- Subaru's Crosstrek is a dominating figure in the small crossover category and prospective customers have choices even within the Crosstrek lineup.
- Offered four trim levels, the Crosstrek Sport features the larger, 182-hp 2.5-liter flat four-cylinder, yellow-highlighted styling, and dual-function X-Mode.
- Class-leading off-road capabilities characterize all Crosstrek models, but is the Sport model's leather trim, 18-inch wheels, and 30-hp bump worth a $30,290 price tag?
Crawling up Plattekill Mountain, a miniature ski slope nestled in New York's Catskill mountain ranges, the accelerator pedal was pushed to the floor, and yet only the faintest engine noise could be heard. Following a steep, slimy descent down one side of the mountain, traversing a bog was the only way through, as our bike-cog-inspired wheels were nearly submerged in the freshly rain-softened mud. But the possibility of a frigid night stuck on the mountain wasn't even an afterthought, as a swift burst of power plowed us straight out.
From this anecdote, it would make sense that I was in a 35-inch tire, four-low, wench-equipped rig. But I was in a college-student special instead, a small crossover whose usual duty involves going from parking lot to parking lot.
Steel is the primary metal in the 2024 Crosstrek, though the new, flatter fender are aluminum.
More importantly, I was sitting in Subaru's most popular model, the Crosstrek. First introduced for the 2013 model year, Subaru's Crosstrek nameplate has accounted for over one million sales in the US since then, with sales peaking last year at 155,142 units sold. Compared to its direct competitors (Honda's HR-V, Toyota's Corolla Cross, and Mazda's CX-30), Subaru is winning the sales race by a minimum of 40,000 annual units. Let's call it a landslide.
To the watchful eye, these numbers aren't exactly surprising, but it takes a bit of driving and some number crunching to understand why the Crosstrek is so popular. For one, the price is right, with the 152-hp, 145 lb-ft 2.0-liter flat-four base model starting at $26,290 and rising to $27,440 for the Premium trim. If you'd prefer to have the 182 hp, 178 lb-ft 2.5-liter flat-four instead, your options are the $30,290 Sport trim or the $32,190 Limited version. Subaru says that its sales figures are split down the middle, with half of its customers going for the cost-conscious 2.0-liter while the other half crave additional power and leather seats.
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The Limited trim, shown here, removes the yellow exterior accents and is the only way to get leather seats in a Crosstrek.
There are some extra incentives to jump on the Crosstrek bandwagon, as 2024 model-year cars remain on Subaru's Global Platform chassis while receiving some key upgrades. The chassis is 10% stiffer thanks to full inner frame construction and additional structural adhesives, its aerodynamic profile has been revised through a new front-end and wheel arch design, and a revised, slightly loosened version of Subaru's infamous Symmetrical AWD system allows for more off-road capability. Comfort and connectivity were next on the list of priorities for Subaru, with all-new front seats (produced with the help of medical professionals) as well as improved sound deadening and two screen sizes (7-inch on the base model or 11.6-inch for the rest) for Subaru's proprietary Starlink Multimedia system to display on.
Day-to-day driving is easygoing but unremarkable from a performance perspective in the Crosstrek Sport, though the redesigned seats are particularly comfortable, and the improved sound deadening is leaps ahead of the previous generation, too. Getting up to 75 mph with the 2.5-liter FB25D flat-four happens in average time (though sounds strained); the Crosstrek is much happier to mosey along at state highway speeds of 50-60 mph. Selecting the sportier setting in Subaru's SI-Drive powertrain management system does add some clear enthusiasm to the throttle mapping, but the Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission is ultimately responsible for purveying the power.
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Dual-zone climate control is standard across the model line and functions seamlessly.
It does so in a predictable, enjoyable way so long as you don't reach for those steering-wheel-mounted paddles during acceleration. Left to its own devices, the CVT will choose the right ratio for the situation uninterrupted, though you can choose to drop a "gear" while descending for adequate engine braking. Even so, it feels like neither the top-of-the-line engine nor the significantly improved transmission is the star of the show in the Crosstrek Sport, but rather a tool for showcasing the chassis' true personalities. And the Crosstrek's personality has more to do with where it's going and who's behind the wheel than raw acceleration numbers.
It may not be an analog, no-nannies off-roader, but it's almost over-engineered for the kind of mudfest Vermont adventures it was made for.
