In reading the comments, it seems as though everyone has a pretty good grasp on what the Crosstrek is and isn’t about. Subaru’s engines almost always leave you wanting for more.
It is known that boxer engine consumes oil in between oil chnage even when new. It will likely consum more as the engine ages. Also, the boxer engine has head gasket problem historically. Make sure you are aware of these risks before buying one.
I don't think this is true anymore as the block problem with the early 2.0's have been corrected. I have a 2018 2.5i Outback and it hasn't lost a drop of oil in the break in period. The head gasket was also completely redesigned in 2010. Not trying to shill, just genuine research I did myself before I made the plunge. You are right about the early 2010 XV's, they drank oil due to the block being bored wrong, and the head gasket issues was bad in all boxers till the later 2000's
Thanks for the info, OPEC. I thought they had fixed the HG problem a few years ago, but then it takes a few years for the failures to show up. Any other post 2010 H4 owners want to weigh in?
I’ve owned/own a 2004, 2010, 2015 and 2018. I’m a freak about maintenance on all my vehicles and have detailed notes on each from the time I purchase the vehicle. I’ve never experienced any issues regarding oil use even on the Subarus that well exceeded 100k.
... It's the Subaru pr dept that handles press vehicles...with high demand, they get the cars out to the journalists and usually put their best (most popular) product out for the public to see. Some get premium models, and others even get manuals. Steve also needs cars to grab views; base base trim doesn't grab as many as top shelf trims. Ymmv.
Just leased a 2018 Crosstrek Limited I really like this this SUV. Great gas mileage and power to me it has enough horsepower for me. The awd works great in the snow and x mode worked great and eyesight is great.
Agreed. It is supposed to be an entry level all rounder with awd and modest offroading ability. Saying it isn't fast enough is like saying the Ford GT has shitty fuel economy... people doing that have utterly missed the point of the vehicle.
Not a committed Subaru fan before but after 30 years of driving various Mitsubishi's I decided to try some thing different and haven't regretted it. As for the power....it's perfectly adequate for day to day driving, and as most drivers reach the edge of their ability somewhat before reaching the speed limit there really isn't any need for more. Any more and fuel consumption dies and, despite the claims of others, is easily capable of merging safely onto freeways. Accommodates my 6' 9" son comfortably, and the Border collie is happy in the back. Colours are great, and having now done 16,000 trouble free kilometers it is now even smoother than when we bought it. Thoroughly recommended.
@@ZeroKoda Hi Autumn. Only issue we had was with the entertainment screen delaminating at the edges, and that was replaced under warranty. Had a couple of recalls that were promptly attended to. Great car and still got it at 53,000k.
I think both the Crosstrek and Impreza could use an optional engine like the 2.5L that's in the Outback, Forester and Legacy. However, in the tests that Steve has done with the Subarus with the 2.5L, the bump in powertrain would be minimal at best. Probably not in the cards and not in Subaru's values. At one time, the 2.5L engine was in the Impreza, but the fuel economy was porous. And don't think about a WRX turbo here. That's not what the purpose of the Crosstrek. I see a lot of Crosstreks where I live. It's for those who aren't ready for an Outback just yet.
It's meant to be an entry level AWD vehicle. A grocery getter/commuter with occasional off roading capability (unlike many of it's competitors). It's not supposed to be a stop light demon. 150hp is more than adequate... but exciting it is not - nor was it supposed to be.
Subaru has definitely made strides in interior quality. My families previous Outback and STI were filled with cheap hard plastics. Those seats look better than you get in the top trim Buick TourX I'm looking at.
I test drove one yesterday. I'm tall 6'5" There is enough room up front (head room, leg room both forward and back as well as side to side) but none in the back seat(no headroom/legroom at all). City driving is fine, it soaks up the bumps tremendously well and has enough pep to get up to city speeds (less than 30 mph) but once you try to get on a main road the acceleration is nonexistent. It took a long time just to reach 45mph when flooring it. Back roads had a little body roll but not bad at all. The seats are a little too bolstered for my taste at 235 lbs. But in the corners, I still felt myself slipping out of the seats just a bit. It's a catch 22, you can get great fuel economy in an AWD vehicle but horrible acceleration(CVT). At my height, I wouldn't classify this as an SUV or even a sub compact SUV, just a slightly taller hatchback.
Well, most SUVs these days are just lifted hatchbacks, which is why we call them crossovers, and the Crosstrek is with 8.7" of ground clearance, which one of the highest of any crossover around.
