2024 Subaru Crosstrek Review | A Smaller, Cheaper Subaru Outback

It might not look like it from every angle, but the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is almost entirely new. Seriously. The engines are basically recycled with some tweaks, but everything else on the 2024 Crosstrek is new from the big LCD in the dash to the Wilderness trim on sale later this year. Despite the newness, it’s basically the same Crosstrek that has set Subaru’s sales charts on fire, and the same formula that made the Outback such a success: lift a hatchy-station-wagon and add some extra cladding. The result is off road capability, a low roof height for easy loading and a more car-like personality on road.
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[@stuntmonkey00]

There's a simple reason why the Crosstrek has done so well: the auto industry stopped making small cars, but lo and behold, people still want to buy economical practical cars. Go back a decade ago when the smaller previous incarnations of the Civic and Corolla were the best selling small vehicles... the Impreza/Crosstrek still fits that bill. Just because the car industry wants to sell bigger and more expensive vehicles at higher margins does not mean that the market wants to buy them.

[@zacharyreynolds4303]

yes and the biggest deterring factor for small car shoppers is crash danger in a world of big trucks and heavy EVs. out of any smaller car left anymore this one deters that threat the best.

[@acuintegra]

Thanks for the review Alex. As someone in their 40's and with friends also around the same age, we came to a consensus that while we love all the safety features and tech, there comes a point where there is just too much useless tech. In general, Subaru cars are just good driving cars. High performance, not necessarily, but where you point it, it will go. Not the fastest but have enough to get you to A to B. Not too big but not too small physically. They just have a good formula for the middle of the road.

[@BoopSnoot]

All else equal, bigger cars are safer. Period, there's more crumple space. All else equal, bigger cars are also surprisingly more efficient on the highway, as the airflow has more time to stabilize. Pound for pound, bigger vehicles also have far more efficiency of scale as a vehicle that is 25% smaller is generally not 25% less expensive and in fact may only save 5% in actual construction cost differences. Usually the reason subcompacts have a bigger delta with the compact class, is that the compact class gets nicer interiors and more features.

[@davek6854]

In the market for a small inexpensive vehicle, This Vehicle has a starting price of 24K But nothing in my area now seems to be less than 30K. Either there are no base models out there or everything is still highly priced. The two popular Korean makers have hiked prices up on everything as their popularity has grown. Korea is the cheapest place in the world to build a vehicle but American greed won over making them no cheaper than any other choice. Personally, I would skip over any offering by Hyundai or Kia after their debacle over metallic dust in engine cases causing catastrophic failures by the thousands. Not for me. When people start buying inexpensive they are removed from the markets forcing buyers to spend up. There is no more Honda Fit, Chevrolet Spark, Toyota Yaris and countless others mysteriously vanished off the market while their replacements as small and affordable are not so affordable to most. The Yaris was simply not shown to potential buyers as sales people directly walked over to the Corolla.

[@pootinplays]

But bigger cars are not all else equal. Bigger cars weigh more so how are they more efficient. They can sometimes have a lower coefficient of friction. So technically that is more effcient. But that doesn't overcome the difference in weight​@@BoopSnoot

[@bradstoops8862]

Great overview of the Crosstrek. Thanks! One glaring omission from this review, however, is reliability. It is definitely worth mentioning that Consumer Reports' reliability ratings for 2024 have the Crosstrek blowing away not just every car in this class, but just about every car on the market. Granted, this is *expected* reliability, but the ratings are based on historical data. Unless you are someone who upgrades cars regularly, this is one of the most significant metrics to consider. It is also worth noting that while the Crosstrek uses the typical Subaru CVT transmission, it is one that Scott Kilmer actually says doesn't suck, and coming from him, that is saying an awful lot. Thanks again for the review. Very informative.

[@terryguire1321]

Well stated. This review was extremely thorough so I was hoping that he would comment on the reliability from his own perspective and experience, and perhaps from another data source other than Consumer Reports. I love CR, but I don't like to put all my eggs in one basket.

[@MistSoalar]

That opening statement is a gem🤣🤣 take my upvote

[@MrMentos876]

I think Alex forgot a key demographic

[@Jim-bh7gs]

​@@MrMentos876😉

[@jxchamb]

I was 16 when I got my first Subaru. I did not fit any of those demographics.

[@ericchin739]

The Crosstrek DOES have rear vents. They're under the front seats. You can turn them on and off with the controls on the screen.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

I have not looked into that on the crosstrek. But those probably do not do AC under the seat. My old car has little vents under there too. But they only do heat. And only a little bit of heat

[@ericchin739]

@RRr-yl8zr No, on my 2024 Crosstrek Limited it does both AC and heat. I can choose just front, all, or just driver.

[@tomaszj.9608]

All cars have the HVAC vents you mention…He is talking about the ones that you can adjust yourself and have easy access to, if you are a rear passenger. Most more expensive cars have them, but it is still a rarity in smaller cars…

[@cgmiddle]

No, they don't.

[@christopherwelch5568]

I bought one in 2014 and I am still driving it. It's the right size vehicle- small but seats 4. It has all-wheel drive I didn't have to pay 10k extra for. It has an 8-inch lift and skates over ice, mud, standing water, snow etc like it's nothing. I pay $40 for gas every 2 weeks and it only needs 2 oil changes a year. It's the perfect car. It's so popular that used ones cost more than new ones and it's turning into a pain to buy a new one.

[@andrewbcaldwell]

Our first Subaru was a Crosstrek, practically perfect small car. Safe, solid handling with great driver communication, versatile space, amazing value. With a good set of tires, it could handle any weather. One reason why we’re on our third Subaru…they don’t skimp on safety and put the top safety features even on their most affordable cars.

[@djsyndrome]

Our Crosstrek is our seventh Subaru. Not sure there will be an eighth as we are considering moving to an EV and the Solterra was pretty underwhelming.