Subaru let us loose on a muddy, steep-grade mountain with the X-Drive mode set to Deep Snow/Mud (allowing for additional wheel spin to power out of low traction scenarios) and a wish of luck. Not that we would need it; the Crosstrek Sport is shockingly capable as an off-road rig. Subaru's Symmetrical AWD is a proven system, but the 8.7-inch ground clearance and somewhat pedestrian 18-inch wheels hold their own too, as the Crosstrek showed off its 18-degree approach angle and 30.1-degree angle of departure. The intuitive Hill Descent Control system managed downright soaked slopes with ease (on street tires no less) while the electronic stability system and ABS combine for active torque vectoring that allows minor but natural feeling slippage.
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X-Mode also features a Snow/Dirt mode that revises the CVT ratios to allow for slow crawling on drier loose surfaces.
It may not be an analog, no-nannies off-roader, but it's almost over-engineered for the kind of barren Joshua Tree or mudfest Vermont adventures it was made for. And Crosstrek owners actually do get out to play, with over 35% of Crosstrek buyers doing so because of the 700-pound static load certified roof. To further contextualize the typical Crosstrek buyer, Subaru says 11% bike, 30% hike, 22% specifically plan to off-road it, and around 48% of them have pets.
Fresh off the recent Impreza RS drive, the Crosstrek is also a discernibly different car, even if it shares a chassis and nearly identical dimensions. In a nod to the Impreza's performance engineering, the Crosstrek Sport requires more steering input and showcases more lean angle as you tip into a sweeping corner. It's looser and less direct than the Impreza RS, though I could take the Crosstrek Sport on trails and through terrain that Impreza wouldn't dream of. And the two inches of additional ride height plus extra track width means the Crosstrek feels more authoritative from behind the wheel, too.
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Subaru also says the heated seats, which are available on Premium and above trims, are hotter for 2024.
Familiarity is your friend when it comes to interior technology and, having driven many Subarus lately, I'm warming up to the company's infotainment system. It only requires one swipe across to access the two-page menu, and selecting an application is one-touch away, so it doesn't waste time or compromise safety by forcing the user to dig through multiple menus. That said, there is little delineation on the three-part divided 11.6-inch screen between infotainment, vehicle settings, and climate controls, exhibited in accidental swipes to X-Mode control.
By the time you read this, it will be nearly halfway through the year, with around 41,00 Crosstreks sold off dealerships lots already. Autoweek Executive Editor Tom Murphy drove the 2.0-liter version not too long ago either, coming to the conclusion that the Crosstrek is very likely to continue dominating this specific market segment. But Subaru has left prospective Crosstrek customers with a difficult choice.
At a time of unprecedented costs, the Crosstrek itself is a bargain no matter the way you slice it, with less than $3000 between the middling 2.0-liter Premium trim and the eccentrically styled 2.5-liter Sport edition. To some, upgrading the engine and interior accouterments might seem obvious, but it's worth remembering who the Crosstrek is primarily built for—young adventurers. For college-age buyers or young families, those few thousand extras could be the difference between securing financing or not. Ultimately, the Crosstrek chassis itself is Subaru's gem and, whether buyers choose the 2.0-liter or 2.5-liter, adventures will be available to anyone behind the wheel.
Have you taken a crossover off-roading before? How did it go? Please share your experiences below.
Emmet White
Associate Editor
A New York transplant hailing from the Pacific Northwest, Emmet White has a passion for anything that goes: cars, bicycles, planes, and motorcycles. After learning to ride at 17, Emmet worked in the motorcycle industry before joining Autoweek in 2022. The woes of alternate side parking have kept his fleet moderate, with a 2014 Volkswagen Jetta GLI and a 2003 Honda Nighthawk 750 street parked in his South Brooklyn community.
FAQs
Which is better Crosstrek Sport or limited? ›
The Limited is the best-equipped Crosstrek trim, offering more upscale features and additional driver aids but also a higher price tag. Building off the Premium, the Limited gains the Sport's a 2.5-liter engine, 8-step CVT and SI-Drive, but with the single-mode X-Mode system.
Why do people love Subaru crosstrek? ›Subaru Crosstrek is comfortable and quiet. Consumer Reports says, "The Crosstrek delivers good fuel economy with impressive ride comfort and competent, enjoyable handling. It has low road and wind noise levels, contributing to a solid feel.
How many miles per gallon does a Subaru crosstrek get in 2024? ›According to the EPA, the Crosstrek is rated for up to 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway depending on the configuration.
Is the Crosstrek Sport fast? ›The 2021 Crosstrek has a 123mph top speed. This would be a sight to see on tough roads. It's very impressive that an SUV this size can have a top speed capability that fast, with the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission that delivers the smooth ride drivers seek.
