Subaru Crosstrek 1st Generation (GP) 2013-2017 Review

First released in the United States for the 2013 model year, the 1st-generation Crosstrek initially carried the XV prefix in its nameplate, but was renamed simply "Crosstrek" for 2016. Updates in the interim were minor, with its 2015 update mostly centered around the introduction of the Starlink multimedia system, and the addition of a rear-view camera across the range.

A light update in 2016 introduced a new front fascia, headlights, and a slightly redesigned grille, new 17-inch alloys with machined faces, along and with additional functionality for the Starlink multimedia system.

The external changes for the 2016 Crosstrek are most noticeable in its frontal appearance, where new headlight detailing¹ and a redesigned bumper refreshed its styling for its final two years². The easiest way to tell them apart is in the front fog lamp surround, which gained L-shaped chrome accent strips³. Hybrid models featured a gloss-black grille trim with chrome detailing, to distinguish them from their gas-only siblings.

The Crosstrek's 2016 facelift didn't change anything around the rear end, apart from discarding the "XV" badges it wore until 2015¹ and a crease on the side of the rear bumper². Apart from this, there are no real distinguishing features to set pre-facelift examples apart from the updated ones.

New, machined-face 17-inch alloy wheels with a sportier design were added with this facelift, but few other body styling changes were applied, except for that aforementioned rear bumper crease. Conversely, the crease that ran down the front wheel arch and into the bumper has now been removed and the bumper smoothed out, although only enthusiasts will spot this change The new L-shaped front fog-light housings can clearly be seen in profile¹. The new wheels still have a dark base color, but the spokes are slanted to echo a turbine-like appearance².

The major change in the 2015 Subaru Crosstrek facelift revolved around the introduction of the then-new 6.2-inch Starlink infotainment system (7.0-inches for the 2.0i Limited, albeit without integrated navigation), which also served as a display unit for the now-standard reversing camera¹. For 2016, the Premium trim and up received new orange contrast stitching on a redesigned steering wheel², gear selector³, and armrests to add some zest to the Crosstrek's cabin ambiance.

Two engines were available in the Crosstrek GP, both flat-four units, measuring 2.0 liters in displacement and originating from Subaru's FB engine family. Noteworthy features of the FB engine include dual variable valve timing and chain-driven camshafts, but direct injection or forced induction did not make it onto the spec sheet for this generation of Crosstrek.

The mainstay power unit (FB20B) produces 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, mated to either a 5-speed manual transmission in base or Premium trim, or a continuously variable transmission (CVT) from the Premium trim upwards. Most Crosstreks were sold with the CVT, though, so a manual gearbox will be a rare find in any specification. Opting for a Crosstrek Hybrid ups the system outputs to 160 hp and 160 lb-ft of torque, but the fuel savings aren't really offset by its price premium.

The Subaru Crosstrek (GP) was fairly popular in North America, so there are plenty of owners who have submitted their real-world fuel economy figures to the EPA. This data shows that even hybrid drivers struggled to match the EPA's combined figures, and highlights the fact that the hybrid's fuel savings aren't great in comparison to the gas-only model.

It is also interesting to note that, while the CVT-equipped Crosstrek is claimed to be notably more parsimonious than the manual-transmission model, owners' real-life figures suggest that carefully-driven manual cars can realize fuel economy on par with (or better than) the ostensibly more-frugal CVT variants.

The first-generation Subaru XV Crosstrek had a gas tank size of 15.9 gallons in normal guise, with Hybrids dropping their fuel tank capacity to 13.7 gallons - presumably to find extra space for batteries and their control units. Hybrids also had to make do without the normal models' space-saver spare wheel and received a puncture repair kit instead.

* Real-world mpg and MPGe figures are provided by the EPA. Once a car has been on sale for a significant period of time, the EPA gets real-world figures directly from the customer base. These figures are then provided on the EPA website. Real-world figures are not available for certain models due to a lack of sales, or not enough people partaking in this after-sales survey.

As has become customary with Subarus, the Crosstrek is highly regarded for its safety credentials, receiving a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA for 2016. It only scored four stars in the frontal-impact and rollover assessment, but the overall side-impact rating received the full five stars. It also received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for all models from 2014 - 2017.

Standard safety features in the Subaru Crosstrek run all the way from stability and traction control to four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and electronic brake-force distribution, seven airbags, and active head restraints. The Limited additionally has automatic headlights and a backup camera, linked to the 4.3-inch infotainment display which was offered on this trim from launch.

The 2015 lineup received the backup camera and Starlink with a 6.2-inch color screen as standard on all trims, including the new-for-2015 base trim. A further safety boost arrived for the 2016 model year, with blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert making their way onto the specification sheet for all Crosstrek models from Limited trim upwards.