[@andrewbcaldwell]

@@djsyndrome My assumption is that they have more hybrids (next gen Forester) and EVs in the pipeline. Solterra is compelling, but anything with a non-Tesla plug is going to face issues with public charging - at least that has been my experience with our Hyundai Ioniq 5. If you charge at home or work (which is what we do), it could be a solid option.

[@BoopSnoot]

Regarding safety, remember that safety is only for its class. So a top safety pick subcompact sedan is not as safe as a top safety pick fullsize sedan. Its a common misconception. If you drive a Crosstrek in a head-on crash with a Ascent, the Ascent passengers will win that collision 100% of the time. Its basic physics.

[@andrewbcaldwell]

@@BoopSnoot Yes, comparing to same class goes without saying. I think it's still fair to say the Crosstrek is safe for it's size, it's been a IIHS Top Safety Pick since the model was released in 2013. For those inclined, IIHS provides all the raw data from their testing, so you could always directly compare the test results between two cars across classes. There may be some scenarios where a smaller size vehicle may perform better than a larger vehicle.

[@BoopSnoot]

Not really, because the IIHS doesn't test against other vehicles, only solid objects. If a baseball and basketball hit a solid wall, the g-forces experienced by either object will be about the same. When you throw a baseball at 20mph against a basketball thrown at 20mph head-on, the basketball will experience almost no g-force load, whereas the baseball will not only come to a complete stop but bounce backwards experiencing hundreds of times the g-forces of the basketball. That's why if safety is your only goal, get the biggest/heaviest class 5* crash rating vehicle you can afford. @@andrewbcaldwell

[@landofahhs_1]

I truly appreciated your charts with comparisons, so easy to analyse. I also enjoy the consistent comparisons of features to other manufacturer's vehicles as opposed to vague stand alone statements. Now if I can find a Subaru dealer that hasn't jacked up the MSRP.

[@colechapman6976]

I like the Crostrek as it is a small car but really practical. It is not compromised with low ground clearance, or FWD, or space issues. It is nice, small, and comfortable. The auto industry is gutting small cars, in favor of EVs and huge SUVs and pickups where they can jack up the prices. This is a great alternative, and it is surprisingly inexpensive compared to other brands. Not everyone wants to go into debt to buy a huge SUV, so this one is a great choice for people who are smart with their money

[@ronniestump2001]

I just picked up my Subaru Crosstrek yesterday afternoon. Love it! I Have been driving 3/4 ton Ford trucks for 40 years, I’m amazed at all the things in the Crosstrek. It appears to be a solid vehicle. Time will tell. Thanks for the review 😊

[@_El_Miguelon]

I just bought mine 1 month ago, 2024 Subaru Premium and am liking it so far (kinda obvious if not I wouldn’t have bought it) no complaints yet. The speed is enough with the 2.0 engine. Like a lot of comments state, you’re not buying this to speed in it. Neither are you getting it to go rock climbing. It’s a subí :) enjoy it for what it is. A short video of mine on my page

[@user-dj1oc6pv8q]

Mine is on its way, I haven't had a clear answer on the stitching, is it orange on premium package??

[@_El_Miguelon]

@@rollinsdet8229 mine is Magnetite Gray Metallic. Interior is a black interior with some Plastic feeling carbon fiber trims here and there.

[@_El_Miguelon]

@@user-dj1oc6pv8q no orange stitching on the premium

[@RRr-yl8zr]

You must live in a "small state "somewhere where the fastest freeway is only 55 mph. Otherwise you would not think the speed is "enough" 😄😉

[@_El_Miguelon]

@@RRr-yl8zr I prefer to call my hometown a “BIG Country Town” 😂 If speed is what you’re looking for you are looking in the wrong place. You’re not buying this car to hit 80mph on the freeway in the far left lane. Can it do it if you need it? YES, I’ve done it before. It’s not advertised on a speed track, it’s advertised as an outdoors vehicle to get you from the pavement to the outdoors with GOOD MPGs.

[@madlucio70]

I love that you mentioned the PHEV! I have the 2023 Crosstrek PHEV and absolutely adore it! Last winter was difficult for us up here in Canada and the Trek drove like a dream in the crazy blizzards. From -35C degrees last winter to the +40's this summer with every type of crazy weather and road condition, and she drove like a dream no matter what.

[@brendabathke8491]

can’t wait till that’s available in CO!!

[@frankpoperowitzmusic]

I purchased a 24 Limited. I am coming out of a 4Runner and was sick of the poor fuel consumption paired with $4 a gallon gas. I am a Toyota guy and was looking at the Corolla Cross Hybrid but markups are horrible on Toyotas. I am very happy with my fancy little Subie getting 35 MPGs on the Highway.

[@BoopSnoot]

I really wanted a Rav4 Hybrid, but like you say markups were laughable. That said, if you live South of the snowbelt and don't really need AWD (most don't), you can usually get the same or more efficiency from FWD on a larger vehicle. For example, I found out a compact class FWD Rogue S was basically the same cost and weight as a 2.5 Crosstrek, rated 37mpg highway, almost the same ground clearance for slowly pushing through low flooded streets we occasionally get here, and has a 36.5 cubic feet trunk vs the Crosstrek's 20 cubic feet with the seat's up. That said, if I did live up North, I'd probably spring for a Subaru Outback Premium for myself (real world fuel economy is pretty much the same as a Crosstrek with the same 2.5 engine).

[@byronmcgee4118]

And, Toyota is part owner of Subaru

[@user-du8tg4wh3k]

Same, I owned a Toyota Sequoia for many years. Mostly the factor of fuel cost, I traded my Sequoia for a used Crosstrek. The Trek is amazing in wet weather. My model was built in Japan. 35mpg on road trips are pretty standard.

[@adamh8140]

As a 23 legacy owner, the headlight is useful on country roads. However, the straight distance it lights up is a bit closer than the competitor.

