I Push The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek To Its Limits Off-Road, And Honestly It REALLY Struggles....

[@bhysjulien1]

The answer is obvious, "DEPLOY THE MONKEY"!

[@Honestandtruth007]

Monkey See, Monkey do and that is You..... Haaaahaaaaaaa 😂👍

[@louisbabycos106]

KZbin search "trunk monkey commercials" you will break a rib laughing

[@RICKAFOUR]

@@louisbabycos106 kzbin.info/www/bejne/aILEq4l_pdWcf9E

[@johnwayne8475]

If you read the owners manual, page 7-35 Vehicle Dynamic Control, it will tell you to switch off the VDC when climbing steep gravelly road, because the VDC is designed for use on the pavement to regain vehicle control in slippery situations. That's why you are experiencing the power cut off situation. That is not due to CVT it's due to the VDC that can be switched off. The X mode will help in two situations, steep downhill and to help improve torque in steep uphill situations, like yours. Therefore, according to the owners manual you should have switched off the VDC and switch on X mode. It seems you have done the latter but not the former which is why the car struggled. That is also probably why Subaru don't lend you cars to test because you don't understand the basics of how they work and then you publicize it in a video and mislead people.

[@johnwayne8475]

The VDC cuts off power and activates the brakes fir slippery conditions on pavement

[@cbenson513]

TFL doesn't read.

[@austinthibeault4363]

Amen

[@OutdoorFun01]

You're right. Especially they bought it. Read manuals...

[@jtn0022]

I was about to say. Turn off traction control and it will definitely let u burn up the CVT.

[@qo2rj]

Whenever Blaze jumps, he's looking for your attention. To discourage it, simply turn your back immediately and stay that way. Your body language will tell him that this is not what you want. You will also want to find the way you allow him to ask for attention, and then consistently reward that. Consistency is so important :-) He sure is a handsome and cute dog!

[@TFLoffroad]

Thanks

[@hippiebits2071]

You can also try just crouching down to greet Blaze BEFORE there is a chance to jump.

[@FrankFH]

And don't raise your hands and arms.

[@stavid7870]

This is good advice. Worked for my jumping dog. He only does it when it's invited now when it was previously a constant issue.

[@snakeboy1991]

My sis is a trainer, I’ve been waiting fir someone to help them with Blazes behavior. He seems to be extremely trainable. I don’t think it will be hard for them to get him trained

[@marekw.9816]

You need momentum at the start. About 80mph should do it.

[@USAFJUNKIE]

Or about 88mph so he can go into the past where the hill won't be there.

[@soulz2422]

lmao how will he get 80mph

[@marekw.9816]

@@soulz2422 build a big ramp, like hotwheels. Wear a helmet and mouth guard.

[@RKmndo]

LMAO! My poor little Crosstrek would have its engine punched through the hood by one of those rocks.

[@alelectric2767]

@@USAFJUNKIE That’s some strategy right there.

[@lilbill88]

I took my new crosstrek out today!!! At one point I hit a ditch (it was really sunny and I thought it was a tree shadow). It felt like I hit a wall. The car rolled right out of it and is undamaged! Still haven’t gotten to long term care issues yet but I am more than satisfied with my purchase. It rolled through deep mud, water, steep inclines on loose gravel and mud. Truly lovely 🥰

[@MarsPHLO]

Did you turn off the traction control when engaging the Xmode? It said on the user manual , in the case when momentum is needed, you need to turn off the traction control and floor the gas paddle then the car will do its job.

[@ryzenforce]

That's X-Mode 2 in newer models.

[@brianmurray9246]

You can just disengage VDC.

[@rajgill7576]

@@ryzenforce This is the newest model, no 2022s yet for crosstrek.

[@bigglyguy8429]

They seem to enjoy hating on Subaru, so no, they wouldn't do that ;)

[@bigchunky7499]

@@bigglyguy8429 he's also doing it with the ac on 🤔

[@jfkusa123]

As for the jumping up, when we first got our dog we always would bump our knee out and then say no and ignore the dog for 10-15 seconds. The knee makes it harder to jump up and ignoring them when they do it teaches them to not jump because the best reward is your love and attention

[@morilot]

☝What he said

[@WW-wf8tu]

I would simple push the dog down (gently but firmly)and say no. Eventually they get what it means. As long as NO has been established with other behavior corrections, they will associate NO to everything you do not want them to do.

[@jeffrentsch4318]

I redirect my boy with a no snap of fingers. As soon as he is not jumping ask him to sit with praise for sitting.

[@subachad]

Try turning away when a dog jumps up and ignore for 10 to 15 like someone else said. They do this for attention and if it results in not getting attention, they learn.

[@crazyeyez1502]

One thing I've noticed in situations like this with dogs, you gotta be pretty assertive with the "no". Dogs can interpret the tone of your voice (anger and being upset). Not to the point of abusive or hurtful, but strong and assertive enough.

[@The333Wanderer]

I love my Subaru but let's face it, all of the nanny controls to protect the CVT get in the way. Hey Subaru, how about a nice 8 speed tranny instead?

[@miller1]

Three limiting factors for Subaru CrossTrek on Truth or Dare. Two you can't do anything about (CVT and lack of low end torque) and one you can (good set of A/T tires)...

[@dannylopezcalderon7825]

Agreed!!

[@rondail5675]

An 8-speed would be so nice!!

[@parkeringersoll973]

Cvt is the reason Subaru didn’t get a dime from us last week when we bought a new car.

[@Korruptor711]

@@parkeringersoll973 Same... i've been waiting years to buy a Forester, but I'm waiting for them to get rid of the CVT.

[@travisb9130]

As a car guy I have never, ever thought Subaru as an off-road, rock crawling type machine. Subarus are good for gravel roads with the occasional mud puddles, snow, and muddy paths. That's about all I expect from them. To expect them to do anything remotely like these trails is setting the bar way too high.