If you knew anything about the car you would know what your problem is. 100% can confirm you drove the CVT. I know this because you said lack of power. A CVT is designed to be programmed to do 1 thing. It was originally a racing concept for optimal power delivery. In the civilian side, it is for optimal fuel mileage. That's your problem right there. You cannot have both, you get one or the other. You cannot have good power with good fuel mileage, the two are related. When one is higher the other gets lower, that's just how cars work. Cars need more fuel to make more power, more fuel used means less fuel in the tank, which means less miles per gallon. 2nd topic of note. The 2.0l in the crosstrek makes peak power at 6000rpm. I 100% guarantee you have no idea what that means. That means the car makes the most power at about 6000rpm, as confirmed by suburu. That means you have to get to 6000rpm for the power delivery, which is actually around 3.5k, 6k is the peak. So now that that is understood. A CVT is for the most fuel efficiency the car can get without giving up too much power. So what that means, is that the engine still cranks out 152hp, at 6000rpm. What that also means is that CVT is for fuel mileage. Which means you will never get to peak power, let alone the power band because you are driving a CVT that is preprogrammed for fuel efficiency. It will not allow you to get into the powerband. The car is plenty powerful. If you could sit in 2nd gear, or 3rd gear and rev it out. But you can't because you bought a CVT which will not let you get to 6000rpm because it's not programmed to do that. I have never once had a problem getting to speed or over taking, because i can select the gear and drive it however i want, not how the car wants. Automatics are not faster btw. Only in professionally tuned race cars. A manual driver that knows how engines, and transmissions work will always beat an automatic on the road. Unless it's like a ZL1, or a purpose built car from the factory. Also the manual in the crosstrek is rated for 29highway. While the CVT is rated for 33. I got 31.6, driving with a lead foot. So if i had driven responsibly at the speed limit of 65mph, my fuel mileage would be much higher. But when traffic is flowing at 80mph, you have to go 80. CVT'S are junk, automatics are junk. Learn how cars work and you won't fall for the numbers game. Unless it's a very high HP car for it's engine size. For example a focus st has a 2.0l i4, that makes 252 factory. That's alot for that size engine and will not get good fuel mileage. The same is true of an EVO, or an STi. But if your buyimg those types of cars, you clearly don't care about that.
Love Subaru! Absolutely great! Once again thanks and if i am considering a reliable car , should this be in my shortlist and purchase idea? Appreciate for your advice
Really would love a combo of this plus a BRZ. Practical and fun for combined under $55-$60k. Also great review. I like your delivery. It’s professional but doesn’t feel forced or fake journalist like other channels. You deserve many more subscribers
Really love that paint color and great shine on the shoes, to boot. Noticed the soliloquy audio was not the usual Hammes Studio Quality. Technical opportunity?
I really wanted to like this and the Impreza sport since they're well built/designed, reliable, the perfect size and can be had with a stick, but mpgs and power were really really disappointing. If you added CVT for more efficiency and Eyesight for safety, you're pretty much at the same cost as a larger AWD CRV turbo with more room, power, equal mpgs, and overall tech.
Phrancis5 CRV 1.5L turbo has an oil dilution problem in China causing a full recall and sales stop. I am looking at the CRV too but this issue is a bit disconcerting. Turbo with Direct Injection just doesn't seem like a good combo. I really wish the 2019 Rav4 Hybrid comes out quickly.
I’ve heard 2019 RAV4 hybrid will allegedly come out mid late 2019 while gas version should be coming soon late 2018. The embargo will be lifting around mid November 2018
I have a 2019 Impreza. Only 10k miles, but doesnt use *any* oil between changes at 6,000 miles. Power is adequate, but 15 or 20 additional hp would be appreciated. Lots of other compacts and small SUVs are very similar in power though. Very happy with everything else about the car. My sister in law did have the heavy oil consumption problem in an older Outback. They should really put the 2.5L engine from the Forrester in the Impreza, and give the larger models a mildly tuned turbo (coming for 2020 in the Legacy at least.)
I don't think you understand. You wouldn't feel 15-20 herspers. 40-50 is when you'll feel it. And anything more than that you'll notice. It's like the VW GTI. Before 2019 the GTI had a base 201hp, with an optional performance pack, getting 228 hp. That is negligible and would not be felt during driving. That's a $2000 upgrade. Not worth it. However it also comes with an LSD, which is why you spend the extra $2000 on the performance pack. The 27hp is a tune on the engine that you can do whether or not you get the performance pack or not. This can also be done on most modern cars. They are programmed from the factory limiting the HP. These can easily be undone if you know what you are doing, and don't mind voiding your warranty. Which is an abysmal 3yr 36,000mi. If you really wanted 20hp you can flash your ecu and reprogram it.
Hvac ducts are under the front seats, they are not really needed for the ac, as you will get plenty of cool air, from the dash vents. For heat however the heat coming up by your feet is appreciated.