[@winc06]

To me this is like the original Foresters, small, slow and utilitarian. I have a retired friend and she loves hers because it had a great color, the interior is much more attractively styled than the competition, and the front goes over curbs and parking lot stops without damage. LOL. She never pushes the gas to the floor because the noise to her means she is breaking it.

[@JamesLee-oe7mt]

My girlfriend says the same thing every time I get her Corolla over 3000 rpm. Needless to say shes not going anywhere fast...

[@RRr-yl8zr]

And just think the 2.5 l Crosstrek is a couple of steps noticeably quicker than the Forester.

[@fragu123]

@@JamesLee-oe7mt…my wife takes her WRX Sti and pushes it sideways drifting along gravel tracks… amazing how different women are😊

[@Dunwelll]

I love your reviews and insights, but can you add some length measurements on the scale when comparing a vehicle to its competition? Based on the way the scale is displayed, I would have thought the Crosstrek is much more than 4 inches longer than the seltos. Thank you!

[@danmagoo]

My wife has an Outback that I have driven many times. I recently got a Crosstrek, and I find your comparison to be on target. There are technical differences beyond price, but the "feel" of driving both cars js very much the same.

[@craigster1234]

I'm even happier now that I 'went for it' and bought a 6 speed 2023 Crosstrek.

[@brenrob7403]

The competition is heating up but this is still an very solid, very well rounded vehicle. Kia Seltos / new Kona have more goodies but the fuel economy isn't good, Corolla Cross Hybrid very compelling but expect some price gouging and the rear seat is a bit tight

[@braetonwilson4296]

Yep, Corolla sedan has 35 inches of rear legroom but Corolla Cross has 32 inches of rear legroom.

[@jeffnaval4894]

i prefer subaru than kia because of insane resale value. This car really competes against corolla cross. If u want a bit more offroad but less mpg then get subaru. or if u want more mpg but less offroad get corolla cross.

[@BoopSnoot]

Actually sit in a Corolla Cross and you'll cross it off your list anyway, the interior is surprisingly cheap. It feels like it should be a low $20K vehicle, but realistically you're going to be over $30K OTD on anyone you can find.

[@jeffnaval4894]

@@BoopSnoot yeah didn't factor the toyota markup. I've heard subaru as of right now they have no markups. so your gonna be saving 5-10k.

[@hoser7706]

I just drove a new CX-30 around Iceland including the West Fjords snd it aas surprisingly good. I grew to appreciate it and never found it rough. Even on Icelandic gravel nail-biters!!

[@dannyboy8850]

Very good overview and comparison. 👍

[@flavioinzirillo4858]

One thing to mention of Subaru over competition, interest rate about half of what others offer, 3.99 in Canada vs almost 8% for Toyota. Big difference.

[@sflscott11]

In 2021, we crossed shopped the 2022 Crosstrek and the 2022 Seltos SX..... We chose the Seltos. No CVT, hot 1.6L Turbo, tons of bells and whistles, and, the warranty. We love it still 30,000 miles later.

[@damilolaakanni]

How has reliability been since you got it? Any major repairs?

[@ZeGermanHam]

Unfortunately, the dual-clutch transmission in the 1.6L turbo Seltos and Kona is known to be highly problematic. So much so that Kia dropped it for the redesigned model. They overheat and lurch in heavy top & go traffic and do not have a good reliability record.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

The seltos will probably do better and be more fun on paved roads. If you want to go down a nasty dirt road the Seltos is going to leave you you stuck or broken "on the side of the road" you'll need a Subaru to come along and help you get home 😅😉 Then again if you're only going to drive on the asphalt, why screw around with an SUV when you could get a turbocharged Honda Civic . Or a turbo veloster, etc😁

[@Tonga2]

Love my 2024 Crosstrek/Hate the 3 cameras that seem like there is a Sun visor down all the time taking away some forward vision.

[@user-dj1oc6pv8q]

What was that trim on crosstrek you reviewed? You kept saying " on this trim" but, I didn't hear you mention what it was.

[@pamc3338]

I drive a '15 Crosstrek, still love the ride after all these years.

[@peterolson7550]

Alex, do you drive cars at night during the week you have it? I ask because I was lighting up SUV interiors when I got the '24 Crosstrek with its low beams on and had brights flashed at me all the time. Lowered the lights myself but wondering if this is a Subaru thing or a modern car thing.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

More of a modern car thing combined with people that apparently have never encountered a modern car....

[@FlowJunkee65]

Ha! I love it! I'm a college professor and 2 of my colleagues and I drive Subarus! 😄

[@joeyoung979]

Dude your reviews are so awesome! Keep it up!

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Glad you like them!

[@Alex-lj3ky]

Hello Alex, my partner and I are in search of a compact car that is as comfortable and quiet as the Grand Cherokee. We plan to embark on several lengthy road trips throughout North America. We'll be staying in hotels for the majority of our journey, so we won't require a lot of cargo space, but I am very sensitive to noise on the highway. You've reviewed a great number of cars, so we're hoping you could suggest some options for us. Thank you kindly in advance.

[@Jim-bh7gs]

Thank you,sir. This THE BEST car review I have ever seen. I think I lean to Corolla Cross, but I haven't test driven either new one yet.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Toyota just made the Corolla cross so they would have something sized to compete against the crosstrek. If you really want to go down some nasty or rough dirt roads it will drastically fail you compared to the Subaru. I looked into the Toyota cross and have already dismissed it so not remembering the details as well but I think it's ground clearance might also be let down? Want to see how badly it's all wheel drive system fails compared to a the everything else about it kind of doesn't matter now...😅 The Toyota cross is also seems to very overpriced, to me. BUT, if you don't mind the price and you never plan on driving on anything but paved roads the Toyota cross is definitely worth looking into.