[@CuthbertNibbles]

Counterpoint, Subaru should be held to this standard, in each case this vehicle got "stuck" it was because of a spinning tire or insufficient torque. The CVT they use is connected to the engine via a torque converter, so there is an inordinate amount of torque available (assuming the engine isn't power-limited to prevent damage to the CVT, but if that's the case, build a better CVT), if you don't believe me, find an early automatic, fully apply the brakes and floor it. If you don't wreck the drivetrain in the process, the car will move, so there is no excuse for this machine to be unable to spin the tires. When the tires do spin, it's because the torque produced isn't being distributed properly. That torque is sent to the wheels through a nearly-open AWD system, so at any time, the vast majority of the torque is delivered to the "easiest" wheel. Subaru counters this by applying brakes to that wheel, "discouraging" torque from being sent there. In a situation where 3 wheels are on the ground, the 4th (airborne) wheel should be locked by brakes, and only unlocked when the traction control system detects _forward_ pressure on the wheel, IE, other wheels are driving it.

[@mudturtleoffroadmudturtleo170]

Thank you I agree.its a car with enhanced traction.not an off-road vehicle.

[@sidb9540]

@@CuthbertNibbles Man, what do you get for 25 K??? Jeeps and Broncos START at 35K+.. this is outstanding value for money

[@CorkKNIFE]

"To expect them to do anything remotely like these trails is setting the bar way too high." But it DID do them? No rescue strap, no tow out, no winch equipped jeep required. Subaru gets you home.

[@austinthibeault4363]

Not sure you know what you're talking about

[@mojoman69]

I think it's in the expectations! I own a Outback XT, it's great in the snow and light trails but that is all I expect it to do. I use it 99% on the road and highways and it's better than a jeep or 4runner for that. If I have to drive my car more than 25% off-road I would get a jeep or a 4runner and expect to sacrifice mpg and lack of on road athleticism.

[@sfrealestatedealmaker6001]

100% Agree @ Mojoman69

[@UntitledSpaghetti2]

I have a 2014 Outback and I get best results from the CVT by putting it in manual mode and setting to "first" gear for slow climbs. This seems to stop the trans from adjusting it's pulleys and applies more torque without slippage.

[@dannydinthemountains]

I just put a deposit on a Crosstrek for mostly road driving and lighter stuff than this for hiking in the summer. This is a good tip

[@rosswallace2969]

Call it “Bad Blood” due to the History between Subaru and you guys!

[@J-W.-]

I love that!

[@brayannexon4613]

True and if they add bigger tires and off road BOOM the CVT will go and then its gonna be worse.

[@fj400007]

@@brayannexon4613 no need to go bigger, a more aggressive grip will be much better...

[@brayannexon4613]

@@fj400007 what I'm implying is that the cvt will not like that.

[@fj400007]

@@brayannexon4613 I never liked those CVT transmissions. They definitely don't have the robustness to handle real offroad situations or towing demands. It's a big no on my part.

[@CmonsterFreak]

“Subie-doo”. I would’ve got up that hill if it weren’t for that meddling CVT

[@djsd-1292]

FB20 also garbage lol

[@Advntrwrx]

@@djsd-1292 its not really that garbage, its a pretty good engine with the right mods to It

[@djsd-1292]

@@Advntrwrx just jerkin lol I drive an fb20 Impreza

[@Advntrwrx]

@@djsd-1292 i figured lol but so many people say they suck, but when they drive one in manual its like “god help me i got a racecar”

[@djsd-1292]

@@Advntrwrx eh, I think it’s still kinda underpowered and I’ve felt both. Im sure the MT makes it feel a little quicker. Great car to drive though, feels great in the turns and in the rain. It’s quick enough for what it is I guess.

[@Doncan0823]

Doesn’t matter what you guys do, the CVT will always be the Achilles heel

[@colinthompson7463]

I think so too, but am glad they are the ones doing the testing so we don't have to!

[@scott8919]

Yep. And personally I really like CVTs otherwise (I know, I know). Everything from the first-gen Patriot to today's Subarus cannot handle steep hills, high altitude and/or rocks in the road.

[@Nevy21]

there's also a CVT on the Outback Wilderness lmao

[@scott8919]

Clearly they're prioritizing smoothness and efficiency and are just relying on the traction control software to compensate.

[@colinthompson7463]

@@Nevy21 I believe they put in some sort of a "low range" gizmo on there (I can't imagine how that works on a cvt) but I'm still skeptical how much that helps the final gear ratio.

[@Bob-Maplethorpe]

I can't believe I just bought a car that can do something like this! I bought my Crosstrek as a beefed up replacement for my Toyota Matrix and never really expected it to be a Sherman tank. Off-reading to means heavy washboard or potholes, maybe logging roads, or some double track roads. I am thrilled with my decision!

[@KFrost-fx7dt]

Me too, I'm so excited! I love driving in the mountains and up jeep trails. If my old Ford Focus could make it up those, this Subaru certainly can! They're very popular.

[@Expressionistix]

They’re good cars for snowy pavement.

[@buckhorncortez]

Great...especially useful for people living in Florida, Georgia, Texas, NM, Arizona, Louisiana, etc...

[@natezero928]

Definitely. Had one for 2 years and handled Flagstaff and Bellemont snowy rodes with ease.

[@AbuPaul]

Exactly! AWD is NOT 4WD and TFL seem to not understand the difference :)

[@jamesalexander958]

@@AbuPaul Subaru's marketing would suggest it's fairly offraod worthy

[@forgedfromfreedom]

@@AbuPaul Actually, TFL understands this very well. It’s the vast majority of Subaru owners who don’t get it.

[@hidalgoh79]

Test between this model and the 6 SPD should be a good comparison.

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

I agree. There's much complaining about the CVT and I'd love to see how the manual changes the drivability in off road situations.

[@musicalgreasemonkey]

Having driven and enjoyed the manual, you realize the cvt helps the crosstrek a lot and the engine is working much harder than the accelerator pedal suggests

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

@@musicalgreasemonkey Interesting!