Absolutely, when you buy the rockford fosgate package, it comes with ducts to re-route the hvac around the amp. Look at Car and Drivers list of features for the interior. I would assume that you will have outlets to the side of the electronics in the power seat models. google the Subaru part number 72511
As I got mine in November, in New England, I have not had first hand knowledge of the Crosstrek's cooling abilities. But I know from experience in riding in the back of friends cars and suvs in the summer, that the people in the front, tend to aim their dash vents toward the roof, or side windows, sending all the cold to the back, and I end up freezing.
Hmmm...at 30k your at foresterXT premium (i.e. Base trim) territory and a much better proposition, not to mention slightly bigger...Steve I like your reviews but I'd like to see more time spent on breaking down the options how different trims pan out on the value perspective e.g. is this limited worth the price of admission o will the base or premium trim offer the better value/bang for buck/the most optimum driving experience...which options are a necessity and which ones are a waste/pass
Once issue that all reviewers on youtube MISS...is that the rear hatch can NOT be opened by a latch inside....a key slot in the door either...only. by the keyfob....this is nuts
Billy Sou Better? Hard to say because it was so long ago for me but it’s really not bad as far as CVTs go. Paddle shifting the 7 faux gears was actually pretty decent.
Turbo kits are available for around $3700. With install since everything is direct bolt-on maybe $5000 total. Unless you do it yourself, then you're spending $3700. Which is cheap for a turbo kit. Turbos by themselves are about $2000. And if that's pricy look at other turbo'd cars MSRP, and decide if it's worth it.
@@tacocruiser4238 no, just the CVT. The manual is fine. I'm used to fast sporty cars. You ever driven a MINI JCW GP? Look it up, those little things are no joke. I now have a 2018 crosstrek, and have never complained about the power. Sure it's alot slower, but i know how to drive so, it's alot easier to get up to speed in 2nd and 3rd, then it is in a whatever the fuck a CVT is. A turbo will not fix the speed problem of a CVT. Non drivers need to stop thinking their opinion matters when it comes to "performance" of a vehicle. Peak power is achieved at 6000rpm. Which can only be achieved in a manaul. So, now that we've identified the problem. You can buy a turbo kit for around $3700. It will not help the issue because he bought a CVT. First learn what a CVT is, and you will understand why you should never buy one. If manual if too much of a heartbreaker, move on and find a car that does not have a CVT. They will never deliver power, because they are not designed to. A race CVT is designed to always be in the powerband, which means optimal power at any given point. A civilian CVT is designed for fuel mileage. Which means rarely in the powerband. Which means, no power. Do not ever buy a CVT, if it promises great fuel mileage. If it offers better than garbage fuel mileage, it's a good CVT. If it offers terrible fuel mileage it's either a race inspired car, or it's a really old CVT.
Cool gray khaki? It's very light blue. I don't see grey or khaki in that blue at all. And people that complain about power are just idiots, who haven't driven a manual one. It's not a race car, it's a small Suv, how much power do you want? If you want the ability to use the power it has, get a manual. Sacrifice some mpg for the ability to select the appropriate gear for whatever it needs to do. Merging onto the highway. Get into 2nd or 3rd, get to the appropriate speed, and then shift to 6th. That's how it works. Of course the CVT is dog shit. It's a CVT which doesn't have gears, i have zero problems with power delivery or over taking on the highway, because i can select what gear i want. If you get the CVT that is taken away from you, because 1.CVT's don't have gears, 2.The technology is too new and manufacturers haven't figured out how to make it work properly. Also offroading is much easier in a manual. Because you don't have a computer deciding how the car should be driven, it is completely dependent on you.
I have one same color 2018 got it for my wife last year round thanksgiving love it traded in a 14 escape in on it love it but just not enough storage room . We like to take the in laws with us to Costco every other week and some time we end up not buying as much junk lol at the store cause there just isn’t enough room in the back we are gonna trade December Subaru has a buy back plan . Kelly Subaru in Chattanooga Tennessee will give u purchase price back in a trade if u keep it a year so we gonna either get a forester or out back I have to say I have never owned a Subaru till this one and I’m now a owner for life wish they would come out with a truck again but if any of u have never drove a Subaru I suggest u do before u buy another brand vehicle they drive and feel like no other that I have owned
I don’t have the car any more but wished I still did I traded for a 19 forester then again for a touring 20 model but really love the cross trek I think it was kales khaki blue
They should name this the Slowtrek. With that dreadful CVT it is downright dangerous in some merging situations ( I am talking about true 70mph freeways not the 55MPH city freeways) Fantastic value for money though and a great car for someone in the city. Wish they'd make an Sti version with the 2.0T or at least use the 1.6T they have overseas.
