2024 Subaru Crosstrek Review

Billed as a small but practical compact SUV with an adventurous spirit, the Subaru Crosstrek stands out in the segment as a user-friendly package that isn’t afraid to get its toes dirty on the weekend.

Just how well does it perform in the small SUV segment and stand out from its long list of rivals? Let’s take a closer look to find out.

Subaru Crosstrek Competition

How Much Does It Cost?

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek range is priced from $34,990 for the entry-level Crosstrek 2.0L, with prices rising to $38,490 for the Crosstrek 2.0R.

From here, the range moves to the Crosstrek Hybrid L which is priced at $38,590, with prices standing at $41,490 for the Crosstrek 2.0S.

Finally, Subaru’s flagship Crosstrek Hybrid S is priced at $45,090.

Keep in mind that these prices are subject to change and do not include on-road costs.

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Subaru Crosstrek (AWD 2.0L) Specifications

What Features & Specs Does the Subaru Crosstrek Have?

Subaru’s entry-level Crosstrek 2.0L and Hybrid L come riding on a set of 17-inch alloys and receive LED headlights, combination LED tail lights, black roof rails, adaptive cruise control, cloth upholstery, dual-zone climate control, a rear-view camera with rear parking sensors and a wireless charging pad.

Stepping up to the Crosstrek 2.0R adds 18-inch alloys, self-levelling LED headlights with cornering lamps, LED fog lights, premium cloth upholstery with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, sports pedals, power-adjustable and heated front seats, upgraded X-Mode off-road driving settings, rear USB ports and Subaru’s Vision Assist system.

Finally, Subaru’s Crosstrek 2.0S and Hybrid S receive a panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, satellite navigation and an upgraded sound system.

Connectivity & Infotainment Features

One of the major updates for the latest generation Crosstrek is the 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment display sitting smack-bang in the middle of the dashboard, which gives the cabin a modern feel.

The base model’s infotainment system is paired with a six-speaker sound system as standard, while the range-topping Crosstrek 2.0S and Hybrid S receive satellite navigation and an upgraded ten-speaker sound system from Harmon/Kardon.

Does the Subaru Crosstrek Have Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto?

Buyers will be pleased to discover that all members of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek range have an infotainment system that supports wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto connectivity.

The infotainment system is packaged with DAB+ radio as standard, while satellite navigation is reserved for the flagship Crosstrek R.

The 11.6-inch display is used to control all multimedia and vehicle settings, while climate control inputs side on either side of the display for easy access.

Is the Subaru Crosstrek Comfortable to Drive?

The Subaru Crosstrek is unique in the small SUV segment in that it’s one of the most versatile and confident off-roaders in the segment.

To make things even more impressive, the Crosstrek is impressively comfortable and user-friendly to drive around town, making it one of the most versatile small SUVs on the market.

Under the bonnet, the Crosstrek picks up a 2.0-litre four-cylinder boxer engine that produces a modest 115kW of power and 196Nm of torque, powering all four wheels via Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system and a CVT automatic.

Opting for the Crosstrek Hybrid range adds an e-Boxer hybrid powertrain with the same 2.0-litre unit paired with an electric motor to help reduce fuel economy figures.

On the road, power from both engines is fair, though nothing to get particularly excited about which might be disappointing for some buyers hoping for some spirited acceleration.

Thankfully, though, the Crosstrek’s nimble handling and sure-footed grip from the AWD system makes it a great daily driver on a mix of everything from smooth city streets to gravel country roads.

Around town, the lightweight steering rack and compact body make it easy to park and manoeuvre, while the suspension package eats up bumps that make it a fabulous daily driver.

Head out of town and the Crosstrek platform is a strong performer, with accommodating suspension for rougher roads, AWD system and 220mm of ground clearance that make it a standout for light off-roading in the small SUV segment.

Is it Fuel Efficient?

Fuel economy figures for the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek lineup range are pretty much on par for the segment in the case of the base petrol, with the Crosstrek Hybrid adding some more fuel efficiency into the mix.

The base Crosstrek returns combined cycle fuel economy figures of 7.2L/100km while the Crosstrek Hybrid is rated at 6.5L/100km, making it the clear pick for fuel-conscious buyers.