What should I pay for a Subaru Crosstrek Sport? ›Based on Edmunds analysis of recent prices paid in your area, the Edmunds Suggested Price for the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek Base base trim is $23,398. The Edmunds Suggested Price for a 2022 Subaru Crosstrek is based on recent transactions in your area.
Is Subaru crosstrek Sport reliable? ›According to the website, the Crosstrek has a Reliability Rating of 4.5 out of 5.0, considered Excellent. Out of all 26 models of compact SUVs available, the Crosstrek ranks first, which is no easy feat when competing with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V.
Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek? ›Why is Subaru dropping the Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid? Slow sales are one reason why Subaru of America (SOA) chose to drop the Crosstrek PHEV. SOA only sold 2,600 Crosstrek Hybrids in the U.S. last year (less than 1% of Subaru's unit sales in the country, according to data from auto research specialist MarkLines.)
What is the average life of Subaru Crosstrek? ›Based off the reliability of other Subaru models and what's known of the Crosstrek so far, it's reasonable to expect 200,000 miles or even more out of one. That means you can easily expect it to last around 13 years or more before starting to get too problematic.
What is the most common problem with a Subaru Crosstrek? ›The most common Subaru Crosstrek problem reported by real owners is a malfunctioning start-stop system. A start-stop system improves gas mileage by automatically stopping the engine when idling — and then starting it up again when the driver presses down on the accelerator.
When can I order a 2024 Crosstrek? ›The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek goes on sale in the spring of 2023. According to Subaru, the first deliveries of the 2.0-liter models should happen in April, with the first 2.5-liter vehicles arriving sometime in the summer.
How far can a Subaru Crosstrek go on a full tank of gas? ›
| Miles Per Gallon of the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek | ||
|---|---|---|
| Crosstrek Limited | Up to 27 City, 34 Highway | N/A |
| Crosstrek Sport | Up to 27 City, 34 Highway | N/A |
| Crosstrek Premium | Up to 28 City, 33 Highway | N/A |
| Crosstrek | Up to 28 City, 33 Highway | N/A |
The 2024 Crosstrek goes big on capability in a compact SUV package thanks to the legendary traction of standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
Is the Crosstrek a quiet ride? ›The 2023 Crosstrek will rank among the quietest compact SUVs for small SUV shoppers. Consumer Reports says, "The Crosstrek delivers good fuel economy with impressive ride comfort and competent, enjoyable handling. It has low road and wind noise levels, which contribute to a solid and substantial feel.
Is a Subaru Crosstrek sport good for snow? ›2022 Subaru Crosstrek
The Sport trim has two extra driving modes that optimize the car for deep snow, and comes with water-repellant upholstery. Despite its rugged capability, the Crosstrek easily gets more than 30 miles per gallon on the highway.
2024 Crosstrek Ride and Handling
The 2024 Crosstrek benefits from many tweaks to the chassis, suspension and other components. The result is a better handling vehicle with a smoother ride compared to the outgoing model.
The Crosstrek is the most in-demand model for Subaru of America, and it's only two model sales away from being the number one selling model in the lineup. The 2022 Outback midsize SUV is the top-selling model, with 49,482 models delivered to customers through April.
How is Crosstrek sport different? ›The 2023 Crosstrek Sport ($29,220) trim offers a more rugged appearance with wider wheel arch moldings, 17-inch alloy wheels with a dark gray finish, and a gunmetal finish for the front grille, side mirrors, and badges. The Sport interior adds water-repellant StarTex upholstery with yellow stitching to the seating.
Is Subaru Crosstrek a safe car? ›The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek Limited is a 2022 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK with EyeSight and Steering Responsive Headlights.
Do Subaru crosstreks have transmission problems? ›2021 Subaru Crosstrek transmission problems could include shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, a feeling of shakiness, or a burning smell or whistling sounds coming from under the hood.
Is Subaru Crosstrek good on gas? ›In addition to delivering impressive performance specs, the Subaru Crosstrek earns exceptional gas mileage no matter which of the available trims you choose!
What is comparable to a Subaru Crosstrek? ›
The Crosstrek is often categorized as a crossover SUV, so if you're in the market for one, you've likely scrolled through lists that include the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Nissan Kicks, Chevrolet Trax, and the Fiat 500X. But one model that's particularly comparable to the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the 2021 Mazda CX-30.
Will there be a 2023 Crosstrek? ›The 2023 Crosstrek is available in Base, Premium, new Special Edition, Sport, and Limited trims, while the Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in a single highly-equipped trim level.
