Is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport a better SUV to buy than a Jeep Compass?

FIRST DRIVE: The all new Crosstrek is here and Subaru boosts performance with the Sport. This vehicle goes up against the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Jeep Compass, Jeep Renegade, Toyota Corolla Cross, Honda HR-V, Mazda CX-30 and Nissan Kicks. On the outside you will find unique gold trim, 18in wheels, black accents & a sun roof. On the inside there are special seats, 11.6in infotainment system and gold trim. Under the hood is a 2.5L flat-4 that produces 182HP & is mated to a CVT with AWD. Is the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport a better SUV to buy than a Jeep Compass?
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Videography: Steven Flood 🎥

[@Darkvirgo88xx]

Best car reviewer on KZbin in my personal opinion. Not biased or afraid to point out things he doesn't like. A very rare type of car reviewer.

[@C.Will_RT]

He also knows his stuff when comparing vehicles too.

[@bertbecker7532]

Add a sense of humor to the mix which many reviewers lack..

[@giniolamy]

Yea he is

[@ismailtroxler1]

Joe Raiti is my main go-to for vehicle review.

[@randomgrinn]

Title says he would compare it to the Jeep Compass... I jumped around, but never heard him mention the Compass. Disappointing.

[@FromthePits]

When I started shopping for a new car I had heard about the Crosstrek Sport and after careful consideration I narrowed it down to the Black and the Sapphire Blue. This video helped cement my decision, I look forward to driving this car off the lot some time next week. Thanks Joe for the honest feedback and review.

[@justin2024atlas]

Loved my ‘15 premium. Drove it thousands of miles through sand, rock, mountains, mud, snow. Never stranded me & I pushed that car to its limit. Now seriously considering returning to the brand with a ‘24 Crosstrek Sport or Limited.

[@craigcohen1817]

As usual, another great and honest review. I'm on my 7th Subaru since 1993. Each ran over 175,000 miles and never a major issue. Also, never got stuck anyway. No matter high the snow or how muddy the roads were. I think this new Crosstrek will be my next one. Again great review.

[@zackarystewart9214]

Did you sell them at 175k then?

[@johnnyViDeO]

Funny; I'm on my 7th Honda, a 2018 CR-V, currently averaging 36 MPG. My previous 2006 CR-V gave me few issues and I got 215k miles before I sold it for $4k. All 7 were FWD and my most expensive repair was a starter.

[@bidenwearsdiapers4026]

The common dominator in reliability for Subaru, Honda, Acura, Toyota, Lexus, etc etc … is Japanese engineering/build quality. For the most part it doesn’t matter whether you opt for Subaru or Honda, you’re getting a reliable vehicle.

[@georgevella4797]

4:22 4:25 Factory ordered mine and took delivery nearly a year ago. Zero regrets. Same color and trim as shown.. Great vehicle!

[@Deetroiter]

I have a 2020 Crosstrek limited and one of the major factors in choosing it was how roomy the rear seating area is. It doesn’t feel tight at all and the knee room is similar to a large SUV or luxury SUV. It’s actually a place I wouldn’t even mind being on a long cross county trip, I find it that spacious and comfortable compared to the Crosstrek’s competitors. With how many features and useful touches Subaru has on the Crosstrek, I’m astonished that they sell it at the price they do when considering how many other brands are pushing $40k+ just for some simple and unexciting vehicle. I agree with you one hundred percent about the fuel mileage! It’s absolutely magic they accomplish those numbers with an all time AWD system when the competitors are part time and struggle with lower fuel economy. It wasn’t that long ago subaru would get low 20s on the highway for fuel mileage, now it’s easy to get 30s with their new technology. Truly amazing

[@shawnriv9]

Great review! I just placed my order for a 24 Crosstrek Sport in Magnetite Gray. Coming in three weeks!

