The Subaru Crosstrek has carved a unique niche in the crowded compact crossover market. Mentioned in song lyrics by artists like Hobo Johnson, this vehicle sparks curiosity. While Sports Team sang about the Impreza, Hobo Johnson’s “Subaru Crosstrek XV” highlights the Crosstrek’s distinctive appeal. But beyond the musical mentions, what’s the real story behind the Crosstrek? This Crosstrek Subaru Review dives deep into the latest generation to see if it lives up to the hype, offering insights for those considering this adventurous and practical vehicle.
Delving into the Subaru Crosstrek: A Blend of Hatchback and SUV
The Crosstrek, previously known as the Subaru XV in many global markets and XV Crosstrek in North America, is now simply the Crosstrek worldwide. Effectively, it’s a Subaru Impreza hatchback that’s been given a substantial lift and ruggedized with protective body cladding. However, Subaru has gone beyond mere cosmetic changes, engineering the Crosstrek to be genuinely capable and versatile. This third-generation model aims to stand out by offering a compelling combination of urban agility and off-road readiness.
Alt text: Front view of a Subaru Crosstrek showcasing its redesigned grille and headlights, emphasizing its modern and rugged aesthetic.
Performance and Powertrain: Efficiency and Everyday Driveability
In markets like the UK, the Crosstrek features a hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor. This setup delivers a combined output of 134 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque. Power is managed through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, distributing power to all four wheels for enhanced traction and stability.
Performance figures reflect a focus on efficiency and smooth driving rather than outright speed. The 0-62mph sprint takes a leisurely 10.8 seconds, and the top speed is 123mph. While not designed for blistering acceleration, the powertrain is engineered for reliable and economical daily driving. Fuel economy is a claimed 36.8 mpg, and real-world testing has shown averages around 34 mpg, even with more spirited driving. The electric motor assistance contributes to fuel savings, particularly in city driving and during coasting.
Alt text: Subaru Crosstrek driving on a winding road, highlighting its crossover silhouette, increased ground clearance, and capability on varied terrains.
Off-Road Capabilities: More Than Just a Lifted Hatchback
Subaru has prioritized genuine off-road capability for the Crosstrek, setting it apart from many competitors in the small hybrid crossover segment. Beyond the raised ride height, the Crosstrek boasts 220mm of ground clearance, providing ample space to navigate uneven terrain and obstacles. Standard hill descent control aids in maintaining composure on steep declines, while the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system ensures optimal traction in slippery or loose conditions. Higher trims, like the Touring model, offer advanced drive modes, including settings tailored for mud and snow, further enhancing off-road confidence. While not intended for extreme rock crawling, the Crosstrek is well-equipped to handle unpaved roads, gravel paths, and challenging weather conditions, exceeding the capabilities of many typical crossovers.
On-Road Comfort and Driving Experience: Embracing Softness
The Crosstrek unapologetically prioritizes comfort with its softly sprung suspension. In a market often dominated by overly firm setups aimed at sporty handling, the Crosstrek provides a refreshing alternative. The compliant suspension excels at absorbing bumps, potholes, and road imperfections, delivering a smooth and comfortable ride, especially appreciated on rough roads. While this softness can lead to some body roll in corners and occasional head toss on severely uneven surfaces, the overall benefit is a relaxed and enjoyable daily driving experience.
Despite the emphasis on comfort, the Crosstrek’s handling remains predictable and responsive. Steering is light yet accurate, allowing for easy maneuverability in urban environments and confident control on winding roads. It’s not a sports car, but the Crosstrek offers neutral and pleasant handling characteristics that inspire confidence in everyday driving situations.
Alt text: Detailed front shot of the Subaru Crosstrek emphasizing its robust bumper, fog lights, and overall design elements that contribute to its rugged appeal.
However, the powertrain can feel strained when pushed for quicker acceleration. The CVT, while refined for its type, can still exhibit the characteristic high engine revs without a direct correlation to immediate acceleration, sometimes accompanied by engine noise. At cruising speeds, wind and tire noise become noticeable, detracting slightly from overall refinement. The transition to electric power, which occurs frequently at lower speeds and during coasting, offers moments of quieter and more efficient driving.
Interior and Technology: A Step Up in Quality
The Crosstrek’s interior represents a significant improvement in quality compared to previous Subaru models. While not overtly luxurious, the cabin materials feel durable and well-assembled, suggesting they can withstand the rigors of active lifestyles that many Crosstrek owners are likely to embrace. Everything feels built to last, a hallmark of Subaru’s reputation for reliability.
The centerpiece of the dashboard is the prominent 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen. While visually impressive, the system’s interface can be somewhat cumbersome to navigate. Fortunately, essential functions like volume and menu access are controlled by physical buttons surrounding the screen and on the steering wheel. However, frustratingly, climate controls are integrated into a touch-based menu on the screen, which can be distracting and less intuitive to use while driving. In contrast, the traditional analogue instrument cluster is clear, concise, and easy to read, highlighting the continued value of simple and effective design.
Alt text: Close-up of the Subaru Crosstrek’s rear taillight, showcasing its modern design and integration with the vehicle’s rear aesthetics.
Front seats are generously cushioned and comfortable, mirroring the ride quality, though additional thigh support would enhance long-distance comfort. Rear seats offer similar comfort levels, but adult passengers may find legroom somewhat limited, as the Crosstrek remains fundamentally a compact hatchback-based vehicle.
Alt text: Subaru Crosstrek interior showcasing the 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dashboard layout, and overall cabin design emphasizing practicality and user-friendliness.
Who is the Subaru Crosstrek For? Finding Its Niche
Priced starting at £34,345 (UK market), the Crosstrek positions itself amongst a competitive field of crossovers. While some rivals may offer slightly more polished on-road driving experiences in typical daily scenarios, the Crosstrek distinguishes itself with its enhanced off-road capability and rugged personality. It may not be the top choice for those solely focused on urban driving, but for individuals who frequently encounter unpaved roads, live in areas with harsh winter conditions, or simply desire a vehicle with genuine all-weather and light off-road capability, the Crosstrek becomes a compelling option.
The Crosstrek appeals to those who value practicality, reliability, and a touch of adventure in their daily drive. Its unique blend of hatchback convenience, SUV-inspired ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive creates a vehicle with a distinct character. As Hobo Johnson might suggest, there’s a certain undeniable appeal to the Subaru Crosstrek, a vehicle that stands out from the crossover crowd with its rugged charm and genuine capability.
Alt text: Rear three-quarter view of the Subaru Crosstrek highlighting its rear design, taillights, and overall stance as a compact and versatile crossover.
