Snow Shootout: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness vs Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road at -17ºC!

[@catdu2232]

I have 2015 crosstrek with almost 200k miles, never had a problem driving in snowstorm across utah, new mex, co and wyoming and Nebraska. Im a travel nurse.

[@iffykidmn8170]

2000 4runner Limited 300,000 across ND, SD, MN, Wi and Mi snow without any problems.

[@ckm-mkc]

I have a 1993 Mitsubishi Delica 4WD van with 174,000 miles on 4 continents in crazy conditions (snow, jungle tracks, tiny city streets, everything). Still runs like a top. It will probably survive the apocalypse.

[@familydad3241]

You change the cvt oil?

[@DH-ux9ms]

would you just shut up already

[@sunset3052]

Is yours CVT or manual trans? I have both 2023 CVT sports and 2023 base manual.

[@golgoth7600]

Not gonna lie. This is effing amazing. Going up without real snow tires....and this deep in snow? Just amazing 👏

[@MaybeLater500]

"We need more aggressive tires." Indeed, you do: go with Michelin Crossclimate2.

[@rodnewcomb]

I'm a Toyota Fan, but Subaru has been writing the book on AWD for a very long time and I think their system is the best on the market. I am also a firm believer that tires play a huge role in this kind of driving.

[@mrjamesinblogington]

Call it copium on my part, but it's easier to push the performance envelope when you are willing to compromise on your reliability standard, so it will be interesting to see how both of these vehicles hold up 10 years from now.

[@18_rabbit]

depends on which Toyota model, some are the best in AWD/4x4 visavis functionality and durability.

[@cupcakehogie]

I'll humor you and call it copium because Subaru has incredible reliability ratings. In fact, in 2018, Toyota's most reliable vehicle according to Consumer Reports was a Subaru - the 86.@@mrjamesinblogington

[@HyperXism]

Subarus AWD is horrible. So bad they didn't even want to be reviewed by TFL. I rented a Forester AWD in Kauai and got stuck on the beach while all the Toyotas and Jeeps were driving around me (Jeep pulled me out). This X mode snow mode impressed me a tiny bit, but nothing compares to Toyotas crawl mode for example.

[@tonytouchz757]

@@HyperXism maybe you are just a bad driver or had awful tires.. I owned 3 wrangler (YJ, JKU and JL) and my current crosstrek wilderness is better in snow... for sure a wrangler will be better on rock climbing but there is no doubt subaru is a better awd not even a competition... Ive done heavy snow offroading and subarus never got stuck, the only ones who got stucks were dudes in pickup (who couldve known..) Subaru makes geat AWD and theres countless of proofs for it, its not even debatable... Im not sure what you are in about but if you got stuck its on you not knowing what you were doing, you had a good machine for it but still got stuck 😅

[@lukethibodaux790]

To absolutely nobody's surprise the Subi wins yet another AWD challenge, that is what they are famous for and it is well deserved.

[@pollackrocket]

just don't buy one thinking you will get the longevity or efficiency of the Yota, and that's true!

[@TheCreateOutdoors]

@@pollackrocket Sure, it might not get to 300k+, but Subaru is not what it used to be.

[@Honestandtruth007]

​@@pollackrocket I own Subaru Forester 2014 with no issue.....I got 80,000 miles on it. Today's car I just don't like START/ STOP feature. It's bad idea 👎

[@kpokfposkf]

a proper test should be Symmetrical AWD vs SH-AWD vs Quattro, heck the new grand highlander AWD system seems worthy of a challenge as well.

[@FlowTieGuy]

​@@kpokfposkfthe Subaru would still win.

[@josefpeprnicek82]

Subaru is the beast car.it's unbelievable what this machine can do. Greetings from the Czech Republic 🇨🇿👍

[@seventystix6964]

I'm glad Toyota owns Subaru market share, Giving us better cars

[@eppyz]

​@@seventystix6964Toyota owns 10% of Subaru not a controlling share.

[@fubartotale3389]

As I understand it, you can't give Subarus away in Europe.

[@eppyz]

​​@@fubartotale3389they sell well in the UK and other areas. Not sure about Europe as a whole VAG is #1 in Europe i believe 🤔

[@martinr8278]

@@seventystix6964 Subaru already has the best cars. Toyota only owns a small percentage, dream on.

[@rpiian]

That honestly is quite the punishing test. Can't believe how much progress that Subie makes even from a standstill.

[@127Foxtrot]

Yes, very much agree, it's a massively gruelling test on both vehicles. Admittedly I am Subie fan (my 2022 Outback is my 4th Subie to date), but you can take any isolated Subaru or Toyota single vehicle test and praise or slag about the results as you wish. It's when you get two vehicles tested on the same day, A vs. B, side by side, that I really admire Driving Sports TV going to the trouble of performing. So the comparisons are then about as fair as you can ever hope to make them.

[@rpiian]

@@127Foxtrot💯%

[@honnorgaurd]

as a 2021 sport crosstrek owner, im honestly amazed seeing a near equal version of my car just plow up through that like a legit snowplow.... seen plenty videos showing off what these things are capable of and it never ceases to amaze me. there's a reason why you see so many of us rock subarus up here in the north and northwest. these things are nuts.

[@rpiian]

@@honnorgaurd For sure. I’d strongly consider an X-Mode Subaru for my next car. Maybe they’ll make a Wilderness Ascent 😄

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

First year with my Subaru Forester, 2018, NA 6MT, I had winter tires on, and we got 10 inches of snow I Cleveland Ohio. I had a 20deg hill to climb, with ten inches of unplowed snow. My Forester climbed that road with the traction of a spooked cat on a carpet.

[@chriscon8463]

I’m in Erie. My wife has a ‘21 Forester with 4 studded snow tires, and I would take that car over my Wrangler with AT tires any day in the snow!

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

@@chriscon8463 Just put the wife in a 2020 Outback, this is her first winter in it. It's a step up in every way....from her 2014 Chevy Equinox....because most things would be....😅

[@chriscon8463]

They’re such great cars! I love that yours is a manual transmission; those are few & far between. I think Subaru quit putting them in their new Foresters & Crosstreks but I’ll have to look that up.

[@OutsideTheTargetDemographic]

@@chriscon8463 I think they still MAKE manuals, but America doesn't get them due to 3% of the population being willing to purchase them. It will prob be the last manual I own....😭...every vehicle I have owned has been manual. Oh well, I'm not at risk of motorcycles making only automatics. 🤓

[@tommc3622]

​@chriscon8463 Unfortunately, they stopped putting them in almost everything. The WRX is now your only non-CVT option in a Subaru. (In America)

[@cramias1]

I fell into watching this channel when shopping and comparing vehicles, ultimately settling on an outback wilderness. Even though I'm not in the market anymore, I keep watching because episodes like these end up dropping useful info on how to best put these AWD systems to use. This was a highly educational demo of how to correctly utilize the deep snow/mud setting.

