Content by Tom Appel
Content by Tom Appel2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness
Technical Specifications
Type: Subcompact Crossover
Shade: Geyser Blue
Seating Capacity: 5
Distance covered: 200 miles
Real-world gas mileage: 28.6 mpg
| CG Report Card | |
|---|---|
| Roominess and Ease | B |
| Energy and Efficiency | B- |
| Quality and Polish | B |
| Gas Consumption | B+ |
| Worth | B+ |
| Grades on the report card are formulated from collaborative appraisals by test drivers. Comparisons are made against other vehicles in the same category. The worth grade pertains to the specific trim level assessed and may not represent Consumer Guide’s opinions of the complete model lineup. | |
| Size & Tall Comfort | |
| Big Individual | B |
| Tall Individual | B |
| Size & Tall comfort ratings are based on front seats only. The “Big” rating reflects a male tester weighing about 350 pounds, while the “Tall” rating is from a 6’6″-tall male tester. | |
| Drivetrain | |
| Motor Specs | 182-horsepower, 2.5-liter |
| Motor Type | 4-cylinder |
| Transmission | CVT Automatic |
| Drive Wheels | AWD |
Driving mix: 60% city, 40% highway
EPA-estimated gas mileage: 25/29/27 (city, highway, combined)
Fuel kind: Regular gasoline
Starting price: $32,195 (excluding $1345 destination charge)
Options on test vehicle: Luxury option package ($2270)
Price as assessed: $35,810
Advantages and Disadvantages
The remarkable: Substantial capability in harsh weather, inviting cabin
The good: Reasonable fuel efficiency, deluxe features
The less favorable: Limited space in the back seat
Overview
Full disclosure: I possess two Subaru vehicles. My spouse and I have had a Forester, and still have a Crosstrek. Our fondness for the brand largely stems from its dependable nature, exceptional performance in inclement weather, and the assurance of robust resale value. In these aspects, we have consistently been satisfied.
The unique design of the Subaru “boxer” engine also appeals to car enthusiasts and eccentrics, in a manner not easily expressed to those who do not find allure in the phrase “pancake engine.”
I bring this up because the company’s new Wilderness model, now obtainable on the Outback wagon, Forester crossover, and the compact Crosstrek, suggests enhancements in aspects of performance where typical Subaru models might have supposedly been lacking. I’m skeptical of this claim.
Initially, I viewed the Crosstrek as the “Wilderness” variant of the compact Subaru Impreza, but Wilderness elevates things to a higher level. For those unfamiliar, the Wilderness trim enhances standard Subaru models in terms of off-road capability and—crucially—visual impact. A Wilderness model is unmistakable.
Having said that, despite my apprehension, there is genuine merit in choosing the Wilderness trim, with minimal downsides other than a slight decrease in fuel efficiency, and potential aesthetic concerns.
Displayed here is an outline of the Consumer Guide report card that accompanies all our test-drive assessments.
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2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness Report Card
Spatial Comfort: B
Most subcompact crossovers offer a satisfactory level of front-row seating comfort, with ample room even for larger individuals. The rear seat is slightly more cramped, especially in terms of legroom when taller individuals occupy the front seats.
Allthat being said, the Crosstrek, regardless of the trim level, is sophisticated enough for extended journey comfort, and sufficiently serene and smooth to add enjoyment to the trip. For individuals who seldom transport adults in the back bench, this petite Subaru will satisfy your needs.
Strength and performance rating: B-
In the Wilderness variant, the Crosstrek is furnished with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, generating 182 horsepower. This powerplant is coupled with a continuously variable transmission, which complements the engine smoothly. While not exceedingly powerful, the Crosstrek Wilderness is adequately swift for daily city driving and only struggles when tasked with high-speed passing maneuvers. On a positive note, the engine emits a pleasing sound when in operation, at least in the opinion of this editor. Some individuals may perceive Subaru’s horizontally opposed engine as somewhat unrefined.
While in motion, driving the Crosstrek Wilderness is a pleasurable experience, with precise steering, efficient brakes, and excellent maneuverability in turns. Despite not having an excess of horsepower, the editors at Consumer Guide find the Crosstrek to be a delight to drive.
Design and Craftsmanship: B
In the higher-level trims, the interior of the Crosstrek appears, for lack of a better term, decent. It’s not that there’s anything faulty with the Subaru, it’s just that nearly all other vehicles in this segment offer more appealing interiors—at least in terms of material quality.
That said, the construction quality seems top-notch, and our test vehicle, along with every Subaru test car that we’ve assessed in recent times, has felt sturdy and free of any squeaks or rattles.
Gas Mileage: B+
In a recent assessment of a very similar Crosstrek Wilderness, we achieved an average of 24.6 mpg. Subsequently, our most recent test car delivered a far more satisfying 28.6 mpg. The variation between the two results cannot be elucidated, as both test drives were conducted in relatively mild weather conditions.
Nevertheless, with standard all-wheel drive, an elevated ground clearance, and some off-road-specific features, we were delighted to observe that our test Crosstrek Wilderness returned nearly 30 mpg. Notably, this figure surpasses the EPA’s combined estimate for this vehicle of 27 mpg.
Bang for Your Buck: B+
Full Analysis
There are numerous appealing aspects to the Crosstrek Wilderness, and not all of them can be succinctly expressed through simple letter grading. There’s a certain allure to this vehicle, along with a gratifying sense of usefulness, which surpasses mere component evaluations. Perhaps we would raise our rating of the value on lower trim levels of the Crosstrek; however, at a price point hovering around $36,000, our test car appears to offer exceptional value.
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