What is the wait time for the Subaru Crosstrek 2023? ›NOTE: This information is current as of February 25, 2023. This article will be reviewed and amended as new details come to light. According to Subaru however, the Forester hybrid is the worst off, with a wait of five- to six- months, followed by the Outback XT and Crosstrek with delays of four- to five- months.
Why is my Crosstrek so loud? ›A failing or dirty sensor can send incorrect data, resulting in too much or too little fuel going to the engine. This can result in a rough running engine that is louder than normal. Bad or Dirty Spark Plugs: Bad spark plugs can cause the vehicle to misfire which will make it run louder.
Do Subarus last as long as Toyotas? ›And, Toyota was awarded the most reliable brand at the 2021 Auto Trader New Car Awards. Also, Toyota's can last well past 300,000 miles (think of the million-mile Tundra), while Subaru typically lasts around 200,000 miles.
Is Subaru Crosstrek expensive to fix? ›The average total annual cost for repairs and maintenance on a Subaru Crosstrek is $492, compared to an average of $521 for compact SUVs and $652 for all vehicle models.
Do Subaru engines last long? ›As it turned out, Subaru's reliability also extends to its longevity. For the matter of “how long do Subarus last,” you can expect to reach around 200,000 to 250,000 miles on your trusty Subaru. Furthermore, Subarus can last up to 10-13 years before requiring a significant amount of work to keep them on the road.
Why are used crosstreks so expensive? ›Unlike most automakers (Toyota, Honda), Subaru sells virtually no vehicles to fleet or bulk buyers. All registration numbers come from private owners. It's one reason why the resale value is so high on the multi-purpose AWD Subaru vehicles.
What are Subaru crosstreks known for? ›An 11.6-inch touchscreen is optional. The Crosstrek delivers impressive ride comfort and competent handling, which make it enjoyable to drive. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission; this combination works well and gets 29 mpg overall, which is among the best for small SUVs.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek as safe as the Outback? ›The 2022 Subaru Outback midsize SUV, Crosstrek subcompact crossover, Forester compact SUV, and Ascent 3-Row family hauler all score among the safest new SUVs according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Is it worth waiting for the 2024 Crosstrek? ›
If you can wait the 2024 Crosstrek will be worth standing by. The Crosstrek gets a complete redesign from the ground up. It will come with improved ride quality, the next-generation EyeSight safety technology, new interior upgrades with more comfortable seats, and new exterior styling changes.
How much is the 2024 Crosstrek Sport? ›The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $24,995. When you account for the manual transmission going away, that's effectively the same starting price as the 2023 model. At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Crosstrek Limited kicks off at $30,895 and tops out at over $33,000 with options.
Where is 2024 Crosstrek made? ›Subaru Corporation will manufacture the 2024 Crosstrek Base and Premium trim levels at its Gunma Japan factory.
How much does it cost to fill up a Subaru Crosstrek? ›| 2022 Subaru Crosstrek AWD | |
|---|---|
| Annual Fuel Cost* | $1,850 |
| Cost to Drive 25 Miles | $3.04 |
| Cost to Fill the Tank | $59 |
| Tank Size | 16.6 gallons |
Hybrid car battery replacement should be performed every 150,000 miles or 15 years (whichever comes first).
How far can the Crosstrek go electric only? ›2023 Crosstrek Hybrid Gas Mileage, Range and Charging
The Crosstrek Hybrid provides 17 miles of all-electric driving range on a full charge and returns an estimated 90 MPG-equivalent in combined city/highway driving when operating in EV mode.
Here is how to do it easily with the gear you may already own, and a couple of other cool accessories. If you don't have the money right now to invest in a tent, newer Subaru Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek vehicles are big enough to throw a sleeping bag down and two people can sleep comfortably in the back.
What is the gas mileage for a 2023 Crosstrek sport? ›Sport Trim: 34 mpg hwy and 27 mpg city.
Does the Subaru Crosstrek have a power liftgate? ›Curiously, though, the Crosstrek doesn't offer a power liftgate on any trim level.
Which is better Crosstrek sport or limited? ›The Limited is the best-equipped Crosstrek trim, offering more upscale features and additional driver aids but also a higher price tag. Building off the Premium, the Limited gains the Sport's a 2.5-liter engine, 8-step CVT and SI-Drive, but with the single-mode X-Mode system.
Is Crosstrek sport better than limited? ›
The pros and cons are going to depend on what features are important to you. The Limited is going to include leather seats, LED headlights (steering adaptive), LED foglights, and the Rear Automatic Braking. If those features are not important to you, then go with the Sport, since the car is the same otherwise.