These additions complement Subaru's EyeSight system, which first became available for the 2015 model year. EyeSight is a comprehensive package that includes forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, and is optionally available on all Crosstreks bar the base trim level and the hybrids.

The other main safety add-on for 2016 was the arrival of two optional Starlink packages for the Crosstrek's Premium and Limited trims. Starlink Safety Plus includes automatic collision notification, SOS emergency assistance, enhanced roadside assistance, maintenance notifications, monthly vehicle health reports, and diagnostic alerts. On top of this, Starlink Safety Plus and Security Plus adds a stolen-vehicle recovery service, vehicle security alarm notification, remote lock/unlock, remote horn and light, and vehicle locator.

The 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek's range is fairly simple, with two main trim levels from launch: Premium, and Limited. A lower-spec Base trim was added in 2015, and Hybrid and Hybrid Touring trims became available in 2014, but were discontinued after 2016. The 2017 model year saw the addition of the Platinum Special Edition before the second-generation Crosstrek arrived for 2018.

Seeing as the 1st-gen Subaru XV Crosstrek only measures 175.2 inches in length, it's reasonable to expect it to be quite snug inside. Front-seat occupants will have little to complain about, with adequate legroom, headroom, and shoulder room for above-average-sized adults. 39.8 inches of front headroom, 43.5 inches of front legroom, and front shoulder room measuring 55.6 inches, places the Subaru Crosstrek ahead of such popular alternatives such as the Mazda CX-3.

Rear-seat occupants won't be quite as content because this is one area where the Crosstrek's smaller dimensions count against it. Rear headroom of 37.7 inches barely beats the cramped little Mazda by half an inch, and its rear legroom of 35.4 inches is only 0.4 inches larger than the CX-3's. Buyers looking for a Subaru SUV with usable rear-seat space should shop for a Forester or Outback instead.

The trunk is a fair bit more respectable, however, measuring 22.3 cu.ft with the rear seats in use. In contrast, the CX-3 can only offer 12.4 cu.ft of cargo volume. That's still only about 60% of a contemporary (2016) Forester's cargo capacity, though, so buyers who regularly haul a full complement of passengers and their luggage are once again advised to shop one size class higher.

The 1st-generation Subaru Crosstrek is fairly well-regarded in terms of reliability, with very few design or manufacturing flaws rearing their heads over the years. The camshafts are chain-driven on the FB20 engine, so the old EJ's requirement for frequent cam belt and tensioner changes is no longer an issue. Its head gaskets also hold up better than the EJ could manage, so engine reliability should be better than most of its competitors.

There are some things to note with the FB engine, though. They tend to present oil leaks from seals and gaskets as they age, and there are a multitude of seals to leak on a boxer engine; some examples may develop a mild oil-consumption habit with time. For these reasons, regular oil-level checks are advised.

The Crosstrek has always featured a CVT somewhere in the model line-up, and earlier examples have demonstrated substandard transmission durability. However, these issues were mostly resolved by 2015, meaning that 2016-2017 models shouldn't be as problematic. Older examples will however require a careful check-up, as those CVTs are still of the problematic generation. Fortunately, Subaru extended the warranty on the 2013-2015 Crosstreks from 60,000 miles to 100,000 miles, or from 5 years to 10 years, whichever comes first. Keep an eye out for jerking ratio changes, any signs of a shudder when taking up drive, or hesitation in response to changing accelerator pedal inputs when test-driving any CVT-equipped Crosstrek - if it exhibits these symptoms, walk away.

Preventative maintenance can help avoid transmission problems, too. While Subaru doesn't quote recommended CVT fluid changes, we'd advise that the CVT oil be changed every 30,000 miles at most (or even earlier, if you tow heavy loads or indulge in off-roading escapades). Ensure that the correct replacement oil is used, and only trust a respectable service agent or dealership to perform this job. Also note that, because there is no dipstick to check the level and condition of the CVT fluid yourself, it has to be refilled exactly to Subaru's specifications every time the CVT oil is replaced.

Standard Subaru servicing practice stipulates that the engine oil and oil filter must be changed every 6 months or every 6,000 miles, whichever occurs first. At the same time, tires should be rotated and a visual inspection should be performed to check for leaks or perishing fluid hoses.

The cabin air filter needs to be replaced every 12,000 miles, and the engine's air filter and brake fluid must be replaced every 30,000 miles. Spark plugs should last 60,000 miles, and the fuel filter should be good for 72,000 miles.

For other service data, such as wiper-blade size or replacement brake light bulbs, simply contact your parts shop with your car's model and year (or its VIN), and they will be able to supply you with the correct replacement parts.

All 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek models used the same tire sizes, but tire pressures will vary according to usage conditions. Please consult your owner's manual for the correct tire pressure for your application.

