The Subaru Crosstrek has carved a unique niche in the crowded compact crossover market. It’s a vehicle that subtly whispers promises of adventure while confidently navigating city streets. Inspired by a quirky nod from Hobo Johnson’s tune “Subaru Crosstrek XV,” which playfully highlights its comfortable suspension, we delve into a comprehensive review of the Crosstrek. Forget Lamborghini comparisons for a moment; this isn’t about breakneck speed. The Crosstrek is about practical versatility, a comfortable ride, and genuine all-weather, all-road capability, all wrapped in a package that’s surprisingly endearing.
Subaru Crosstrek – front
This latest iteration marks the evolution of what was previously known as the Subaru XV, or XV Crosstrek in North America. Now, simply and globally recognized as the Crosstrek, this model refines the formula, aiming to stand out in a competitive segment brimming with hybrid crossovers. In markets like the UK, the Crosstrek arrives with a singular, yet thoughtfully engineered powertrain: a hybrid system pairing a 2.0-liter boxer four-cylinder engine with an electric motor. This combination delivers a balanced 134 horsepower and 134 pound-feet of torque, managed by a continuously variable transmission (CVT) distributing power to all four wheels. Performance figures are relaxed, prioritizing efficiency and smooth driving over outright speed, with a 0-62mph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 123mph.
At its heart, the Crosstrek is fundamentally a lifted Impreza hatchback. However, Subaru’s engineering goes beyond simply raising the suspension and adding cosmetic cladding. The focus is on injecting genuine off-road prowess into this compact crossover. Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is standard, coupled with a generous 220mm of ground clearance and hill descent control. Stepping up to the Touring trim, you gain access to Subaru’s X-Mode, offering advanced drive modes tailored for challenging terrains like mud and snow.
Subaru Crosstrek – side, driving
While a full-fledged off-road expedition might not be the typical Crosstrek owner’s daily routine, its capabilities are readily apparent. During testing, the Crosstrek confidently navigated deep, rocky fords that would be daunting, if not impassable, for many of its rivals. It exudes a sense of sure-footedness that translates to real-world confidence, whether facing unpaved roads or challenging weather conditions. This off-road focus, however, doesn’t compromise its on-road behavior. As Hobo Johnson aptly noted, the Crosstrek embraces a softly sprung suspension setup. In an era where many vehicles unnecessarily chase sporty stiffness, the Crosstrek prioritizes comfort. It glides over road imperfections, absorbing bumps and potholes that would send shudders through more rigidly sprung competitors.
Subaru Crosstrek – front
Occasionally, on particularly uneven surfaces, the soft suspension can induce a slight wobble, but for the most part, it delivers a plush, almost marshmallow-like ride quality. Surprisingly, this emphasis on comfort doesn’t translate to vague or unresponsive handling. The steering is precise and predictable; the Crosstrek responds accurately to driver inputs. While it’s no WRX in terms of outright sportiness, it offers neutral, responsive, and enjoyable handling for everyday driving.
The powertrain, however, presents a slightly less polished aspect of the Crosstrek experience. The hybrid system, while efficient, requires assertive throttle input to achieve brisk acceleration. This characteristic brings the CVT gearbox into the spotlight, highlighting both its strengths and inherent limitations. While it’s arguably one of the better CVTs available, it remains a CVT, and the characteristic disconnect between engine revs and actual acceleration is present.
Subaru Crosstrek – rear detail
Pulling away from a stop, the engine revs climb quickly, creating a noticeable drone before the vehicle speed catches up. Once cruising, the engine noise subsides, but wind and tire noise become more prominent at higher speeds. The respite comes when the Crosstrek seamlessly transitions to electric power, often in urban environments or when coasting downhill, contributing to reasonable fuel economy. The claimed combined fuel consumption is around 36.8mpg, and during testing, an average of 34mpg was achieved, even with spirited driving to compensate for the powertrain’s relaxed nature.
Stepping inside the Crosstrek reveals a significant leap forward in interior quality compared to previous Subaru models. While not overtly luxurious, the cabin materials feel durable and well-assembled. Everything conveys a sense of robustness, suggesting it can withstand the active lifestyles often associated with Crosstrek ownership.
Subaru Crosstrek – interior
The centerpiece of the dashboard is the prominent 11.6-inch portrait-oriented infotainment screen. While visually modern, its interface isn’t the most intuitive to navigate. Fortunately, essential functions are accessible via physical buttons surrounding the screen and on the steering wheel. However, the climate controls are unfortunately integrated into a touch-based menu within the screen, proving to be somewhat cumbersome and distracting to use while driving – a common gripe with many modern vehicles opting for full digital integration. In contrast, the Crosstrek retains clear and concise analog gauges for the instrument cluster, a refreshing reminder that digital screens aren’t always superior for core functions.
The front seats mirror the ride quality – soft and comfortable, though perhaps lacking a bit of thigh support for longer journeys. Rear passenger comfort is decent, but taller adults may find legroom slightly restricted, typical of the compact crossover class. Ultimately, the Subaru Crosstrek prompts the question: who is this vehicle truly for? With a starting price point aligning with many other crossovers, some competitors might offer a more refined on-road experience or superior outright practicality for everyday family duties. While the Crosstrek’s off-road capabilities are undeniable, they might not be the primary deciding factor for most crossover buyers. However, for those who frequently encounter unpaved roads, snowy conditions, or simply value a vehicle with a more adventurous spirit and comfortable ride, the Crosstrek starts to make compelling sense.
Subaru Crosstrek – rear
Despite minor shortcomings, the Crosstrek possesses a certain charm. It’s rugged, genuinely capable, and imbued with more personality than many of its more homogenous rivals. Perhaps this distinctive character is what resonated with Hobo Johnson. After all, it’s harder to imagine an indie rap anthem dedicated to something as ubiquitous as a Honda CR-V. The Subaru Crosstrek offers a unique blend of urban practicality and adventurous spirit, making it a compelling choice for those seeking something a little different in the compact crossover segment.
