Can It Off-Road? The Champion Wrangler vs. the Crosstrek Challenger | Edmunds

Edmunds editors Travis Langness and Calvin Kim take the Subaru Crosstrek and the Jeep Wrangler out into the wilderness over rocks, under trees and into the open meadows of California's Sierra mountain range. These two redesigned vehicles are excellent off-the-lot off-roaders, but they offer very different on-road attitudes. The Crosstrek can be equipped with just about everything on its options list for under $31,000 while the Wrangler is pretty bare-bones at that price point. Which one of these dirt-going vehicles will fare better once the pavement ends?
Q: What do the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2018 Jeep Wrangler cost?
A: The base Crosstrek starts at $22,710 but our top-trim-level 2.0i Limited test car had a starting price of $27,210. With a few options, that went up to nearly $31,000. That's still pretty reasonable, though, considering the Jeep Wrangler's base price of $28,940 and our vehicle's as-tested price of $38,985.
Q: What powers the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek and the 2018 Jeep Wrangler?
A: The Crosstrek has a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. The Wrangler comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque.
Q: What are the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek's main competitors?
A: There are lots of new off-road-focused crossovers that compete with the Crosstrek, but ones that compare directly with it based on size and price include the Jeep Compass Trailhawk and the Volkswagen Alltrack.
Q: What are the 2018 Jeep Wrangler's main competitors?
A: The Wrangler spans a large price range, from under $30,000 to over $50,000 with options. Across that range, there are several off-road rivals to consider. We'd recommend looking at vehicles such as the Crosstrek on the lower end of the spectrum and body-on-frame SUVs such as the Toyota 4Runner if you can afford a bit more.
Read our review of the 2018 Subaru Crosstrek here: www.edmunds.com/subaru/crosst...
Read our review of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler here: www.edmunds.com/jeep/wrangler...
Edmunds - we help you find your perfect car with unbiased and useful reviews, advice, pricing and tools. Visit us at www.edmunds.com/.

[@Dan007UT]

"No shock load going into my body".. ten seconds later gets thrashed around lol

[@peterjamieson2441]

Yea i noticed that too lol

[@_R0N1N]

Bro had me cracking up LMFAO. "Nothing at all" and he is getting thrown left and right. Reminded me of the Bart simpson in the back of the police car getting tossed up and down lol

[@yangjianhunt]

Face slapped hard by reality. LOL

[@ladydrone2345]

He looked like Bryan McCabe when Zdeno Chara made him into a ragdoll.

[@eyedeaslive]

Hahahah so true

[@rogermendoza3541]

6:28 while talking about the Jeep's great suspension, "its absolutely wonderful out here..." then got shaken violently, haha.

[@tmacfan16]

LMAO I DIED

[@davidbarfield3489]

I got my 2019 Subaru Crosstrek for $23,000....Jeep $30,000 and up. I love my Subaru.

[@MichaelSchiewer]

same. and it come with a roof rack and infotainment

[@leggoman1000]

Ditto

[@craigmoorer5927]

Drove a Jeep Wrangler 2019. Felt like a cheap pos.

[@ryadhasanahmed5443]

@Jonathan Losito I'd love the basic bare bones crosstrek with the 6 speed, don't need the fancy stuff, I just need to save up lol

[@48956l]

got my used outback 2015 for 13k lol new cars are for suckers

[@SilverScarletSpider]

These two presenters are decent folks. Although this comparison seemed strange at first, as the video progressed, watching the Subaru Crosstrek seemingly match the Jeep Wrangler blow for blow on this off road trail was kind of refreshing and surprising. Subaru’s AWD system has still got it despite decades of designing cars to be more family and road comfort oriented

[@NMS350]

Sorry but this isn’t real off-roading. That jeep wouldn’t meet the needs of those of us that are serious let alone another Subaru. The running boards are crap, tires, needs a lift, Lockers.

[@Bryan-kt9ew]

You forgot that the Crosstrek averages about 30mpg with an awd system that's always on while the wrangler is like 20 with 2wd mode

[@rileygallagher4956]

Bryan Wiley I average 26mpg in my 2018 JL Unlimited with the 3.6L and 8 speed. Easily 26mpg.

[@Bryan-kt9ew]

Riley Gallagher is that solely highway or mixed? Solely highways, my Crosstrek gets upper 30s, mixed is 32, city is 28 Edit: and is that the gauge on the screen or calculated. On my screen I get 36 but calculated is 32

[@rileygallagher4956]

Bryan Wiley I’ve calculated and it’s surprisingly close to the Jeeps computer (within a few tenths), mixed I do 22-24. Solely highway is 26-27.

[@ralphkeith501]

I had a 2014 Crosstrek. Throw some racks on it and you'll take a big hit to MPG. Even bigger hit if you want to do 70 MPH. Seemed like the sweet spot to max hwy mpg was 62 - 64 mph. Not ideal on busy California freeways. I averaged 25 - 26 on the freeway. My 2018 Tacoma with racks and a roof top tent mounted over the bed averages 18 -19. And I'm not afraid to pass someone.

[@Bryan-kt9ew]

Ralph Keith it's not an aerodynamic car. It has a drag coefficient of .35. The Scion Xb has a drag coefficient of .32 It's at home on long gravel roads or patchwork roads

[@joelbielecki3501]

a cross trek WRX would be dope.

[@mannyechaluce3814]

40 grand crosstek it will be then, this vehicle was built for a specific price point :D be good, be cheap , nothing more ......

[@joelbielecki3501]

Rob Santoliquito they discontinued it 😭😭

[@Ahzlon]

bleh... just give me another Baja... love my turbo Baja :))

[@2005sunfire]

they no longer make the xt

[@JYTherapy]

Its pretty easy to add a lift to a wrx. I've lifted 2 subies and they do great off-road. The only downside is the gearing isn't low enough for slow speed crawling with a 5 speed manual.