[@porsche558]

The Outback Wilderness is an awesome car! Once I get into a better place financially I plan to trade in my 15 Outback 3.6r for a Wilderness XT. The price of all new cars as of late is a bit ridiculous unfortunately.

[@tpar2437]

Same.

[@akilghosh]

Don't do it. It's made in America and never buy the first variant

[@masonthomas9671]

Your outback actually has a better version of the AWD system on display here. When he says the x mode keeps dropping out above 25mph, your outback does not do that and stays in x mode. Which is pretty great.

[@Traumatree]

@@masonthomas9671The OBW doesn't suffer from that issue it stays in Xmode 2 above 25mph. The Crosstrek Wilderness is an entry car that doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the OBW or Forester Wilderness.

[@GearReviewDepot]

Having owned/driven Subaru’s for almost 30 years, got my first Crosstrek in 2016 then traded it in for the Crosstrek Sport in 2021… I’ll never drive anything else. It’ll always be Subaru for me.

[@fishermanmitch1]

I bought a crosstrek wilderness 2 weeks ago, and although its only been tested in 4" of snow as of now...at least I can expect to handle deeper storms. Thank you for making this video. Really cool to watch the little mountain goat climb, climb, climb.

[@TexasStormChaser]

Wait till the CVT overheats and cuts power, edited out of this video. It's edited out of all Subaru tests, as Subaru in their press car contracts does not allow reviewers to say or show anything negative.

[@briAction]

​@TexasStormChaser Ryan literally credits the additional transmission cooling as the reason it *doesnt* overheat. So what you're really saying is Ryan is being disingenuous. More likely just a hater.

[@TexasStormChaser]

@@briAction Ryan by contract can not say anything negative about the car. Everything he says is scripted and has to be approved by Subaru.

[@briAction]

@@TexasStormChaser whether that's the case or not, wouldn't he say nothing in that case then, instead of lying? You're literally calling him a liar lol.

[@TexasStormChaser]

@@briAction Ryan is an actor, and this is a Subaru commercial. He says whatever they pay him to say.

[@brandonb.5304]

Pretty impressive that the Crosstrek was basically high centered the entire time and still made it that far up the hill.

[@miller1]

Absolutely. The RAV4 TRD OffRoad couldn't even follow in the Crosstrek pre-plowed (twice) trail, and it failed with the AWD overheated at that. And the Toyota Rav4 is at a much higher price for much lower performance. Toyota should be embarrassed...

[@raffikkiz]

@@miller1it drove over iced gravel that the cross trek uncovered, with horrible tires for the snow. A bit incomparable.

[@miller1]

@kiz Not exactly...but agree they are not comparable... And there is No Excuse for the Torque Vectoring AWD system overheating. The TRD Off-Road (and Adventure/Trail) has a transmission cooler... I should also add that I have two Toyotas and I am not a Subaru fan (wouldn't buy a CVT or underpowered AWD).

[@d.whaire469]

I’m in the market for a good SUV AWD and the Subaru is the front runner and after this I won’t even look at Toyota. Subaru is a fricken luxury snow plow lol

[@mjbucar]

The Subaru ALREADY broke a trail on the road for the RAV4 and yet the RAV4 OBVIOUSLY UNDER-PERFORMED. THAT says it ALL!

[@mikefoehr235]

My thots as well

[@pr0xb0ct]

Exactly my thought. It wasn't a fair test when plying with Subaru for RAV4. BS

[@127Foxtrot]

Agree, although there's no way around the fact that one of the vehicles has to go first. The Crosstrek laying the tracks first so much underscores just how impressive the Wilderness version is. The TRD Rav4 just quite can't match it, I think because - compared to the Crosstrek Wilderness - the TRD is ~300 lbs heavier, plus 1 inch less ground clearance, & maybe has slightly less capable tyres... ?

[@Studio89Graphic]

@@127Foxtrot And 6k USD$ more expensive. (And Subaru are much easier/faster to have Engine Oil/Filter Changed than the Toyoda.

[@Cmdr_Travis_Robicheaux]

The Subaru legit had better tires and he even said the rav4 tires were not rated even though the last model were.

[@bjsimon802]

I own a 3rd Gen Rav4, we get some of toughest snow in Canada, and some of coldest temperature on the earth, And my Rav4 has saved me many winters, and has lasted me 15 years. The New Rav4 awd is way better than mine. I have easily gone in 50 cm of snow with the truck in -46 with Windchills of -61. These are amazing in the snow for what they are. Tires make huge difference for both cars

[@shumann1605]

I would love to see a comparison with winter tires to see just how much more capable they are. Disappointing to see Toyota RAV TRD Off-road just can not hang with the Crosstrek. Great Video, love it.

[@carstenhansen5757]

Great idea. I'd like that too.

[@robertolouth7468]

A test with same tires would be interesting, although Subaru seems unbeatable. Great work, thank you!

[@AmirSharon]

The magor thing that crosstrak has is a cooler oil gear , this is the true game changer between the TRD to the widerness. I put to my Forester Sport a big oil gear cooler, in Israel we have a very hot weather. Subaru has tp put this cooler oil gear in every Subaru.

[@MichelGiltay]

Quels sont les pneus sur les véhicules ? J'ai pas l'impression que sur le toyota vous avez des pneus neiges. Et ce ne serai pas là première fois que vous faite un faux comparatif du genre

[@marceljohnson2215]

In the Subaru tracks no less. I get Ryan did it for safety more than anything but make that Toyota make it’s own tracks 😂

[@andrewsnow7386]

I really appreciate tests like these that reveal the all too common AWD overheat problem. You also deserve a lot of credit for being accurate about the hill angle and listing both the angle and slope. Thanks!

[@jamespostle6894]

seems like subaru had the more robust and efficient awd system. Both the honda and toyota cuv awd systems seem to struggle when pushed hard. . it seemed like the toyota was trying to stop wheel spin at all costs to save the more delicate awd system whereas the subaru was using the wheel slip to keep momentum.

[@cbrider6267]

I drove my Forester Wilderness on messy, snowy roads today. It performed superbly. What a goat.

[@AmirSharon]

The wilderness models have a cooler oil gear this is a huge advantage that anable the transmission to work hard.

[@irbis_ap5946]

Subaru is love. From Russia with Love. Хочу Субару!!!

[@himura9031]

Wife and i have a 2021 Crosstrek sport and have studless blizzaks on it for the winter. It is an absolute animal in the snow here in northern Oregon. Best car decision made.