The 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek has a very good reputation for durability, although some common problems may rear their heads in the course of normal use. The good news is that the CVT issues which plagued older examples had largely been banished by 2015, so 2016-2017 Subaru Crosstreks should have far fewer transmission problems than older examples. Furthermore, the FB20 engine (in both guises used here) appears to be less prone to serious oil consumption than the larger FB25 unit.

The first-generation Subaru XV Crosstrek was subject to four recalls since its introduction, and only two of these recalls affected only 2013 models. Firstly, the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek was recalled for possible engine valve spring failure, which could cause the engine to stall (NHTSA Campaign Number 18V772000).

The second recall for the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek involved a potential remote engine starter fob malfunction, which may cause the car to start by itself, run for up to 15 minutes at a time, and then shut down again - repeating this process until the key fob's battery is depleted. This feature was available as an OEM-approved accessory when new, but wasn't part of the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek's standard equipment package (NHTSA Campaign Number 13V061000).

There were a few 2014-2017 Subaru Crosstrek recalls and one was for a brake light switch that may malfunction. In the event of a problem with this component, the brake lights won't illuminate when required, vehicles with push button start won't start, and CVT-equipped vehicles will refuse to shift out of Park (NHTSA Campaign Number 19V149000).

The final Subaru Crosstrek recall involves 2015-vintage vehicles, which were fitted with the optional EyeSight driver assistance package where the collision mitigation braking system may not work as intended. In these cars, the vehicle will not react to an obstacle in its path, which increases the risk of a crash. The remedy is a simple matter of reprogramming the appropriate control unit, but if you're interested in buying a used 2015 Subaru Crosstrek with this feature, check that the recall has been performed according to Subaru's requirements (NHTSA Campaign Number 15V366000).

Besides these possible issues, there are also a few minor problems that do crop up from time to time but do not warrant their own sections in this review, so we list them here:

• Some Subaru Crosstreks (of all years) have presented a tendency to stall or lose power at freeway speeds. The cause of this complaint is as yet unclear, and restarting the car usually provides a short-term solution. Some dealerships diagnose this as a problem with the battery or alternator, but investigations are yet to provide a clear indication of the cause.
• Other reports suggest that a small portion of Crosstreks may have faulty fuel pump fittings inside the tank, or faulty fuel-level sensors, leading to fuel starvation and engine stalling while driving.
• Reports have also surfaced of some 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek front-axle problems due to premature CV joint wear. This is a potentially expensive issue, with OEM inner CV joints costing about $240 and outer CV joints costing almost $360, or complete replacement shafts costing around $400 a piece.
• A small percentage of owners have found that the air conditioning (AC) systems of their Subaru Crosstreks don't blow as cold as expected, but this is usually caused by refrigerant leaks: If your Crosstrek's AC does not provide adequate cooling, have a car air-con specialist find the problem. Note that there weren't any 2013-2017 Subaru XV Crosstrek AC compressor-cycle problems, or recalls related to the air-conditioning or heating system.
• Complaints about problems with the 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek's Bluetooth connectivity are surprisingly common, with many owners resorting to manually pairing their phones with their cars every time they start up. This appears to be related to phone incompatibility issues rather than the car itself, as some owners found that phone software updates remedied this problem.

2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek windscreens don't suffer the high failure rates of its contemporary Outback, but some owners report that they've experienced cracking windshields without any impact to trigger it. There have also been reports of glass sunroofs cracking and disintegrating, usually following a significant ambient temperature change. For the rest, some infotainment glitches could appear, but these seem to clear themselves following a restart.

We'd steer clear of the entry-level Subaru Crosstrek 2.0i Base, simply because it doesn't really represent a viable price saving in comparison to a 2.0i Premium or Limited of similar vintage, while being notably less well-equipped. It's also difficult to make a case for any of this generation's Hybrid models, because they're more complex, less practical, slower, and heavier than the gas-only models, without offering a significant boost in fuel economy.

The pick of the range is a 2.0i Premium manual (if you prefer a 5-speed manual to a CVT), or a 2.0i Limited (if you don't mind a CVT but want as many creature comforts as possible). Any model year from 2015 onwards should be a sound ownership proposition, but 2016 and 2017 appear to be the least trouble-prone years of them all.

Hitting the sweet spot between a manageable size, acceptable practicality, decent fuel efficiency, and a surprising amount of off-road ability, the 2013-2017 Subaru Crosstrek range is good value for money and a capable all-rounder. It's not as tech-heavy as some opponents, which may bode well for long-term durability, and has a very good reputation for reliability as well. This is perhaps as close as you'll get to old-school Subaru dependability in a new-ish car, without the added complexity of later models and devoid of most of the silly design flaws which could affect its larger and newer stablemates.