[@joshc606]

Subaru does what %90 of Jeep buyers do. Ride on the road.

[@srkn100]

Josh C and for those 10% wrangler will subaru in the dust of shame

[@NckNck-pu9vb]

By 10% do you mean parking with tires on the curb? I'm sure the Subaru can do that too.

[@srkn100]

N1ckN1ck100 cute... i mean moab or rubicon trail.

[@srkn100]

I have a wrangler that i bought stock and built to take on trails and i have 0% issues taking them to shopping or running chores. Not sure why you still think wrangler is unrefined. Have you even looked into the new JL with its improved road manners? With all due respect, you still have an old fashioned opinion about wranglers but then to each his own. Opinions are like assholes and everyone has got one.

[@srkn100]

Rich S Preference is subjective and depends on what you want to do. Just to give you an example, i drove from chicago to moab to colorado and back to chicago in my lifted jeep JKU, had a blast in moab and CO going through black bear pass. Now, how many crosstrek owners can do that or did that? I do own a prius and a minivan and no qualms owning them.Jeep has come a long way from a rough riding CJs and TJs to refined JK/JLs. A lot of families are buying it and having a blast with it, granted the ride can be rough but eh well.

[@ajsnipes942]

I love how he adds in air conditioning with the wrangler features

[@josephreyes7610]

Hahahah!!! Right! Like it’s a special ad on option but it comes w the wrangler standard

[@Andrew-lk6wj]

@@josephreyes7610 not all that long ago, it wasn't standard

[@HeatherEvy]

You can still get a base model built and air conditioning is an add on.

[@bcshadd]

I'll take the Subaru. The bumper won't fall off at 30,000 miles.

[@marktodd4479]

yeah, the latest consumer reports classified it as essentially junk with much worse than average reliability. but who can expect anything like reliability for a mere 50K (oh, wait, the 4 runner offload premium is 11k less and just needs oil and tires for the first 300k miles...)

[@etiquettefiend]

Mine hasn't at 60k

[@steveriddle8446]

It's a Subaru , of course it will , only , it will be the engine .

[@matthews852]

Steve Riddle Subarus, with the exception of some year WRXs, , all have, and have had, very high reliability ratings from major testers ( jd power, consumer reports, etc ), as well as major editorials. So it’s safe to say your comment was pretty stupid.

[@user-ws3sl9xi7y]

No but the head gasket might😂😂😂😂

[@ibdustin15]

This video just made Jeep forums lose their minds.

[@RKmndo]

Not really. That Jeep probably wasn't even in 4WD, let alone 4Low. I doubt he disconnected the anti-swaybar either. The video merely showed that the Crosstrek isn't necessarily just for bad roads and bad weather. It can actually handle some easy Jeep trails. I'd recommend armor and appropriate recovery gear for anything more though. Those plastic bumpers and the underside of the car could easily get tore up.

[@idkwhattonamemyself5513]

@@RKmndo I don't think the base models have disconnect able sway bars

[@RKmndo]

@@idkwhattonamemyself5513 All anti-swaybars are disconnectable. Some can be disconnected from inside the vehicle, like with a Rubicon or a Power Wagon. Others can be unbolted.

[@Holgrinator]

The Subaru does NOT have asymmetrical all wheel drive. It has symmetrical all wheel drive. Those words literally mean the opposite of each other.

[@matthewcofield6251]

Holgrinator it bothered me as well

[@furtivedig]

was he trying to say A(LL)-symmetrical perhaps? :P

[@aastanton251]

😂😂😂😂

[@user-ws3sl9xi7y]

A Symmetrical

[@ArbitraryLifestyle]

NOPE. It doesn't have "symmetrical all wheel drive", it has "a symmetrical all wheel driver system".

[@BrianJacksontown]

6:29 let me violently shake as I proclaim "absolutely wonderful"! hahahahaha

[@AvalonEndures]

This video was incredibly helpful. I was stuck between a Jeep and Subaru but now I'm all Subaru. Thank you!

[@bobsmoot2392]

Sigh... That's what this info-mercial was made for. It worked. But not one second of OFF ROAD in it. Every shot was ON a road. Off road doesn't happen there.

[@unknownunknowns]

So the Crosstrek is the all-rounder.

[@alexandersupertramp7353]

But if you like the look of the 2011 Foresters, they have 174hp, and the turbo model puts out 225hp. You'll want all you can get, in these gutless turds. Subaru messed up, by not offering a WRX model of Foresters, and Crosstreks.

[@zoobrizz]

Yes. Girls love them

[@camillebrenes]

@@zoobrizz girls like this Dave? kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKGcnn1mlJyZrdU (oops, sorry Jeep!)

[@JasonBrozic]

@@alexandersupertramp7353 Yes but where Subie has kept the ball dropped is the lack of manuals for the turbo models - give the Outback and Ascent and Foz and the Xtrek a 6spd manual with the 2.4 turbo - the CVT trans is the worst when it’s the only option with the ballsy engine….

[@chickenceiling]

6:29 dude almost flew out the window

[@Startrack16]

Love how non biased this video is 👌👌👌

[@camillebrenes]

On my third Subaru. Forester, WRX Hatch, and now Crosstrek. The CT is my favorite blending most of the best elements of both. Adding slightly larger AT tires to a Crosstrek in the 225/65/17 size (I bough new Yokohama Geolandars GO15's) gives you even more surefootedness in many circumstances. Plus they don't require a lift, and they don't rub. Fantastic on road, they don't hum and moan like AT tires. Huge improvement and upgrade.

[@R.D.S.Productions]

If he said “Asymmetrical” one more time....

[@High_Key]

Great video! Probably the best off-roading crosstrek video out there.

