6 Reasons to Buy a 2025 Subaru Crosstrek! (What's New?)

[@b.c.french3458]

I am biased in favor of these right now because a few days ago I got hit head-on by a distracted driver in a 45 mph zone and walked away with a cut on my foot and injuries you’ll only get from the seat belt and plentiful air bags. I’m sore but I have no permanent damage. My champion protector, a 2024 Crosstrek Basic trim, was totaled but I am going to be okay. Came here to see what was new with the 2025 models. May look at the Premium.

[@Unchainedmaple888]

Subaru just revealed a very compelling strong hybrid Crosstrek in Japan which has around 200 HP and 500-600 miles of range using Toyota hybrid tech...but for whatever reason Subaru of America is debuting a Forester hybrid here instead even though most of us want a Crosstrek. The new Forester is more bland than untoasted bread...

[@mrnarason]

yeah, not buying a car in 2025 without a hybrid

[@dippitydoinit]

It's called raw toast and I agree. Subaru needs to focus more on customer wants and needs if they want to continue to compete.

[@Jay-bw3fl]

Yep sales for the forester actually dropped after this new refresh which is rare and proves nobody prefers the new look of the forester. Regardless I just bought an outback and I love it lol I would have loved a hybrid though

[@TJDawgs72]

@@Jay-bw3fl while I agree with you, the looks are something that could’ve been better, I did have a chance to drive a new Forester that a friend of mine‘s mother recently purchased. The vehicle handles like a dream…If they can get the outside looking/feeling as good as it is on the inside, they got themselves one heck of a vehicle. And I would absolutely love a Crosstrek Wilderness hybrid…

[@derekmorrison4191]

Great review 🙌

[@kenhoward3512]

Thanks for the well-balanced review. The Crosstrek does a lot of things really well. Still, I'm left feeling uninspired (I'm being polite) by the design, every time I see one, compared to other (i.e., Mazda, Honda) products. I liked the first-generation exterior, and I like the mechanical Wilderness upgrades, but not the extra, silly stuff they stick on it. Where I live in the PNW, Subarus are everywhere, but, as a company, Subaru just doesn't do it for me.

[@sl0907]

I am really struggling to understand why anyone shopping in this class of car would care about it being bland or not? They are small crossovers, they are supposed to be appliance-like transportation. Ur not shopping for a fun/performance car but rather something u can depend on daily to eat up a lot of miles without much issue. I'd just go for whichever provides the best comfort, utility, and reliability. Why would it feeling "special" or all the other intangible journalism buzzwords matter?

[@DonathanXVI]

even if their tech is outdated, i admire how subaru sticks to what they’ve already got and gradually improves on it rather than implementing risky new stuff

[@Unchainedmaple888]

...they implemented super risky new stuff by putting that horrid slow laggy touchscreen into all of their vehicles

[@richardbrown3069]

I bought a 2023 Crosstrek Limited (2.5 liter engine). It’s my first Subaru and I really like it. Mine was the last year to get the physical HVAC knobs and buttons BUT it also just missed out on the more comfortable seats in the 2024 model. All in all, a really fun/practical AWD vehicle in a great smaller size. I’d definitely buy another one, when it’s time to swap the one I currently have.

[@nak8088]

im having 2024 !!!! i have issue with seats making a noise and take for them like 3 months to order the parts for my seats !! the seats is bad trust me !!

[@paulgemperlein626]

I have a 2019 Crosstrek and love it but the lack of physical controls or at least a good touchscreen is a dealbreaker in these new ones. Indeed, fingers crossed that Subaru is aware of it and improves it soon.

[@0HOON0]

Well not a deal breaker, definitely a downgrade for some people.

[@Realistick]

Subaru tends to listen to people it seems (at least when it comes to crossovers), so I'd be genuinely surprised if they didn't make a substantial improvement for the Outback. Hopefully I don't eat my words and the upgrade trickles to the Crosstrek soonish!