[@bradkarm1]

Hands down, Ryan does the best real world testing! I have to say I am shocked how the Subaru took such a beating on the way up the hill, and didnt seem to complain at all. Especially the CVT, having been stuck in the snow with two different cars with a CVT, they really dont like it.

[@wanglee21]

Even the old Subaru CVT's never had issues. Not all CVT's are made the same

[@traderadam]

I have the Crosstrek wilderness and have driven in blizzard conditions here in CO with both stock and winter tires (Blizzaks). Blizzaks make this car way better in snow then the Yokohama's. Also, driving in manual mode with deep snow setting is the only way to go. No problems making making through deep snow or hills. The 25mph limit though should be pushed to 30 or even 35 in future models. The car is a beast though with snow tires compared to my old 2015 Crosstrek in snow.

[@fuimus5755]

This is another reason why I LOVE my 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Sport.

[@RoyalEmpressTree]

It's almost like a secret club that others don't know about because they haven't owned one. 22 Crosstrek sport here

[@madlucio70]

That Crosstrek is fantastic! I love seeing it inch along and switch power from above. Great video.

[@NothingCoherent]

I wonder if Subaru is aware of how many vehicles Ryan has sold for them? I bought a Crosstrek last year strictly because of him. I live on a ski hill and previously owned 4X4 trucks. I'm happy to report back that the Subaru AWD is amazing, and in some ways better than transfer case 4x4 (no more axle hop when turning into a plowed parking lot and hitting traction suddenly!). On top of that, I once got 39 mpg (true 39; manually calculated) on a road trip. My old pickup topped out at like 18 or 19. Very happy with my Crosstrek. I'll trade in for a Wilderness model when they give it a front camera.

[@mmiller1188]

Years ago we were doing a jeep ride on unmaintained seasonal highways. Snow over ice. We had Jeeps in both ditches, stuck at the top and stuck at the bottom. These had lockers, all terrains. Then a Subaru just putts it's way past us with no drama and continues on through the unplowed snow

[@JodyCarbone]

I live up a steep driveway in the Blue Ridge Mountains. '24 CTW is my first Subaru, also decided largely by reports from Driving Sports TV. I can also happily state that I'd rather go down my snowy 16 degree drive than any 4x4 I've owned.

[@andrewh7599]

Lol. Pretty sure they know every time they send him a paycheck. You serious? You realize who pays him, right?

[@SpiseyMcHaggis]

@@andrewh7599 Learn how youtube and the internet work. You have to be a boomer 😂

[@WildernessForever]

​@@mmiller1188That happened with my Forester! Two big lifted trucks off in the ditch and mine just walked past em. I did get my little Crosstrek Premium stuck once last winter. Totally my fault

[@michaelwagner3952]

Subaru’s definitely make up for power with their AWD capability. They have a great system. There’s a lot of comments here about tires being unfair. Not everyone wants to drop another $1200 on tires after buying a brand new vehicle.

[@Carlos-jh5tb]

Subaru comes stock with all terrains with a winter rating. TRD could easily equip the same tires for the same cost.

[@jkid4855]

@@Carlos-jh5tb the TRD has AT which is close to the Subaru. It's a fair comparison.

[@perpelle]

Why is 1200 bucks a big deal when you bought a vehicle for 30k+? Two sets of tires are almost mandatory if you want good performance in the winter. Don't get fooled that you don't need it because you have AWD.

[@michaelwagner3952]

@@perpelle to each their own, I guess. To me, it’s similar to buying a brand new house and replacing all of the flooring when you move in. I tend to shop around and buy the exact vehicle equipped for the purpose intended.

[@AmirSharon]

The wilderness X mode is different from all models because it start againe after 15 mile ,in Outback it unlimit speed ,the cooler oil gearbox is doing a huge change that able the wilderness to do that and also to tow 3500 pound instade 1500 pound. Subaru has to install this cooler in every model it is cheap and can save a lot of failures in the cvt gearbox.

[@jeffer1101]

The Crosstrek is actually a subcompact, whereas the Forester is the compact class. The subcompact Toyota equivalent would be the Corolla Cross, but there isn't (currently) an "off road" trim available in that model. The hill climb, especially on factory tires is a pretty good challenge for the vehicle. If equipped with real winter tires, both would likely do better as well, but I get that wasn't the point of this video and test. A big advantage of the Subaru Wilderness trims (Crosstrek, Forester and Outback) is the 4.11 gearing and transmission cooler. These more challenging off road tests for most "soft roaders" will cause their AWD systems to overheat. I've seen many tests of various Wilderness trimmed vehicles do some pretty challenging off road tests (many on this channel too) and I've never seen a Subaru system overheat. In the "soft roader" category, the Subarus really are the best (in terms of capability). However, if someone prefers some of the other brands/models out there, the reality is, these tests are likely more challenging than most people would ever use anyway, so if you really like the RAV4 and it suits your needs better, don't worry if it didn't do as well in this test since you'd likely never do this anyway. If you need something this robust, then you would need to consider the Subaru or perhaps other vehicles that may do better (Cherokee Trailhawk? or perhaps a Wrangler, Forerunner, Grenadier, etc). True "off road" vehicles that have robust mechanical 4WD systems. Get what you need and will be happy with.

[@porsche558]

I like to simplify it for people by saying AWD is unbeatable in any weather on road and 4WD with a low range and diff lockers is a total beast off road.

[@rokuth]

I think he did mention that the Subaru Forester would be the better comparison to the RAV4, but it wasn't available in the Press fleet(?). The 2025 Forester will get all the goodies in the Crosstrek in the form of all the technical gadgets but I don't think there will be a Wilderness trim for the 2025 year. BTW, I did see one YT video where the Subaru Crosstrek (2016) did have a tranny overheat issue, but it was in the middle of summer in the the Arizona desert. It only did that once in the video, and it was offscreen.

[@jeffer1101]

@@rokuth I know, but he mentioned the Crosstrek as a compact, which it isn't. It is a subcompact. I would imagine they will (or should) continued the Wilderness trims as they are a very strong seller.

[@MFWb00bi3s]

@@rokuth wilderness trim has a transmission cooler. first gen crosstrek wouldn't have this feature hence the overheating.

[@wanglee21]

Yeap AWD from Jeep, Ford, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, etc. that all overheat so easy, and they are all AMT. Only their 4x4 are able to do these test without as much overheating. Subaru did something amazing with their CVTs that every keep saying will over heat but has not yet.

[@joshc606]

I’m surprised the Subaru system didn’t overheat like other brands. Good job Subaru!

[@xyz-md2mv]

I am not surprised at all. Subaru owner here.

[@Wrang15]

They don't over heat been on a beach in sugar sand air temp in the 90s. 15psi in the tires.. bottom rubbing sand the whole time.