[@mattmc7933]

I have a 6MT and I think it’s pretty terrible. The CVT is definitely the best transmission for that car. The only benefit of the 6MT is that 1st gear is lower, but I find that the can feels like it’s going to die on steep climbs

[@musicalgreasemonkey]

@@mattmc7933 agreed entirely. My 2018 forester has the 6mt with the 2.5L and it's really just enough power in 1st gear steep hills. I wish you could still buy the 6mt with the 2.5. The gear spacing is a little odd, but you learn it and the mpg real world is much better than the cvt. I have driven both

[@cameronschweder8698]

Name for your Crosstrek: "Radio Flyer" because it's small, red and limitedly useful.

[@chanceym6000]

I do like this one most

[@mva6044]

Maybe REDio flyer?

[@irontarkus7965]

You're delusional nobody in their right mind would take a 2.0 cvt with all season tires off-roading

[@anthonyjulson8840]

@@irontarkus7965 I'd consider it.

[@Honestandtruth007]

@@irontarkus7965 Only a Pea Head 🤣👍

[@arcticbrink8423]

I’m not sure why you go so slow. I have a 2018 cross trek and take it on way worse roads in the mountains of Montana and don’t have any problems.

[@matiasfaundez649]

That's what I'm saying in the old/new comparison that old sub they have it hauling ass while the trek is barely moving...this 'test' smells like shitting on Sub all over

[@smellybearc7411]

Super slow speed, not airing down tires, stock road tires, traction control on. They made sure to give it all the disadvantages it could possibly have, and it still made it up the hill.

[@andrewdoble7973]

They took it stock to compare before and after they modify it. Also Subaru has built its brand on AWD back road driving but the CVT has clearly caused them to stray away from that. TFL is just exposing that so people know. They should take a early to mid 2000 forester. I bet people would be surprised how much better a true automatic would be.

[@snikesnover1831]

Also the motor is still in its break-in period and limiting power, and the AWD system is still learning for real world conditions

[@RKmndo]

They don't have skids yet, which would make me more careful and slow.

[@dancarson1479]

Be interesting to see the traction difference between CVT and 6 speed.

[@James6874]

See DRIVING SPORTS TV Crosstrek vs RAV4

[@aaronbrandes7456]

My wife has a 2014 XV and I drive a 1982 Subaru Brat with a real 4WD system and a low range and even with my stock 13" tires my Brat is much better off road than her Subaru XV.

[@stout_tossme7541]

Old Brats were the shit! Good times.

[@tinhinnh]

well of course “a real 4wd system” will be better

[@Wawalsh1234]

Why would you want to add bigger tires on the new Subaru when it doesn’t have enough power for the ones it has installed.

[@rogerpadactor1458]

Buy the 2.5l if you wanna do this no one with the intention of climbing that slope would ever buy the 2.0, stop setting up Subaru for failure. Your next video title will be. "Let's see if the Subaru crosstrek can climb the Empire State building with stock tires!... It really struggled on this one!"

[@MarksTech]

You should have bought a 2021 2.5l sport model. I got mine for only 27k, and its got a larger engine than the one you guys got, and it also has a new x mode 2 Yeah the CVT sucks for heavy off-roading, but most people with subarus know the limits and simply dont go that hardcore. Plus, on the flip side - since subarus use a cvt, it is the MOST economical AWD gas powered car

[@spartannomad3036]

Tyre pressure is vitally important in off road. Drop your pressures by about 8 to 10 psiand you'll findvit would not break traction. Ive got a 2015 Crosstrek CVT no xmode and I have climbed Big Red a 30m high dune in the Simpson Desert Australia. Tyres pressures were 18psi.

[@thedefinitive6296]

I like the idea of Subarus , but the CVT is it's real weakness and it's a HUGE weakness. I'm glad to see Nissan moving away from them and I hope Subaru does the same. CVTs just don't work offroad

[@midoriyaizuku4403]

Nissan only got rid of it in ONE model. I wouldn’t call it “moving away”...

[@Pheakdey07]

Bring the car with AWD but no CVT to compare with Subaru. We will see CVT good or not.

[@leggoman1000]

Yes because Nissans Jatco cvt is rubbish, a product of poor R and D.

[@ryzenforce]

@@Pheakdey07 Bring ANY other 150 hp AWD cars with no CVT and you will be surprised that NONE of them will even make it past the first 30% of the slope.

[@Pheakdey07]

@@ryzenforce I agree 👍

[@Alviniscute]

This is the perfect reason to advertise for the Bronco Sport with the 29.5 inch tires and "locking diff" and clutch packs!

[@smellybearc7411]

And the crumbling down after two years due to poor build quality!

[@IronmanV5]

Go with Falken Wildpeak A/Ts. Lightweight snow rated tires so less unsprung weight compared to the alternatives.

[@truckerrickakamanowar]

True.

[@cwescapexlt4x4]

Yeah I have these on my Outback XT and great tire!

[@stumptownwoodworks]

Great tire, even in snow too. Have them on our Forester.

[@mileshogge887]

Got ‘em on my 04 Fozzie. Awesome alternative to the more expensive competitors.

[@burton926]

I AM stoked to see what mods you choose to make, I just hope you connect with some subaru offroaders in the process. Instagram and facebook are full of groups here in CO that would be down to bring you along on a trail ride. You can learn how they pick lines, select trails, and discover what that little crosstrek is capable of before defaulting to everything it CAN'T do. Sometimes it seems like your experience with Subaru press cars really jaded you to the whole brand and you are determined to show them in a condescending/negative light by setting them up to fail. On to mods... IME, puck lifts do not generally allow you to run more tire. Usually if you increase tire diameter, the wheel will strike the forward side of the rear mud guard first. Width? Its the strut perch. Puck lifts are great if you are scraping your undercarriage (or hopefully your skidplate) and want some better chassis clearance. Wheel offset has a lot more effect on whether a tire will "fit" a subaru. Maybe with some wheel offsets the tire won't "tuck" into the wheel well without a puck lift, but those are very specific circumstances.

