware and avoid danger.
Subaru Crosstrek includes:
- EyeSight® Driver Assist
- Pre-Collision Braking
- Lane Keep Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lead Vehicle Start Alert
Chevy Trailblazer includes:
- Chevy Safety Assist
- Forward Collision Alert
- Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning
- Automatic Emergency Braking
- Front Pedestrian Braking
These two subaru vs chevy crossovers are quite close when it comes to basic coverage. Both help watch the road, warn the driver, and act if needed.
Extra Driver Support (Available Features)
Beyond what comes standard, both models let you add more safety tech.
| Available Feature | Subaru Crosstrek | Chevy Trailblazer |
|---|---|---|
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | ‣ Optional on Premium and Sport ‣ Standard on Limited and Wilderness | Available |
| Rear Cross-Traffic Alert | ‣ Optional on Premium and Sport ‣ Standard on Limited and Wilderness | Available |
| Rear Automatic Braking | Standard on Limited and Wilderness | Standard |
| Parking Assist | Yes | Available |
These features add peace of mind during lane changes and parking. While they are not standard, many trims include them or make them easy to add.
Crash Test and Safety Ratings
While 2025 scores are still coming in, past models have strong records. The Crosstrek has long earned top marks from IIHS. The Trailblazer has also scored well with NHTSA. Both are built to meet high safety rules and pass strict tests.
Looking at the Crosstrek Trailblazer specs, both crossovers shine when it comes to core safety. Each one offers help for the road, the lane, and those tight spots in town. Choosing between them may come down to which brand’s safety system feels easier for you to use.
Frequently Asked Questions: Crosstrek vs Trailblazer Comparison
Is the Crosstrek or Trailblazer bigger in terms of overall dimensions and cargo capacity?
The Subaru Crosstrek is generally larger than the Chevy Trailblazer. The Crosstrek is longer and has more cargo space while the Trailblazer is taller and wider.
2025 Crosstrek:
- 176.4 inches (length) | 70.9 inches (width) | 62.8 inches (height)
- Cargo capacity: Up to 54.7 cubic feet with the seats down.
2025 Trailblazer:
- 174.07 inches (length) | 71.20 inches (width) | 65.68 inches (height)
- Cargo capacity: Up to 54.4 cubic feet with the seats down.
Which brand has a better reputation for reliability in the subcompact crossover segment?
Subaru generally has a stronger reputation for reliability in the subcompact crossover segment compared to Chevy. Subaru vehicles, including the Crosstrek, are often praised for their durability and long-lasting performance. Chevy has improved in recent years but doesn’t quite match Subaru in overall reliability rankings.
Do either offer special off-road or sportier trims for 2025?
- Crosstrek: Yes, the Crosstrek offers the X-Edition and Sport trims, which are equipped for off-road driving. It also comes with X-MODE, which is specifically designed to enhance off-road performance.
- Trailblazer: The Trailblazer offers a RS trim with sportier styling, but it doesn’t have a true off-road-oriented trim like the Crosstrek.
How do base trim prices differ, and does either include more standard equipment?
- Crosstrek: The base model Crosstrek starts at around $26,560 and comes with standard features like AWD, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera.
- Trailblazer: The base model Trailblazer starts at around $26,495, with standard features including front-wheel drive, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
The Crosstrek has more standard features, including AWD, while the Trailblazer offers a slightly lower starting price but lacks AWD at the base level.
Explore, Compare, and Drive
If you’re still weighing your options between these two small SUVs, we’re here to help. Whether you’re comparing size, safety, or tech, our team at Sommer’s Subaru is happy to answer any questions you may have.
Drivers from Milwaukee, West Bend, Shorewood, and Brookfield are always welcome at our dealership. We offer a wide range of new vehicles, including the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, in many trims and colors.
You can also continue your research by checking out Crosstrek vs Trax or explore the differences between Crosstrek and Equinox. If you’re seeing a tire pressure light, our TPMS light Subaru guide can help you know what to do next. Visit us or contact Sommer’s Subaru in today. We’ll help you find the best fit for your life and your drive.
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