Over the years, the Crosstrek has ranked among Subaru’s best-selling vehicles. Not only is this small crossover great for everyday commuting, but it’s also tough enough to handle an off-road adventure. Furthermore, a competitive MSRP of $22,145 makes the new Crosstek a strong value. However, should you buy one?
Performance Specs
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek gives you two different engines to choose from. Most people choose the standard 2.0-liter, boxer four-cylinder engine. It generates a competitive 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While a six-speed manual transmission comes standard, an automatic CVT is available.
If you desire extra fuel savings, opt for the Crosstrek’s hybrid powertrain. It develops a total of 148 horsepower. An automatic CVT comes standard.
Although the new Crosstrek isn’t a powerhouse, it’s strong enough for most drivers. Even when climbing mountain roads, this SUV never feels overwhelming. A tow rating of 1,500 pounds enables you to pull an ATV or small pop-up camper. Many people especially enjoy Crosstrek’s smooth, quiet ride. Its suspension system does a fine job of soaking up the rough pavement.
Nimble handling makes the Crosstrek surprisingly fun to drive. It feels more like a hatchback as opposed to a traditional SUV. As such, the steering system is tuned just right for day-to-day activities.
What really sets apart the Crosstrek from most SUVs in the segment is its ability to conquer rough terrain. This is an ideal vehicle for adventure-seeking families. Subaru’s popular Symmetrical AWD system comes standard, which gives you maximum grip in the snow and mud. When venturing off the beaten bath, the Crosstrek’s 8.7 inches of ground clearance will come in handy.
An X-Mode button takes the Crosstrek’s off-road capabilities to the next level. When encountering a slippery hill, it immediately helps improve traction. Because the system automatically controls throttle and braking, you can remain focused on the task of steering around any oncoming obstacles.
Fuel Economy
When equipped with an automatic transmission, the gas-only version of the Crosstrek returns an EPA-estimated 27 mpg city/33 mpg highway. Automatic start-stop helps ensure optimum fuel economy in congested traffic. Getting a manual transmission lowers efficiency to 22 mpg city/29 mpg highway. Meanwhile, expect the eco-friendly hybrid model to deliver a combined 35 mpg.
Safety Features
The new Subaru Crosstrek’s outstanding crash scores further highlight it as a great family vehicle. In fact, it received a five-star overall safety rating from the federal government. An IIHS Top Safety Pick rating also puts the Crosstrek among the segment’s most secure models.
Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technologies give drivers more confidence. Automatic models come standard with automatic pre-collision braking, smart cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear automatic braking are offered on the higher trim levels.
Available on the range-topping Limited trim, Subaru’s LED Steering Responsive headlights dramatically improve nighttime visibility. They turn to give you a better view around corners. These upgraded headlights are especially beneficial for drivers who regularly travel on rural roads.
New for 2020 is the Crosstrek Limited’s Rear Seat Reminder. It’s designed to warn busy parents to check the backseat. As such, children and pets will be less likely to get left behind in a hot vehicle.
Entertainment Features
Even the budget-friendly base Crosstrek comes standard with some great features. Subaru’s 6.5-inch Starlink touchscreen is extremely easy to use. It provides Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for hands-free smartphone operation. You can use the interface to check the news, download apps, and play music playlists. A four-speaker stereo with a USB/iPod port and Bluetooth also come standard.
Upgraded versions of Subaru’s Starlink multimedia system feature a larger touchscreen with navigation. This system is highly recommended for drivers who enjoy traveling. Built-in voice-activation technology helps minimize the number of driving distractions.
If you find the base four-speaker stereo to be unfulfilling, step up to the eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system. It delivers a clean, powerful sound. A Rockford-Fosgate speaker and amp package is also available.
Pros
Real Off-Road Abilities
Some modern crossovers are not very rugged. This will disappoint drivers who prefer an outdoor lifestyle.
The Crosstrek’s off-road capabilities give it a big advantage over the competition. If you live in a snowy region, you’ll appreciate the Crosstrek’s AWD system and high ground clearance.
Good Fuel Economy
In the past, AWD-equipped SUVs typically returned worse fuel economy.
Fortunately, that’s not the case for the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek. It’s just as efficient as some of today’s sedans. Furthermore, all trims run on regular unleaded gas.
Affordable Family Vehicle
Although the Crosstrek may look small on the outside, it provides spacious front and rear seating. There’s also a tad more than 20 cubic feet of cargo space behind the backseat.
Excellent Safety Scores
The new Crosstrek makes passenger safety a big emphasis. Automatic models come standard with two of today’s most helpful features: automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist.
Cons
Not a Powerful SUV
Some car shoppers may find the Crosstrek to be a bit underpowered.
Although this small crossover is strong enough to keep up with traffic, few drivers will describe it as being quick. Rivals, like the Kia Sportage and the Ford Escape, offer far more performance.
Few Seating Upgrades Available
The SUV’s seats lack adjustable lumbar support. You also won’t have access to ventilated front seats.
Fortunately, front-seating heating is offered.
Final Thoughts
The 2020 Subaru Crosstrek remains a great choice for drivers who love the great outdoors. Plus, it’s attractively priced and good on gas. Several nice features come standard, which adds to this small SUV’s value.