Posted by: @george-s

Subaru Crosstrek has a CVT (JATCO?) 👎 You mentioned recently that their head gasket issues have been resolved.

Subaru manufactures their own CVTs, they're not from Jatco. The boxer engine's head gasket issues were fixed years ago when they were redesigned for timing chains instead of belts. The main issue with Subarus at this point is you would want to ignore the "lifetime CVT fluid" mantra of Subaru of America and the dealers. Regular fluid changes are needed to get the best life out those things.

All are fine vehicles.

If you asked me this question a year ago, I would say CX-30 > Crosstrek > HR-V. The previous generation HR-V didn’t have much going for it, and it was built on Honda’s subcompact platform (Fit). Nothing wrong the platform, you just seem to get more car with the Mazda and the Crosstrek. 

But this year: HR-V > CX-30 > Crosstrek. But the latest generation HR-V has wowed me. It is built on Honda’s compact platform, aka the Civic platform. If you get one with the K Series engine, that engine has been in production forever, so it is pretty robust and reliable, not to mention legendary in some configurations.   not only that, but the interior is ergonomic and aesthetic, besting Mazda, which usually wins in that department. 

Yes, the HR-V does have a CVT, but they seem to hold up pretty well. Just make sure to double up on the transmission oil fluid exchange to be on the safe side. 

Mazda does have their Skyactiv platform going for them.  Ever since they severed ties with Ford, they have found their identity in quality. 

I’d get the Subaru if I needed AWD. But my needs don’t need that. 

Honda HR-V has a CVT

Assuming you aren't talking about the upcoming generation:

The unit on the previous generation was pretty bad.

They have a 7 year / 150,000 mile warranty extension, and yet I still wouldn't buy one.

And generally it's small and pretty miserable, just a lifted up Fit.

Subaru Crosstrek has a CVT (JATCO?)

Assuming you aren't talking about the upcoming generation:

The previous generation has a Subaru LineTronic CVT, NOT a Jatco.

It's half decent, they're kinda average as far as quality and durability.

Mazda has 2.5l engine

Mazda's 2.5L for the US market isn't a blessing, they do have issues with cylinder deactivation.

And Mazda's 6 speed automatics seem to be having more issues in recent years.

Issues with hesitation, jerky shifts, and other things too.

reliability

If you want reliability, get a Toyota Corolla Cross / CH-R.

The Toyota Corolla Cross is based on the Corolla and so far the main issues for the 2.0 are related to poor quality fuel, and short drives.

The CH-R is also a Corolla based SUV, but it uses a European specification powertrain, it's main issues all come from the driver not driving in a manner that's appropriate for a CVT.

If you're planing on driving in conditions that's not appropriate for a CVT (fast accelerations from standstill, sitting in traffic, operating on rough roads) get a Hybrid, although the overall lifetime of the vehicle will be limited by the battery (10-15 years),  the eCVT is much more solid than a traditional one (as in Toyota's case, the eCVT and CVT only share a name and non of the design / internals)

Are you aware of issues with the Mitsubishi 2023 Outlander Sport?

Mitsubishi Motors is DEAD - bought by Renualt-Nissan.

That model is on the chopping block, as all new "Mitsubishi"s will be re bagged Nissan.

And that the "Outlander Sport" is just a new name for the ancient 'Mitsubishi ASX'.

So, Realize that this is half a 9th generation Mitsubishi Lancer, and half 1st gen Jeep compass.

The engine on this thing was designed under "Global Engine Alliance" (Mitsubishi-Chrysler-Hyundai) - The 2.0 "MIVEC" installed in that Mitsubishi is closely related to Chrysler's "World Gasoline Engine" and Hyundai's "Theta", So the thing powering that brand new car, is a modification of what you'd find in a 2004 Hyundai Sonata.

About average (arguably below average) engine reliability wise, but pretty bad efficiency and refinement.

Under the hood next to a roughly average engine from the 2000s, You'll find a CVT.

But not any CVT, a Jatco - it's the "beloved" JF016E from the Nissan Rogue, Juke and Altima.

So the power train is not great at all.

And the rest of the car? Unremarkable, rare and lacks useful features like self lane centering.

I would not touch the Mitsubishi ASX ("Outlander Sport") with a 10ft pool.

Welcome first-time poster,

Those are 3 good cars.  I'd probably give a slight nod to the HR-V, especially in the FWD rather than AWD configuration.

I have a lot of experience with the Crosstrek, and reliability is fine.  @chucktobias is right about the CVT and head gaskets.  Subaru uses mostly CVTs these days because they fit better with the longitudinal boxer engines than a standard automatic transmission.  The early ones had some problems, but the current ones are at least average in reliability.  10 years ago or so, Subaru was using coated head gaskets, and the coating would fail; the current ones are regular noncoated gaskets and are fine.  Crosstreks also have great serviceability; very DIY-friendly.

Don't know as much about the Mazda, but AFAIK it is fine also.  And I would guess the cabin is more refined than the Subie.

Overall, I would feel confident with any of them.  Go with the one you find most appealing and has the most reputable local dealer in your area.

Cheers, and Happy New Year!

PS: Take a look at the search bar above.  You'll find a lot more on these models.

What years are you looking?