[@bulgarianb3ast]

How do you like it? I’m planning on getting the sport in the same color shortly

[@Kilaueaorph4n]

19:22 “infotainment system is very easy to get to…” *meanwhile the car veers off the lane*😂

[@kaenova]

lol I was instantly sold once you said I can fit Kombucha and empanadas from Brooklyn in the door lol

[@suespony]

Just bought a 2025 outback limited. While at the dealership, I noticed a bunch of cars parked basically in a field next to the dealership. I asked the salesman what was up with them. He said they had a hailstorm that ruined around 150 of their cars. Anyway to make a long story short, ended up also buying a new 2024 Crosstrek sport for 18k. Yes has some hail damage, but not that bad really. Wasn't planning on buying 2 new cars, but to good a deal to pass on.

[@bhalstead6313]

Getting one just like that this coming Friday. Can’t wait

[@jerewynegar2759]

Very good review One of the best car reviews I’ve seen and I’ve seen a lot Makes me want to test drive one of these

[@rickgarcia8481]

Now that was a great review. Love the drive in gravel. Great job

[@kumabenito]

Best sales man I ever heard , good job !

[@RaitisRides]

It is just car passion

[@waynehurtig8198]

own 2 crosstrek now 2013&2021 I like the new look and the new front end equipment love Subaru

[@samsonvladislav4167]

Great and very detailed review! I am really cobsideribg a crosstreck sport now, as opposed to others in the segment.

[@dylandog1289]

Went with the wilderness for the CVT cooler, seats, and extra clearance and love it but have to admit the sport is a fantastic looking car.

[@gs1zzwmr2]

87 cassette tape made me spit out my coffee Joe 😂

[@RaitisRides]

LOL Thanks for letting me share the laughs and the cars with you!

[@robo08ify]

As I’ve noted on other car review sites, I’m ‘old school’. I prefer buttons and knobs. Leave the touch screen for music and navigation. I also don’t need a heated steering wheel or heated seats (even though I live in New England) or cruise control or any of the ‘safety’ alerts such as the ‘stay in my own lane’ alerts, etc. I’ll keep the A/C, power windows and power locks though. As for the manual shift, I would love to have that, too, but sadly for medical reasons(stroke) that’s one thing I can’t do anymore.

[@mrgurulittle7000]

“To the door panels!!” 🤣👍👍

[@markaruski]

Nice review Joe! Would be great if you'd reveal whether or not a spare tire comes w/ the car. Thanks

[@Maniac742]

The only Subaru with no spare is the WRX

[@TomBreyfogle]

I've driven an older one. I liked it. It was a solid car even after a few years

[@blueclearsky]

Just wanted to pop in and leave a comment saying I appreciate your reviews. Your first review on the red 2024 Crosstrek helped me to decide that Subaru was what I should be looking at and, I ended up getting a Premium crystal white pearI with the option 14 package. I agree with you that there are a few "zonks" as you put it, but other things really make up for any small shortcomings the car may have. My biggest pet peeve would be not having another 12 volt power port in the rear. As of writing this 7/8/2023 and 496 miles on the odometer, I can say that it is a fun car to drive and it's extremely comfortable. For anyone that reads this, if you have a bad back, Subaru has some of the best seats around in my option, and go ahead and get the powered seat which also gives you adjustable lumbar support.

[@joelthorne7434]

I have read from other Subaru owners that the interior noise level at highway speeds is intolerable due to the CVT. What is your experience?

[@blueclearsky]

@@joelthorne7434 the CVT has nothing to do with interior noise. I drive mine on the highway often and it’s fine. Tire type would be more closely related to road noise.

[@cstu444]

Add sound mat everywhere you can, mainly the floorboards

[@rafaelrosario9944]

Best video yet , keep up the good work , love it

[@Iamajn316]

Best Subaru review out there!!! Great work!

[@diamondknight4815]

Im really loving this design, good job Subaru! And as always, great video ❤

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that I can bring it to you!

[@BlackBruceLeeTheGreatDekuTree]

How do the speakers sound without the Harmon Kardon system? Too bad they don't offer it in this trim

[@TucsonDude]

From my past experience with HK systems, they're better but not great.

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

Thank you for the double dipping morning Joe! Great way to start the day!

[@RaitisRides]

It is what you deserve!