[@Jim-bh7gs]

The CorollaCross deal breaker for me was the lack of any spare tire. It has a repair kit under the storage area to make room for the rear battery. The only off-road I do at my age is supermarket parking lots,what I need to more height on the road due to headlights.Oh,and Crosstreck's turn with you. I am just sorry Crosstreck isn't a hybrid.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

@@Jim-bh7gs the Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in electric hybrid might be something for you to look into that or even the Honda CRV hybrid. I'd also say to take a look at just the gas powered Kia soul, BUT I'm not sure if they've done anything to the engine this last model year, to make me trust it

[@RRr-yl8zr]

@Jim-bh7gs the Mitsubishi Outlander plug-in electric hybrid might be something for you to look into that or even the Honda CRV hybrid. I'd also say to take a look at just the gas powered Kia soul, BUT I'm not sure if they've done anything to the engine this last model year, to make me trust it. Has Mazda add It On the turning headlights? . Some of their cars are nice and look nice and are definitely more biased towards the street than the dirt.

[@glennhavinoviski8128]

For me the best thing about the Crosstrek is that, coming off a prior '21 Outback Onyx XT lease (I have a work vehicle allowance), you get the advantages of the smaller chassis (much better handling, easier to squeeze into tiny parking spaces) while still having basically the same ride, interior quality, front seat room and layout (I have the Sport edition), and only slightly smaller backseat room. Plus my model has the wireless phone charger and wireless CarPlay, which my Outback at the time did not have. The two things I miss the most coming from an Outback XT to a Crosstrek are the 2.4 T engine (the 2.5 is enough for the Xtrek but you can still feel its relative lack of punchiness) and the cavernous cargo hold of the Outback with that big heavy power liftgate that you can remotely both open AND close. For example, while the Xtrek will hold our dog crate, we'd pretty much have to put at least one of the seats down to get 3-4 days of luggage in there. With family who insist you pick people up right as you're getting to your destination (because they're too lazy to pick their local relatives up), this will make it a pretty good excuse to tell them to do it themselves.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

We refer to the Crosstrek as the baby Outback on a fairly regular basis, thanks for sharing you experience. -Travis

[@byronmcgee4118]

Driving a 2021 Ascent limited. 45,000 miles, zero issues

[@muhammedirfanputhenpuracka3913]

I own 2024crosstrek 2.5 I love everything (very comfy)except city MPg,wish it was a hybrid

[@GrumpyForester]

I'm looking to buy a new vehicle to replace my beloved 2012 Mazda3...but I live in snow country and have lived with the terror over the lifetime of two Mazda 3's (a 2008 and my current one) of not being able to rely on getting local road and driveway surfaces cleared of snow to the point where I can get the vehicle in and out (particularly during chinook melting episodes). I'm looking at AWD for a replacement, so I appreciate your review of the Crosstrek, since it is one of the vehicles on my wish list for a new ride...

[@edr3774]

Please do a full review on the Impreza RS. Would like to see your rating scores on that car. Especially as these are closely related. Thank you.

[@ronorazine9105]

My wife got a crosstrek plug in hybrid even I like it. Has limited off rd and unbelievable in snow. The spec says 17 miles all electric I drove it yesterday and got 28 miles all electric she usually get up to 25. Than goes hybrid but will switch all electric back and forth. X drive feature in snow makes it feel like a jeep. Roomy enough for us safety features have saved us three times from accidents.

[@derfdswed]

this car rides super well on gravel roads. we had one as a rental in South America and it was better than i expected.

[@jeretso]

America wants easy to park vehicles. The classic sedan trunk is a pain. They want to put the back seats down for their luggage and pets. You can even sleep in the back of the hatch haha. My only complaint is the lack of buttons because that huge screen will be a dinosaur in 10 years. Most of us can afford to replace our phones and laptops many times but replacing a $26,000 car will be expensive.

[@Tonga2]

Love my 2024 Crosstrek Onyx 2.5

[@georgedoolittle7574]

Stealth rally car with amazing handling.

[@danbert6039]

best part is that you can include the forester engine in the much lighter crosstrek. the forester is amazing but only when it included the turbo.

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

I'd get the Crosstrek or the HR-V AWD. I'm beyond caring about high speed acceleration, but do like to pair AWD with good MPG. And for me, good reliability and a good ride count too.

[@eskieman3948]

The Crosstrek is WAY better in the ride comfort department over the HR-V.

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

@@eskieman3948 ok good info 👍

[@Ichibuns]

The AWD on the Crosstrek is better. The HR-V will send just enough to get out of a slippery spot on a flatter road but if you ever plan on going on something more difficult, like a trail, it has much more difficulty sending power to the rear if you ever need it. The budget AWD systems from Honda have been bottom of the barrel.

[@markmiller3279]

I love the styling and interior quality of the CX-30, and we don't have kids, so the tight back seat isn't an issue. I do wish the infotainment and gas mileage were better. I love the Niro's packaging, interior, and the PHEV would suit me beautifully. I just wish I liked the styling better. The Honda and Toyota are unspeakably boring, though the Toyota hybrid drivetrain is compelling. The new Kona looks too weird. I like the Seltos, but its reliability hasn't been great.

[@DeltaWhiskeyBravo13579]

@@Ichibuns for me, I think either is going to be ok. My AWD choice would be for bad weather on-road, some snow, etc. In South-Central PA. I'm a disabled guy so no interest in off-road stuff.

[@kipperwhite2976]

Had one N Ore-gun long ago & got us 2top of many mnts & campgrounds ! Sadly now as a DAV w/low $$ not likely beable 2 afford one now! Still R Dream Vehicle anyway LOL ;) good video TY

[@kipperwhite2976]

Wife says TY 4 good memories she LuV's this one color design etc scary actually @ todays % rates etc ??