Nodak81 God every single time this topic comes up some moron says the same old thing about how you drive on freeways in your ancient, slow 18 second 0 to 60 car. I don't give a damn about you and your shitty slow Kia and how you "manage" to get by. if I am dropping 25k+ on a family vehicle which will carry kids, it needs power to get out of the way when needed and yes that is also an important aspect of safety. And I am not the only one asking for more power on the Slowtrek. Go to any forum or video on this vehicle and read the comments.
FedoraMcGentlesir then why don’t you just look at a wrxif you want more power? People that buy a crosstrek aren’t buying it for speed. I’ve driven a crosstrek and can easily match freeway speed up an onramp
A CVT doesn't have a gearbox. It has forward and reverse, that is it. A geared transmission will always be better than a CVT, unless it is a race designed CVT, which will beat any race designed Automatic. I have a manual crosstrek, and don't seem to have any problems that the CVT owners have. There is no lack of power, there are no highway issues, i'm always going as fast as i want to, because the car cannot tell me how to drive it.
I really wanted to like this Crosstrek and the Impreza sport since they're well built/designed, reliable, the perfect size and can be had with a stick, but mpgs and power were really really disappointing. If you added CVT for more efficiency and Eyesight for safety, you're pretty close to the same cost as a larger CRV EX AWD turbo with way more room, power, equal mpgs, and overall tech. Having an extra inch of clearance wasn't enough of a dealbreaker and so we went with the Honda.
Phrancis5 Are you aware the CRV 1.5L turbo has oil dilution problem in China. The gov there forced Honda to recall all of the CRV with the 1.5L turbo. You might be okay if your climate is not below freezing.
That discussion is all over every CRV forum and I'm not affected. There will always be teething problems with newer tech and honda will undoubtedly propose a widespread fix to this TSB. Smaller injectors, remapping ECU profiles, etc. Basically it's probably not getting hot enough to burn off the excess fuel which slips past the rings - especially in colder climates.
I finally traded my 1980 VW Rabbit pickup in for a Crosstrek. It's all relative when it comes to power. I couldn't believe the drive quality compared to a 40 year old car.
In reading the comments, it seems as though everyone has a pretty good grasp on what the Crosstrek is and isn’t about. Subaru’s engines almost always leave you wanting for more.
It is known that boxer engine consumes oil in between oil chnage even when new. It will likely consum more as the engine ages. Also, the boxer engine has head gasket problem historically. Make sure you are aware of these risks before buying one.
I don't think this is true anymore as the block problem with the early 2.0's have been corrected. I have a 2018 2.5i Outback and it hasn't lost a drop of oil in the break in period. The head gasket was also completely redesigned in 2010. Not trying to shill, just genuine research I did myself before I made the plunge. You are right about the early 2010 XV's, they drank oil due to the block being bored wrong, and the head gasket issues was bad in all boxers till the later 2000's
Thanks for the info, OPEC. I thought they had fixed the HG problem a few years ago, but then it takes a few years for the failures to show up.
Any other post 2010 H4 owners want to weigh in?
I’ve owned/own a 2004, 2010, 2015 and 2018. I’m a freak about maintenance on all my vehicles and have detailed notes on each from the time I purchase the vehicle. I’ve never experienced any issues regarding oil use even on the Subarus that well exceeded 100k.
I had a 2008 outback sport impreza and never had a head gasket issue or oil consumption issue. I sold the car with 178k on the odometer.
Apparently everybody in these comments is trying to take this car to the track for some reason
Gjv
I wish someone would just review a base model. They always choose the priciest versions.
... It's the Subaru pr dept that handles press vehicles...with high demand, they get the cars out to the journalists and usually put their best (most popular) product out for the public to see. Some get premium models, and others even get manuals. Steve also needs cars to grab views; base base trim doesn't grab as many as top shelf trims. Ymmv.
You can assume it's exactly the same. The only differences being some tech features.
You reviews are always easy to watch. Well put together review Steve!
Thanks!
I second that, well worded and to the point, thanks for great videos!
Just leased a 2018 Crosstrek Limited I really like this this SUV. Great gas mileage and power to me it has enough horsepower for me. The awd works great in the snow and x mode worked great and eyesight is great.
Well,this is my favorite Subaru !It is not big and it has enough power for my taste!
Agreed. It is supposed to be an entry level all rounder with awd and modest offroading ability. Saying it isn't fast enough is like saying the Ford GT has shitty fuel economy... people doing that have utterly missed the point of the vehicle.