[@martinr8278]

I’m sure the Jeep is a well off-roader I guess I was expecting the Jeep to head somewhere leaving the crosstrek behind and that’s how the video would end but the little Subie held its own. Not bad at all Good video guys

[@theshinobi01]

Owning a 1st gen Crosstrek and reading the comments. Guys they are not saying the Crosstrek is the king of offroading. Everybody knows that the Wrangler is the best off roading under 50 G's. Only real competition would be a 4Runner. Then the Toyota Landcruiser and Range Rover. I have driven my Crosstrek on similar off roads with all season tires and it does surprisingly well. Sure the CVT is meh, but my AWD Crosstrek does 26 mpg with full time AWD. Most other SUVs only get 24-25 mpg running mostly in FWD mode. It's a balanced CUV that can do light-medium off roading, and still function as a very functional daily driver. The Jeep however has ALOT more compromises as a on road vehicle which MAJORITY of Wranglers spend their life, as pavement queens. The Wrangler's ride is terrible due to stock all terrain tires and solid axles, they are loud, also they drink gasoline like nobody's business due to them being aerodynamic as a brick, gearing, and tire choice. And they also get hella expensive real fast. And it has fantastic hardware IF you use it. Great off roader again.

[@hervue85]

Mike Wu I have '15 crosstrek and it's taken me everywhere I needed to go; grocery store, light off-roading to camp or fish etc. I've taken my father in law, who drives a '95 landcruiser, in my crosstrek fishing through some pretty sketchy paths and he was quite impressed.

[@rileygallagher4956]

Mike Wu you clearly haven’t spent any time behind the wheel of a 2018 JL Wrangler. So let me, an owner, tell you how wrong you are. Firstly, I average 26mpg with the 3.6L (making 285HP), with the hardtop it is just as quiet as my friends Subaru Forester, And I don’t consider it to be a rough ride at all with the new suspension setup. I’m not here to sell you a Jeep, but I am here to tell you that you’re wrong.

[@A_Degenerate_with_Glasses]

And I like to how you get those mpg because I also drive a Jeep Wrangler (Older 1998 model) as a secondary car that people can smack in the city and I won't care because it's a jeep thing, I say the more beat up your jeep is, the more beautiful it is because you're getting your money's worth; I don't even come close to 26 mpg, especially with city driving, freeway driving, and such.

[@hervue85]

Donny Donster my crosstrek is the dirtiest one in town I live in. I give up washing it regularly cause it's always on the road. Bugs from hwy drive and dust/ dirt from wknd warrior fishing.

[@A_Degenerate_with_Glasses]

Dude I can totally relate to that. My primary car is a 2015 silver Subaru Forester XT, I leave her parked outside right next to my 1998 black Jeep Wrangler in the driveway. You know what all the birds go for? The Forester! Every day, month, year, I come outside and see a lightly pooped on Jeep Wrangler and a mostly shitted on Subaru Forester.

[@Takar100]

I really like the crosstrek. My wife has an outback, and we like it. We think they're good all around vehicles, and it's hard to justify getting something that is meant specifically for off road.

[@DoglinsShadow]

Agreed. Too much on road sacrifice. I’m getting my crosstrek for primarily on road and then a bit of off road.

[@rodbelding9523]

Yeah that's how I feel too. Wranglers are cool but I can't justify getting an off road vehicle when 99.9% of the driving I do is on a road. I like my Outback because it can do both.

[@jeffwhiting4237]

Excellent video. Answered many of my questions.

[@patrickgile320]

Hello there, guy who just took his 2018 Crosstrek off road yesterday (a 6 speed manual even! Meaning no X-Mode). Is it a Wrangler? Nope. But for what it is, it acquitted itself quite well. I obviously wouldn't want to take it rock crawling, but for exploring dirt trails with decent-sized holes much like they showed here, it does a great job.

[@shua242]

Thats in one place of the world where there is no wash outs and okay places to turn around, their going to convince people that their car can make it and ruin their family car at best, at worst some one gets hurt or worse. You should NEVER take a CAR off road.. end of story.

[@afcgeo882]

A Wrangler is also a CAR... end of story.

[@shua242]

@@afcgeo882 suv... w ground clearance. And solid axles... you ever seen what happens when a Spindly independent axle does when it breaks? No good! So no not end of story that would be when some idiot thinks these are comparable, a jeep sucks on road and stock subaru sucks on real off road...

[@user-wg3wj6ur9z]

yup- I am impressed, nice little vehicle.

[@chanceblackheart9098]

I took my 2011 6 Speed Outback off-road yesterday, did perfect with steep slopes, and even a bit of rock crawling, also chased a family of deer down through a giant hilly park. No issues here. I’ve pulled several Jeeps out of ditches throughout the course of Minnesota winters. What the Subaru may lack off-road compared to a Jeep, it makes up for by being a better winter car by a long margin.

[@stevewalcott9546]

Face it, most people don’t really go off road with their Jeep Wranglers. Most of the $50K+ Rubicon’s, which are really nice I know, are nothing more than daily commuters. Besides, are you really going to go thrash your brand new Jeep Rubicon on some gnarly trail where there’s a real danger of rolling it or severely damaging it? No way unless you’re loaded $$! You want an old, but well built beater for that. Just like most of the fancy $70k Chevy/Ford/Dodge pickup trucks, lifted with cool wheels and tires, chipped with exhaust and hauling loads of air driving to and from work, with an occasional Home Depot run or a couple of bails of alfalfa for the horses.

[@Yeti480]

Steve Walcott you obviously don’t live in a rural area

[@modernlife1321]

@@Yeti480 and

[@connoransberry6335]

@@modernlife1321 His point was people absolutely thrash new vehicles in rural areas. The mentality is different. They're just tools, albeit expensive ones. City folk forget that, and get worried bout paint and stupid stuff

[@briansteidl2791]

I guess it all comes down to what you mean by 'Off-Road'. What was shown in the video I would call a 'dirt road' and not 'Off-Road'. From what I saw, my wife's Pontiac Vibe probably would have made it down those roads as well.