How Much Fuel Does the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Use Around Town?

• Subaru Crosstrek 2.0-litre Petrol: 9.4L/100km

• Subaru Crosstrek e-Boxer Hybrid: 7.4L/100km

How Much Fuel Does the Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid Use on the Highway?

• Subaru Crosstrek 2.0-litre Petrol: 6.0L/100km

• Subaru Crosstrek e-Boxer Hybrid: 6.0L/100km 

Is it Practical and Spacious?

Subaru’s major update for the Crosstrek also resulted in some serious improvements to the interior layout and technology on offer, bringing it closer to its rivals.

Step inside and even the tallest of drivers won’t have a problem getting comfortable in the front of the Crosstrek, with large windows adding to the sense of space and visibility while driving.

The vertical infotainment system dominates the dashboard and helps to declutter the layout, with the convenience of physical climate and media controls on either side of the display.

Storage options inside the Crosstrek are great for the small SUV segment, with a storage tray and wireless charging pad hiding behind the gear lever, large cupholders, added storage inside the folding armrest and glovebox and large bottle holders inside the doors.

Move to the second row and there’s significantly more legroom on offer than its predecessor, though space is somewhat limited for tall passengers sitting behind a particularly leggy driver.

Having said that, you won’t hear many complaints from kids seated in the rear, while parents pick up a pair of ISOFIX anchors and three top tether mounts for a variety of child seats.

How Big is the Subaru Crosstrek’s Boot?

Boot space isn’t one of the strongest selling points of the Subaru Crosstrek, which has a boot measuring 290L in the standard petrol model, increasing to 315L in the Crosstrek Hybrid range.

Fold the 60:40 split rear seats down and you’ll unlock 883L of boot space in the Crosstrek petrol, or a maximum of 922L in the Crosstrek Hybrid when it’s time to lug around some sports gear or bulky cargo. 

• Crosstrek Petrol Boot: 290L

• Crosstrek Hybrid Boot: 315L

• Crosstrek Petrol Maximum Cargo: 883L

• Crosstrek Hybrid Maximum Cargo: 922L

Is it Safe?

As far as safety goes, the Subaru Crosstrek boasts one of the most comprehensive safety equipment lists anywhere on the market which is made even more impressive by the amount of kit included on the base model.

As standard, the Crosstrek picks up forward and reverse autonomous emergency steering & braking, lane-keep assist with lane centring, lane-departure and sway alerts, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts, a front-side radar, driver attention monitoring, a rear-view camera with rear parking sensors and an additional camera scanning your forward surroundings.

Upgrading to the Crosstrek 2.0R adds Subaru’s Vision Assist package that incorporates a front-view monitor with surround-view and side-view monitors and high-beam assist.

Does the Subaru Crosstrek Have an ANCAP Safety Rating?

Subaru’s Crosstrek range is yet to be officially tested by ANCAP, meaning it does not have an ANCAP safety rating as of early 2024.

What Warranty Does the Subaru Crosstrek Come With?

Subaru offers the Crosstrek range with a five-year/unlimited-kilometre factory warranty, as well as 12 months of roadside assist.

Subaru gives buyers the option of three- and five-year capped-price servicing plans which are priced at $1,240 and $2,373, respectively.

Service intervals for the Crosstrek range stand at 12,500-kilometres or 15,000km, whichever elapses first.

Our Verdict: Is the Subaru Crosstrek Worth it?

Subaru’s updated Crosstrek range gives buyers looking for a small, user-friendly, reasonably practical and truly versatile SUV package some serious food for thought.

In a segment filled with options that far prefer to stay within city confines, the Crosstrek stands as a great option for adventurous families looking for a comfortable commuter that is more than happy to hit the gravel on the weekend.

If you’re looking to upgrade to a new car, be sure to reach out to one of our car buying specialists who can help you find a great price on your next car. 

Five Subaru Crosstrek Specs You Need to Know

1. Five-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty

2. 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol and hybrid engines available

3. Symmetrical AWD system fitted as standard

4. 6.5 - 7.2L/100km fuel economy figures (hybrid v petrol)

5. 1400kg braked towing capacity