I have a 2014 crosstrek and I love it. I would like to upgrade to a newer one in the near future
Not a committed Subaru fan before but after 30 years of driving various Mitsubishi's I decided to try some thing different and haven't regretted it. As for the power....it's perfectly adequate for day to day driving, and as most drivers reach the edge of their ability somewhat before reaching the speed limit there really isn't any need for more. Any more and fuel consumption dies and, despite the claims of others, is easily capable of merging safely onto freeways. Accommodates my 6' 9" son comfortably, and the Border collie is happy in the back. Colours are great, and having now done 16,000 trouble free kilometers it is now even smoother than when we bought it. Thoroughly recommended.
Yes the boxer engine always improves after several thousand miles.
I'm thinking about buying one, did you have any major issues or anything with yours later on?
@@ZeroKoda Hi Autumn. Only issue we had was with the entertainment screen delaminating at the edges, and that was replaced under warranty. Had a couple of recalls that were promptly attended to. Great car and still got it at 53,000k.
Today, I saw this beautiful presentation!One more reason to say that this model is special for me!A well-defined and well-designed model!
I think both the Crosstrek and Impreza could use an optional engine like the 2.5L that's in the Outback, Forester and Legacy. However, in the tests that Steve has done with the Subarus with the 2.5L, the bump in powertrain would be minimal at best. Probably not in the cards and not in Subaru's values. At one time, the 2.5L engine was in the Impreza, but the fuel economy was porous. And don't think about a WRX turbo here. That's not what the purpose of the Crosstrek. I see a lot of Crosstreks where I live. It's for those who aren't ready for an Outback just yet.
It's meant to be an entry level AWD vehicle. A grocery getter/commuter with occasional off roading capability (unlike many of it's competitors). It's not supposed to be a stop light demon. 150hp is more than adequate... but exciting it is not - nor was it supposed to be.
And at this point in time...they DO offer a crosstrek w the 2.5! Your comment aged well, my friend ✌️
Subaru has definitely made strides in interior quality. My families previous Outback and STI were filled with cheap hard plastics. Those seats look better than you get in the top trim Buick TourX I'm looking at.
I test drove one yesterday. I'm tall 6'5" There is enough room up front (head room, leg room both forward and back as well as side to side) but none in the back seat(no headroom/legroom at all).
City driving is fine, it soaks up the bumps tremendously well and has enough pep to get up to city speeds (less than 30 mph) but once you try to get on a main road the acceleration is nonexistent. It took a long time just to reach 45mph when flooring it.
Back roads had a little body roll but not bad at all. The seats are a little too bolstered for my taste at 235 lbs. But in the corners, I still felt myself slipping out of the seats just a bit.
It's a catch 22, you can get great fuel economy in an AWD vehicle but horrible acceleration(CVT). At my height, I wouldn't classify this as an SUV or even a sub compact SUV, just a slightly taller hatchback.
Well, most SUVs these days are just lifted hatchbacks, which is why we call them crossovers, and the Crosstrek is with 8.7" of ground clearance, which one of the highest of any crossover around.
Not only does the Crosstrek have more elevation than some larger SUVs, but it has more cargo space than a lot of other crossovers.
N L The trick is not to floor it with wide open throttle.
my dream car!
I drove the 2017 model with 3 passengers and full cargo and it was obvious it needed a little more power to get the job done.
This is important. Thank you.
If you knew anything about the car you would know what your problem is. 100% can confirm you drove the CVT. I know this because you said lack of power. A CVT is designed to be programmed to do 1 thing. It was originally a racing concept for optimal power delivery. In the civilian side, it is for optimal fuel mileage. That's your problem right there. You cannot have both, you get one or the other. You cannot have good power with good fuel mileage, the two are related. When one is higher the other gets lower, that's just how cars work. Cars need more fuel to make more power, more fuel used means less fuel in the tank, which means less miles per gallon.
2nd topic of note. The 2.0l in the crosstrek makes peak power at 6000rpm. I 100% guarantee you have no idea what that means. That means the car makes the most power at about 6000rpm, as confirmed by suburu. That means you have to get to 6000rpm for the power delivery, which is actually around 3.5k, 6k is the peak.
So now that that is understood. A CVT is for the most fuel efficiency the car can get without giving up too much power. So what that means, is that the engine still cranks out 152hp, at 6000rpm. What that also means is that CVT is for fuel mileage. Which means you will never get to peak power, let alone the power band because you are driving a CVT that is preprogrammed for fuel efficiency. It will not allow you to get into the powerband. The car is plenty powerful. If you could sit in 2nd gear, or 3rd gear and rev it out. But you can't because you bought a CVT which will not let you get to 6000rpm because it's not programmed to do that. I have never once had a problem getting to speed or over taking, because i can select the gear and drive it however i want, not how the car wants. Automatics are not faster btw. Only in professionally tuned race cars. A manual driver that knows how engines, and transmissions work will always beat an automatic on the road. Unless it's like a ZL1, or a purpose built car from the factory.