[@eddi3401]

Had no idea AWD systems heat up

[@zeno15sti33]

😅 full bananas you won't get stuck enough to overheat

[@journeymancellist9247]

I bought a Subaru Crosstrek…Alpine Green. I call it “Soupy” because it looks like pea soup. I chose well.

[@knightryder3757]

Excellent review. However, because the CrossTrek already went up the hill, it made it infinitely easier for the Rav4 because the depth of the snow was reduced by plowing the top surface, as such, reducing the bottoming out effect that occurs when going through snow deeper than the overall ground clearance of the vehicle. The more a vehicle is suspended off the ground by going over a surface that is higher than its ground clearance, the less downward pressure the wheels have on the ground to propel itself. Secondly, it already created a track. As a Canadian living in a climate where snow and deep snow is a reality 8 months of the year, that makes all the difference in the world. After a major snowfall, the cars that usually get stuck are the ones that are the first to go down the un-plowed road. The cars that usually make it through, are the ones following the track that was created before it got there. Lastly, airing-down, as you put it, defies science. If you air-down your tires, you're creating a larger contact patch. While that may sound like you would have better traction, when it comes to tires, the reverse is true because by creating a larger contact patch, you're reducing the downward PSI force of the weight of the vehicle on that wheel by spreading it out. This is why narrower tires have the advantage over wider ones when all else is equal. This is why, believe it or not, Model-T cars were actually quite good in snow. And yes, all things being equal, for a variety of reasons, the Crosstrek did better than the Toyota, IMO.

[@Western-Wild]

I drive in snow quite often, including the same storm that produced these conditions. I’d take the fresh powder that the Crosstrek drove through any day. Older snow with tracks in it is a lot harder to drive through.

[@knightryder3757]

@@Western-Wild Harder for trying to turn out of the tracks, but not straight forward propulsion in existing tracks, it's infinitely easier.

[@ElgenHansi]

@@knightryder3757 You can't compare two different days like this. Snow can be wastly different from one day to the next, and as a result, the value of this comparison test is only (good) entertainment.

[@housepianist]

@@ElgenHansibut it’s still an indicator of how well (or poor) these vehicles can do in situations like this, although no sane person would ever drive these vehicles in this manner. In the real world of winter driving, both vehicles will do just fine, even with different tire configurations but these real-world extreme conditions does show that the Crosstrek would be more suitable and capable.

[@knightryder3757]

​@@ElgenHansi In this case you can, both days were well below freezing. Had the tracks turned to frozen ice, it be a different story. Like I said, there was more on-the-ground downward weight to the wheels favoring the Toyota because the Crosstrek cleared a layer of snow for it. Secondly, the Toyota's wheels didn't have to push through 1 foot of fresh snow because the tracks were already laid. Ultimately, I'm not hear to argue, I stated my opinion based on 50 years of driving in Canadian prairie and northern Alberta winters including more blizzards than I care to remember, 15 years of which was driving a tow truck. Ultimately, both vehicles did very well. You all are free to believe as you wish. 🙂 In closing, I will say this, for the purpose of winter snow driving side-by-side comparison, it would be helpful if Ryan had both vehicles at the same time with parallel routes where one vehicle doesn't compromise the test track by going over it first. Lastly, both vehicles should be wearing the same boots. But as Ryan said, Toyota chose to put those particular boots on their vehicle, so if it didn't do as well, it's on them.

[@terrychamberlin941]

In my previous comment to the 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness drive Ryan did around his new “wilderness” course in beautiful Washington state, I blamed he and Driving Sports for making us buy a Crosstrek Wilderness and so enjoying our off-road adventures. Now I haunt his channel looking for his Crosstrek Wilderness videos. Living down around San Diego, CA, we don’t get much snow, but I watch Ryan’s videos as he teaches us how to drive off-road through various conditions. Also, I love to see confirmation after confirmation about what a wonderful little beast/goat this car truly is. I read others comments that Ryan’s videos are essentially free advertisement for Subaru so we should have a write-in campaign to Subaru to give this car to Ryan after the 6-month loan. If you have a Subie, remember that Subaru has a weblink where you can add your Subaru Family story…so write yours and don’t forget Ryan when you do. As you can probably tell, although I am married, I am a fan girl for Ryan❤️.

[@apocalypse487]

We got like 5 inches of snow recently. My Impreza has WS90s on them right now. It's so much better than the all season tires everyone said I should keep on during the winter.

[@sergeik4792]

NOKIA !!!

[@Studio89Graphic]

Also, Most Subaru CrossTrek/ Foresters have been Made in Japan... On our/my Subaru Legacy 1992 Model L; I had the OEM Winter and Rims (Tires Bridgestone); I have changed the Wheel (Rim & Tire) myself; Believe it or not the Winter Tires/Rims 1992 are still in fair Shape now (though sadly, the Car was Stolen last May 2023). Keep the OEM Made in Japan Tires = Either Yokohama and/or Bridgestone and we would be happy for the entire Life of the Subaru. (the 1992 Legacy had its original Timing-Belt until 2019! That is how Subaru have been that Good. Even back then 1981 the 4WD GL Subaru were 4WD car which no Toyoda nor Honda ever got the 4WD... Car.

[@Studio89Graphic]

([ 1972. The world's first mass-produced 4WD passenger car, the Subaru Leone 4WD Station Wagon, is released. ] ) Note: GL in USA/ Canada were Leone in Japan. 💏 💏

[@rightlanehog3151]

Ryan, Putting forward traction aside for a moment, I would like to underline how crucial real winter tires are in STOPPING a vehicle. 🥶

[@drivingsports]

Solid point.

[@vladimirsvetlov1243]

True. However, only a small fraction of drivers bother enough with staying alive to switch the tires for the winter. To be fair, in NYC most cars live on the streets with no place to store seasonal tires. So, without judgment, people usually don't switch tires for winter, so it is important to know how the factory tires perform in adverse conditions.

[@johnfarel3152]

@@vladimirsvetlov1243you can also get a better compromise tire that is almost as good as a snow tire such as the Michelin cross climate 2 which can be driven all year round. It stops much better on snow and ice

[@jtec99]

I just use the snow bank to slow me down. Small trees and forest animals if I'm really cruising.

[@sergeik4792]

​@vladimirsvetlov1243 NOKIA !!!