[@seanyescalis6570]

Brian Steidl Agreed, I was waiting for them to get to an actual 'off-road', but it seems they took the bunny trail. Driving through 3 inches of water? Check! Going down a 6% grade? Check! My mostly stock Wrangler has gotten me out of (and granted, in to) places full-size vehicles should never go, and it's always done it without breaking a sweat. Im usually sweating profusely, bbut that's besides the point This review should have had opportunity to showcase Jeep's real strength off the asphalt.

[@Kevzaz]

It’s funny you say that. My first car was a Pontiac vibe. The places that I was able to take it was amazing.

[@cliffordcullen1687]

I used to drive those kinds of dirt roads in my Geo metro 5speed in Oregon back in the 90s with my cousin looking for caves. I couldn't believe where I got that thing. That road would have been no sweat. By the way, that area looks beautiful. Looks like good camping.👍

[@afcgeo882]

This video wasn't about what the Wrangler can do and that wasn't hidden by the reviewers. The video was about what the Subaru can do and if it can do what 90% of Wranglers ever see and that's the "bunny trails". By the way, anyone who takes their brand new Wrangler that's still under warranty on a complex trail is a total idiot.

[@afcgeo882]

Airplanes have angles of attack.

[@ZzmaerD]

It will be a plus if you lift that Crosstrek also with some BFGoodrich all terrain tires then you got yourself better grip and ground clearance baby.

[@rapidfirest]

Es una buena comparación, está dando a entender que puedes ir de día de campo a lugares algo complicados, sin ningún problema.. obviamente no se van a poner a escalar rocas grandes..

[@bobtawiligar]

In my experience off-roading isn't just about the ability of the vehicle to get where you're going but the confidence that it inspires and the level of anxiety on the trail. The Subaru is a great off-road vehicle but at the end of the day the driver of the Jeep got to enjoy the scenery without worrying about destroying his car.

[@hawkermustang]

You should be comparing the Subaru Crosstrek to the Jeep Renegade Trailhawk,

[@user-wg3wj6ur9z]

THANK YOU- Wrangler has NO competitor. OK fine, G500 MAYBE but who off roads with 120k mercedes? not that many people...

[@AWDfreak]

Oh look, someone who actually knows what vehicles compete against in their respective categories. I still do understand this video is meant to showcase the surprising capability of modern crossovers while still highlighting that a dedicated off-road vehicle is good at driving off-road and nothing else.

[@Maxi_Kaiser]

@@user-wg3wj6ur9z suzuki jimny older Mercedes g-class Defender if need to be cheap a lada niva will do the job aswell

[@matthewschiebout7384]

Nobody would watch that one!

[@AWDfreak]

@@Maxi_Kaiser In the USA, the Jeep Wrangler has no direct competition. Well, going to, as the Toyota 4Runner (known in other markets as the Toyota Hilux Surf) is rumored to become a mid-size crossover, and lose the body-on-frame construction that made it a proper SUV.

[@thebigfellar7178]

Great job guys very well done video.

[@turtle4171]

"*ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL*" 6:29 **gets thrown around five seconds later** seems legit

[@VideosOffRoad]

I did get a giggle about how you say you didn't need the approach and departure angles on the Subaru you thought you'd need, and about 6 seconds later the front fascia scrapes on the ground by the drain pipe. And I'm sorry, but if the Jeep doesn't need to go into 4WD, are you really testing it off road? Seriously.

[@OhYeaMista]

Videos seriously. That drain pipe that the Subaru scraped on is an absolute non factor for the Wrangler. They didn't even begin to test that jeep on what they went through.

[@BornN2Grave1]

My Chevy Metro has been more "off road" than that.

[@maxstewart5676]

This is 95% of actual offroading though, plus the crosstrek will get you to the trail better and more reliably, from someone who has owned 3 tjs.

[@HOWNDOG66]

Max Stewart no problem getting to the trails and then killing the trails in my TJ but these new jks and now the jl have better road manners and comfort than the old TJ......ps I can drag a trailer, boat on the roof and all my gear and still keep goin

[@maxstewart5676]

@@HOWNDOG66 as far as towing I wouldn't get too confident talking about the jeep, the 2 door tows 2000, and the 4 door tows 3500, for reference the crosstrek tows 1500, just about as much as the 2 door, so if your looking to tow anything serious look elsewhere, and while the jk is more comfortable than the tj, and the jl for that matter, you can only get them with the fiat designed 3.6, which though it has decent power is a terrible motor.

[@Flakey86]

I understand the thrust of this video, and generally agree that most consumers buy much more capability than they need, but feel compelled to point out that there was no off-roading in this video. There was a considerable amount of driving on unpaved roads, most of which were well maintained. You are still on-roading just not on a paved road. Off-roading implies that you are not driving on a road maintained by the USFS, BLM, State Parks, State DOT, or a private party. Or at the least a road which was cleared by these services but not maintained for passenger vehicle use. More typically there are designated OHV trails.

[@digitalemotionfilms]

Well produced video - i really like it - Good sound quality and very informative - Awesum combo of Gopro - Osmo and Static cams - I own an Outback and luuuuuv the Subaru brand

[@gingin5539]

I'm considering buying a 2020 Crosstek so I have a question for you. Before making the video did you upgrade the tires or were you driving with the tires that were on the Crosstrek when purchased? Thanks

[@tsuf69]

What is the Subaru’s model? I want to buy one just like this one 🤩

[@FranF40]

You have to give credit to the Subaru. It’s an all around and capable vehicle. But on a really off-road environment, not this unpaved backroads, the Jeep will make a difference

[@TheYoyo2369]

what route did you guys take?? Looks amazing!

