Looking for a brand-new SUV that won’t break the bank? The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a strong contender in the New Cheap Suvs category, offering a compelling blend of affordability, capability, and practicality. For those prioritizing value without sacrificing essential SUV features, the Crosstrek deserves a closer look.
2025 Subaru Crosstrek: Affordable Adventure for Everyone?
Starting at a sub-$27,115 price point, the Subaru Crosstrek immediately grabs attention in the competitive landscape of cheap SUVs. This entry-level cost unlocks access to Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, making it a standout for drivers facing snowy climates or desiring enhanced traction on varied terrains. Beyond just all-weather assurance, the Crosstrek boasts the versatility of a hatchback, readily accommodating skis, bikes, and everyday cargo. While the base 2.0-liter engine with 152 horsepower is adequate for daily commutes, opting for the upgraded 2.5-liter four-cylinder, producing 182 hp, transforms the Crosstrek into a more confident and capable machine, particularly on demanding inclines or highway merges.
For a modest step up of around $1,250 to the Premium trim, buyers gain access to this more potent 2.5-liter engine. This upgrade, now standard in the Premium trim and above for 2025, represents a significant value enhancement. The Premium trim also includes an upgraded 11.6-inch touchscreen, further sweetening the deal for budget-conscious shoppers seeking modern features in their new cheap SUV.
Alt text: Side view of a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek showcasing its compact SUV dimensions and ground clearance, emphasizing its suitability as a new cheap SUV option.
Exploring the Rugged Side: The Crosstrek Wilderness
For those with a penchant for off-road adventures, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness trim warrants consideration, even within the realm of cheap SUVs. Although considerably pricier at $33,915, the Wilderness distinguishes itself with substantial upgrades geared towards off-pavement excursions. Increased ground clearance to 9.3 inches, a specialized lower final drive ratio for improved climbing ability, and Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires equip the Wilderness for tackling more challenging trails. An added transmission oil cooler enhances towing capacity to 3,500 pounds, a significant increase over the standard 1,500 pounds. While fuel economy slightly decreases to 27 mpg combined, the Wilderness offers a unique blend of affordability and off-road prowess in the new cheap SUVs market.
Alt text: Front view of the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness highlighting its rugged styling, all-terrain tires, and increased ground clearance, emphasizing its off-road capabilities as a relatively cheap SUV option.
New Cheap SUVs: Crosstrek vs. the Competition
When considering new cheap SUVs, the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek faces rivals like the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, and Kia Seltos. The Honda HR-V presents a more refined interior, appealing to those prioritizing in-cabin sophistication, but it lacks the off-road-oriented capabilities of the Crosstrek. The Jeep Renegade offers a wider array of trims and enhanced off-road handling, but typically at a higher price point, potentially pushing it outside the “cheap SUVs” category for some buyers. The Kia Seltos provides a broad spectrum of trim levels and a competitive starting price; however, all-wheel drive is not standard, a key differentiator for the Crosstrek in the realm of affordable SUVs.
Conclusion: Is the Subaru Crosstrek the Best New Cheap SUV for You?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek carves out a unique space within the new cheap SUVs segment. Its standard all-wheel drive, available upgraded engine, and inherent practicality make it a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers seeking versatility and capability. Whether navigating city streets or venturing onto light trails, the Crosstrek offers a balanced package that deserves a spot on your shortlist when exploring new cheap SUVs.