[@rockymountainjazzfan1822]

The Crosstrek Wilderness did way better than I expected that it would. ALWAYS, in deep snow conditions, ground clearance is a big limiting factor. Once the snow depth exceeds the ground clearance of the vehicle, progress gets pretty difficult. The biggest downer of the Crosstrek is the CVT--the Crosstrek Wilderness with a conventional automatic transmission would be pretty unstoppable. That the CVT on the Crosstrek did not overheat in this test was pretty amazing. I would bet that the "non-Wilderness" Crosstrek without the transmission cooler would have overheating issues. For almost 20 years, I had a Jeep XJ with a 3" lift, 10.5" of ground clearance, aggressive off-road tires, and rear Detroit Locker differential. It was the best deep snow vehicle that I ever owned. 12"-18" of powder snow would barely phase it. My second best snow vehicle (and it's the best since I sold the XJ) is a lifted Jeep Liberty CRD. It has a factory limited-slip rear differential and moderately aggressive off-road tires. It's pretty unstoppable in up to about a foot of snow, but has less ground clearance than my old XJ. The Crosstrek Wilderness actually has a bit more ground clearance than the Libby.

[@jamespostle6894]

It'd possible a non wilderness would've overheated, but I think it not overheating had more to do with the awd system, and it's efficiency when dealing with slip. I've measured my cvt Temps in my cvt outback, and in the winter, it's never overheated from this type of usage in the video.

[@LuisMoreno-zg1zo]

About 2 years ago I was doing window shopping for a new midsize suv for my family. After I saw many videos of this guy I decided for the Outback wilderness. I did try RAV4, the CR-V and I was not impressed at all in one of these. Subí came on top with 5 stars safety rating plus all these capabilities made my decision to move forward. Great job Ryan. I am still watching his video to get better advantage of my Subí. Greetings from Oregon.

[@pucky900]

I have a 2021 Crosstrek and absolutely love it. Has been one of my fav cars I've own. Plus it got me threw one hell of a snow storm on my way out to CO. Even saw a snow plow in the ditch.

[@sz5478]

One of the best testingchannel ! Every time a pleasure to see. Explaining tires, conditions... Others don't. Excellent work ! Greetings from Germany 👋 Thank you.

[@richshan529]

I absolutely LOVE comparisons like this one!! I'm enjoying watching this Crosstrek doing this hard work since my wife drives a 2017 Crosstrek limited. May I suggest that you put some of those bright orange markers along your road to mark the danger zones? That way, you'll feel confident of where your danger zones are, and we get to enjoy this awesome content.

[@ModernAdventurerTravler]

I can’t emphasize enough how great Subarus are off-road. In those conditions many SU, weasel struggle but not Subaru. Very impressive performance

[@SquareGshock]

Nice comparison, looks like the TRD pro will tackle thoroughly plowed and salted roads like a charm 🤪

[@miller1]

It did quite well on the freeway...

[@raatorhtorcha7306]

😂😂😂😂 ya convenci a mi novia Texana deje su Toyota rab 4, con este video, no cambiaba de idea...casada más de 8 años con esa línea, y ahora que se fue su hijo a Denver y con este video...creo al fin cambiará por un verdadero carro de nieve ☃️...CROSSTEK. gracias Ryan, por ayudarme. 😂😊

[@bryermallow3783]

Love my ‘13 crosstrek, doesn’t have x mode but I have studded winter tires and it will go anywhere!

[@NightHawk-wj9mz]

I bought my first Subaru back in July. 23 Crosstrek premium. My winter driving confidence went up drastically with this vehicle. I don't even have the good xmode for deep snow and mud.

[@WildernessForever]

My little Premium got stuck in a big drift last Winter. X Mode wouldn't feel it. I wonder if the Dual X Mode Deep snow would have done it? Great little car...just the one incident and it was my fault for even trying to drive down that road in a blizzard ..but I had animals to take care of

[@NightHawk-wj9mz]

@@WildernessForever I wonder if the deep snow would work also but unfortunately I don't have that option. My incident was about 1/4 mile of maybe 1 to 2 feet drifts. I was getting pulled all over the road but never got stuck. I would get slowed down almost to a stop but I was still able to punch the gas and get out. Never even tried the xmode

[@GlebLapham]

As someone who is thinking of getting a Crosstrek Wilderness this was super helpful to watch! I am impressed with what the little Crosstrek can pull off. I would love to see the Crosstrek compared to a SUV with a proper 4x4 system just to see how something like that would compare to Subarus AWD system. Thanks again for the awesome video!

[@papiboy6290]

I suggest you to watch the video "Driving sport TV" made to compare the previous generation Crosstrek (202? sport trim, Ryan personal car) against a Bronco sport trim... very interesting may i say. :) Just search for it on youtube, I'm sure you'll find it easily.

[@stopjock14]

Here's the real world review of the Subaru crosstrek... I live in Cle Elum a few miles from your testing area. I commute 180 miles roundtrip to Seattle over Snoqualmie pass on a daily basis in all types of weather. I bought a '21 Crosstrek sport brand new. I ran Nokian Hakapelita 8's on it for winter season and it was about as good as it gets for snow and icy condition driving. So I did love this car for winter driving! However what all these reviews you see online fail to mention is Reliability and longevity. My Crosstrek was in the shop regularly every 5 weeks for scheduled maintenance due to the miles I put on it. In the 3 years I owned this car I spent thousands of dollars in repairs! 2 rear diff seals, all 4 wheel bearings went out, thermocontrol valve went out, heat shield on exhaust rusted off, and then I started losing coolant at around 132k due to gasket failure. There were numerous other issues that I can not think of at the moment... This was my first Subaru and my last! I went to a Rav4 hybrid AWD. Hoping for a much more reliable long lasting commuter... We will see!

[@downhillupside]

Report back, I guess. If you're putting 6 months of miles on a car every 5 weeks through heavy mountain driving in adverse weather conditions, I'm not sure if the Toyota is going to be THAT much better.

[@stopjock14]

Yep we shall see! I can tell you I was getting 26-27mpg with snow tires on the Subaru vs. 34-35 mpg with Cooper Evolution winter tires on the Rav.... also the Rav is much more comfortable and quiet inside with way less road noise. So far I am happy with it! @@downhillupside

[@authenthuse5165]

@@stopjock14 I am interested in hearing how the Toyota serves you in the next six months. Thanks for sharing.

[@richshan529]

Hmmm...We have a 2017 Subaru Cross-Trek limited, and we don't have any of the issues that you reported. Now we aren't putting that kind of mileage on it, and we aren't running the mountains with it on a regular basis...yet. I'm thinking that no matter what you drive in those conditions, you're going to have some issues. Maybe some proper underbody coating to help with rust and the elements? But no matter how you slice it, you have to do "maintenance" to keep your equipment in good running order. Mine would be in the shop every 5 weeks for regularly scheduled "maintenance" if I was doing that kind of driving too. We absolutely LOVE our Subaru, and I can't get her to trade it in on a new one. But good luck with the Rav4!