[@rickeles7333]

I love our 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness

[@gubieone]

One thing that I am interested in that often isn't covered in reviews is do the back seats fold flat and how much cargo area is there with the seats folded. Why is this information often skipped in these reviews?

[@Keith99f]

Rear seats *do* fold flat.

[@ellensvehla2273]

Do you know if the steering wheel wrap is animal leather or plant/synthetic?

[@iamsuprmn1]

The first time I saw one of these, I loved it. Guess Im a hippie.... Im cool with that😁

[@randomgrinn]

Best review I've found yet, although you not laughing at pointless things like stitching color and heated seats has me questioning your critical thinking. And comparing Kia....isn't the point of Subaru reliability? Is Kia also reliable? You need to say that it is or isn't.

[@rafeaaldabbas1625]

dear master I would like to ask you which car has a high grade of cabin noise silent with a mid-range price? thanks in advance

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Well, on the new 2024 Crosstrek they did improve the sound deadening and make the frame / chassis Body more Ridgid! Sturdy. So it is noticeably quieter than the previous model Crosstrek

[@godwhomismike]

My Crosstrek Wilderness order is due in any day now (shipped out from factory a week ago). I was curious of how the HK Audio was and may have missed it in the video. Also, it will be nice to give up the truck EPA 17/23 for the Crosstrek Wilderness 25/29, save on gas, get a better ride, easier to park, and better in the snow.

[@danielfair4675]

I have the HK System in my '21 Limited. It beats the hell out of the Bose System in my Corvette & is better than the wife factory Alpine system in her Chrysler 300.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

I'll bet you it's probably good enough to crank up and enjoy and sing along to while driving 😁😉 I'll also bet you that they put a round subwoofer down to low in the gear compartment, so that when you want to go on a road trip and you really want your jamming... Your subwoofer is going to be buried under slash against an ice chest a suitcase sleeping bags tent etc, and not sounding so great ☹️😡 I really need to figure out that they need to put the subwoofer high up on a side panel or even put some 6X 9 subwoofers high up in a the rear pillars even just one of the good 6X 9 subwoofers will give you a nice bass in the small compartment of a car interior and be functional all the 🙂 I'd also bet that you'd be surprised with today's modern car stereos just how much better and plenty satisfying they will be if you just put in low profile a amplified subwoofer box in. Even just a nice 8 inch subwoofer will sound nice and make a massive improvement to your car stereo. Their low profile enough that some car seats that don't have obstructions underneath them can just slip a subwoofer right under there. Or you can just put them in the luggage compartment, not bolt them down and give them a little extra cable /wiring. That way when you load up your car you can just lift the subwoofer up and put it on top of all your gear and still be jamming clearly 😁 oh, And The Money You Will Save $$$! 😁

[@lilredcummins]

Thanks for the review. I am curious WHY @ 19:30 you looked over your right shoulder when backing up. You have 3 mirrors AND a backup camera in the car.

[@vinnpu]

Your comment about cabin noise is contradicted by most other reviewers. The 2.4 engine provides plenty of power for average drivers. Turbos are unnecessary.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Yes I've heard repeatedly that this is noticeably quieter than the previous models and is quite nice. MAYBE if you're comparing it to a Mercedes or Buick it's not as quiet? 😅 Turbo suck for multiple reasons. But this car in the 2.5 l motor definitely needs to be quicker. Especially when you're trying to get up to 83 mph or so on an an on ramp.

[@ltkwok]

Alex, How about a video about Iceland? Did you take photos / videos? Just show them with you voice over.

[@Thebusdriverandgamermorefan790]

One day.. I will buy a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek.

[@rightlanehog3151]

Alex, Can we really call this lifted Impreza hatch a 'wagon' when Subaru actually make an Impreza wagon called the Levorg? 🤔 In day to day driving, the outstanding efficiency of the Corolla Cross Hybrid makes it the top competitor in this field.🤩

[@eskieman3948]

Yawn. Amusing.

[@MH-lk8md]

Levorg is not an Impreza. It’s a Legacy.

[@tpolerex7282]

@@MH-lk8mdthe Outback is a (raised) Legacy wagon, the Levorg is more closely related to the Impreza platform. Fun fact, the new Impreza surprisingly has (slightly) more cargo capacity than the Levorg.

[@jzhao542]

HI, MISTER and dear viewers, i have a question here: for my 2022 Forester/base , just wonder steel rim (7Jx17 ET42)(see BSR , X45755 or IKON: STW17-X--7705454056 ) will be used as 7Jx17ET48, THE HUB HOLE IS 56.1mm. appreciate any comments.

[@johndubrawski7094]

We own a 2023 Crosstrek Sport with the 2.5L, in black-on-black. The 2023 is, in my opinion, a better aesthetic design than the 2024. The interior of the Sport trim is somewhat similar in style and durability to their Wilderness series (without the overwrought-ness of the Wilderness trim). Comfortable front and rear seats. The rear seating space is adequate, even for adults. The 2.5 engine is adequate, even at altitude. This car is our affordable, go-to gas sipper. It is also a do-it-all appliance. Easy to park in the city. Easy to blast up to the ski resorts, or for local adventures. Modern infotainment screen, with Apple CarPlay. Our kids love the vehicle. We will most likely (eventually) pass it down to the kids. My only critiques are 1.) it lacks rear heating / cooling controls and vents, and 2.) the rear lacks USB chargers. However the car punches above its weight, regarding value and functionality. It even cleans up well for occasional work meetings... Granted, we live in Colorado. We've added a Thule roof-top box, a hitch with a 2" adaptor, and an aftermarket skid-plate from Primitive Racing. All told, this vehicle (with the 2.5L) is a recommended buy. Especially in snow / at altitude. Or as a second vehicle, if you have a larger family.

[@cgmiddle]

Quite incorrect.

