The Subaru Crosstrek stands out as a highly sought-after compact SUV that sets itself apart from other vehicles in its price range…
It is exclusively offered in all-wheel drive, and the Subaru’s AWD system outperforms that of its competitors in the compact SUV category.
However, if your lifestyle doesn’t involve off-road adventures or beach outings, is the Crosstrek still a practical everyday vehicle?
I recently had the opportunity to test drive the top-tier petrol model and share my experience with you.
How does the Subaru Crosstrek stack up against its competitors?
Check out a comprehensive comparison of the Subaru Crosstrek in comparison to similarly sized models.
Subaru
Crosstrek
What is the pricing of the Subaru Crosstrek?
The compact SUV segment is highly competitive, featuring over 20 contenders.
Nevertheless, Subaru has successfully carved out its niche in the market, ranking as the fifth most popular vehicle within its class during the initial four months of 2024.
This success can be attributed, in part, to the standard all-wheel drive offered across all Crosstrek models, unlike competitors that typically provide AWD as an option only on premium trims.
For a detailed comparison of the Subaru Crosstrek with its competitors, be sure to use our comparison tool.
What are the interior features of the Subaru Crosstrek like?
There have been minimal updates since its launch, and anyone familiar with Subarus will find the Crosstrek’s interior to be reminiscent of other models within the brand.
Having considered everything, I find no faults with it as the dashboard layout, the large vivid media display, and the majority of the controls are all user-friendly and uncomplicated.
However, there are some exceptions to this. While many controls are conveniently placed on the bright, sharp, and colourful display, there are still physical buttons for adjusting the temperature and defroster, along with knobs for volume and tuning, which I appreciate.
One frustrating aspect is that the fan control is located at the bottom of the screen, requiring multiple taps on the screen to operate the air conditioning recirculation.
Nonetheless, navigating the 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen media system is quite straightforward – at least, from my viewpoint. Perhaps the familiarity of this screen’s menu setup to that of an iPhone, with its vibrant and colorful icons, made it easy for me to grasp. I’ve conversed with some devoted Android users who don’t share the same enthusiasm.
Moreover, this system supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, traditional satellite navigation for those who prefer it, DAB digital radio, and conventional AM/FM tuning along with dial controls for tuning and volume. What a relief!
Furthermore, there are USB-A and USB-C ports, an AUX input, and a wireless charging pad in this particular model. I found that it provided better grip than some other vehicles, preventing my phone from sliding around during corners.
I also appreciate the dedicated heated seat buttons for the higher trim levels near the gear shifter, a 12-volt outlet, ample cup holders between the front seats, door bottle holders, and a center console storage bin.
The Crosstrek exudes a more rugged appearance compared to its counterparts in the SUV class, with grey and black trim finishes that impart a somewhat outdoorsy vibe.
The leather-trimmed seats in this top-tier variant are plush, easily adjustable and convey a sense of luxury. Additionally, the 2.0S model comes standard with a sunroof, albeit of a modest size by current standards.
One aspect where it may seem a bit conservative compared to rivals is its retention of traditional dials in the instrument cluster, rather than a predominantly digital display as seen in many contemporary competitors.
Although the cluster incorporates certain digital elements like a speedometer readout and trip computer, it might lack the excitement expected by tech enthusiasts.
One might find the myriad of buttons on the steering wheel overwhelming, but I have always appreciated having numerous controls readily available while driving, with a button for nearly every need right at hand.
How about the family-friendly features inside the cabin?
While it may not be the most spacious compact SUV in its class, seated in the back with the driver’s seat adjusted for my height (182cm/6’0″), I found sufficient legroom, foot space, and a bit of headspace to fit comfortably.
Be cautious of your headroom during entry and exit if you’re taller, as the openings are somewhat tight, and beware of a transmission tunnel encroaching on foot space, making three passengers a tight squeeze.
The seat comfort leaves something to be desired, especially on longer journeys, and the absence of rear air vents might be a deal-breaker for parents.
Nevertheless, there are ISOFIX attachments for the window seats and three top tethers, along with USB-A and USB-C ports, a map pocket, door bottle holders, and a fold-down armrest with shallow cup holders.
Young families might find the boot capacity of just 291 liters in the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek quite limiting, restricting the amount of cargo space for items like a pram and smaller bags compared to competitors offering more spacious boots.
On the bright side, the Crosstrek is equipped with a spare space-saver wheel under the boot floor, along with a light in the rear, shopping bag hooks, and a cargo load protector with charming wilderness-themed surprises. If you require a more practical SUV ready for family use, the Forester could be a better fit!
What’s beneath the hood?
While the Subaru Crosstrek does offer a hybrid option, it may not provide the same high fuel efficiency as a Toyota Yaris Cross.
As a result, it may not be the most appealing choice since it only offers a slightly lower fuel consumption rate per 100km, with the standard Crosstrek boasting a satisfactory engine setup.
It houses a non-turbo 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder ‘Boxer’ petrol engine generating 115kW of power (6000rpm) and 196Nm of torque (4000rpm). This engine is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) auto with eight simulated shift points, and the standard Subaru symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
The officialcombined cycle fuel consumption figure for the petrol variants of the Crosstrek stands at 7.2L/100km, with an idle start/stop system that switches off the engine in traffic. During my testing of the Crosstrek 2.0S across varying driving conditions, I averaged a fuel consumption rate of 8.1 liters per 100km.