[@sirdan357]

The Premium is one I'm considering for sure, along with the CX-30 and Civic Hybrid if I decide to go with a smaller car.

[@TrmpRFK24]

I'm 6'3 the CX 30 is tiny can't fit comfortably in the back seat this is why I chose a suburu its got alot of leg room and super comfortable seats

[@WX4GPS]

I commend you mentioning the on the Thermal Control Valve, I have the 2l and happy after hearing this I got a 2024 Premium. One tech issue I have had with my 2024 Corsstrek Premium was the radio locked up full volume with digital sound and even the power down holding button did not work and I have to pull. over and shut car off and get out of it for a few minutes and it shut off and the issue has not come back, but it was startling. Cars been great after 18K

[@normaninsandiego7061]

It would be awesome to have the Turbo Boxer engine in the Crosstrek. Excellent video, Tyler, as always. I'm trying to decide on a 2025 Crosstrek base or a Corolla LE.

[@Realistick]

Thanks! What factors/needs led you to those two cars in particular?

[@normaninsandiego7061]

@Realistick I need a new basic road tripping senior friendly car. Maybe one of each would solve the problem. I like them both, but going full lawnmower with a Corolla on the freeway is hard to resist 😅.

[@ErictheRN]

Your bang on about the spark plug replacement (driver side); it's just a pain in the butt to reach to them.

[@Unchainedmaple888]

Honestly I'm waiting for a Crosstrek Hybrid or a Crosstrek WRX and a return of physical climate buttons because the current laggy touchscreen is just unacceptable, an absolute deal breaker. Imagine how bad it's going to get five years down the line and the touchscreen becomes even more laggy. Just enjoying my CX-30 for now but that needs a hybrid badly as well.

[@Kopernicus67]

I have the same infotainment in my '23 WRX, and I don't agree with all the complaints. I just don't feel the need or want to ever touch it. With Apple Car Play I get a GoogleMaps that fills the whole display in full satellite image mode. (competitors give you the letterbox version), completely controllable by Siri. My music is all streaming services and my Apple account, all through Siri and the buttons on the steering wheel. The only reason I did not consider a Crosstrek for myself and my wife shared the same viewpoint shopping for her last car, the power. 182 hp just doesn't cut it with the full-time AWD, the CVT, and the cushy tires. The car needs a 225 hp option and a hybrid (which is coming). Mazda offers a turbo, and you can get 220 hp out of a RAV hybrid. Great cars, and good review!

[@rick8125]

A lot of owners report the same thing…a glitchy, laggy, slow to respond infotainment screen. You figure a faster chip should fix that,? Maybe in 2026

[@robneathery844]

Will a golf bag fit sideways in back with the seats up?

[@jparker1823]

I think most people should steeraway from the wilderness unless they seriously intend to take it offroad often. I had a loaner for a week. It doesn't handle as well as other trims on road, is notably louder, and got only 28-29mpg on the highway with an average speed of 60. The Sport is really nice, just sad it lost the Startex interior.

[@Realistick]

I’d agree, though for a vehicle with that much clearance and capability, 29 mpg is great and it still handles pretty well too (even if it’s a step down from the regular one).

[@Hi-how-are-you-today.]

@@Realistickcan you review the new civic hybrid? Because can i just put some si parts in it and have a fun car (so non manual drivers can also drive ) or does the hybrid make a big difference? And is the road noise that bad vs a corolla, Impreza? (Or older civics)

[@Realistick]

@ That’s my next video actually. It’s definitely not replacing an SI but road noise was less than I was expecting and the powertrain is great!

[@Hi-how-are-you-today.]

@@Realistick what perfect timing! ( yes it’s not going to be better than a manual but i was just wondering if they made it so differently or if some si suspension bits will make it close in handling) Thats good because some reviews were saying that the accord hybrid is way quieter (but if you reviewed the one with “ Active “ noise reduction from the speakers is it like a cr-v hybrid or other cars or still a lot of tire noise?)