[@Zhenocnra]

Honestly, if you carry more than 2 people more than occasionally, most buyers would probably be happier with the Forester at that price point. $2k more for the Forester for much more room in both rows AND in the cargo area makes the Forester just that much more of a smarter choice. Unless you're seriously pinching pennies or want the car-like driving experience, I don't see any reason to get the Crosstrek over the Forester. Save yourself the trouble and just get the Forester if you're looking at the Crosstrek segment.

[@namvet1968]

Good info. What is the MPG of the Forester? Can you get a hybrid?

[@knightryder3757]

Save yourself the trouble? What trouble? So far all I've seen from you is an 'opinion'.

[@danielfair4675]

The Forester is to square looking. Also the side look is hideous. The rim/tire combo looks to small circumference wise. Maybe I'm spoiled, buy that's my .02. 😁

[@douglasmckinley-sr1507]

Crosstrek will easily handle 4 people. I am over 6 feet and any car I buy has to let me sit in the front seat comfortably and the go to the back seat and still have plenty of leg room. Now four people with two large suitcases each…that might be a problem.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

But unfortunately the Forester is way too Slow 😟. 🤔 unless you only drive in town or only drive down dirt roads

[@twolford01]

Actually sounds like the description of a SAAB owner in the sixties. Don’t forget the elbow patch on the jacket 😅.

[@bird271828]

Does the passenger seat have adjustable lumbar support?

[@peterolson7550]

I happen to own a '24 Crosstrek Limited. Afraid there's no passenger seat adjustable lumbar support.

[@parsley0120]

It does not - drivers seat lumbar wasn’t even an option until the 2024 model year. Passenger lumbar isn’t often around in this particular segment of vehicle.

[@0HOON0]

Really disappointed that the Premium trim no longer comes with a leather steering wheel. The plastic one is cheap and nasty.

[@eskieman3948]

Then don't buy it. Problem solved.

[@ZeGermanHam]

For 2024, the Premium also no longer comes with heated seats, mirrors, or wipers. They now come bundled in a $2,245 package that has a moonroof. Disappointing, as the Premium is no longer as good of a value as it was in the previous gen Crosstreks.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

🙄 pahleez. The most trivial of things. And I always put a cover over them anyway to protect 😅

[@karenbleadon8323]

I have a 2019 Crosstrek and recently drove it across county! I bought this vehicle originally because of the AWD system, visibility, fuel economy, and drive comfort. Biggest complaint is it’s slow acceleration. Am looking at trading it in for a vehicle with larger cargo capacity.

[@katsm-wo9704]

I traded to a 23 Outback and it is just perfect checks all the boxes

[@ericchin739]

Try the new Forester. Visibility is INSANE compared to my 24 Crosstrek and the cargo room is really really big!

[@Barbarosa1234]

Slow acceleration because you had the older and smaller 2.0L engine. I had the 2021 CrossTrek Limited with the larger 2.5L engine at 184hp, and I just got the 2024 CrossTrek Limited also with 2.5L. Acceleration is great!! Very quick off the line, I leave a lot of other cars in the dust 😄 and it accelerates great at high speeds on the highway too. I love it!

[@durkee12]

​same here put them in the dust with my 23 limited!

[@michaels999]

⁠I have a 21 limited and the hp is 182 and I believe the 24 is the same, great car fast enough unless you’re racing people

[@melindawiens275]

I have read that Subaru is having problems with the touch screen, delays, glitches and just not working. Do you have any information on this? It’s the only thing holding me back from purchasing one. Thank you

[@rickeles7333]

We have had no difficulties with touch screen

[@richardmichael59]

A- is a very generous score on cabin noise. Subaru needs to step up this in their product lineup.

[@brendabathke8491]

he was right on about that and no back seat air vents- the other issue i have is no auto lift gate in the higher level model crosstrek- cmon Subaru… still love my 2024 Crosstrek though- i leased this one as i’m hoping PHEV and auto lift gate on the 2027 . turbo too?? now that would be perfection 😊

[@knightryder3757]

Regarding your assertion that the AWD power distribution is FWD biased 60/40, you're dead wrong. All 4 wheels get the exact same power load. This is why it's called 'symmetrical' AWD. Other than that glaring errors, good job on the review. 👍

[@kirkfisher1721]

Subaru claims they did improve the seats and the insulation to reduce noise and borrowed some steering components from the WRX?

[@krecikowi]

Alex, can you do detailed review of Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid?

[@jamesgordon8867]

My 2004 Subaru Impreza Outback is what this car came from. Still have.

[@normandupuis1093]

I can see the time on the console but i can't see the day/month. How can I access that feature?

[@rickeles7333]

There is a widget to add it where oil temp and water temp is

[@normandupuis1093]

@@rickeles7333 Thanks. I eventually found the widget.

[@AlaskaErik]

I'm 6' 2" so the Crosstrek is just too small. I have the Forester Wilderness and it fits me perfectly.

[@BoopSnoot]

Probably for the best anyway. I used to assume that a 5* crash test vehicle meant it was as safe as any other 5* vehicle, but I didn't realize it was only "for its class". So a 5* subcompact score is more akin to a fullsize 3* in actual safety. Our local fire chief explained after going through all the reports and seeing the jaws of life and what not used to "buy the biggest vehicle you can afford and that fits in your garage". He also actually recommends EVs because they are so heavy for their size, because he explained that the heavier vehicle always wins in a collision. That Tesla X for example is 5,390lbs, so if a 3,300lb Crosstrek hits it merging on the highway, the Crosstrek is much more likely to bounce off and lose control than visa versa. Think of it like a 120lb woman bumping into a 200lb man in a hallway, regardless of who bumped who, she's more likely to hit the wall than him.

