The Crosstrek may not be the most exciting option in its segment, but it’s a solid choice for those seeking comfort and reliability. While Subaru has lagged behind some of its competitors in most areas, the Crosstrek still holds its own, especially in regions where snow is common. What sets it apart is its standard all-wheel-drive system, which gives it an edge over the competition in handling and stability in challenging conditions. If you prioritize dependable performance in snowy climates, the Crosstrek remains a strong contender.
Performance & Comfort
The Crosstrek isn’t thrilling to drive—in fact, it’s quite the opposite. There are two engine options available: a 2.0L Subaru Boxer engine with 152 horsepower and a 2.5L version with 182 horsepower. We tested the Crosstrek with the 2.5L engine, and while it’s not particularly exciting, it gets the job done. The engine can feel sluggish at times, but overall it performs well in moving the SUV. However, acceleration is not its strong suit, and it feels underwhelming in that regard. The CVT transmission, the only option on the Crosstrek, contributes to a smooth and comfortable ride, but this smoothness comes at the expense of performance. The transmission prioritizes efficiency and ease of driving over performance.
The Crosstrek’s strong point is its smooth and comfortable ride. The suspension is well-tuned, providing a soft feel that remains composed even on rough roads, never becoming too harsh. The lifted stance works well with the suspension system, helping the vehicle easily absorb road impacts, making for a more cushioned driving experience. If you prioritize a smooth ride over performance, the Crosstrek is a great choice.
Interior
The Crosstrek’s interior feels like it’s still stuck in the mid-2010s. It doesn’t have much going on—it’s simple and feels a bit dated compared to its competitors. There’s a large screen in the center that serves as the focal point of the cabin. While the screen itself isn’t too bad, the rest of the interior lacks the modern touches seen in rival vehicles. It doesn’t quite capture a luxurious feel either; while it doesn’t feel cheap, it doesn’t have the same level of refinement as some of its peers.
However, the simplicity of the interior is a plus for those who prefer an easy-to-use and straightforward layout. Most of the car’s primary functions are managed through the infotainment screen. Although the screen’s resolution isn’t top-of-the-line, the large buttons and icons make it user-friendly.
The Crosstrek’s interior feels spacious, which is one of its strengths. There is good room in both rows for adults, and the seats are comfortable with decent padding, adding to the overall comfort inside the cabin. This complements the vehicle’s soft and smooth ride, making for a pleasant driving experience.
Technology
The Crosstrek starts to show its age in terms of technology, and this theme is consistent throughout the vehicle, from the interior design to the tech features. The 11.4-inch tablet-like infotainment display, while visually appealing, is slow to respond to inputs, which can be frustrating for users. The display’s resolution also feels a bit low, adding to its dated feel. The instrument cluster also leaves more to be desired. It’s a mix of digital and analog elements, which seems outdated compared to the fully digital speedometers now offered by most other manufacturers.
The Crosstrek comes with many of Subaru’s driver aids as standard, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. These systems generally work well.
The Crosstrek does come with convenient features like wireless charging, as well as wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These allow you to keep your cabin clutter-free and free from the hassle of wires.
Storage
The Crosstrek offers 564L of cargo space with the rear seats up, which is slightly less than leading competitors but still sufficient for most everyday needs. When you fold down the rear seats, the cargo area expands to 1,549L, providing decent space for larger items. While the cabin may not offer the best interior storage for smaller items, it’s good for most situations. There’s a small slot in front of the gear shifter, along with decently sized cup holders and door pockets, offering enough space to keep essentials organized and within reach.
Should you buy the Crosstrek?
The Crosstrek is a tough sell when compared to most of its competitors, which tend to outperform it in areas like performance and interior quality. However, that’s not to say it doesn’t have its place on a buyer’s list—it just might not be at the top. For those living in snowy climates, Subaru’s AWD system can be a significant advantage. While the interior feels dated and looks plain, this simplicity could be an advantage for shoppers who prefer a user-friendly, straightforward design.