[@guzmancuztomz]

Let me just say I’ve been at SIA for 7 months and I love it It was a test of my body Not of my experience It was a test of my patience I learned how to work there It’s amazing Subaru treats its employees well There’s an underlying feeling of pride there That no one can deny Crosstrek launched in SIA a few months ago as we lo longer built Imprezas I rly love the price point The size I’m not too much of a fan on But it grows on you I have a huge discount this month and I’m going to literally order a crosstrek sport just like this one . And I get to build it ! I like this guy He said kombucha and empanadas in the door panel lol But he had great info And it’s been a pleasure to have my resume appreciated and valued at SIA I built semi trailers for a decade before this and didn’t feel proud of what I did As a somewhat new employee to the facility, in going to take advantage of the associate discount and order this exact car this month I just want to keep it with it 30-31k But SIA facilitates it’s associates as much as they can to come to work in their Subaru It’s just exciting New launch in our facility, “all- new model”, for a car and motorcycle guy , I should’ve been messing w SIA sooner It’s rly great and I’m proud to be a part of it And will be even more proud in a a few weeks when I have this same crosstrek and built it myself love ❤️

[@jameskol10]

ordered the canadian version of onyx and i'm eager to try it off road. it will be my first subaru.

[@kittmarie8285]

Pretty funny today along with the good review.! Thanks so much!

[@sherrillfuller1782]

I want an orange one do they come in orange 2024?

[@leannbl9701]

I am loving my ‘22 Crosstrek Limited. Just got 34.9 mpg on a 300 mile trip. Great safety features and comfortable ride.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so fantastic! I appreciate you sharing that!

[@kevinsantos205]

I love his analogies/references. But cassette tapes? 😂

[@celiamclaughlin5356]

My brother in Christ you don’t have to yell I can hear you

[@nighthawk_predator1877]

Turn your volumn down. Problem solved.

[@lossatt]

Good info about the Crosstrek Sport. But where's the comparison to the Compass teased in the title?!

[@kittmarie8285]

Thank you Steven!

[@eganfo]

That car looks awesome and so did the roads you got to drive.

[@Kevin-k9z9w]

Great video again, Joe! I just bought a 2024 Crosstrek Convenience (Canadian base model). The Canadian model has more features than US version. The base come with same rims in 17” which I think will be better ride than 18 over the long term. Now a lot of people knock the 2L engine. There is no shortage of power, or passing power. You can stick a Curt hitch on it and pull about 1500 lb. To compare this with a FCA product, it is not even fair. To knock the non-LED lights, I dont understand! Do you prefer to pay $300 for a turn signal? Get after market bulbs and change it.

[@Monster-519]

Yesterday I just got a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Sport in Alpine Green and its great. A huge upgrade from my last 2006 Subaru Forester. Also the car is quite quick. Yes its not a sports or super car but personally it feels pretty sporty and quick. Reviewers tend to say vehicles like the crosstrek are slow including the 2.5 but one reason its hard to trust them is because all they do is review cars from the slowest cars to even luxury and sport cars. This is a great and fast vehicle and another thing that reviewers will say is "It has a hard time getting up to speed and passing on highways." Maybe compared to cars with turbos, large engines, and ones that are meant for speed but its perfectly fine at it all.

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful to hear! Congrats!

[@WorldTraveler222]

Is this your pick under $30k?

[@heidimariebee]

Can you turn off the overly large display /"infotainment center"

[@lorenschwiderski]

After a few months of sliding in and out of those seats, will the yellow/gold become gray or black marked-up and show wear?

[@pedroborrero7203]

I bought a 2023 Subaru crosstrek limited edition and I’m beyond impressed with the vehicle in every angle

[@anumkhan4563]

Great review

[@ronniewilliams3691]

I want a white one! I brought one home to show my family. I want it so bad! Loved it!

[@nighthawk_predator1877]

Hope you get it!! I like the white color too!

[@Iamajn316]

This video has answered my question, whether or not I’d buy one, yes!

[@cashtonbriggs2135]

28:49 I leased my 2020 Escape Hybrid Titanium because of your review of it. I absolutely love it. The Crosstrek was going to be my next lease in Oct. Your review solidified it. Thank you so much. Great video. 👍👍

[@RaitisRides]

That is so wonderful my friend!

