We spend some quality time with the all-wheel drive Crosstrek SUV – Subaru’s entry-level model…
At first glance, the all-new Subaru Crosstrek looks very much like the Subaru XV – the car it replaces.
There’s a good reason for that, because the Crosstrek is, in effect, the third generation XV. And as it’s already known in North America as the Crosstrek, so the name-change makes sense.
A rugged, raised version of the Impreza five-door hatchback, the Crosstrek has big shoes to fill, because the XV was the left-field brand’s best-selling model.
Frankly, it’s hard to pigeonhole because it is slightly smaller than some family-sized rivals (Kia Sportage) and yet bigger than most compact crossovers (Kia XCeed). Ultimately, it’s the Nissan Qashqai that’s its closest competitor in terms of size.
However, it’s the Crosstrek’s off-road capability that sets it apart. That 220mm of ground clearance is a clue, but hidden from view is Subaru’s signature ‘symmetrical’ four-wheel drive system – one of the best in the business.
Subarus are in their element off-road. Engage ‘X-Mode’ – a drive setting that takes command of the engine, transmission, AWD, brakes and other components to help you navigate challenging terrain – and you’re away.
Despite its sporty looks and regular road tyres, it’s remarkably capable, making mincemeat of deep mud tracks and slippery hills. It should also cope with flooding because of I once drove an XV through a shallow river on an off-roading day.
Priced from a reasonable £34,995, the Crosstrek comes with a 2.0-litre petrol engine that uses Subaru’s trademark ‘Boxer’ flat-four cylinder layout.
It also gets mild hybrid assistance in the form of a small 0.6kWh lithium ion battery and 16bhp electric motor, taking the e-Boxer’s total power output to 134bhp with 184Nm of torque.
Power is sent to all four wheels via Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT automatic gearbox, which is still my biggest bugbear.
Despite the simulated ‘steps’, if you push on, the engine revs uncomfortably high making for noisy progress.
It’s fine at lower speeds and will even run in electric mode for short periods in traffic, but it doesn’t take much provocation for the engine to kick in.
There are paddles behind the steering wheel if you prefer to change gear yourself, but this solution is not hugely effective in practice, so it’s just easier to drive gently.
On paper, the Crosstrek has a 0-62mph acceleration time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 123mph, while fuel economy is just 36.8mpg and CO2 emissions are a disappointing 174g/km. On the plus side, I managed around 40mpg in mixed driving.
On the road, the Crosstrek feels substantial and the ride is firm, but thankfully it still manages to soak up most of the lumps and bumps.
The steering is nicely weighted and accurate and there’s surprisingly little body roll in more challenging corners.
Overall, it not as nimble as a standard family hatchback, but it does feel more agile than most SUVs. Crucially though – it won’t put a smile on your face because the CVT neuters the car.
If you prefer a high driving position, then you’ll like the Crosstrek. It’s a tad too commanding for me, but I suspect I’m in the minority.
That said, the seats are comfortable with plenty of adjustment, while the top spec ‘Touring’ trim (the entry-level is ‘Limited’) gets classy leather upholstery which looks like it will be particularly hard-wearing.
There’s an 11.6-inch portrait infotainment screen in the centre console, which does the job, but it’s not exactly cutting edge. What’s more, the ‘Limited’ trim level doesn’t even get integrated sat nav.
Thankfully, some physical buttons have been retained, while the analogue dials for the instruments ahead of the driver look old school.
Overall, the build quality of the interior is good, but it looks a little dated and there are far too many scratchy black surfaces.
There’s a decent amount of space in the back, though taller passengers may struggle for headroom, while the boot is a modest 315 litres (well down on its rivals), expanding to 922 litres with the 60:40-split rear seats flipped down. For the record, the towing capacity is a reasonable 1,270kg.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Crosstrek was awarded a maximum five stars by Euro NCAP and it’s full loaded with safety and driver assistance tech.
So, the Crosstrek 4×4 is a mixed bag, but if you can live with the CVT automatic gearbox, then you’re unlikely to find a more reasonably-priced, trustworthy, go-anywhere automotive companion.
Verdict: The Subaru Crosstrek deserves to be on your SUV shortlist if you want to stand out from the crowd and drive a car that’s safe, dependable and extremely capable when the going gets tough.