[@srrtbb]

Great great video! More video like this please!

[@greym6436]

To be quite honest, it's nice to see what some people think are odd ball review comparos for a change of pace. Who says you gotta compare the same style offroad vehicles. Lets continue to chop it up a little..Its actually refreshing! "Im a k5 minded guy"... But I bought a 2017 crosstrek & the damn thing is a beast in many enviroments. The aftermarket for them is well supported also for offroad modding. Ladies & Fellas Dont be to quick turn your nose up at Subarus offroading. Check out Australia & other countries... Great vid. 🤙👌

[@pf465]

6:27 "I'm not getting jostled around, I'm not, really... nor am I feeling any shock load.... but I feel constipation"

[@_R0N1N]

Hahahahahahah

[@outlaw-_-9815]

Crosstrek did well. I'm thinking of getting one and adding a 2 inch lift. The one in the video here, was all stock yes? No lift and stock wheels and tires?

[@gooddayz2574]

My sister has a 2016 Jeep sport limited (4d) and it’s really nice and I like it. But my other sister had a fully loaded cresstrek and it was super nice. I love how the headlights turn with the wheel. The only thing(I’m my opinion) that kills the cresstrek is room. She switched to a 4Runner for the extra room.

[@tactiletinkerer]

*Symmetrical* AWD system, guys... also probably the least cross-shopped SUV pair ever.

[@errhka]

mojojojo928 I have a jeep and am considering the crosstrek for my next car - current doesn't have nearly enough power but it would be a good option for people like me that don't do any rock crawling. My jeep is a little overkill for most trails I take it down, and the crosstrek is a good choice for people that realize that. They both are good options and are cross shopped more than you might think

[@JeffKubel]

I'm actually cross-shopping them. Unfortunately, none of them meet my minimum requirement, which is a J1772 plug.

[@The1stMoRice]

David Spain um...the compass has an approach angle of 30 degrees while the Subaru only has 18. Consider yourself informed.

[@afcgeo882]

"Symmertrical AWD" is a marketing gimmick. Subaru manufactures 3 VERY different AWD systems at this time. Some are fantastic. Some are total shit.

[@apprentice70]

Ok. So I like Jeeps and Subarus. I own an impreza. First of all, the point of the vid was to show what the adverage person is going to do with their STOCK vehicle. Nobody is going to be doing insane boulder crawling or offroading with a stock crosstrek or a stock wrangler. That wrangler in the vid cant do it all. The vid plainly shows that both vehicles do fairly well in mild off pavement terrain/mixed surface. I know this first hand. My buddies crosstrek goes everywhere the jeeps go. A simple lift and lose the 17ich wheels and that thing is a beast. Get what you want but jeep guys need to realize that stock for stock there's alot out there that can hang with them off pavement. ;)

[@carlosandleon]

Pffff I go bouldering with my grandma's mobility scooter all the time

[@Natethegreat200c]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oISbeIqOm96ZaZY Subaru’s can’t do this

[@mynamejev2489]

Nathaniel Rudolph that’s not a wrangler

[@schuylerhecht8253]

I've owned a 2017 for 5 years now..38 states and countless trails to campsites and 100k so far and my car hasn't done anything a wrangler can't

[@libertystuffnthingsreviews829]

I see both sides, and have had CUVs, trucks, and now a JK. For 80% of what most, including me, do, a CUV is just fine. It is when you are alone, or it is muddy, or swampy, that the Wrangler takes the win. You can't mount a winch easily on a Subaru. You can't climb over larger rocks to get where most others cannot go. That is why I bought a Recon 6spd manual, and ditched my Cherokee Trailhawk. If I only went to regular camp sites and did not push deep into the forest, I'd still have the Trailhawk. But, I got stuck three times in mud and that was enough. The vacuum that happens on a unibody can't get through mud up to a rim. Good video. I enjoyed watching it.

[@smartdoctorphysicist3095]

Hi can you please tell me what kind of tries you were using on the Subaru XV, thank you

[@rafaeljasso8278]

Does anyone know where this exact trail is at ? I wanna take my car there .

[@ericsevilla8597]

Same

[@robertsotelo2190]

When does the off roading start?

[@1godgodgodgodgod]

He said off roading. Not mudding or rock climbing. Go throw another coat of wax on your overlly lifted Jeep.

[@davidli6899]

@@1godgodgodgodgod LOL

[@nejckra]

@Robert Zimmerman7:49 looks pretty much off road. Not mudding or rock crawling, just not on road.

[@thousandsuns]

Id love to take my Crosstrek on that route you guys took. Would you guys have info on that?

[@stevelink21]

Great review, guys! I'm in the market for either this 2018 Subaru Crosstrek or a 3028 Subaru Forester. Question - Would the Forester be equally adept and comfortable off-road as the Crosstrek, as it has the same ground clearance? Thanks!

[@logicn.reasoning9744]

The 3028 Forester will be much different. It will have photon pulse ride float control, so it can have infinite clearance, which will come in handy when traversing our destroyed planet.

[@danrgoodnight9345]

Subie for the Win! love my OBS, might be in a XV someday, if I do - I'm putting "Outback Sport" stickers on it ;)

[@macarlos619]

What trail and campground is this?

[@scootcore1]

Like 90% sure it’s Monache Meadows.