[@MarkCucchiara]

Nice but no point in comparing apples with oranges

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Yeah I like the size and function of the Forester better. But the problem is they have the same 2.5 l engine in them. The Crosstrek is not fast. But unfortunately the Forrester is clearly much slower and too slow for me 😟 but unfortunately what really concerns me with any of these cars is not so much they're 0 to 60 time but there's zero to ... "83mph"? I need to get down freeway on ramps and be going around that speed to merge safely into traffic. If it comes even more critical when you somehow got stuck going solar behind some senile woman that thinks that it's safer to drive slowly and likes to go 60mph when you're trying to pull in front of traffic that's going 80 mph or a Kenworth that's going 73 to 76 mpg. 🙄😖

[@dudleybarnes1639]

I live in New York I have a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek limited it has no heated steering wheel I don't understand that

[@peterpascone6942]

I would like a comparison of interior space of the original Subaru Legacy Outback to this Crosstrek?

[@RRr-yl8zr]

I don't know what an original Subaru legacy outback is supposed to mean... But I don't know why you expect the smallest SUV that they sell to be able to compete against the much larger informally the largest SUV best Subaru sells🙄😅🙂

[@supersteve8305]

A nice chart to add at the end of your videos would be the cost to insure. Maybe full coverage with 100/300 thousand coverage with a 500 or 1,000 $ deductible. I realize insurance varies state to state, and driver to driver, but it would give us a general idae of the differences in the cost to insure. Thanks for such great reviews.

[@tjs114]

While a nice idea, it would be pretty much worthless because insurance rates have little to do with the car, and more to do with who and where the car is and how much the insurance carrier can gouge you. Just last year, I asked my agent for rate quotes on seven vehicles, all new, ranging in purchase price from $25,000 to $80,000 and they all came back with rates that were within +/- $300 per year (translation: the cheapest to insure to the most expensive to insure was only about $300/year different) and none of those prices were remotely similar to the 'average' price those online insurance quoting systems give. And for the record, I get the super-premium best rates due to years of having the same company, home+auto bundle, driving record, etc.

[@markmiller3279]

Too dependent on location and who you are. Cars as similar as these will likely get similar rates (or the rates will be random). None of these alternatives are sporty enough to merit higher insurance prices.

[@supersteve8305]

I had heard some vehicles are more expensive to repair than others, but $300 per year is not a deciding factor, I guess. Lol I do keep my vehicles about 20 years though. 300×20= $6,000. I guess it depends on how you value money.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

@@tjs114 actually I think it's still true that KIA Hyundai cost cost more to ensure because they are always changing designs in the parts to replace them are more limited and more expensive. The cost of replacement parts are going to nail you regardless of how good drive. And if the cost of insurance on one model cost $300 more then the same model from another for the same person you'll get an idea of what the difference is in Costco. But I think the insurance sales people aren't going to want to waste time on the person trying to compare costs on the cards for a car review channel 🤔

[@jayhiggins5239]

How much do you have to spend to get sterring LED heaights in the competition?

[@bonniel4325]

You realize you're standing in front of the limited and quoting the price for the base model right? Limited will go for 35K if you're very lucky, and an expert negotiator.

[@kubi0461]

It’s just a tiny bit too small for me with that sloped back.. so just another day wishing for a forester with more power. I personally am having a difficult time shaking off the temptation of the new X1. Realistically though I should probably look at a Tucson hybrid or Outlander PHEV. I’m looking to downsize from my Passport when the lease runs out soon though I still want a solid AWD system, some efficient cargo space, and good ground clearance as we get plenty of snow. RDX may be my best bet considering Acura can buyout my lease and likely would give me a decent amount.

[@MH-lk8md]

Lol… I’m 6’4” and I find the CrossTrek/Impreza huge inside compared to most vehicles. Never had a problem with it.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Unfortunately if you want to go down kind of rough nasty dirt they all will drive systems on those Tucson's and most of those Kia Hyundai SUV things will let you down/ will fail you on a rough dirt road ☹️ I'm not sure about the Sportage? And I think a lot of their problem also has to do with those dual clutch transmissions not being good on rough dirt roads. That Mitsubishi outlander the new one looks pretty dang nice. Much nicer and more SUVs than the Nissan version of it. But they are both underpowered and slow. I was hoping the Mitsubishi would have the better all-wheel drive system and in a way and apparently does but it's based off Mitsubishi's all wheel drive system which is focus for sports cars/racing. It's hard to find any good off-road / rough road reviews of The Outlander. And unfortunately the limited reviews of them are not very good. Not really doing any kind of a proper rough dirt road review.

[@toyota420xp]

Subaru would be smart to create a different base engine one that gets slightly better gas mileage while keeping the power or upping the power but that would cost a fortune

[@laatu1234]

It is funny, car review people are complaining about 7,5s 0-100km/h … Comon! 12s 0-100km/h is perfectly fine. Turbo is not good for fuel economy. Free breathing engine is superior and also more durable. This car is good for slow driving and bad routes in forest/field.

[@eskieman3948]

Ummmmm.... my son drives his '22 Crosstrek like a rally car, and it does quite well driving faster than you describe. I still can't get over how nicely it rides over all types of roads.

[@markmiller3279]

The horsepower race of recent years has gotten ridiculous. Twenty years ago this kind of performance would have been thought quite peppy. Many base vehicles were well over ten seconds 0-60, and somehow they made it onto freeways perfectly well. Climbed hills, too.

[@RRr-yl8zr]

I think it's too slow for getting on the highways around here. Or at least for safely getting on them without being highly stressed out every time or while trying to pass ...

[@walid1tr393]

Finally nice looking car subaru

[@chillbobaggins4632]

Not to mention more attractive. I have always found the Outback design to be a bit homely.

[@arthur4818]

They just need a 6-speed manual

[@enjoylife7030]

This is gonna sound weird but I never thought of Subarus as SUV's or Crossovers. To me they all mostly looked like wagons. I am actually fond of a good wagon but the Subaru brand just never appealed to me. I went on their website and they do indeed list nearly every vehicle they sell as an SUV. Now that I look at them I can see how they really aren't much different then any other branded crossover out there. But in my mind they still just look like a wagon. The Ascent still reminds me of an old Ford Freestyle. I am sure today's demographics are much different then 25 years ago though.