[@tasnimarony7104]

Do let us know how the Rav 4 holds up. We have the same one

[@lennyupstateny1850]

Great video. I had a 97 Rav 4 5 speed and towed a 18 foot boat with it and it went over 189,000 miles before I sold it. Great long lasting vehicle but I now have a Subaru and it’s wonderful in the snow. My only complaint now is no heated steering wheel option. Thanks for your comparison test.

[@slandshark]

We have a 2023 Subaru Ascent and drove through the same snow conditions a few weeks ago (same dry snow about 1 ft deep) on the north side of mt rainer. We did it again in slushier/warmer weather a week or two later. This is what we found: 1) Dry/deep snow: Even though we had falken wildpeak a/t trails (3 peak rated), we would get stuck in stuff that I think we should plow through. Stuff the crosstrek had no issues with in the video above. We also have higher ground clearance (2 inch lift) AND we have locking rear diff. Despite that, we would get stuck. The car wouldn't even budge in any combination of the x-modes. 2) In the deep/slush warmer snow: We would get to the point where the Subaru just wouldn't even apply power to the wheels. No wheel spin, it just wouldn't move. I tried all the modes, still nothing. This also happened in the dry/powdery snow. We'd get stuck and the wheels just wouldn't spin. It's almost like the car was protecting itself for some reason. No AWD overheating issues, but our CVT did eventually climb into the 230's after a lot of struggling in the snow while not moving.

[@C-Henry]

I've been commuting in the aftermath of the same storm to my job at PDX and it has me very seriously considering trading my Fiesta in for a Crosstrek. While I typically switch to my Xterra in adverse conditions, dealing with patchy ice a primary RWD vehicle that I'm only willing to put in 4x4 when traction is constantly poor is still more exciting than I'd like my drive to work to be. Videos like this only convince me that a Subaru is the way to go.

[@FYMASMD]

Don’t do it. There was zero talk about reliability and longevity. You can guarantee there will be engine and transmission issues on the Subaru. That’s what they do. CVT for off road is ludicrous.

[@fubartotale3389]

'18 Outback 3.6 Chicago based owner here. I had been swapping all seasons for dedicated winter tires, but now I have Michelin Cross Climate ll's and I wont need to be doing that any more. Our Daughter and son in law live outside Milwaukee and they get quite a bit more snow up there, they have the same tires and they are almost as good as dedicated winter tires in winter, plus being great in rain and very good in the dry. Well done Michelin!

[@chibongski]

Crosstrek Wilderness is truly a mountain goat. Excellent value sub 35k. Swiss Army knife of sub compacts. Roomy, great daily driver and more than off road capable. Watching the KZbin videos on this site made me purchase one. Happy satisfied owner of an Alpine Green Wilderness. Only thing missing is a front camera. I can’t wait for an OEM and aftermarket option hopefully soon.

[@jadewulf3625]

I have been researching an aftermarket back up camera to install on the front. I am hoping to find one that allows input onto the 11.6 “ infotainment screen while off roading. Similar to when I use Google maps as my navigation system it would be perfect.

[@js8619]

From the start of the video I gave the Toyota RAV4 TRD the benefit of the doubt and actually thought it was going to excel in the conditions presented. Being a 2018 Subaru Crosstrek owner for the past few years now I can definitely attest to the durability and dependability of the Crosstrek. I have driven the Crosstrek through numerous snowy and ice terrain in and out of Utah and Arkansas and most recently Arizona now. The Crosstrek wilderness stepped up to the challenge and paved most of the road without overheating issues, more vehicle stability and better driver confidence. Thanks Ryan and @drivingsports for the comparison and challenge between these two vehicles. #subienation

[@kidamere2408]

lol this guy couldnt stay in the groove to save his life in the rav, stevie wonder would had a better chance

[@martinr8278]

@@kidamere2408Toyota just can’t handle the difficulty…..but fantastic vehicle when going to Olive Garden or staying on paved roads, you certainly are going places. Embarrassing for Toyota

[@kidamere2408]

@martinr8278 but is it what's the best selling suv? Its not subaru

[@Valdismith]

Subaru is the car, if you want softer ride, bumpy road tolerant, nice on the highway, but more capable then the the other SUV's, when you need some off-road access, it's just a good combination and still doing so well with summer lower tires in the corners on a regular summer day, just confident with the boxer laying down low between the front wheels.

[@Hexsyn]

Been loving driving my crosstrek sport around yakima the past few days. I come from Montana where conditions are often like it currently is here in yakima, so it feels like home in the snow!

[@TeamMasterFunky]

Very happy with my Geyser Blue Crosstrek Wilderness. I was trying to decide between it and the non-trubo Outback Onyx. I go skiing often but with the seats down it holds all my stuff very well and if I'm taking friends I can just slap my roofbox on top. LOVE the look of it and love seeing how capable it is in these videos.

[@CoolPilot71]

I just want to take this opportunity to appreciate the amount of work this requires to put up such outstanding videos like these. Two thumbs up Ryan! I also experienced the same with my Crosstrek Wilderness with the 25mph cutoff in Xmode 2. That is a bit too low when wanting all fours to spin and keep momentum. And that is open diff to you.. I wish it had LSD. Nonetheless with Nokian winter tires, you just can't imagine what I was able to go through :) This thing is a beast!

[@briAction]

Wonder how the rav 4 would do with better tires, though the overheating issue is spooky. I have a 24 crosstrek wilderness on the way in a few weeks and your videos are keeping me hyped to ditch my fwd sedan. I just keep waiting for more videos to drop 😁

[@deltabravo1257]

As someone who lives in Washington, I can tell that this video was shot within the last week or so. The cold temps made the snow stick to I-90 for the better part of a week, which is unheard of. I’ve been looking at the pass cams multiple times a day and have been blown away how long the road surface has been compact snow and ice.

[@KreeH2023]

Great comparison! Tires matter, but also it seemed like the Subaru was less likely to overheat than the Rav 4 when pushed.

[@activepuck2225]

Last week I put down a deposit on a Crosstrek Limited, with this channel being a huge influence. While I’m not going to do anything extreme like you’ve done I do appreciate how you show how different vehicles react to particular situations while giving helpful tips. Keep up the great work. 👍

[@ianarsenault]

Honestly I was impressed the RAV4 made it as far as it did.

[@commoncents5191]

Lived in snow for years with 06’ outback with Blizzak tires. Ran like a snowmobile. We lived on a hill like this and never had a problem even in snow ice conditions.

[@01FozzyS]

The Crosstrek Snowplow! Well done, litle Crosstrek!