[@guslevy3506]

My two cars are a ‘01 Wrangler manual transmission and a ‘19 Crosstrek CVT. For me, they are both awesome vehicles whose Venn diagrams overlap just slightly - I would not take a direct comparison of the two vehicles very seriously. My Wrangler is simply a fun vehicle to drive. The stick shift, the bikini top, the knobby tires, the bumpy ride...it’s a carnival ride whenever I want. I also love the fact that when I go off-roading that the inevitable bumps and bruises on the car become sweet badges of honor. The dings, the marks, the scratches...they are what a good Wrangler should have over its life so bring em on. My Crosstrek is my shiny 7-piece utility tool that I know can do pretty much anything that I ask of her but gives me all the creature comforts that I want/need in a pleasant cabin while doing so. If I need to go across town in traffic during bad weather she will get me there comfortably and confidently. My Jeep would make the same drive while being noisy, cranky and aggravated. Between the two, however, I have the whole Earth covered and at a price for both that is lower than the Audi or BMW that I have owned in the past...

[@MrGreezy1989]

Does anyone know what trails they took? if they can do it, it would be a fun trail for new crosstreck owners to do too.

[@Slingsomelead]

Up next we compare a Hellcat to a Prius...

[@Ctmrxmas]

LMAO!!!!

[@Ctmrxmas]

BEST AND MOST ACCURATE COMMENT!

[@shua242]

Slingsomelead hahaha RIGHT!!! its apples and oranges... JEEP ftw! Every day on dirt. Subaru on road. Their to different worlds...

[@merza16465]

Fucke yourself subaru better than shity💩💩💩wrangler

[@pawsmcgraws916]

And after that, we'll compare the Dodge Ram Super Duty to the Subaru Outback in a trip to the grocery store.

[@bartwaggoner2000]

Repeated footage of Subaru going downhill?

[@mannyechaluce3814]

its being towed during uphills

[@devinnorton8832]

You catch the Subaru scratching up it's nose going downhill too? Let's see under both vehicles after coming down that hill.

[@hereigoagain5050]

Great comparison review! I agree with Calvin and Travis. If you go off-off road, Wrangler is the champ. If not, there are better choices.

[@stephencarbajal5657]

Love the subi but the issue I had was the cargo space? I chose the wrangler for that reason but mine is a unlimited( family of four) .

[@fields1]

"Subaru's a-symmetrical all wheel drive". How did this get approved to go into the video?

[@amcreech]

Is this Edmunds idea of off-roading? Riding on a dirt road?

[@WayywayyH]

my point

[@afcgeo882]

It's the idea of "off-roading" that probably 99% of people ever do. It is off a paved surface.

[@alansach8437]

No, it isn't off, off roading. It was off paved roading. They aren't saying the Subaru will do everything the Jeep will. They are saying it will take you a lot of places the Jeep will for less money and more comfort. It isn't designed for rock crawling.

[@vl3005]

Did you even watch the video?? They had 40 degree inclines and declines easy with rocks and trees all over the track. That's not "a dirt road". It's always steeper than it looks on video.

[@DonHavjuan]

That's all a jeep can handle.

[@YummyBaer]

The main focus of my Purchase point was the incredible MPG for an AWD vehicle, that I can drive to and from work daily and also drive out to the beach or to the hill country without issues. I live out on 5 acres of property that can get really muddy during the rainy seasons. I used to get stuck driving into the property all the time, whether it was my 2wd hatchback or the 2wd pickup truck I have. This Crosstrek has got me through those muddy paths without issue and that alone makes it worth the purchase.

[@guitargurl390]

What about the other trails going back up from monache? I'm pretty sure the crosstrek was struggling on the other climbs there.

[@PatrickRich]

What's ball suspension, and how can I get it? Im worried my balls aren't adequately suspended. Also, do you mean symmetrical system? Not Asymmetrical? Nah I know what you guys meant (recirculating ball steering, and symmetrical AWD) I'm just busting your suspended balls a little.

[@chublez]

Patrick Rich They certainly deserve it for this shil piece.

[@JeffKubel]

There's an incredible amount of people that actually make a living off of professing to be a subject matter expert on something that they have obviously not spent a lot of effort to get familiar with. Those of you who are actually professionals, don't sell yourselves short.

[@danielslonecker6708]

Jeff Kubel I agree with them in that, if you need a daily driver with some extra traction for weekend outings the Subaru is probably for you. However, if you like to get down and dirty it doesn't hold a candle to the Wrangler.

[@okifurbi]

Asymmetrical system is when the engine is juiced and the ball suspension hangs below the exhaust pipe. Ball/pipe ratio being negative. What ever it takes godammit.

[@slipperystairs6924]

Jumping jacks on a hot summer day.... Does wonders for ball suspension.. Also self lubricating... Really revolutionary stuff

[@willmaster5640]

You do realize Jeep makes a few other SUVs that are exactly like the Subaru right? People buy Wranglers because they like Wranglers. Everyone knows they don't drive remarkably well on road, but off road they are excellent and the look is iconic.

[@johnbriggs6203]

Just curious... what trail did they take? What camp site did they stay at?

[@kerriannepeacan1037]

I'm no car buff or experianced driver, but I love my subaru impreza. It's a good family size car, we do a lot of off road driving too. Last year we look it camping in out back Australia, decided to visit the Blackall tableland mountain ranges, along with a Holden cruise & jeep. My subaru smashed through the wet muddy mountain ranges, with little to no trouble. We all struggled more climbing the rest of the way up mountain on foot.

[@SuperSneakySniper]

And for any emergency scenario, the Crosstrek will go twice as far on a single tank.

[@greencase]

Hmmm two dudes driving up the mountain n setting up camp.... I've seen this movie before.

[@ngoalpo]

Does anyone know where this camp site is located? It looks amazing!

[@silverquoteskylord8614]

Both cars seems great but just a doubt , if interma of the reliability, how is the subaru xv? Considering for a family Suv

[@silverquoteskylord8614]

Interms*

[@aoflhs3885]

did you even count how many time that subaru's front scraping the ground while off roading. do a close up of the subaru's bumper. by a rental car standard, which is how most people end up driving a crosstrek, you will be looking at around $1k of dmg

[@devinnorton8832]

xu yujie So true. You will definitely feel a big difference in performance once you get that Subaru back on the road. I know the bottom of the Subaru doesn't look the same from when they started.