Is the Crosstrek sport fast? ›The 2021 Crosstrek has a 123mph top speed. This would be a sight to see on tough roads. It's very impressive that an SUV this size can have a top speed capability that fast, with the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission that delivers the smooth ride drivers seek.
Does Subaru Crosstrek sport mode do anything? ›The biggest difference between sport and intelligent mode is that the throttle will respond more swiftly when in Sport Mode. This allows for a combination of mileage and power, making it idea for daily driving. If you frequently drive through highways or thoroughfares, you may find that you use sport mode a lot.
Can you drive in the snow with a Subaru Crosstrek? ›Deep Snow/Mud Mode
Paired with the new 2.5-liter direct-injected SUBARU BOXER® engine, the 2021 Crosstrek Sport can maximize that traction and help get you out of trouble during daily driving or off-road adventures.
If you are taking a road trip this summer, the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek and 2022 Subaru Forester rank among the six best small SUVs for highway fuel mileage. They also feature standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive and X-Mode for off-highway adventures when you get to your destination.
Is Crosstrek good for Uber? ›The Subaru XV Crosstrek has all-wheel drive for Uber drivers who drive in any kind of weather. Don't let its smaller size fool you; it has plenty of cargo space for your passenger's belongings.
What is the difference between premium Sport and limited in Crosstrek? ›Limited is the size of the display screen. The Crosstrek Premium comes with a 6.5-inch display while the Limited comes with an 8-inch display.
Is Crosstrek Limited worth the extra money? ›The 2024 Crosstrek Sport and Limited are more expensive than the Base and Premium trims, but they are worth it with the added features and 2.5-liter engine upgrade. But Subaru may offer different deals than they are now on 2023 models when the next-generation model arrives.
What is the best Crosstrek to buy? ›In conclusion, experts agree that the best 2023 Subaru Crosstrek trim is the Sport model. Overall, this version of the small SUV provides the most value.
Is Crosstrek Limited worth it? ›Winner: Subaru Crosstrek Limited
It features a stronger engine, offers increased safety, and you'll pay roughly the same in the long run. It's more expensive up front, but once you drive off the lot, it's equipped with far more value than the Premium and other Crosstrek trim levels.
Does Subaru crosstrek sport mode do anything? ›
The biggest difference between sport and intelligent mode is that the throttle will respond more swiftly when in Sport Mode. This allows for a combination of mileage and power, making it idea for daily driving. If you frequently drive through highways or thoroughfares, you may find that you use sport mode a lot.
Which is better premium or limited? ›The Premium and Limited trims have a decent amount of overlap but the Limited is a higher trim level that increases interior luxury features. Both trims come standard with the same engine, which is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 182 horsepower.
What is the difference in size of Subaru Crosstrek sport? ›The main difference in dimension involves the length, as a 2022 Outback measures 191.3 inches long, while a 2022 Crosstrek comes in at 176.5 inches long. Not counting mirrors, a 2022 Outback is 73.0 inches wide, while a Crosstrek is 71.0 inches wide.
What is the most expensive Subaru crosstrek? ›The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is all-new and is now the most expensive Crosstrek trim level. The all-new Crosstrek Wilderness costs $33,290, including dealer destination and delivery fees. This spring, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is still a good value for subcompact SUV shoppers.
What is the most popular Crosstrek? ›...
The 20 Most Popular SUVs - A Hot Subaru Crosstrek Closes In On Top 10.
| Crosstrek Sport | Subaru Crosstrek Sport |
|---|---|
| 2021 Crosstrek | 2021 Subaru Crosstrek |
The Crosstrek is often categorized as a crossover SUV, so if you're in the market for one, you've likely scrolled through lists that include the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Nissan Kicks, Chevrolet Trax, and the Fiat 500X. But one model that's particularly comparable to the 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is the 2021 Mazda CX-30.
What grade of gas is best for Subaru Crosstrek? ›Higher octane doesn't make your Subaru perform better unless it's required. If you drive a Crosstrek, Forester, Outback, Legacy or Ascent, your vehicle is designed to run on 87 octane, or regular fuel.
Is Crosstrek good in snow? ›2022 Subaru Crosstrek
The Sport trim has two extra driving modes that optimize the car for deep snow, and comes with water-repellant upholstery. Despite its rugged capability, the Crosstrek easily gets more than 30 miles per gallon on the highway.
The 2023 Crosstrek is available in Base, Premium, new Special Edition, Sport, and Limited trims, while the Crosstrek Hybrid is offered in a single highly-equipped trim level.