[@cwyoming7004]

Lady Bug seems like a good name. Thanks for the videos, I'll bet Subaru still loves you.

[@zachsummers3321]

How about putting some falkan trail AT tires on it.

[@clou1969]

It’s an Impreza a car.

[@Uberragen21]

I was considering those for my CUV too, but decided to go with the Toyo Open Country AT3. The tread is slightly more aggressive without being too harsh on-road. The offroad traction is fantastic.

[@jonathanmorgan4916]

I also put a set of Toyo AT3’s on my Outback. Very good traction, look great too.

[@burton926]

I have a set of AT Trails on my outback. Definitely a "softroading" tire, but they have great traction and work well in the snow in CO. Tread is impressive, but the sidewall always has me concerned if I'm on sharp rocks compared to friends with the AT3 or K02s. That said, I've probably saved $200 on gas compared to those options this year, so I'll take it!

[@artcraven8313]

falkan makes shit tires, buy any other brand.

[@dennisblass]

I appreciate what you are doing with your Subaru. Question, if the tires are the primary consideration to off roading, why critique the car with OEM tires?

[@Assgasyoda]

They’re treating it the same as a press car they usually receive. The difference is they bought it because Subaru does not give them press cars. Bad Blood if you will.

[@colinthompson7463]

They test all of their cars on these same trails so we can see how they stack up. Most of the cars they get are loaner press vehicles that they are not allowed to modify. So this was the demonstration that we can use to compare against other stock vehicles. Next time we'll get to see if a couple of cheap upgrades will help, or if the CVT will still be the weak link.

[@crazyeyez1502]

Baseline testing. Test it showroom stock, then modify it and retest. Compare the before and after.

[@gregoryoppenheimer99]

Love this series. As an admitted Subaru off road enthusiast (MTNROO) I'm interested to see your take on the new global platform. Please don't put BFG KO2s on. It's simply too heavy for the 2.0 go with a Falken or Yokohama all terrian. Love what you guys do and the honest reviews.

[@ItzzTesta]

What a waste of money

[@gregoryoppenheimer99]

@@ItzzTesta It's all about where you see value. If you value top tier off road prowess then agreed a waste. However if you want industry leading safety, good fuel economy, and moderate off road capability for hiking trail access, camping, etc. It is an incredible value. Just all depends on what you really need from your vehicle.

[@ItzzTesta]

@@gregoryoppenheimer99 and bottom of the industry reliability! Sounds like a great car not a waste of money!😂

[@CertifiedAIMusician]

Thought I'd see some mtnroo brotherhood representation here! Hello from OMGFOZ 👋

[@UnknownUser_0000]

@@ItzzTesta Subarus aren't reliable? 🤣🤣

[@carzarmy]

when crawling it helps to put in "manual" mode and select "1st gear". that way it stays in the ratio that will help the best

[@lilbill88]

Thanks for the tip. It’s the first vehicle with any meaningful clearance I’ve ever purchased. I took it off road for the first time and at some points I was wanting more of a crawl

[@colten53]

I agree. If you don’t switch to manual for low speed off roading, the CVT is going to jump to a higher “gear” for some odd reason. I will sometimes switch to manual while going like 25 mph and I find that it’s in 7th for no good reason since you’re nowhere close to redlining in any gear before that at that speed.

[@robertrivera5597]

Jeez i have no skin in the game but this is not an honest review of the Subaru. Thumbs Down all day.

[@0HOON0]

Excellent demonstration of the weaknesses of the Subaru CVT and traction control system off-road. I've encountered the same issues in my 2021 Forester. Still a great choice for most people, but anyone who wants to tackle a moderate obstacle on a trail should look elsewhere.

[@RKmndo]

TCS is no replacement offroad for locked diffs. Jeep even did this silliness with their BrakeLock feature on the JK/JL Wranglers. It's just 4-wheel TCS. It works some places, but some places it's more of a hindrance than a help.

[@ILeapZHD]

Imagine lifting this car and adding off road tires just to deal with a cvt that can’t handle a small dirt incline.

[@Honeybadger_525]

Yeah I know right? I was considering buying a Subaru and modding it as such. After doing some research, watching off-road reviews and working out the cost of the mods I came to the conclusion I'm better off buying a basic 4x4 instead.

[@SamuelRodriguez-mo4ru]

@@Honeybadger_525 you could go back maybe 2 or 4 years and get one that was still equipped with an auto, maybe even a manual

[@Honeybadger_525]

@@SamuelRodriguez-mo4ru Yes you could buy an older model before CVT's were introduced, however, it would still lack a low range, which most 4x4's already has.

[@ToyotaNutjob]

@@SamuelRodriguez-mo4ru no. Stop trying to convince people to get a freaking suabru. Anyone is much better off with any sort of stock 4x4. Anything is better than that

[@Malc664]

@Stop Deleting Me It's basically a slip test of the AWD system. They do the same with all other vehicles here. Except Tommy's old Subaru drive with more momentem.

[@ZeonNoOukoku]

Great video! New A/T tires (Continental TerrainContact) helped my Crosstrek a ton in mild off-roading. I would recommend those, the Yokohama Geolandar A/T G015 or especially the Falken Wildpeak A/T as these are all meant for crossovers.

[@kellbe11]

I have a stock 2021 Crosstrek Outdoor CVT with the 2.5L engine and have never had any issues off road, have made it up to many mountain tops, including in the snow. Sure it’s not AS capable as an MT but I’ve been very impressed with the capabilities of the CVT. I’m surprised it did so poorly in this video, i’ve been up trails like these no problem.

[@Lebowski5000]

The CVT does make it bad off-road, however, I had an 18 Crosstrek that handled this like a champ. It did not struggle like yours did and I’m confused why. I did see in one of the clips that your AC was on during the climb. This could definitely be why it struggled. That small engine loses a lot of power with the AC on. Anyway, just a thought.