[@goldengrill769]

Your name sounds like the superhero from a war movie haha no offense it just sounds cool is all I am saying.

[@cashtonbriggs2135]

@Golden Grin No offense taken. Lol. That made my day, thank you👍

[@kittmarie8285]

Will you be doing a review of the 2024 Baja and/or Brat or whatever they decide to call their small truck offering? Thanks. Take care.

[@JamesCapoldo]

you can't work the e-brake when the battery goes dead

[@jamesbarbato2463]

Joe I really think you should have a scoring system to compare the cars.

[@arizonacolour8793]

Makes it less casual and laid bacm. Maybe just a zonk counter

[@RaitisRides]

Thanks for the feedback.

[@gabrielfelixmunoz739]

wow he actually did 50 going into a corner on gravel, love it!

[@mikelamar3029]

Hi i have a question about your car does your car vibrate/rattle when u are on drive gear and full stop? Around front passenger area? Or its the engine really like that? But as soon as i step on the gas it disappears

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Before you can become a Subaru corporate executive, you have to take an oath to respect the ground clearance.

[@RaitisRides]

How did you know Mickey?

[@mickeybrumfield764]

@Raiti's Rides Its part of the Japanese constitution as something to protect and preserve, and it's something the people are proud to stand up for. The Japanese press would have a Subaru executives drawn and quartered in the town square at any hint of there being disrespect towards ground clearance in a Subaru suv.

[@chrisschrecengost1235]

Rear camera washer isn't on the US model

[@brians-n6e]

Thanks for the review. Have this exact trim/color on order with a June delivery date. Your video has me EXTRA hyped now!!!

[@georgevella4797]

Just took delivery of my factory order on July 1st. Sapphire color combo looks better in person, especially with the pearl showing off in the sunshine. Fit and finish are excellent. Cudos to the Indiana factory teams. Nicely done. Maiden voyage was from Medford to Brookings Oregon across the Redwood Highway, Route 199. Lots of twisty mountain driving. 0:00 The advanced driving features and improved ride made the trip really pleasurable. May your experience be equally grand. Geo Vella

[@coldwarkid6611]

I've been researching my new car purchase and the Crosstrek is a solid bargain and checks all the boxes. There's no way in hell I'd punish myself with an overpriced low quality Jeep. It's also nice the Crosstrek Sport is built in Indiana.

[@RaitisRides]

It is a great vehicle!

[@dougchan-oo9uo]

Jeeps are not known for its reliability.

[@mannycruz21]

Bummed out Subaru replaced the Star-tex faux leather seats from the 2021-2023 Sport Trim to a cloth seat! Undeceive whether to buy the 2023 or 2024 Sport!

[@Michael-ur5qb]

I thought that’s what they did. Agreed it shouldn’t just be a wilderness thing. They could have at least done more of a mix between the two.

[@phillipjohnson5868]

It’s a tough choice but I’d go with the 2024 crosstrek because the 2023 sport has the horrendous halogen headlights with ugly DRL. Makes the old sport look way more dated and the headlight performance is mediocre at best. The new crosstrek also has wireless CarPlay which is so much more convenient. But, the physical climate controls and startex of the 23 sport are very appealing! Can’t go wrong with either!

[@TucsonDude]

@@phillipjohnson5868 Buy some $60 Beamtech headlight bulbs as they work almost as well as my other LED-equipped cars. Haven't burned out or flickered in over 3 years of constant use. I leave them on day/night.

[@Gustavof.017]

Is there a manual option ?

[@RaitisRides]

Not any more!

[@HajiHassanu]

Great review as always! I wish you had reviewed the Alpine Green one to show the actual color of the CT.

[@ericcarawan1308]

Love the car but hate the gold trim

[@johnnyViDeO]

Good l'il 2nd car for the beach, but not electrified yet. It's suprising how much space there is inside for a small car. Subura's EV is pretty but lacks range.

[@husnainkhan5717]

Nice work

[@jonathanvale888]

I'm sold on the Xtrek....Sport is the way to go....I'm buying this.....

[@loriraiti4924]

I really like this one!