[@FelixBouchardDetail]

50 min video, we love that!! We had a lot of snow in Quebec and this car, with winter tires on in amazing

[@vladimirsvetlov1243]

Leasing Forester Wilderness because of your videos, definitely an improvement over Sport which I liked a lot. Test showed what we already know - Subies are capable vehicles, with limits outside most people aspirations. Toyota AWD is still prone to overheating, which would freak me out if I drove it, which I don't 😊

[@persevere777]

Wow, this comparison was an eye opener , some companies operate on being complacent, other companies follow the tried and true formula. In regard to the tires, if they both had the geolanders, the crosstrek would still be more capable , the rav was just following in the trail created and failed. This is good for totota to see this......

[@NOMADXVENTURES]

Love your tests, Ryan. You already mentioned having the right tires. I'd be curious to see the same thing done with the same cars with cables or chains. Thanks for all you do. Super informative and entertaining.

[@rokuth]

It would be interesting to see how a Ford Bronco Sport Badlands would fair next to the Crosstrek Wilderness. I think the Badlands has a lift, as well as a revised suspension, and a lower range final drive like the Wilderness. What I really would like to see is how some of the midsize Pick-up 4X4 would do on this test ground in the snow.

[@wanglee21]

It's a 4x4 not AWD. Also it has an electric rear diff lock, and about 100 more hp and torque.

[@AmirSharon]

@@wanglee21 Bronco Sport is an AWD

[@abbottsplace8080]

We are road testing both and looks like we might buy the Crosstrek. Thanks for your testing and video! Well done!

[@journeymancellist9247]

It’s November 2024…what did you get?

[@ninjaca]

FINALLY, some one actually testing how vehicles handle on a snowy highway (at least in a cursory manner)!!! Many people do not use their AWD vehicles to go off-road (...perhaps except short drives on unpaved roads); they are concerns with how they perform on regular roads and Hwys. Please consider testing AWD vehicles on a paved test course at higher speeds. Thx

[@martinburns342]

Great video Ryan. Subaru all the way for me. Good to see you using an Aussie made product. 🇭🇲

[@Zedra666]

Subaru ain't Australian 😂

[@davecaselli1957]

@@Zedra666 The tire pressure lowering devices were.

[@darrenmacomb7718]

Iv been planning on buying a new awd/4wd vehicle and been saving for the last 3 years. Iv already been interested in the subaru crosstrek (iv been looking at limited and wilderness), and this honestly just seals the deal. Iv looked at the toyota corolla cross/rav4/mazda cx-30, and the subaru crosstrek. All my research was pushing me towards the crosstrek, this just confirmed what I thought. Great video. Subscribed and +liked! thank you!

[@snowqueenny4879]

Its all ways amazing to see how capable these little cars are (especially the subie)

[@matthewrodenbeck2235]

I have watched many of your videos, but this video made me subscribe. My wife drives a 2013 Outback and I drive a 2014 Subaru Impreza. I’ve tried to convince my wife it’s time to look for a new vehicle for her, but she keeps putting me off. We live in central Indiana where the winter can be unpredictable. She is a nurse and AWD is why we bought the Outback. Her brother works for Toyota so we get the employee discount, but after watching this video we will be back at the Subaru dealership once I can convince her. Thank you for the great content!

[@LionRunner]

I don't remember anyone testing good as Ryan. The best place to see the limits of a vehicle. Also I don't remember any video showing Rav4 "TRD Offroad" winning any off pavement test. Utter useless having that name "TRD Offroad". AWD overheating is game over imo. Those 3 electromagnetic clutch / drive units on the Rav4 is very expensive as far as I know. I don't see a point of buying a "TRD offroad" vs would pick a Limited with same torque vectoring AWD and use it for on pavement needs.

[@Sirgromulus]

No one even comes close to Ryan re. these reviews and comparisons. He goes above and beyond.

[@scottandersonp.eng.5600]

Or just get the Adventure trim for $3500 less. You would not get the red shocks and TRD badge on the seats...that's the only difference.

[@TheCreateOutdoors]

I had the opportunity this past weekend to use my Forester Wilderness offroading in snow this weekend and it handled like a dream. It was amazing to see how capable it truly was!

[@marm.1865]

This isn't the review we wanted, this is the review we needed. Driving Sports TV 👌

[@JM90415]

Just wanted to drop a note and let you know that I really do enjoy your channel. You and whoever else is behind-the-scenes obviously puts a lot of work into it. I’m not sure if this is your channel or if it’s owned by a corporation and you just work for it. Either way you do a good job and I appreciate the work you put into it. Very informative..

[@bendcamp4849]

Cool video! My understanding of the overheating AWD system is that the rear differential with the clutch pack is the weaker link. The transmission may not be the culprit. I’ve seen others comment on the rear differential in the GR Corolla and how it has the same issue. The clutch pack can generate a lot of heat when in use. Overheating aside, the clutch pack seems like a more sophisticated system yet lacks the cooling capacity for challenging conditions. The best of both worlds may be the Subaru AWD system with the TORQ Masters semi-locking rear differential.

[@下田洋介-w4z]

Subaru's coupling cluch system is integrated into the huge transmission case, so a lot of oil can use to keep cooling the clutch pack.

[@niuhuskieguy]

Your right, the twin clutches sound more sophisticated on paper, but in practice they are limited on what they can handle. Ryan has a couple off road vids with the twin clutch diff and it couldn't handle the obstacle like the Subaru did. They really need to implement it like Ford did with the Bronco Sport.

[@BigMacIIx]

My understanding is most AWD used computer controlled clutch pack for center diff where basic Subaru used a viscous coupling differential. On a clutch driven diff, It will disengage when you stop and get a moment to engage when you beat the throttle with the wheels stuck in the snow, thus wearing the diff.

[@niuhuskieguy]

@BigMacIIx The viscous coupling awd system is only used on manual transmission Subaru's, however it's a 50/50 default split and is always engaged. The automatic/cvt models use a computer controlled clutch.

[@下田洋介-w4z]

​@@BigMacIIx Subaru has four types of awd system, 1.hydromatic active lsd + center-diff (VTD-AWD), 2.electromagnetic active lsd + center-diff (DCCD), 3.hydromatic active torque split (ACT-4), and 4.viscous lsd + center-diff .

[@olivier.st-amand]

I already picked the crosstrek's big brother (outback wilderness) and I love it for its first winter! Gotta admit though: I'm using real winter tires now: Michelin's Ice-Snow.

[@emp6410]

It's never a shootout because when you drive the Subaru the snow was almost knee deep, and you were driving the Crosstrek like a snow bulldozer. But when you drive the Rav4, the snow was not that deep anymore. Anyway, thanks for showing this video. It shows that the smaller Crosstrek handles the deep snow better.

[@judih.8754]

I agree. I thought he would take a different track up the mountain. Subaru for the win!

