2023 Subaru Crosstrek

Definitely among the more affordable subcompacts out there, the price of the Subaru Crosstrek starts at just $23,645 for the Base model. It's a slight bump up to the Premium at $24,795, while the Sport is quite a bit more expensive at $27,995. Coming in just under $30k, the Limited asks for $29,495. To unlock the green benefits of the Hybrid, you'll have to fork over a hefty $36,845. Adding the CVT to the Base or Premium increases the cost of the Subaru Crosstrek by $1,350. These prices are MSRP and do not include the $1,225 destination charge or any other ancillary fees.

Fully independent suspension, sharp steering, and active torque vectoring bless the new Subaru Crosstrek crossover with precise handling, yet the ride remains comfortable, despite its disciplined damping. Symmetrical all-wheel drive and raised ground clearance give it respectable capabilities off the beaten track and although the X-Mode available on the 2.5-liter and PHEV cars boost confidence, it's no off-roader. Where the Crosstrek falls short is in its drivetrain options. The Base and Premium trims use a 2.0L engine with 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5-liter gives the Sport and Limited 182 hp and 176 lb-ft. The Crosstrek gas-electric hybrid generates a combined 148 hp and 149 lb-ft. The gas 2.0-liter can be had with a six-speed manual or CVT, while the 2.5s and Hybrid can only be had with the CVT. All engines are naturally aspirated and while the 2.5 provides adequate performance, the 2.0L feels flat, especially when mated to the CVT.

Acknowledging that this is the final model year of this generation model being sold in the USA, a quick review of the Subaru Crosstrek reveals that it is an adequate crossover but not necessarily a compelling option against the likes of its turbocharged rivals. The drivetrain options are its biggest weakness, as the naturally aspirated powertrains and CVT feel dated and uninspired by modern standards. The list of standard features available to all trims reflects good value in relation to their asking prices with the standard fitment of all-wheel drive across all models being one of the standout inclusions. It's also a versatile crossover that feels at home in urban dwellings and on country roads alike. There is enough interior space too, but the Crosstrek does not come together as a complete package in the same way the class-leading Mazda CX-30 does - a rival that really dates the Crosstrek in terms of performance dynamics and ride/handling. Compared to the Koreans, it's thirsty and you have to opt for the expensive Hybrid to get decent economy.

Though the manual transmission is more engaging and less clunky than the CVT, it's saddled with the weakest engine and returns the worst fuel economy figures. As such, skip straight over to the Sport trim, which includes a stronger power plant and the more efficient transmission. While it may be considerably more expensive than the Base, it's worth the money. For safety-conscious drivers, we'd suggest the Optional Package, too, for the added driver-assistance features. Altogether, this comes to $30,820, destination included, which we feel is reasonable value.