Also the manual in the crosstrek is rated for 29highway. While the CVT is rated for 33. I got 31.6, driving with a lead foot. So if i had driven responsibly at the speed limit of 65mph, my fuel mileage would be much higher. But when traffic is flowing at 80mph, you have to go 80. CVT'S are junk, automatics are junk. Learn how cars work and you won't fall for the numbers game. Unless it's a very high HP car for it's engine size. For example a focus st has a 2.0l i4, that makes 252 factory. That's alot for that size engine and will not get good fuel mileage. The same is true of an EVO, or an STi. But if your buyimg those types of cars, you clearly don't care about that.
Love Subaru! Absolutely great! Once again thanks and if i am considering a reliable car , should this be in my shortlist and purchase idea? Appreciate for your advice
Really would love a combo of this plus a BRZ. Practical and fun for combined under $55-$60k. Also great review. I like your delivery. It’s professional but doesn’t feel forced or fake journalist like other channels. You deserve many more subscribers
Say it loud, Nick!! ;-)
That's a far cry from the trackhawk you reviewed last time Steve.
You've got that right!
Really love that paint color and great shine on the shoes, to boot.
Noticed the soliloquy audio was not the usual Hammes Studio Quality.
Technical opportunity?
Khu NoPie Audio problems all over the place! Still learning our new gear.
If you think the 2.0 is slow, please check out the 1.6 with 114 HP we get in Europe.
We need to pay extra for the 2.0.
Yikes!
I really wanted to like this and the Impreza sport since they're well built/designed, reliable, the perfect size and can be had with a stick, but mpgs and power were really really disappointing. If you added CVT for more efficiency and Eyesight for safety, you're pretty much at the same cost as a larger AWD CRV turbo with more room, power, equal mpgs, and overall tech.
Phrancis5 CRV 1.5L turbo has an oil dilution problem in China causing a full recall and sales stop. I am looking at the CRV too but this issue is a bit disconcerting. Turbo with Direct Injection just doesn't seem like a good combo. I really wish the 2019 Rav4 Hybrid comes out quickly.
but have you seen the crv?
I’ve heard 2019 RAV4 hybrid will allegedly come out mid late 2019 while gas version should be coming soon late 2018. The embargo will be lifting around mid November 2018
Well done Steve..great review as always
What model crosstrek is this one that you tested?
How’s the Harmon kardon? I like hip hop music and is one of the main reasons I would upgrade. The wheels aren’t anything special over sport model
"Cool, grey khaki" are not words I expected to hear
No, it's called 'cool grey', which is a cold colour. 'Warm grey' is red based, thus warmer looking. Take it from an offset press operator.
It's blue
I have a 2019 Impreza. Only 10k miles, but doesnt use *any* oil between changes at 6,000 miles. Power is adequate, but 15 or 20 additional hp would be appreciated. Lots of other compacts and small SUVs are very similar in power though. Very happy with everything else about the car. My sister in law did have the heavy oil consumption problem in an older Outback. They should really put the 2.5L engine from the Forrester in the Impreza, and give the larger models a mildly tuned turbo (coming for 2020 in the Legacy at least.)
I don't think you understand. You wouldn't feel 15-20 herspers. 40-50 is when you'll feel it. And anything more than that you'll notice.
It's like the VW GTI. Before 2019 the GTI had a base 201hp, with an optional performance pack, getting 228 hp. That is negligible and would not be felt during driving. That's a $2000 upgrade. Not worth it. However it also comes with an LSD, which is why you spend the extra $2000 on the performance pack. The 27hp is a tune on the engine that you can do whether or not you get the performance pack or not. This can also be done on most modern cars. They are programmed from the factory limiting the HP. These can easily be undone if you know what you are doing, and don't mind voiding your warranty. Which is an abysmal 3yr 36,000mi. If you really wanted 20hp you can flash your ecu and reprogram it.
All the best Steve!
The Crosstrek is basically a longer, higher and slightly wider version of the Impreza.
Hvac ducts are under the front seats, they are not really needed for the ac, as you will get plenty of cool air, from the dash vents. For heat however the heat coming up by your feet is appreciated.
You sure? I checked under the driver's seat and only saw the electronics box for the seat. Trim-specific?