[@danielfair4675]

These 2 ass clowns have shit talked every Subaru they've reviewed since the brand dropped them for trashing one a few years back. They won't supply them with one anymore to review.

[@NatureDerek]

their issue was using stock tires, and failing to read the owners manual (turn off VDC during heavy climbing)

[@SerdarCizmeci]

I have added Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires to my 2020 Crosstrek limited. It made a big difference for our winter driving. Especially in deep snow that I had to deal with last year in Evanston IL. I highly recommend that upgrade for that Subaru for testing purposes. I only lost 2mpg with that upgrade. No noise difference with the limited model(might have more soundproofing than the base model)

[@hubabuba3916]

That’s why most of people in Evanston own the Subarus;)

[@CertifiedAIMusician]

I wonder how fast Tommy was driving the old Subie vs. the crawling in the Outback and Crosstrek. I swear to god they are purposely making these cars looks bad. They seem to drive them so much slower than their other 4x4s.

[@firstjohn3123]

Lesson on CVT's: How to bleed all the engine's power away from the wheels.

[@neilmurphy845]

Yah and put that together with the gutless boxer engine design and your going nowhere

[@martiniv8924]

CVT = 💩 💩 💩 👈🏻

[@martiniv8924]

@@neilmurphy845 Porsche owners … sharp intake of breath 😝

[@neilmurphy845]

@@martiniv8924 Yah haha

[@loomspace]

It's all in the programming (aka lifespan), my Forester XT has the 3 mode select and paddle shift override, it can either be miserable as in this video or hook up hard. 125k miles and no issues so far but every day is a question mark.

[@pangboches7427]

X mode is for descending not for going uphill that’s why you could get up the hill

[@thomaspetersen3220]

I just ordered a brand new Crosstrek and even I know you need to turn off the traction control for that.

[@RichardVac]

Roman could you please! get a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross with CVT SAWD to compare it with the Subaru

[@itayby]

Would be interesting to see how it would do at the same track just with better off road tires, like you just bought the car and put better rubber on

[@johnbouldin9033]

Better tires wouldn't have made a difference. The Subaru wouldn't send power to the tires that had traction.

[@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix]

@@johnbouldin9033 it just didn't have enough power to sent to the tires with traction lol. The base engine is gutless.

[@itayby]

@@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix these engines are ass true but with better tires it wouldn't need to break (not so hard atleast) on the slipping tire for the other one to rotate. Btw the engine has enough power, the ECU is limiting it so it wont shit it's CVT like they said, and with less slipping and less breaking from traction control it would probably do much better

[@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix]

@@itayby yeah but when you lift a wheel it doesn't matter what kind of tire it is. The engine doesn't have the power when you lift wheels, especiallywith the electronics trying to protect the weak CVT. It needs to have a lower gear to make up for the weak engine and overly intrusive electronics.

[@itayby]

@@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix yeah thats right about the ledge he needed more power I was wondering about the uphill climb where it slipped like crazy

[@rich_life7470]

The 2.0 is like an older Crosstrek but would like to see the newer 2.5 have a shot.

[@tammypollardcerniglia2009]

Me too. I just got one!

[@Bebopin-69]

There is no question that braking/locking the wheel to the chassis is not efficient like locking the wheels together (locker)

[@rondg2]

how hard is it to create a subaru that has short front and rear overhangs? the approach angle is ridiculously bad

[@AudiSportFan1970]

These CVT’s are good for one thing, snow and ice on pavement!!! They aren’t off-road capable on anything over a slightly steep fire road, just sell that thing to a teacher or a grandma in Colorado and be done with it!

[@trapt29]

Says the Jeep owner🤣 must have been embarrassed by a Subaru with a proper tire

[@AudiSportFan1970]

@@trapt29 Please, tires mean nothing when you have zero torque, zero ground clearance, and a street suspension. Stop embarrassing yourself 😂😂😂 I love Subaru’s, but I know their limitations.

[@trapt29]

@@AudiSportFan1970 I know exactly what I am talking about, been at this for years. If your theory is correct, then Suzuki Samurai's, Tacoma's etc. wouldn't be as popular and sought after like they are. Get over yourself.

[@AudiSportFan1970]

@@trapt29Comparing two off-road worthy vehicles like the Tacoma and Samurai to my “theory” on a CVT Subaru????? Are you serious guy???? Dude, just stop, I’m even embarrassed for you now.

[@trapt29]

@@AudiSportFan1970 you are the one that brought up power and torque d bag! What's your theory now?

[@FreshYoungDude]

Probably going to destroy that CVT, trade it in for a manual.

[@mikestojakovich7711]

Another name: "The Little Engine that can Almost Do It"

[@jedironin380]

The Mildly Hot Chili Pepper.

[@marv8481]

It’s mostly “the little CVT transmission and all it’s torque reducing electronic aids to prevent you from burning up the CVT that can almost do it” lol I wish they’d test a manual and stop testing their CVTs, or I wish Subaru would at least let you put some power down in their CVT and only start cutting torque when it reaches a certain temperature. They’re good on the road, but even my old winter beater 2000 outback could easily go where a new CVT Subaru would get stuck, and that’s without engaging the all time 4 wheel drive mod that I’ve done on that 4eat trans. I’ve had it places other legit 4x4 trucks and SUVs couldn’t go. Heck even pulled big Jeep’s and lifted trucks out of the ditch during snow storms and only have snow tires on it and completely boggle the minds of the owners of the trucks/Jeep’s.

[@RKmndo]

Mike, "almost" do it? In the video that I saw, the Crosstrek did do it. My 120HP 2.5L/5spd Jeep YJ could chirp 31" MTs going into 2nd or 3rd on dry pavement. They need to turn off the TCS, IMO. A rear locker would make things more interesting too. It still wouldn't be a Rubicon, but a winch, armor, and tires could make it capable for overlanding and moderate trails.