[@eskieman3948]

"Now that I look at them I can see how they really aren't much different then any other branded crossover out there". Except that almost every Subaru has AWD (the best in the industry), and that they'll go through paths and fire roads that will leave every one of your "crossovers" flat out stuck or hung up. The devil is in the details, my friend.....

[@markmiller3279]

It looks somewhere between a wagon and a hatchback to me, but these days plenty of other crossovers have sloping tail ends. It's just a lot easier to sell a crossover than a wagon, or a hatchback. They're almost all effectively cars.

[@ZeGermanHam]

At the end of the day, it doesn't really matter what the marketing department calls them. I own two Subarus and think of them as car-based lifted wagons, because that's what they are, but ultimately they are just a good alternative for people who don't want or need a conventional larger format SUV.

[@danielfair4675]

It's got the sloped rear look of a GLA Mercedes Benz .... and thats not a bad thing.

[@Tinrs80]

Alex ive posted this on other cross trek videos. you would be surprised at how my Physicians/doctors own these too as 2nd car.

[@braetonwilson4296]

Most physicians/doctors have $300,000-$500,000 in student loans and only start gettig paid well a bit later in life after they become attendings. They're well off but by no means rich.

[@Tinrs80]

@@braetonwilson4296 i said 2nd car man the main is high end.

[@sheiladawson1648]

I thought the wilderness was given a transmission oil cooler to allow for the 3500# tow capacity….?

[@RRr-yl8zr]

Yep that helps and it also has more grunt in the final gear ratio on the differential for a little bit quicker pick up on the low end too and that lower gearing is also probably not making the gas mileage Happy on the wilderness either 😄😕

[@rickeles7333]

That is correct

[@iqnill]

Actually the new, projector light are shocking outside of the city. The range is OK, but the sharp cutofff makes country driving a hair rising exercise - you don't see anything until it is in the full brightness area under the cutoff. Also driving down the hills you really don't see where you are going beyond 20m - scary. High beam doesn't light up another light source, but rather rises the cutoff line of the lights. Great for well lit city roads, shocking for country driving.

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

Thanks for sharing your experience! -Travis

[@Spikejou]

If the Corolla Cross Hybrid get 45mpg (A+), how does this at 25mpg get A-?

[@BringANickel]

My Crosstrek has avg fuel economy of 29.5 after an insanely hot summer (temps to 119°).

[@danielfair4675]

​@@BringANickelI'm at a 32-33 mpg avg with a 50/50 mix city/highway. This is on a '21 Limited w/2.5

[@RRr-yl8zr]

@@BringANickel I have a feeling you're definitely not cruising the highway at 81 MPH

[@tinhinnh]

xtrek - awd kia - value hrv - room rollax - mpg

[@mwenengofero]

Hippie college professors rock!

[@youtubehandle0]

Is it really a small outback or it's a slightly rised impreza?

[@AAutoBuyersGuide]

It can be both can't it? -Travis

[@youtubehandle0]

@@AAutoBuyersGuide

[@damirnaric4835]

Oh do I like when these "reviewers" start talking about the car like it is a fashion show, sliding their fingers over the contours of the car what we all can see even without their explanation. Just talk about the specs of the car and abilities of the vehicle which most of the people are interested in.

[@zeno15sti33]

😅 more power. I'm in the market for a daily don't know what I'm going to get. Really want a 4Runner. But we'll see.

[@davidwayne9982]

I love the design and look and other things about that little critter-- if they'd make it TURBO-- I'd buy one in a heartbeat... but it's TOO underpowered-- no matter what their "excuses" are..

[@AkioWasRight]

It's funny, I have ex-hippie college professors in my family, and they all drive Ford and GM, while I, the ultraconservative, flag waving, business owning meritocrat your professors warned you about, drive a Subaru. I mean, Subaru makes a decent car, so why wouldn't I?

[@braetonwilson4296]

I'm a ghey man and have slept with many men. I drive a Ford F-150.

[@kupwards]

Yea, silly opening statement unless there backed by actual buyer stats. And if what A. said is true, it’s a compliment to the acumen of hippies and professors.

[@AkioWasRight]

@@jeffc1753 Well, it's audacious to assume they need any sympathy. First of all, being a business owner and breadwinner in the family, it's actually pretty typical of them to turn to me for help and guidance. What's more, I don't wear my politics on my sleeve. In reality, I get along with all my family just fine, left or right. In fact, being a meritocrat means I treat people differently not so much for their views but for their meritoriousness, or for their worthiness and virtue.

[@scotty4854]

@@jeffc1753 I fall in the centrist to traditional liberal world, and you're everything wrong with politics in our time. Absolutely shameful.

[@rlb2444]

You appear to be promoting KIA. I tried to buy a KIA but kept getting intimidated by their sales manager. He finally hit a nerve and I walked out. KIA is not Subaru. I am glad I bought a Crosstrek. It's been flawless in three years.

[@elpomada]

Great great car !

[@theskyehiker]

Go Slugs!

[@toyota420xp]

They spent a lot of time reducing the aerodynamic will drag because their engines are inefficient

[@carlosrobles7716]

Go Slugs!!!!!!!!

[@jppalm3944]

HOW MUCH A DEALERS? 6 TO 10K DEALER ADD ON. All cars on lot loaded. Cheap?

[@RRr-yl8zr]

You don't have to pay for or any add-ons if you don't want to. You need to learn how shop 🙂

[@jppalm3944]

@RRr-yl8zr no cars in lots not loaded.. Where have you been?

[@justaguy6862]

I wanted to look at this. But the CVT is a no go for me…