[@franciscoayon9470]

Easier to drive on lose snow than compacted snow with temperture dropping,freezes and gets more slippery and worse if uphill

[@madlucio70]

This is awesome! We are getting temps between 0-4 degrees F and are buried in snow. Love this video as it is really fitting to the conditions that those of us in the great white north have to deal with. My Crosstrek PHEV handles it all in style, so I am rooting for the Trek ;)

[@markos.2315]

Would be cool to see it with winter tires and both the same

[@ranran2218]

I have a subaru wrx with gt radial ice pro 3. We got hit with 12.5 inches of snow here in iowa a few days ago and I had no issues getting around. My wife has a 2021 forester sport with cross climate 2 tires and she had no issues either. Subaru awd paired with dedicated winter tires is 2nd to none

[@MatthewDownardYoga]

Great video and a looks like a great deal of fun. I own a Forester. My girlfriend a Crosstrek and I drive an Outback at work. Truckee, Ca. And for those that don't know, dedicated snow tires make all the difference with cornering and stopping. Which are sort of important.

[@Traditions78]

I drive a 2023 outback and my girlfriend has the 2023 rav 4. I love my subarus but she said she was impressed with her rav4 in the last storm. We live in Wisconsin. She said she was driving in snow and sport mode combined.

[@simd510]

which is a more comfortable ride?

[@jmyers6175]

I prefer the toyota Rav4 in army green. Beautiful color. Love the looks.

[@martinr8278]

They do look great in the garage and driveway, I guess Subaru drivers prefer more from their vehicle like…the reliability, safety, ability to go off road, a better all-wheel-drive than Toyota, etc etc

[@chrisb9478]

Subarus are the best vehicles I’ve ever driven on snow or ice. Their Awd is 🔥

[@bernieroses718]

The Crosstrek is so impressive. Wow!

[@DougVandegrift]

Snow tests will tell you a lot about a vehicle's off road capabilities. That Wilderness is impressive! My pick for sure.

[@KyrosX27]

07:17 Ryan, do you mean higher than 9.3 inches? The Crosstrek Wilderness's ground clearance is 9.3", the normal Crosstreks' are 8.7. Either way, that's pretty deep snow! Thanks for the review!

[@mn-kjrxii8431]

Really learned a lot !! Definitely the Crosstrek was the winner. If you live in an area where it snows heavily go with the Crosstrek

[@arkos55]

Glad you pointed out that 3 peak tires are not as good as full winter tires. Some newer 3 peaks seem to be quite good though, and for those that wait for the plows to treat the roads, they’ll be enough. No beating winter tires though. A good set of Nokians will turn even a fwd car into a mountain climber.

[@Kittamaru]

I've got a set of Michellin Crossclimate 2s on my 13 Legacy, and they've been fantastic. Took it to a skate rink of a parking lot and was floored at how aggressively I could brake, corner, and accelerate without feeling squirrelly. My set of Blizzaks of course outperform the handidly in ultra cold conditions, but these Crossclimates have seriously impressed me!

[@johnwren3965]

Man i love my crosstrek, so much more convenient and just as capable for what i do (depending on clearance) than my fx4 2021 ranger! Although, it sucks having to ask friends again for a dump run haha. There is 100% a reason the subbie is loved in the PNW!

[@ffl1409]

Appreciate the level of effort you put into these tests. Hope these videos are paying off monetarily.

[@mattcollins7939]

“I need more power, more clearance, and a more aggressive tire.” Thats a cool way to say “I need a Subaru.” 😉😉😉😘

[@JesusTorres-bw3bn]

Not surprised the RAV4 struggled that much, Subarus are just on another level when it comes to AWD snow performance.

[@Michael-ur5qb]

I stumbled on this channel and I am loving it. There’s another channel I used go watch and they couldn’t even get the Crosstrek up a hill. It was clear they were trying to justify their terrible relationship with Subaru that they messed up. It’s nice not seeing a bias review.

[@martinr8278]

TFL? The only testing I would trust from them is some thing of a remote control car. Those guys are complete morons.

[@slayeraxis6092]

i wish you guys could put the exact same rubber on the cars. its really really hard to compare when the tires are not apples to oranges... but its still quite fun interesting to watch. on the same tires the comparison would be really interesting to compare against if you ask me.

[@trainstractorscarsandtruck7362]

The airing down of the tires isn't an unfair advantage. The Subaru had Winter rated tires. Not sure if you noticed or not but you moved the wheel alot more with Rav 4 when backing down and trying again. Going off into the deep stuff and generally YOU made the course harder to climb with the RAV4. I owned a RAV4, 2009 V6 for over a decade. Was driven in mostly near frozen temperatures and I have a steep country driveway. With snow tires I never once got overheat warming. That's because it barely spun wheels. My wife called it the tank. I think it would have done a lot better going first. I think the Subaru would have faired slightly worse if it went up second with trail packed 4 times. Powder is much easier to go thru and up then hard packed, iced tire tracked trails. Of course this is my opion. Like your videos and the effort put into them.

[@practicaldriver]

I'm a simple man. I see Ryan upload, I click play!

[@dhkitson1]

I have a stock 2023 Crosstrek 2.0 litre. I drive throughout the winter over two big passes between the Okanagan valley and Vancouver BC Canada. I’ve found it a fantastic vehicle for difficult winter highway driving as well as deep snow unplowed backroads. I have a set of Nokian Hakkapeliitta factory studded winter tires on it which makes driving on ice almost like being on dry pavement. The Canadian models also come with a heated steering wheel.

[@commbubba1990]

I would have liked to see you make a final run in your ranger to show the differences in Crossover AWD systems and true 4wd capabilities. Otherwise great video. Thanks.

[@drivingsports]

We thought about it... but the video was already running 50-minutes! (And a new weather system moved in right after we left with the RAV4, adding even more snow to the course, making comparisons moot.)

[@TheNotimprezed]

Its not just capabilities of the 4x4, its the ground clearance. Most trucks are gonna have effectively 15+ inches of ground clearance and be hard to high center in snow. For example, my F150 has 17" to the body behind the front tire and 19" in front of the rear. And most everything under the truck is higher than that. They will comfortably drive through snow that will high center CUVs and I see that all the time where I live. The only snow that gave the truck problems was a 62" dumping.

[@commbubba1990]

@@TheNotimprezed - 2024 F150 4x4 is listed at having 9.4" of ground clearance. Not 15.

[@TheNotimprezed]

@@commbubba1990 yes but look under a truck, not just the lowest point. You aren't gonna get high centered on the rear diff or frame rail in the snow. Compared to new CUVs that have a fully flat underbody that just pack the deep snow underneath and then high center. I see it all the time.

[@michaelbalding3694]

Amazing performance from the Subaru! As we very rarely get to drive in those snow conditions, if ever, I love seeing these cars perform the feats you’re giving them the opportunity to. Thanks, Ryan, keep the informative, & entertaining videos coming!