2022 Subaru Crosstrek Review: Ready To Conquer
Subcompact crossovers are a dime a dozen these days, so the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek has a fair bit of competition. The 182-horsepower boxer-four that was added to the range last year has given it enough power to surpass the Kia Seltos and Hyundai Kona, but the Mazda CX-30 is still more sprightly. However, Subaru's expertise when it comes to off-roading shines through with the brand's famed AWD system. Combined with a great standard safety suite and a decent list of tech even at base level, the Crosstrek makes a great case for itself as a high-value crossover. It's even available in hybrid guise if you want something a little greener. But even with some genuine off-road chops, is the Subaru Crosstrek a smart buy alongside more accomplished city runabouts, which is traditionally where small crossovers want to shine?
2022 Crosstrek Exterior
Dimensions
| Length | Wheelbase | Height | Max Width | Front Width | Rear Width | Curb Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 176.5 in | 104.9 in | 63.6 in | 71.0 in | 61.0 in | 61.2 in | 3,117.0 lbs |
2022 Crosstrek Performance
Handling and Driving Impressions
In the past, we struggled to find the Crosstrek enjoyable to drive, but since Subaru added the 2.5L engine last year, our opinion has done a one-eighty. That's not to say that it's one of the most engaging small crossovers out there, but it will no longer send you running into the arms of competitors just to feel alive again.
All that being said, the Crosstrek is still a generally sedate town car with some interest in off-road adventuring on the weekends. It is held back by the lack of a turbo engine and a more confident gearbox. But it's not all bad news. The crossover is excellently balanced, with a combination of responsive steering and only minimal body roll. Along with a superb AWD system, this means you can have some fun on dirt roads or off-road trails. Multiple driving modes also ensure that the Crosstrek can handle just about any inclement weather or unpleasant road conditions, with the Sport, Limited, and Hybrid adding X-Mode. Sport models get additional Deep Snow/Mud settings. As for the tarmac, ride quality is adequate, and most small bumps are soaked up without concern. Road and wind noise are also minimal, which is not something a lot of cars are this price can say.
2022 Crosstrek Interior
2022 Crosstrek Trunk and Cargo Space
Warranty
| Basic | Drivetrain | Corrosion | Roadside Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 Years / 36,000 Miles | 5 Years / 60,000 Miles | 5 Years / Unlimited Miles | 3 Years / 36,000 Miles |
US NHTSA Crash Test Result
| Overall Rating | Frontal Barrier Crash Rating | Side Crash Rating | Rollover Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5 | 4/5 | 5/5 | 4/5 |
Verdict: Is the 2022 Subaru Crosstrek A Good SUV?
Though not perfect, the Subaru Crosstrek is an easy car to like. It's highly affordable and offers great value for the money with excellent mpg figures. The base engine is disappointing, and the stronger powertrain cannot be had with the manual transmission, both qualities we bemoan loudly. It could certainly do with a turbocharged option, considering that's what most of its rivals are doing, but it feels perfectly capable around town.
Among its strengths are the standard all-wheel drivetrain, for which Subaru is renowned, as well as a high ground clearance that gives it off-roading capabilities that few subcompact crossovers can match. A strong track record for reliability and top-notch safety standard also cement it as a lifelong family-friendly vehicle. Still, we can't say that the Crosstrek is specifically better than rivals like the Kia Seltos, Hyundai Kona, or Mazda CX-30. Each excels in its own regard, and which is the best for you will come down to personal preference and values. It's a good crossover worthy of your attention, but it needs to be weighed alongside the competition before you make a final decision.
2022 Subaru Crosstrek Comparisons
2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Outback
Though slightly pricier than the Crosstrek, the Subaru Outback definitely has its appeal. Aesthetically, it looks more like a wagon, which speaks to older or more nostalgic buyers, but it also has more room in the trunk as result. This is something practicality-minded shoppers won't overlook. Thanks to similar ground clearance, the Outback is just as capable off-road, and as it comes with the stronger 2.5L engine as standard, it has more oomph from the start. The fact that it can tow 1,200 pounds more than the Crosstrek is just gravy. Furthermore, the Outback is available with a 260-hp turbocharged engine, which is something the Crosstrek just can't match. When all's said and down, it's clear which of the two cars offers more value, even if you do need to pony up a little more cash to get behind the wheel.
2022 Subaru Crosstrek vs Subaru Forester
Being slightly larger than the Crosstrek, the Subaru Forester naturally presents more passenger and cargo space. It's only slightly more expensive than the smaller crossover but comes equipped with the 182-horsepower engine as standard. It also gets a power-operated liftgate and driver-side memory. It matches the Crosstrek in terms of towing capacity, though, and it has the same ground clearance, so it isn't any better off-road. However, there is no hybrid version of the Forester so it can't match the Crosstrek's leading fuel economy figures. Still, the Forester is essentially the same car, just slightly bigger and more practical all-around. Thus, it's obvious why we'd choose it over the Crosstrek given the option.