[@rubberbabybuggybumper6270]

Or just take the front bumper cover off before you go offroading.

[@1godgodgodgodgod]

Take it off.

[@ib516]

*symmetrical....not asymmetrical AWD

[@mitchellsteindler]

Kind of a ridiculous mistake lol

[@afcgeo882]

That's just a marketing gimmick. There are actually 3 very different AWD systems currently offered by Subaru.

[@seanlidberg6016]

@@afcgeo882 As far as I'm aware, all of those systems are symmetrical. Where is the gimmick in that? Or do you not know what symmetrical means either?

[@afcgeo882]

@@seanlidberg6016 "Symmetrical AWD" is a trademark of Subaru. It is simply a marketing title, like Audi's "Quattro" or Daimler's "4Motion". The term came from decades ago, when the only AWD system Subaru had was a mechanical system and provided a simple, 50/50 torque split, when engaged. It worked the same way a traditional 4x4 system works, by mechanically locking the center differential, but was called AWD by the company because it was automatically engaged on some models. The symmetry was between the front and rear axles getting the exact same amount of torque. That symmetry no longer exists as modern systems actually vary the torque splits depending on slippage and/or sensor input. Thus, Subaru was forced to reinterpret their own definition of what "Symmetrical AWD" is and they're not doing a good job of it. On their page, they're trying to imply that it's called that because the drive axle runs directly down the center of the vehicle and thus, left to right, the torque split is even. Though it's true, it's highly irrelevant in actual applications of AWD systems and regardless, most cars run their drive axles straight down the middle anyway. There's nothing special about that. The only thing that remains true is that at some point, the torque split is actually 50/50 for all Subarus. On CVT and automatic cars, it's when slippage is detected or foreseen (the multiplate clutch connects and splits torque 50/50) and on the manual transmission cars, it runs 50/50 by default and then shifts up to 10% of torque to the front or rear if there's slippage. Here's a great explanation of how their systems work: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jXO0nX5ubrWsrrM

[@seanlidberg6016]

@@afcgeo882 I don't buy the front/rear symmetry argument. That is a basic description of how 4WD and older AWD all worked. The side to side symmetry explanation actually makes sense and as far as I'm aware they all still follow this model. Few other vehicles do. Most often the front shafts will be different lengths, making them not symmetrical (I think VW/Audi's longitudinal engined vehicles are probably the only common exception). For common lower traction situations having a symmetrical system does actually make a difference, though not in heavily dynamic driving or off road. I don't feel it's unreasonable for them to advertise a difference that is unique across the Subaru brand and also has some benefit. I so agree that Subaru has softened up their AWD systems generally (especially with the CVT models) and feel criticizing this is fair. It's just a separate issue. Also, I feel I should apologize for my condescending tone. I assumed you were just a Subaru hater ragging on them without actually knowing what you were talking about. I see that isn't the case.

[@michaelhartland324]

Just oerders the 5 Inch axle back for my 2013. Can't wait!!

[@dexterwallace4060]

I like how they even say in the video that the crosstrek is just the impreza with more road clearance. Why is the ascent or the Tribeca or the FORESTER XT not out there with the wrangler???

[@derenbong6060]

Btw, he scraped the bottom of the crosstrek several times in the video and that's considered sufficient? Have fun paying the extra cost of servicing!

[@ryangriffin7574]

The bottom of that bumper is durable plastic, trust me, that little scrape in the video wouldn't have cracked it, and at most would have just put a few scratches on the underside of that plastic. I have a '15 model crosstrek, the plastic is pretty heavy duty

[@1godgodgodgodgod]

Add all 3 skid plates still 8k less.next.

[@nitroxide17]

Lot of jeep hate here. Just get what you want. That trail they went on... Pretty sure a Camry can make it through that.

[@jeffk464]

It wouldn't get up that hill the crosstek was having mild issues with.

[@lisamuel41]

Thats why i put 50k on a carmy instead the new wrangler

[@Nuttty]

i got a new Rubicon and i actually offload it when i can if you look up the kilted jeep on Instagram got some good photos on there and video of it on my buddy's channel the beared jeeper

[@DeepOwl1073]

Seriously. Get outside and hit the trails. As long as you're having fun, who cares what you're driving. I've had 3 Subarus (80, 93, and currently the wife's 17) I've been in an Xterra for 5 years, and debating on another Subie, or a Jeep to replace it.

[@biiktoria]

Prius would mow down that road juuust fine

[@thelonesafetyguy]

what is the name of the camping ground you guys went to?

[@dwasifarkaralahishipoor2223]

Why were the Subaru's headlights flickering during the daytime highway drive?

[@TheYellowSchoolBusDude]

“Asymmetrical” awd system... ok bud 5:01

[@edwu8253]

Which of the two will be in the repair shop 1st🤔

[@devinnorton8832]

It will be the Subaru to repair the damaged under carriage from bottoming out on that tiny hill.

[@novemberSUN1]

I think these two are a perfect combination of vehicles to have...one for dAily and the other for adventure

[@why-xr6lg]

Already have a lifted wrangle w 35s thinking about getting a crosstrek in addition. Cool to see what it’s capable of doing.

[@TucsonDude]

I own both. The Roo gets 10X the use.

[@BobLionel]

Funny, they never actually went "off road" they stayed on a forestry service road the whole time.

[@TylerFritsch90]

lol I've never seen a forest service road with a rock garden, giant tree roots or a river crossing

[@adventuresofaro_tech6484]

😂 Yes real offroad test!!!!!!! Come on!

[@zachmacgregor2126]

Definitely have those in Arizona.