[@RaitisRides]

I really think the color works on it!

[@DarkJediChrisG-1425]

Same here Lori!

[@kenfrankel3498]

Subarus & Chihuahuas 😉

[@lissa2679]

Can’t wait for the Crosstrek Wilderness review from you!! I miss my 18 Limited so much and think it might be time to get back into a Subie in 2023\24. Love your videos!!!

[@jimmydeneus7109]

Keep going almost there 💯🙏

[@RaitisRides]

You are so right Jimmy!

[@joelthorne7434]

Cloth door panel? Plastic is too costly?

[@johnperciballi4649]

Big mistake removing the StarTex. Not for me.

[@Sir.Black.]

What camera are you using inside the car?

[@AAly-hf5mg]

Beautiful looks

[@slappdaddy8]

Love your enthusiasm and love of cars! Great content.

[@buzzfretwear2906]

That infotainment system - I'm not at all bothered by the idea of an 11" display in the car. But there have been some really bad reviews of this system over the past couple of years. I'm aware that Subaru released a software update to address some of it, but t around 9:52 when you see him swipe right and swipe left it appears there's still a hint of lagginess in the performance. Any 2024 XV owners here who can comment on the infotainment performance? Have they fixed it? I'm car shopping and the Crosstrek Sport is on my short list. Haven't been in one yet. It ticks a lot of boxes for me and I'd really hate it if it came down to an underperforming infotainment display.

[@dog_guy-m6b]

Your buying a car to get you here and there and to be reliable why are people so worked up that the computer screen takes an extra second to function is beyond me.

[@buzzfretwear2906]

@@dog_guy-m6b I actually agree with you, but living with a poorly performing screen that controls most of the functions in your car could become annoying if you keep the car for several years. In the end I didn't buy a Crosstrek but it wasn't because of the infotainment screen.

[@Angelbonilla1982]

Preferred buying this one than paying $29k for corolla or honda civic!!

[@RaitisRides]

I totally can understand that Angel!

[@Tarken10]

What about the CVT? I am looking at the Forester Wilderness, but I am hesitant because of the CVT reputation. That Crosstrek Sport has my eye, too, though.

[@cstu444]

For 2024, Subaru has gone to (at least the Crosstrek) a chain drive CVT replacing the prior belt drives

[@dougchan-oo9uo]

Subaru CVT's are reliable. The CVT's in the the Nissan are garbage.

[@brentdevries1254]

It looks like a raised version of the Impreza RS, I'll be getting this car!

[@Nokoff2012]

Great for the those dirt roads, but for those who stay on pavement, the in-cabin on-road noise is off the charts loud. You can hear it in this video, and it's very, very loud in person, almost maddening.

[@danielfair4675]

Lol, you're over exaggerating the interior noise a little.

[@JRTrilling]

I test drove one of these a couple days ago and there is very little in-cabin road noise.

[@lotuslandmusic7770]

I drove one today and I don’t didn’t notice noise at all. (By contrast, I drove a Bronco Sport yesterday and it definitely was noisy).

[@islandon22]

An almost bulletproof affordable daily driver, especially in the Great White North. If a sporty sedan is in your sights, you can't beat the Impreza for AWD VALUE. Sold these, owned these and loved these Subarus!!!

[@jesurunblends]

good review u had me laughing with the 87 casetes , im seriously considering this car

[@PrincessTS01]

no, my 23mp has a 2.0L TURBO its very zippy when you use premium gas 200hp is rated with regular gas, but the computer will uptune when it detects higher octane.

[@RaitisRides]

I am so glad that you can share that ownership insight.

[@itsme729]

Mp?

[@2bookoo4u]

Not a fan of the yellow accents and cloth seats. Went with the sapphire blue limited instead.

[@RaitisRides]

I know it is not for everyone.

[@nishwakhan7021]

Best review

[@DM72513]

If only they had made the 6-speed manual available on the Sport/Limited trim. People didn’t want the anemic 2.0L engine with the manual in the previous gen. Subaru’s been making some baffling decisions, actively offending brand enthusiasts.