[@austinthibeault4363]

I’ve run so many jeep trails and crawled out of snow pits, not to mention pulled a Toyota and a Ford out of said jeep trails in my 2021 crosstrek, get better tires, those Yokohama’s are trash, don’t discredit the car just yet, the tires literally change everything, I’ve been running continental terrain contact a/t’s they’re worth every cent, eat through mud and snow, and look sexy.

[@stog9821]

TFL has done a good job over the years of demonstrating that the Subaru is a decent car for an outdoor enthusiast who may want to go down some national forest or logging roads to a trail head, campground or fishing site, and it will handle a certain amount of rough road, but don’t push it. If you don’t think you’ll really go over rough road it’ll certainly give you a comfortable and economic ride down the highway to where you’re going. If you’re really going off road then buy something else, but the Subie probably suits a lot of outdoorsmen just fine. You don’t really want to throw a dead deer in the back though.

[@anthonyc1883]

"Dog is my co-pilot." Clever!

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

Wife just bought a 2021 Outback. Happy so far but the rear camera is like 360p😂

[@wint_62]

The car sucks.

[@Burritosarebetterthantacos]

@@wint_62 Luckily she doesnt care about your opinion.

[@oldrango883]

@@wint_62 I concur

[@MrJamesLuz]

@@Burritosarebetterthantacos I get it. My wife has an Ascent and she loves it. I don’t care because I have a truck and an Xterra if I want to go off-road.

[@justinmiller3294]

It's really funny how little they actually know how to drive the car. I've put a solid 3000 miles on mountain roads in mine and have never had issues. Disengage traction control when you turn on x-mode.

[@MrMikeDao]

Even with traction control off it would struggle. A Crosstrek cannot off road, only soft road. The weakness is still in the CVT. They know they can get through with momentum but that doesn’t test the car standard

[@justinmiller3294]

@@MrMikeDao Lol, tell that to the past 3 years of me offroading mine in Oregon.

[@MrMikeDao]

@@justinmiller3294 soft roading* trail running. There are an abundant videos showcasing MODDED Crosstreks struggling on harder trails especially with steep incline.

[@justinmiller3294]

@@MrMikeDao well, I own one. Idk what to tell you lol. Grab a beer and come send it

[@Hertacles]

Fully inflated tires, no proper tread, stock suspension, stock stock stock. Slow crawl on a steep incline while barely tapping the gas. "Omg it struggles off road. This isn't a good off road car!" They did the same thing with the Forester and Outback. Then they pick some crappy V8 truck that's also basically stock and says it's the "True off-road vehicle". They're just buyers.

[@erinjones3148]

For what it's worth, the stock tires have traction issues even before you get onto trails. I'd never had what I'd call 'bad' tires before this car, but hoo boy did they suck. I commute over a winding hill road and the stock tires would squeal at every corner that my old Honda Fit took like a champ. Put some Wildpeak AT Trails on there, it's like a whole new car and no need for new wheels or a lift!

[@MegaGeorge1948]

Your son already had tested the 2.0L Crosstrek. How about the 2.5 Sport Crosstrek?

[@travisp11]

As for a name, I like Clifford, named in honor of the big red dog from the children's storybooks. Clifford the Crosstrek has a nice ring to it.

[@ChairmanKimchi]

Welp…looks like no Subaru press cars anytime soon. 😂

[@haroldbeauchamp3770]

Definitely not missing anything.

[@3739blog]

That’s why they need to buy one. 😂

[@stout_tossme7541]

@Stop Deleting Me I feel the same way when they take a 4 runner off-road. Lol.

[@dmn2273]

@Stop Deleting Me I don’t really think so 10:00

[@mmiller1188]

All they do is bash Subarus, so of course they are going to not get any press cars. They took a Forester XT with performance tires offroad in the snow and then complained about it.

[@10219266]

older subarus are way better off road then the new ones in my experience.

[@localfishinghole]

From someone who has owned five Subarus, including a Crosstrek and a couple of Outbacks (currently in the XT Outback, my wife drives the Crosstrek), you aren't carrying an appropriate amount of speed, especially for a Crosstrek which is heavy and underpowered (I think the new motor is addressing that). Additionally, the CVT sucks power off the wheels once traction gets dicey, so picking a more appropriate line (without sharp rocks and loose gravel) would help tremendously. We have taken ours on much worse roads in Colorado, Montana, Idaho, Washington, and Oregon, so I am a bit skeptical of your "testing" method here.

[@lonememe9674]

I still don't understand the point of modding these for off-road when you can get a stock 4Runner TRD OR and have way more off-road performance, and just fine on-road performance in it's stock configuration. I mean I get we're talking about a $25k MSRP Subaru vs a $40k MSRP T4R, but modding the Subaru gets it pretty close for way less performance. I see them around town here in Colorado and I just don't get it.

[@johnbenson4744]

Name it ketchup! Also would like to see more of that classic Subaru

[@nathanielcargile7135]

Would love to see how the manual transmission option (with all the other same specs as your car) would handle that course.

[@JonBecker81]

I was thinking that too. Would probably do a lot better.

[@ncd7184]

Likely completely different. If you want the trek for off-road, currently owning one, I'd recommend buying the 6 speed, ironman 4x4 2" lift, the torq locker and light weight all terrains on factory wheels. It would do dramatically better than the car in the video. Good for moderate trails. Beyond that and you need a body on frame 4x4 with low range. That's the challenge, if you keep the tires around the same size as stock you can keep the decent gas mileage, but there's a point where gas mileage is either more important to you or less than being able to tackle rougher terrain. I can totally see the guy that has a long commute or does outside sales as a job and needs a car but still wants something he can get to a lot of places on the weekend. That's my dilemma between trading mine in or keeping it.

[@Jackmerius_Tacktheretrix]

I would say better, but that engine is so weak they'd probably smoke the clutch trying to get it to move lol

[@NoChannelChannel]

There going woke

[@jorgiesjog9904]

Name it Scotty. Like Scotty from Star Trek. “We need more power!”