[@Realistick]

@Hi-how-are-you-today. It's definitely louder than an accord or a camry, but better than the last civic. It's competitive with most compacts, I did a sound test in my upcoming comparison (I haven't seen the results yet because I haven't looked at the footage). I'd imagine that if you changed the suspension on the Hybrid, it would feel pretty similar handling-wise but at that point, you're spending much more to make a hybrid Civic that's still not going to be as fun as an SI (which already gave you good efficiency and more features for less money).

[@MugatuJag]

Great review as always, I don't know why I've never liked the crosstrek, granted I have not driven the newer ones but they've always been quite loud and cheap feeling. I know they have a improved that a lot, I would go with the new Taos. They are very Germanic, great gas mileage, they feel big inside, they look elegant for being volkswagens. Even if they are made in Mexico. Plus they get better gas mileage, and they are faster

[@Realistick]

thank you, it's not for everyone but definitely worth a drive. I need to try out the Taos again sometime. I drove it when it was first released and I liked the practicality, features and torque but it was pretty rough around the edges. Maybe the refresh has is it more polished.

[@philweiland5391]

I'm coming from the other direction. I had a 22 Taos. It's a lighter car, more plasticky, less planted on the road, and has some quirky electronics. It is roomy and better looking, though. I didn't feel like the Taos would last over the long run like the Crosstrek will. Yes, you have to change the CVT fluid in the Crosstrek every 60,000 but the Toas has a timing belt....very expensive repair at 120,000. See what you think about the door handles in the Taos....they feel like they will be pulled off everytime you open the car.

[@EazybakeEvan]

but bro... Mazda CX-30 Turbo with red leather interior...

[@EazybakeEvan]

nevermind, you mentioned it during the video. i can get to sleep tonight thankfully.

[@Unchainedmaple888]

For whatever reason, that combination isn't available in America :/ I compromised and got a regular Carbon Edition. Power is pretty adequate actually lol

[@EazybakeEvan]

@Unchainedmaple888 in Canada, it was available to only the top trim (GT), which is equivalent to the American 'Premium Plus' trim. I built and ordered mine at the dealership cause they couldn't source one in my spec (Jet Black Mica + Garnet Red leather). Took 4 months for it to come in.

[@Hi-how-are-you-today.]

Imagine a wilderness Impreza 😂 (since this is just a lifted version of the sedan)

[@silver33]

I really like the car, but the hvac in the screen really is a deal breaker for me.

[@ryanj0421]

The bigback seat is top tier

[@dariuschicic8141]

The ability to soak up bumps is an underrated feature, especially while being able to handle well. Usually, it's one or the other, or neither. Many buyers only think they want a sporty feeling suspension because it's often sold as a higher feature. Add that the Crosstrek's seats are comfy and a lumbar support can be added makes this a good choice in regards to spending lots of time in the car. Hopefully Subaru is investing in a new tactile HVAC system that can move to all models ASAP. Keep the HVAC controls low and then for the new screen, tilt it a little more vertically so the light from the sunroof or side windows doesn't reflect directly to the driver's face. If those things were changed, I could more easily accept that the rest of the interior is a little less stylish than the CX-30 or HR-V.

[@masonrobbins9302]

It’s fun watching these for me trying to recognize where you’re driving in Bloomington throughout the review

[@minnesnowtan9970]

Why no mention of Taos? Wanted to compare to SE.

[@dippitydoinit]

I have 2 issues with this car that keep me from buying it. #1 No rear vents even though they claim to be dog friendly. (My dog gets cold too) #2 Engine power. More power equals more better.

[@matthewviti2241]

Wish they would add a power liftgate, turbo & a true automatic and ditch the CVT.

[@tommymas1]

Heated steering wheel and memory seats too. 😁

[@philweiland5391]

I think the Corolla Cross is the only subcompact SUV that offers a power liftgate. For better or worse, Subarus are wed to their CVT....you do want to change the CVT fluid every 60,000....it's not lifetime like Subaru USA will tell you it is.