Absolutely, when you buy the rockford fosgate package, it comes with ducts to re-route the hvac around the amp. Look at Car and Drivers list of features for the interior. I would assume that you will have outlets to the side of the electronics in the power seat models. google the Subaru part number 72511
As I got mine in November, in New England, I have not had first hand knowledge of the Crosstrek's cooling abilities. But I know from experience in riding in the back of friends cars and suvs in the summer, that the people in the front, tend to aim their dash vents toward the roof, or side windows, sending all the cold to the back, and I end up freezing.
Feels like I’m watching a news segment
That's the point!
This would have been a good vehicle during the Apollo Moon mission to ride on the moon.
Hmmm...at 30k your at foresterXT premium (i.e. Base trim) territory and a much better proposition, not to mention slightly bigger...Steve I like your reviews but I'd like to see more time spent on breaking down the options how different trims pan out on the value perspective e.g. is this limited worth the price of admission o will the base or premium trim offer the better value/bang for buck/the most optimum driving experience...which options are a necessity and which ones are a waste/pass
Thanks for the feedback. I'll keep that in mind.
Nasty looking rims, the premium has better looking ones
Once issue that all reviewers on youtube MISS...is that the rear hatch can NOT be opened by a latch inside....a key slot in the door either...only. by the keyfob....this is nuts
Steve, is the Crosstrek's CVT better than the previous generation?
Billy Sou Better? Hard to say because it was so long ago for me but it’s really not bad as far as CVTs go. Paddle shifting the 7 faux gears was actually pretty decent.
2112 Bangkok Everyone is switching to CVTs. Eventually, you won’t be able to avoid them. Even Bugatti is planning to put a CVT in the Veyron by 2020.
No
Not everyone yet. I’ve heard RAV4 hybrid has cvt but gas version will still be I4 with 8 speed trans. Not cvt. I can’t wait to look at it
Needs a 2.5
Needs a bigger engine or twin turbos . Also need to move the fuel cap to the left side to make it more driver friendly
It's driver friendly in Japan and all other countries who keep to the left.
I love how my ipod classic wont work on its radio, yet the icon for a connected source IS an ipod classic 😒
That stinks.
does every model have that damn orange stitching
Or you can buy an orange one. Because Suburu dealt their hand on this one, and said make orange ones the only ones that look right.
Just needs a turbo and/or a 48V setup.
Turbo kits are available for around $3700. With install since everything is direct bolt-on maybe $5000 total. Unless you do it yourself, then you're spending $3700. Which is cheap for a turbo kit. Turbos by themselves are about $2000. And if that's pricy look at other turbo'd cars MSRP, and decide if it's worth it.
I love my '17 Crosstrek, but if Subaru doesn't turbo charge the engine for this generation and give it some thrill, I probably won't buy another one.
Brandon Damon it's that bad, huh?
@@tacocruiser4238 no, just the CVT. The manual is fine. I'm used to fast sporty cars. You ever driven a MINI JCW GP? Look it up, those little things are no joke. I now have a 2018 crosstrek, and have never complained about the power. Sure it's alot slower, but i know how to drive so, it's alot easier to get up to speed in 2nd and 3rd, then it is in a whatever the fuck a CVT is. A turbo will not fix the speed problem of a CVT. Non drivers need to stop thinking their opinion matters when it comes to "performance" of a vehicle. Peak power is achieved at 6000rpm. Which can only be achieved in a manaul. So, now that we've identified the problem. You can buy a turbo kit for around $3700. It will not help the issue because he bought a CVT. First learn what a CVT is, and you will understand why you should never buy one. If manual if too much of a heartbreaker, move on and find a car that does not have a CVT. They will never deliver power, because they are not designed to. A race CVT is designed to always be in the powerband, which means optimal power at any given point. A civilian CVT is designed for fuel mileage. Which means rarely in the powerband. Which means, no power. Do not ever buy a CVT, if it promises great fuel mileage. If it offers better than garbage fuel mileage, it's a good CVT. If it offers terrible fuel mileage it's either a race inspired car, or it's a really old CVT.
The 2020 Levorg, with a 1.8 liter turbo engine, will likely well satisfy any power concerns but is unlikely to be available in the U.S.
Cool gray khaki? It's very light blue. I don't see grey or khaki in that blue at all. And people that complain about power are just idiots, who haven't driven a manual one. It's not a race car, it's a small Suv, how much power do you want? If you want the ability to use the power it has, get a manual. Sacrifice some mpg for the ability to select the appropriate gear for whatever it needs to do. Merging onto the highway. Get into 2nd or 3rd, get to the appropriate speed, and then shift to 6th. That's how it works. Of course the CVT is dog shit. It's a CVT which doesn't have gears, i have zero problems with power delivery or over taking on the highway, because i can select what gear i want. If you get the CVT that is taken away from you, because 1.CVT's don't have gears, 2.The technology is too new and manufacturers haven't figured out how to make it work properly.