[@henrytenden]

​@Brian Lee Yeah, like you're gonna buy it..... 🤣🤣🤣

[@Markb51291]

How come no one talks about the auto lane steering feature?!

[@RaitisRides]

It is kind of old news already!

[@Markb51291]

@@RaitisRides ohhhh I see. Im a first time buyer of this car so this was news to me lol

[@richardpruitt5193]

Subaru CVT why? 8 speed automatic common on

[@baohoaily]

Yes it is! Then again you set the bar pretty low there Joe.

[@RaitisRides]

LOL I love what you did there Bao!

[@A_A_J.]

Would love it if the Crosstrek came in the base model with the 2.5 liter engine. I buy cars for the car, not the frills. My 2010 Impreza base model has the 2.5 and very little else, which is what made it affordable.

[@stevengirardi4769]

Anyone know if the Sport trim offers a heated steering wheel?

[@frankpatyi3295]

It does not. But in Canada crosstreks do have it.

[@ollierocha6556]

@@frankpatyi3295 The Canadian version of the USA Sport model is called the Onyx and it does have heated steering. I ordered one.

[@mikek5631]

Not the US model. The Canadian model has a modified heated wheel. What I mean by modified is that it is not a full heated wheel. It's only heated at the 9 and 3 positions on the wheel.

[@antonio.s9102]

Really looking to buy this Crosstrek or a CX5 for a daily driver. What’s the main reliability issue with Subaru? I guess the CVT?

[@RaitisRides]

It depends on who you ask!

[@bvk4520]

CX5. better interiors and ride experience. Crosstrek doesn't offer much for it's price as a daily driver. Overpriced according to me.

[@curiosityredpill7030]

Cx-5

[@Ape_Mode]

@@bvk4520 Mazda is a garbage brand that will probably go out of business soon. Cross trek is way better

[@Ape_Mode]

@@curiosityredpill7030 CX5 is crap

[@mahaimhaque629]

I wanna know what car Raiti drives

[@richroj]

that is one of my favorite Subarus Joe, I love it. I like the new infotainment design. the 2024 Ascent Touring is my favorite. you could probably replace the Thomas Edison light bulb with an LED bulb I guess.

[@RaitisRides]

Good call Rich on the bulbs.

[@Angelbonilla1982]

Love the back side😮😮😮🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@RaitisRides]

They styling on the new Crosstrek on all trims is pretty spot on.

[@tinadudley5318]

Throtter😂😂 let ride let see if you zonk anything luv when you zonk 😂😂Thomas Edison Light bulb ZONK😂😂

[@RunRideHikeThrive]

Gotta get some Puma shoes 👟 😉... Too match that sweet collared Puma shirt 💪. Great review as always 👏 👏 👏

[@tomfaz4193]

To bad they eliminated all the physical controls and digitized them into the slow unintuitive touch screen. For example to turn on the seat heaters you need to go through three screens. I bought a 2023 model that still has the manual controls.

[@RaitisRides]

I feel your pain!

[@eskieman3948]

There is a new software release for these 11" infotainment displays that provides quick access to the seat heaters.

[@durkman12]

And the 23 still has a cd player, the Harmon kardon system sounds awesome with it bc I have a 23 also

[@htschultz]

Fun review as always Joe--thanks. I understand Subaru flew you up to Woodstock and wined/dined you to review their new Crosstrek Sport, but I thought you were going to offer your perspective at some point during the review regarding how the Crosstrek Sport stacks up against the subcompact competitioni to you alluded to in the beginning (Corolla Cross, HRV, CX-30, etc.) -- what happened to that?

[@Chisumpa]

I love his reviews….no fluff, lots of humour and cover all the points that I need to be aware of. Great review! After watching this I am confirmed in my choice of the new Crosstrek. Here in Canada it will be the Sapphire Blue Onyx edition. 👏👏

[@vincerocker]

Crosstrek or CX-30 turbo ？

[@ChrisC-fp9qu]

I am in the market for a new car and I want the crosstrek sport or crosstrek wilderness and I feel it's a better car then the competition in many ways but mostly because the AWD actually works better than the other brands.

[@car24dude]

Sad there is no WRX version 😢