[@chublez]

Triumphtriple never been away from that city glow eh?

[@mich6665]

The "rock garden" wasn't, the tree roots weren't "giant", and the river was not so much (or it needs some rain).

[@krasnaludek298]

Terrible comparison. My Jeep is admittedly “brutish” on road; doesn’t handle very well, is loud, gets crap mileage, and is slow. However, I can take the panels or full top off; haul more gear than most vehicles its size, and it’s an all-around fun vehicle in Winter & Summer. The Subaru does its AWD thing while getting good mileage & a lot of people like that practicality. I find the Subaru to be a boring car, but I do understand the sensibility & value that it offers.

[@jeffk464]

My GTI is brilliant on the road, comfortable, and gets great mileage. No I would not trade if for a wrangler for the daily commute. Of course I would not take it in the dirt, it would destroy itself. It is very cable of taking my mountain bike to the trail head though. :) All that being said I'm sure I could really enjoy driving my GTI down to Moab and then renting a wrangler. PS the roads between SLC and Moab are pretty awesome, might have more fun on the way down to Moab.

[@shua242]

They want everyone to dive a subi mini van.

[@apprentice70]

Hop in a wrx set up for offroad, go rally driving, and then call em boring lmao

[@shua242]

Vader-I-Vader its still a road, just a service road..... and I've seen 4 wrx off road, just because they had to swerve to miss jeeps... watch vids on trails.. thats offroad.. also much more responsible than the idiots "rallying" on open roads.....

[@mojojoedwards]

Living in Qatar, I really wanted the Crosstrek but it cannot do the sand dunes! I got myself a second hand FJ Cruiser instead. Other than the pretty interior, I do not regret my decision.

[@kylewest6485]

Anyone know what the trail/road is called?

[@carlmanu]

I like almost everything about the crosstrek with the exception of the engine. It feels so anemic that it's an instant deal breaker for me. That engine does not fit this car's personality and what Subaru wants its customers do with it (e.i. haul passengers and luggage up a hill full of gravel) it's fine with 150hp but it needs at the very least 180lb/ft of low end torque which it doesn't have. So what you have is a very capable vehicle so long as there is only one thing inside of it, the driver.

[@carlmanu]

ekim andersom I clearly stated the horsepower is fine. What it needs is torque. I’ve driven this car with four medium sized adults and the trunk full of luggage and it can barely go up a paved hill at the high altitude of Utah or Colorado, throw in some snow and this thing becomes nearly useless. Like I said before I like the crosstrek but it needs a more suited engine, perhaps a turbo diesel?

[@carlmanu]

ekim andersom I agree with you there. That engine would have been better suited because it meets my #1 complaint which is the torque issue. The FB16DIT puts down 184 lb⋅ft at 1800rpm.

[@carlmanu]

ekim andersom the fact that they developed that engine for the Levorg only, it’s beyond strange for any manufacturer’s standards. Perhaps it didn’t proof to be reliable after it was launched.

[@wolfman9999999]

I don't get what people consider acceptable. I owned an Impreza with the 2.0/CVT combination, and my Partner has a Crosstrek with the 2.0 5 speed manual. I never felt my former car, nor the Crosstrek to be inadequate on power. I only care that I'm up to highway speed by the end of the on ramp, and that I can pass slower traffic safely, both of which the vehicle has more than ample power for.

[@MrELIAN602]

WRANGLER

[@gabrielrogers5271]

I like this comparison!

[@dayhalk]

Does anyone know the trail they drove?

[@TucsonDude]

I own both a 2018 Crosstrek and a 2017 Wrangler Sport. I drive the Crosstrek 3x more than my Jeep. More comfy, better mpg, better handling, etc. However, nobody has EVER said "Nice Subaru"...while my Jeep gets at least one compliment per month from strangers.

[@BobLionel]

The 2018 JL is a HUGE improvement over the 2018 JK. I sold my JK and bought a JL. The JL simply rides and drives better than any Jeep in history. It actually rides and drives better than my wife's 2014 Grand Cherokee...

[@chhimsakronn]

I’ve got tons compliments on my Subaru.. but jeeps are nice too!

[@mikeperez5567]

Tucsonan Dude Better mpg, yes, Better handling, maybe. Better interior, hell no.

[@TucsonDude]

Really? I've been kicking around buying a JL. Is yours a 4-door?

[@mikeperez5567]

Tucsonan Dude Yes, my wife has a loaded Sahara in hella yella.

[@calebkendall1362]

"It has Subaru's impressive Assymetrical AWD" - TRIGGERED

[@supercooled]

asymmetrical is ONE S!!!1

[@calebkendall1362]

@@supercooled True, thx for pointing that out. TRIGGERED AGAIN.

[@galacticmaui2]

Most Subaru owners are biased with their view of their cars. Most of Subaru's vehicles are great at soft off roading and are better than most of the competition in the snow, however what seems to be missed is that tires matter more than if you have AWD. Of course a Forester with good winter tires is going to be at home in the snow but I consistently hear Subie owners say they don't need winter tires since it is a Subaru. A 1990's Corolla is gonna break quicker with good winter tires over a Forester with so so all seasons. I like Subarus, I have owned 2, but many owners are somewhat delusional on what their car can and can't do. I never felt like my CR-V or Rav4 were ever outclassed by my Forester on trails or in the snow.

[@grampabadger]

Nice of the camera crew to sweep the tent set up area clear of pine cones before you pulled in.

[@PaulVarricchione]

"is abbbsssoo;;lllluuuteel;lyyyyy\ wonderful out here"

[@vu1tur395]

Cross trek would be perfect if it wasn't so damn sluggish

[@Ktheodoss]

Probably a stupid question, but if a CVT doesn't have gears, how do you put in first gear?

[@georgebeas7743]

Does anyone know where they are or trail they're on?