[@nm-qt2hb]

You are 100% correct. Automatic transmissions are far superior for off road. Maybe the upcoming 7speed in the Bronco will change the pecking order. It's just hard to beat an 8 or 10 speed automatic transmission plus all the modes you have these days. The smaller 2.0 engine may be fine now. If you add taller off road tires you add traction. With the CVT and no low gear. You will bog down the engine quicker. Not many do gears any longer when they do the tire change. I would not go very tall with the tire choice. Great video.

[@rrrandommman]

They won't let you review them because they put more fuel efficient CVT transmissions in them, but want everyone to think they're just as good as when they had a manual or traditional automatic transmission, which they're not, and completely inappropriate for a soft road vehicle on anything but a perfectly ruler flat unsealed road.

[@justinflott5133]

Desperately need you guys to do a review on an Outback Wilderness

[@ragweedmakesmesneeze]

Next up, we're going to see how this one particular flat-head screwdriver handles a variety of Philips-head screws. Jokes aside, still enjoying the content!

[@H3YB33ZY]

10:30 on the old vs new test… that has to be a joke, right? You take the new Subaru going up at 3mph with a CVT, then to prove a point you absolutely just sent that little bag of bolts up the incline? A Camry would have gotten up that with that driving. 🙄

[@totojejedinecnynick]

*laughs in 3 differentials* aaah yes, Subaru, another used-to-be-good car maker throwing their legacy and know how away... No center diff, no dual-range, just a pretentious "haldex" with anemic CVT. 4motion golf will do probably just as well at this point.

[@matus201]

and that golf will be amazing on a windy highway

[@mmiller1188]

Subaru definitely does not use a haldex style. It's still longitudinal with a center differential and front/rear differential.

[@Away907]

@@mmiller1188 "It's still longitudinal with a center differential ": nope, not in this one. The same computer-controlled clutches as in haldex.

[@totojejedinecnynick]

@@mmiller1188 Longitudinal yes, everything else wrong. CVT subies use preloaded solenoid operated clutchpack to connect the rear axle. Same as 4EAT did back in the good old days. Just some more sophisticated electronics around it. Sadly, CVT limits power/rpms/torque of the system, 4EAT multiplied it at least. In my garage are 2 manual subarus, 3 diffs each. Never selling them. Never buying subaru again.

[@mmiller1188]

@@totojejedinecnynick But there is still a front and rear differential, and for the rear you can get an actual locker. My manual has a center differential with a viscous coupler, but definitely has a center differential. Haldex is the sideways engine crap.

[@LionRunner]

Wish TFL can to a side by side comparison with this Crosstrek with symmetrical awd vs Rav4 adventure / limited / trd with torque vectoring awd vs Honda Passport with i-vtm4 awd on this trail. Help us how each awd perform in real world. (Please do not compare ones without torque vectoring as it will not be a fair comparison.)

[@RKmndo]

Wouldn't a CHR and HRV be a closer comparison to a Crosstrek?

[@LionRunner]

@@RKmndo as far as I know HRV have basic AWD system. Does not compete with symmetrical awd or the AWD system comes with Passport / Pilot. And I think CH-R is only 2wd.

[@RKmndo]

@@LionRunner Exactly. People shopping for an economical Japanese hatch for snowcountry don't have better choices available than a Crosstrek.

[@toddhoffmaster6057]

What happened to Subaru's motto " The wheel that slips to the wheel that grips" ? The used to have such a good all wheel drive platform.

[@dennisblass]

Another question. How will you get lower gears in a Subaru?

[@JonBecker81]

First you have to remove all of the drive train, do a bunch of plasma cutting to the unibody then mount the whole thing to a wrangler frame with solid front and rear axles and a hellcat engine. Yep, that should do it. Sounds like a job for Fred and Dave.

[@ryzenforce]

You push the transmission stick in manual mode, and you use the paddle (if present) to keep the "belt" in the same "gear-level" position.

[@epicxXCHANNELXxepic]

Press and hold the X-mode button for 5 seconds, disables the traction and stability control completely and stops the power cut slightly Edit: that feature may only be on the higher trims of the crosstrek

[@jorgecussa5331]

Love the t-shirt! Some motivation required!

[@sonny1597]

Also just purchased a 2021 Crosstrek Sport .. I immediately did a 2" lift kit .. Toyo ATIII's in 225/65 17" .. now have 12" at the rear pumpkin. Also put on an aluminum skid plate. I just got back last night from 3 days up in Moab testing out my mods! I did the BLM 378 rd which is the back door into Arches .. Gemini Bridges rd .. Shaffer trail and the Mineral points roads. On the BLM 378 rd my son got his 1st opportunity to be a spotter! He had to guide me over two ledges .. never touched anything. Also got 31 mpg up and back from Tucson. I got a whole 2400 miles on it since I left the dealership .. 1200 of that was coming and going to Moab.

[@sking2173]

^ LOLOLOL ...

[@davidj8305]

You guys should have purchased it with the manual. The 2 liter is still available with the manual. Companies to consider for the lift - FlatOut Suspension, Anderson Design & Fabrication( ADF), Subtle Solutions, Primitive Racing. I used Primitive Racing on my Forester - 1 inch pucks on Cusco adjustable struts w/1 inch King Springs coils, and corresponding rear cradle alignment blocks. I recommend getting skid plates too. Sad for Subaru that a 40y/o model can run circles around one right off the showroom floor. I submit - Ned A. Manual as the name for your Xtrek. Loved this video, Good luck 👍🏾

[@kenhoward3512]

This kind of driving can't be good for the lifespan of the relatively-fragile (and very expensive) CVT.

[@dicep6530]

Owning one right now, the 2.5 version. I would say it's a good unpaveder instead of a offroader. (and I am getting 30+mpg on highway, so...