[@matthewviti2241]

@@philweiland5391 new Mini Countryman offers a power liftgate and non-CVT, however price is way over Crosstrek. Agree 100% about the CVT fluid changes - will greatly prolong the life of the cars.

[@Veeetz]

According to the 2025 product guide, the 2025 has “improved” Apple CarPlay turn-by-turn integration. Does anyone know what this improvement is over the 2024 model year?

[@tonysterbenc]

As a former postal worker who's watched today's postal workers, I can confirm that in most of the country they work much harder than you'd think for roughly half the money I used to make in the job. "Lazy postal worker" was an unfortunate misfire in a generally useful test.

[@Realistick]

Thanks. No offense intended there. It was wordplay on "packages," I'd never slander the shipping industry🤕

[@tonysterbenc]

@@Realistick Thank YOU. And thanks for the work you do. BTW, a friend picked up your main squeeze the CX-30 and really likes it. I'm really impressed by its quality, too.

[@kevinkyser1274]

I would buy one if there were a manual available…and a turbo…Subaru make great cars again.

[@hennadiiminskyi6088]

Still 25-30 hundred above the Mazda CX-30 with the 2,5 NA + automatic transmission 🫤

[@tommymas1]

Why would the Wilderness be faster than the regular 2.5 engine? Should be slower due to the higher profile and bigger tires. 🤷‍♂️🤦‍♂️

[@stuarthartford6199]

It has a higher final gear ratio

[@yardboy3955]

No argument with this review, the two things that kill the deal for me are the infotainment touch screen, rather have knobs for HVAC. The other thing is the Thermal Control Valve that replaced thermostats on the motor.

[@Realistick]

It’s odd that for 2025, Subaru acknowledged the issue and switched back to a thermostat… on the Forester, no other 2.5l subies have gotten the thermostat back to my knowledge.

[@0HOON0]

The Thermo Control Valve is covered by a long extended warranty at least. 150k.

[@Veeetz]

Wait, it was my understanding that the 2025 Crosstrek no longer use TCV and did switch back. Watched video from Mr. Subaru and he explained this. Is that not the case?

[@yardboy3955]

@@Veeetz if I was going to buy the 2025 Crosstrek, I would go to a Subaru dealer and open the hood and look and feel under the manifold to see if it had the TCV or thermostat. I saw a You Tube video that the 2025 Forester went back to the thermostat. You can watch other videos and compare the top of the engines under the manifold in Forester and Crosstrek to tell if it is different. Just pause the video when the top of the motor is shown and try to look under the manifold. What I saw was the TCV has a hose that you can see but the thermostat doesn’t have the hose. To be 100% sure I would suggest to go to a Subaru dealer and check it out and ask them about it.

[@Realistick]

@@Veeetz They made the switch back with the Forester for 2025, but no such move was made for the Crosstrek.

[@vpookh]

bring back the manual!

[@rubenharris9241]

We just picked up a 2024 Limited for our daughter who is a new driver. It’s an excellent vehicle.

[@orlando7448]

no rear vents 😬

[@gem1947]

I have watched dozens of Subaru Crosstrek videos, most praising the vehicle and I have yet to hear any reviewer comment on the massive eye site system blocking out 20 to 25% of your view in the middle of the windshield. I am 5'11 and find it very distracting if not dangerous and for Subaru which is known for being such a safe vehicle you would think someone in their engineering or design departments would be able to correct in what I see is a major floor and deal breaker in an other wise very nice vehicle. Did you at all find the blocked view at all distracting or even possibly dangerous? Thank you.

[@Realistick]

It's large with the new three sensor system but I never found it distracting or to be an issue with my driving position at 6'3.

[@gem1947]

@@Realistick Thanks for your reply. I guess it must be an age thing as I am an old guy and need a bigger viewing area. I am also considering the Kia Soul or Seltos and they are much better as far as seeing out of the front windshield.

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

Nonsense. The Eyesight cameras are behind the rear view mirror and don't block ANY of the driver's view of the road. Maybe if you were sitting on the center console you would see the edges of them, but who does that?

