What are the prices for the Subaru Crosstrek?

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0L: $34,990 (up $1800)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0R: $38,490 (up $2700)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD 2.0S: $41,490 (up $3000)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid L: $38,590 (up $1800)

2023 Subaru Crosstrek AWD Hybrid S: $45,090 (up $3000)

Prices exclude on-road costs

What’s under the bonnet? 

The Crosstrek from Subaru continues its tradition of providing two powertrain options.

The standard option is a 2.0-litre Boxer flat-four petrol engine that generates 115kW at 6000rpm and 196Nm at 4000rpm. Subaru has stated that this engine is "enhanced" for the new generation but did not divulge any further specifics.

In addition to this, there's a 2.0-litre e-Boxer Hybrid powertrain which combines the petrol engine with an electric motor for better fuel efficiency. The power outputs are rated at 110kW between 5800-6000rpm and 196Nm at 4000rpm.

According to Subaru, the standard Crosstrek petrol achieves a combined fuel economy of 7.2L per 100km, while the e-Boxer Hybrid reduces this figure to 6.5L per 100km.

The petrol variant comes with a considerable 63-litre fuel tank, while the hybrid version has a 48-litre tank. The CO2 emissions for the petrol and hybrid models are 165g/km and 147g/km respectively.

Both engines are compliant with Euro 6b emissions standards and can operate on regular 91 RON fuel.

How does the Subaru Crosstrek drive? 

The new Subaru Crosstrek has undergone several improvements that contribute to its overall ride quality and performance. Its suspension mounting points have been reinforced, and a new full inner frame construction, longer structural adhesive runs, and fortified suspension and seat mounts have been added. Even the roof skin has been modified to decrease interior noise, and Subaru claims that the Crosstrek's body rigidity is now nearly on par with that of the WRX.

Additional sound-deadening material has been included throughout the vehicle. New aluminium engine mounts and a more rigid oil pan help to muffle the noise from the boxer engine.

The all-wheel-drive bias has been adjusted from a 50:50 split to a front-biased 60:40 split, and the chassis computer has been updated to enhance urban driving. The car also includes the company’s X-Mode off-road modes and is the first Subaru model to feature the company's upgraded EyeSight camera array.

The Crosstrek's off-road ability, according to Subaru, is one of its strengths. Despite lacking underbody protection, the computer-controlled X-Mode system performs admirably on challenging terrain. Active only under 20km/h, this two-mode system helps all four wheels find grip on slippery terrain and commands a lower ratio from the CVT, enabling the Crosstrek to traverse steep and rocky terrain with relative ease.

However, the additional kilograms added to the vehicle combined with the weight of the extra standard equipment and safety technology have slightly impaired the performance and efficiency of the 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

The Crosstrek consumes more fuel than its predecessor, the Subaru XV, and its key competitors. The hybrid variant of the Crosstrek does not provide substantial fuel savings since it is a mild-hybrid system, similar to the one in the previous Subaru XV.

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Crosstrek, although not intended to be a sports car, is a bit slow compared to other small SUVs. Overtaking on the road can be a challenge, as flooring the accelerator doesn't significantly increase speed, resulting in higher engine noise. Subaru Australia is reportedly considering offering a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, like the one available in the US, but this has not been confirmed for the Australian market yet.

While the car has made progress in noise reduction, road noise from the tyres, particularly on coarse-chip surfaces, remains noticeable. It may not be the quietest in its class, but the Subaru Crosstrek definitely provides a more refined and comfortable driving experience.

What is the Subaru Crosstrek like on the inside? 

The new Subaru Crosstrek remains closely similar to its predecessor, the Subaru XV, in terms of its overall dimensions. However, slight modifications have been made in terms of cargo space and rear-seat room.

The Crosstrek's boot, at 291L, is smaller compared to the XV's 310L when the rear seats are upright. The hybrid variants also follow this trend with a smaller boot in the newer model (315L vs. 340L). These changes have been made in order to provide more knee and foot room for rear-seat passengers, although the cabin width remains unchanged.

Storage options are satisfactory with spaces available in all four door pockets, a sizeable glovebox, and a decently-sized centre console.

All models come with standard features like a sensor key, push-button start, and a wireless charging pad. Front cabin occupants have a 12V power socket, a USB-A, and a USB-C port at their disposal, while rear-seat passengers get a USB-A and a USB-C port, although there are no rear air vents.

The quality of the fit and finish is good, and most controls are conveniently placed and easy to operate.

The 11.6-inch touchscreen infotainment system is a central feature, standard across all variants, and comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, you would need to upgrade to the S models for embedded satellite navigation.

The interface is clean, easy to use, and the blue-themed fonts add a touch of visual appeal.

Sound quality from the standard six-speaker system in the 2.0L and 2.0R is decent, but the 10-speaker Harman Kardon system available in the S grades offers an added depth and clarity.

While the climate control menu is integrated into the touchscreen, physical temperature controls are present, and the HVAC widget is permanently placed at the base of the display – a superior implementation.

Overall, driver and passenger comfort is commendable. During our test, we found the mid-spec 2.0R and top-spec 2.0S models' premium cloth trim with electric driver's seat adjustment and heating to be particularly comfortable.

A few minor issues include a lag in the 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen when trying to locate the right tab while driving; small sun visors due to the large console behind the rear-view mirror housing the three-camera safety system, resulting in ineffective glare protection; and only the front windows have one-touch up and down functionality.

Is the Subaru Crosstrek safe?

The 2023 Subaru Crosstrek has not yet been rated by ANCAP.

Standard safety features include:

Comprehensive SRS airbags: dual front, dual front side, dual curtain, driver's knee, far side, and front passenger seat cushion.

EyeSight Driver Assist: features a multitude of systems including adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency steering, intelligent speed limiter, and more.

Subaru Vision Assist: equipped with blind-spot monitoring, lane change assist, rear parking sensors, and more.

Driver Monitoring System – Driver Focus: offering a distraction warning, drowsiness warning, and facial recognition.

Additional features like a Front View Monitor, High-beam assist, 360-degree cameras, and Side View Monitor are added in the Crosstrek 2.0R.

How much does the Subaru Crosstrek cost to run? 

The Crosstrek comes with a five-year, unlimited kilometre warranty offered by Subaru Australia.

A 12-month Subaru Roadside Assistance program is also included with the purchase. The pricing for servicing the new generation model has not been disclosed as of now, but the previous Subaru XV offered a five-year service plan at $2478 with intervals at 12 months or 12,500km.

Yeecar’s Take on the Subaru Crosstrek

The Subaru Crosstrek holds on to its successful formula, introducing evolution rather than revolution.

While the new Crosstrek comes with a higher price tag, potentially higher fuel consumption, more expensive servicing, and a few minor drawbacks, it continues to impress with its all-wheel-drive system, high ground clearance, and advanced off-road technology, making it comfortable both in the city and on country roads.

The rugged nature of the Subaru doesn’t compromise daily comfort or on-road dynamics. This version of the Crosstrek is the most refined yet, and positions the model to compete with segment leaders while offering a unique charm.

In conclusion, the Crosstrek is a robust, practical compact SUV that will likely appeal to Subaru loyalists and those seeking a small SUV with authentic off-road capabilities.