One positive aspect of the Crosstrek is the presence of a larger-than-average 63-liter fuel tank, potentially offering a decent driving range between refills. Moreover, it is compatible with 91 RON regular unleaded fuel.
How is the driving experience with the Subaru Crosstrek?
I set out to see how practical the Crosstrek is for day-to-day use, engaging in activities that an owner would likely encounter.
From the powertrain perspective, the daily driving experience may not bring much joy. This segment offers SUVs with more fun and punchier engines mated with smarter and smoother transmissions.
In terms of performance and polish, it might feel somewhat inadequate. However, if you’re not heavy on the accelerator or not always in a rush, you may discover that the powertrain’s responsiveness and usability are perfectly adequate.
Subarus are popular in rural and regional areas. For buyers looking for a long-drive vehicle for school runs or daily commutes, the Crosstrek might be a suitable choice compared to those living in cities with heavy traffic.
Long-distance drives, in particular, stood out as the most enjoyable, with adaptive cruise control managing the torque deficiency adequately. The driver assistance features are not overly bothersome, allowing for a comfortable trip without the need to deactivate them constantly.
The standout feature of the Crosstrek, in various situations, is its impressive ride comfort compared to the lower-riding Impreza hatch it shares a platform with.
The increased ride height and ground clearance of the crossover model make it quite appealing in urban settings, especially on uneven and rough roads. It handles gravel or unsealed surfaces with ease.
The comfortable ride, combined with the all-wheel drive capability, ensures stability on rough terrains or in adverse weather conditions. The predictable steering with just the right amount of weight adds to the appeal, even though it contrasts with the powertrain of this car.
If only Subaru had equipped it with a more potent engine!
What do you get?
Every vehicle model in the Crosstrek range comes with a unique set of standard specifications that can help you determine the most suitable variant based on your preferences and requirements:
Crosstrek 2.0L + Hybrid L key standard features:
Auto Stop Start
Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive)
X-Mode with hill descent control
17-inch alloy wheels
LED headlights
Dusk-sensing headlights
Rear combination lights incl. LED brake lights
Power-folding mirrors with indicators
Black roof rails
Tricot (Tetra Embossing) cloth seat trim
Dual-zone climate-control air-conditioning
11.6-inch touchscreen
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
USB ports – USB-A and USB-C
Wireless Qi charger
6-speaker audio system
Crosstrek 2.0R additional features:
18-inch alloy wheels
Two-mode X-Mode
Front and rear wipers with front de-icer
Self-levelling LED headlights with auto off
Front cornering lamps
Heated door mirrors
Steering Responsive Headlights (SRH)
Front LED fog lights
Roof rails in dark grey
Premium cloth seat trim
Leather steering wheel/gear shift
Sports pedals
Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
Heated seats for driver and front passenger
10-way power seat with lumbar support for driver
Rear USB-A and USB-C charging ports
Front View Monitor
High-beam assist
360-degree camera
Side View Monitor
Additions on Crosstrek 2.0S and Hybrid S model:
Panoramic sunroof
Leather-trimmed seats
Built-in GPS system
Premium 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system with amplifier
Is the safety of the Subaru Crosstrek assured?
The ANCAP is yet to assess the safety of Subaru Crosstrek, therefore, it remains unrated.
Advanced stereo camera with enhanced image recognition
Subaru Vision Assist:
Blind-spot monitoring
EyeSight Assist Monitor
Lane change assist
Rear cross-traffic alert
Rear parking sensors
Reverse Automatic Braking (AEB)
Front side radar
Driver Monitoring System – Driver Focus:
Warnings for distractions
Alerts for drowsiness
Facial recognition technology
Automated climate control setting (last used)
Previously used MID display
Additionally, Crosstrek 2.0R integrates:
Subaru Vision Assist, offering:
High-beam assist
360-degree cameras
Side View Monitor inclusion
With the entire Subaru lineup boasting five-star ANCAP and Euro NCAP safety ratings, achieving a similar rating for the new Crosstrek is highly anticipated, given the shared vehicle architecture and the comprehensive suite of standard safety systems.
How much does it cost to maintain a Subaru Crosstrek?
Subaru provides a comprehensive five-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty.
Service maintenance comes with a fixed price for the initial five years/75,000 kilometers at intervals of 12 months or 15,000km.
Nevertheless, the first five maintenance routines are relatively costly. The costs are limited to $346.25, $473.47, $420.60, $771.74 and $361.13 respectively, averaging around $475 annually – nearly double the servicing expenses of a Corolla Cross.
Additionally, one year of roadside help is provided.
CarExpert’s Opinion on the Subaru Crosstrek
For many purchasers, the Crosstrek will unquestionably suit their lifestyle and financial plan.
It’s not the most exhilarating compact SUV to drive, and the trunk and rear seat space may be limiting for a growing family; nevertheless, for couples, empty nesters, and adventure seekers, it could be just what they need.
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MORE: Purchase a Subaru Crosstrek MORE: All about the Subaru Crosstrek
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