Also offroading is much easier in a manual. Because you don't have a computer deciding how the car should be driven, it is completely dependent on you.
I have one same color 2018 got it for my wife last year round thanksgiving love it traded in a 14 escape in on it love it but just not enough storage room . We like to take the in laws with us to Costco every other week and some time we end up not buying as much junk lol at the store cause there just isn’t enough room in the back we are gonna trade December Subaru has a buy back plan . Kelly Subaru in Chattanooga Tennessee will give u purchase price back in a trade if u keep it a year so we gonna either get a forester or out back I have to say I have never owned a Subaru till this one and I’m now a owner for life wish they would come out with a truck again but if any of u have never drove a Subaru I suggest u do before u buy another brand vehicle they drive and feel like no other that I have owned
what color is that? I love that muted blue!
I don’t have the car any more but wished I still did I traded for a 19 forester then again for a touring 20 model but really love the cross trek I think it was kales khaki blue
@@beatrixxy khaki gray
They should name this the Slowtrek. With that dreadful CVT it is downright dangerous in some merging situations ( I am talking about true 70mph freeways not the 55MPH city freeways)
Fantastic value for money though and a great car for someone in the city. Wish they'd make an Sti version with the 2.0T or at least use the 1.6T they have overseas.
If my Kia can handle merging with 96 hp and a 4-speed auto, I really don't feel sorry for you.
Nodak81 God every single time this topic comes up some moron says the same old thing about how you drive on freeways in your ancient, slow 18 second 0 to 60 car. I don't give a damn about you and your shitty slow Kia and how you "manage" to get by. if I am dropping 25k+ on a family vehicle which will carry kids, it needs power to get out of the way when needed and yes that is also an important aspect of safety. And I am not the only one asking for more power on the Slowtrek. Go to any forum or video on this vehicle and read the comments.
FedoraMcGentlesir they’d put a bigger engine in the car and then you’d bitch about poor mpg
Shut up, don't assume stuff or put words in my mouth. If I get a 2.0T crosstrek mpg would be the least of my concerns.
FedoraMcGentlesir then why don’t you just look at a wrxif you want more power? People that buy a crosstrek aren’t buying it for speed. I’ve driven a crosstrek and can easily match freeway speed up an onramp
let down by the CVT.
great gearbox is as important as the engine.
my mazda 3 kicks ass and all because the great 6 speed automatic gearbox.
A CVT doesn't have a gearbox. It has forward and reverse, that is it. A geared transmission will always be better than a CVT, unless it is a race designed CVT, which will beat any race designed Automatic. I have a manual crosstrek, and don't seem to have any problems that the CVT owners have. There is no lack of power, there are no highway issues, i'm always going as fast as i want to, because the car cannot tell me how to drive it.
1:45 -- Big Foot jizzed on the cargo floor.
Only 5 min??!!
Watch it twice! 10 minutes. ;-)
Didn’t feel safe on road with this engine with cvt. Other than that everything else was really nice.
Didn't feel safe? Are you kidding?
If you don't "feel safe" in a new car, you probably shouldn't be driving...
rrt08 I am curious how does it compare to a 2005 Corolla? I have been driving one for 10 years. I am thinking of a Crosstrek to replace it.
Give it a motor with 270+ HP and a pano sunroof and I'd be all in
how about just buy a base CRV
This has more clearance than a CRV, which might be a dealbreaker for some.
The Crosstrek compares to the HR-V.
I really wanted to like this Crosstrek and the Impreza sport since they're well built/designed, reliable, the perfect size and can be had with a stick, but mpgs and power were really really disappointing. If you added CVT for more efficiency and Eyesight for safety, you're pretty close to the same cost as a larger CRV EX AWD turbo with way more room, power, equal mpgs, and overall tech. Having an extra inch of clearance wasn't enough of a dealbreaker and so we went with the Honda.
Phrancis5 Are you aware the CRV 1.5L turbo has oil dilution problem in China. The gov there forced Honda to recall all of the CRV with the 1.5L turbo. You might be okay if your climate is not below freezing.
That discussion is all over every CRV forum and I'm not affected. There will always be teething problems with newer tech and honda will undoubtedly propose a widespread fix to this TSB. Smaller injectors, remapping ECU profiles, etc. Basically it's probably not getting hot enough to burn off the excess fuel which slips past the rings - especially in colder climates.
SLOW AF. GTFO.
Under power, boring.
I finally traded my 1980 VW Rabbit pickup in for a Crosstrek. It's all relative when it comes to power. I couldn't believe the drive quality compared to a 40 year old car.
30K is too much for a Subaru. Terrible!!!
Ugly car and no power