[@davidguarin358]

@@gem1947I’m 6.1 Never have a problem with mine

[@philweiland5391]

Unless you're looking for a plane in the sky, I forgot about it after the first day of driving. It doesn't affect your view of the road, and you won't notice.

[@briandavis8139]

Great bang for the buck. We owned a 2023 and loved it moved up to the forester for more room

[@morningdew9450]

germany is waiting

[@PineappleGamesTV]

Not a fan of the infotainment system. Very laggy.

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

Not really and after you've lived with it for a week you won't even notice the slight lag.

[@anotheran]

Like you said, it really is just an appliance. It's not great but it works.

[@oligarchy-usa]

I can't trust a company that doesn't do full LED taillights, headlights, reverse lights, etc. in all new vehicles/trims these days. Makes me wonder where else they tried to cut costs to maximize profits.

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

You win the prize for being picky.

[@3lectronic0]

CVT, Slow response system/screen, it lack of physical controls 👎🏻

[@sarge27271]

CVT? Dang! So close, so close...........

[@jonnyftw1441]

Subaru has the best CVT

[@sarge27271]

@@jonnyftw1441 Still a CVT.........

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

The new Subaru CVT is virtually indistinguishable from an automatic transmission to the driver. They completely eliminated the CVT whine and you can even feel the transmission down shifting when you step on the gas.

[@sarge27271]

@@stevenmqcueen7576 Still a CVT.......

[@koskos1971]

I can tell you 6 reasons not to buy it.....

[@0HOON0]

But you didn't

[@ohhtobeagooner3309]

Nah CX-5 is still the SUV to get under 35k

[@mumwifeteacher]

Number one car for lesbians.

[@stevemartegani]

No manual no care

[@59marck]

I see why you are so easily praising the little crosstrek. Mom and dad are watching, aren't they? 🙃

[@Realistick]

Plot twist, they don’t watch any of my videos 🤕

[@juliandavis9711]

@@RealistickYou'll make them proud one day brother 👊🏽🥹

[@falconreconeight]

Other than all wheel drive. It’s so boring

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

Yes, driving a car that is far safer on slippery roads is totally boring.

[@MaryPoppins-d1k]

What do you drive? I think this car is excellent

[@davidguarin358]

You are 100 % right Just bought 1 at the beginning of this year. But definitely 👍 I feel and I know is way safer compared to the other cars I used to own

[@falconreconeight]

@ Subaru makes some great cars. Just boring to me but i get it.

[@falconreconeight]

@ i drive a Audi a3 hybrid. Don’t get me wrong Subarus are excellent cars. I just find them boring

[@RayHogarth]

I've ran and worked on Subaru cars for 35+years and you believe me it's nothing like a Subaru what we once new, Subaru should have gone all the way and changed it's name for it's new costumers, loyal people like my self who have had Subaru for years will know that this is just a box of trouble with fancy crap that you have paid for and don't want or need or better still doesn't work a bit like the AWD system which is little better than a 2WD car,am not going into that just lift one wheel off the ground put a little resistance under another and see what happens, nothing it won't move.

[@ChristianGuy7000]

This guy doesn't talk about what's new. What an awful review.

[@Realistick]

00:18

[@planartube2364]

No thanks. I'm not a lesbian from Boulder, CO.

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

Someone who bases his car buying decisions on who he hates. Now, that's original (and stupid).

[@mikej238]

Because you're a lesbian and lesbians buy Suburus

[@stevenmqcueen7576]

Someday you'll regret this remark, but not probably before you get out of grade school.

[@mikej238]

@stevenmqcueen7576 😂 " OK Steve

[@DebbieDooo]

Not a lesbian. Love my CTW!

[@TrmpRFK24]

I love my lesbian suburu I test drove alot of cars before choosing my Impreza I didn't want a huge car or suv that costs 50k . So far Im very impressed with ride quality, steering, and saftey features was extremely suprised with seat comfort and leg room .

[@archie_bunker]

only if they would redesign those hideous taillights