[@ToyotaNutjob]

So, it can do whatever a Camry can do on dirt roads Coooooll.... lol

[@dicep6530]

@@ToyotaNutjob Yes, Crostrek and Camry have no fundamental difference. Both of them are definitely not "real off-road vehicles". People who buy this car is like saying "I know 99.99% of my mileage will be on pavement, but I still want my car be able to handle some dirt or snow and some bumpy roads when needed" And the Crosstrek does have a high clearance comparing to most SUVs.

[@adi7795]

I would like to see the RAV4 adventure 2019 going up there.

[@rajmoney1575]

They have a video of the newer one

[@adi7795]

Would you have the link please?

[@Soh90]

Yeah, I agree. I’m surprised there aren’t many videos of the RAV4 Adventure. Or even a RAV4 TRD which I heard got a skid plate for the 2020 model year. The last time they had a TRD I didn’t have a skid plate so they didn’t do the course. But Toyota added one so get on it TFL!!

[@adi7795]

So you folks have a video for the adventure? Please tell me the link

[@LMacNeill]

When a dog jumps up like that, walk *towards* him, using your knee to gently, but firmly, push him backwards and make him step back. And, of course, say "NO!" firmly. Worked like a charm on one of our dogs who loved to jump up like that.

[@RKmndo]

I'm actually impressed with how this stock Crosstrek did. I paid attention to the wheel slip, wheel lift, and the fact that the car usually still kept climbing, even with a wheel in the air. I can work with that for a mild overlander. For serious offroading, I'm using something like an old Jeep anyway...4Lo, locked center, steel armor, diffs that can easily be regeared/locked, easy bodylift/trimming for big tires with low COG, easy winchmount, flex, etc. This Crosstrek would probably be considerably improved just by disconnecting the anti-swaybar(s), airing down, and adding skids/winch. Swapping to ATs/MTs and installing a rear lunchbox locker would take it even further. Adjustable coilovers that facilitate more clearance and flex would probably help a lot too, but most of the other above mods could probably be done on a modest budget. The TCS is probably cutting power. Not the CVT. A rear lunchbox locker is just a few hundred $$ for these cars. 'Considerably cheaper than a swap to siped 235/75R15 MTs.

[@bradpoer]

It’ll be really interesting to see how much of the struggle was mechanics vs. grip once ya’ll upgrade the tire situation! Also, my family is all about old lady names and rhyming when it comes to dubbing cars- so my suggestion is Ruby the Subi. 😜

[@Amanda-uc5jq]

Many many years ago I named my mums Subaru forester Ruby. My subi is called Kar because it’s a khaki car

[@ncd7184]

I think this test goes completely different with the manual transmission. I have a 2018 trek with CVT and it's definitely the weak point

[@seabrookmx]

Yeah they know the CVT is an issue off road from their previous testing.. I'm not sure what the point of getting another one is. Manual would have been the way to go. Good on Subaru for still making them!

[@nickkaraoke2128]

Would love to see a TFL video comparing all Subaru AWD variations with X-Mode or not and with regular automatic, manual and CVT. Even cooler with a real world off road comparison, using the same tires.

[@jcorbo7518]

It is an ok start, but I want to see the putt kit, better tires etc. I wanna see more. I wanna see what a subaru crosstrek can do!

[@brent8052]

I have 2015 XV Base MT w/ Rallitek.25 springs heavy duties on the rear 1 inch spacer lift , B6 Bilstien struts Falken Wildpeak ATs and Bridgestone WS90 for the winter, I’ve had it 5 1/2 yrs 162k mls runs great great little car in any weather and a little bit of off roading nothing crazy.

[@alejandro11000]

Not impressive for a brand known for high performance rallying 🧐

[@chir0pter]

You are now banned from Subaru

[@alejandro11000]

💀

[@FXIIBeaver]

Was* pretty sure they stepped out of it.

[@alejandro11000]

@@FXIIBeaver IDK I'm preeetty sure Travis Pastrana is still racing Subaru's

[@FXIIBeaver]

@@alejandro11000 he is but I am pretty sure the company is no longer in rally.

[@gman4726]

I've got the geolander A/Ts on my outback and love them. Turn traction control off or it super sucks when trying to drive off road Can't wait to see what all you do with it.

[@J.W.W.]

You forgot to Vape 💨 it up the hill

[@AJourneyOfYourSoul]

The greatest thing about Subaru are their cult following customers. I mean who else would be on Subaru number 4 after going through two with bad head gaskets, one with oil consumption issues and now dealing with the cvt. After watching their customers continue to buy vehicles over a decade of never fixing the head gasket issue, there is zero reason for Subaru to ever improve. So, you here just for an oil change? No, the 90k mile head gasket maintenance. Oh, you to, isn’t the awd just awesome. Oh yeah, and Subaru is such a responsible company for the environment. Lol.

[@SamSam-ih6nt]

Cvt here doesnt have a belt its a chain

[@FDNY101202]

What a shame to see what Subaru has been reduced to for whatever reason

[@Martin_from_SC]

I really like how you guys will just buy the Subaru to test, because Subaru got butthurt a few years ago. And you still show everyone your opinion.

[@milan_spasić]

Crawling up the steep, loose incline with street tires, not sure what you expected.from this "off-road test". Nobody would do that in real life. If you went 3mph faster there would be no wheel slip. Nobody would want to hit that trail on street tires without at the very least airing down, so I don't know who is this test for? It's almost like you wanted it to fail. Don't get it. It's painful to watch.

[@stephenmitchell7915]

1. When my pups would jump up, I would GENTLY press on a hind paw with my foot until the pup would become uncomfortable and get down. 2. I remember having my CJ7 and J10 when I lived in Evergreen in the late 70s, and my buddy had a Subaru. The Subaru had no trouble on snow and slick roads. On hills in those conditions I had more traction problems than the Subaru had. Of course, you could poke a hole in the Subaru skin with a pine needle so you had to keep the it away from almost everything to prevent body damage.