Note to regular viewers: This video was filmed before we filmed our review of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, which which included the same locations. So when Ryan says he's never been here before... it was accurate at the time of this filming.
@@We-Cook-It I agree. I was kinda missing it. Here's hoping that the mid-cycle refresh coming up later this year will open the door to a lot more coverage from then on the Forester.
@Blabat Balabar the pricing we list is just destination and delivery. Not including taxes. Thanks for watching! The RAV4 is good, but I would pick the Outback from between the two. Between the RAV4 and Crosstrek, it’s harder because the Crosstrek is just smaller, which might be an issue.
Driving Sports TV This videos should be about WHICH IS MORE OF A BORING FAMILY CAR WITH AWD (not 4X4 High or Low) CVT (no gears) and looks like a Kia with less power than a ford toyota or most manufacturers Why do people buy these with so many better choices out there. I daily drive a wrangler and the new ones ride the same as a normal suv but the top and doors are off all summer long!!! Not to mention jeep communities and the only brand (jeep) that doesn’t look like a soccer mom car. Do videos showing Jeeps compared to Maserati (who makes them) and the jeep communities
@@chadhanson4369 My Onyx XT is far from boring. I can take it anywhere outside of rock crawling and it's a pleasure to drive on roads. The power is awesome as well. My jeep on 35's is great for what it is, but as far as which is more fun overall, the subaru is easily.
So I just got home. I picked up the new 2021 crosstrek sport plasma yellow !!!! Oh man this car is sweet ! I honestly watch this video this morning and completely made up my mind. Went down to my dealer and picked one up thanks for the honest reviews.
My wife bought the exact same car and needed to take it back to the dealer the next day for a couple of tweaks. She got in a fender bender a block from the dealer!!! Almost SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS quoted from one repair shop. Apparently whenever there is an accident they are required to basically tear the fucking car apart to test every little thing. GREAT cars, but whatever you do...don’t damage the fucking things.
Was looking at the Crosstrek for months as my first purchased car but ended up getting an Outback Onyx Edition. The Crosstrek just felt like a vehicle I would've bought when I was in my mid 20s but now that I'm 30 I just wanted to think ahead a little more.
What beautiful scenery - Thank you for taking us along for the ride! I kept finding myself thinking how cool would it be to watch you work the shifter in the Crosstrek when you hit the trails with the 2.5L (I know not available) and show the different way in which the AWD works with the manual. For the 10k+ savings, I'd go with the Crosstrek plus I also prefer a stiffer suspension.
What I've learned from all of Driving Sports TV's videos is, Subaru should bring back an all new and improved Baja (maybe under a different name?) so they can compete in the small truck segment, and give the other car companies a run for their money.
I agree. With Ford's Maverick, Hyundai's Santa Cruz, and Honda's Ridgeline, Subaru has a good position to dominate that market. I also think a Subaru small truck would look the best of them all, just imagining what it might look like.
I have a 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx that I actually "ordered" so it has a few more "bells & whistles", mostly "protection", ie Bodyside Moulding, Door Edge Guards, Rubber Floor Mats, etc. I also later added the Engine Guard & Rear TransAxle Guard along with a Trailer Hitch for my Bike Rack! So far it's been perfect, and I love how it handles! Subarus are Fabulous cars! Great Video too!
Last November (2021) I bought my wife a 2019 Outback (with only 5,600 miles ), early for her 50th birthday. It’s underpowered (175hp), but it’s super comfortable on our road trips. It’s her commuter car. On 12/11/22 I bought a 2019 Forester Touring (with 4,700 miles) to replace my 2011 Rav 4WD Limited. We have found that our Subie’s are far superior over my previous Rav 4WD. We’re taking my Forester to Missoula MT over New Years (2023) to meet with family. I’m looking forward to seeing how comfortable it’ll be for the 6 hour drive from our home here in north central WA .
Rumor has it that you have a Wilderness Outback that you are testing so you can give us your impression soon after the reveal. I can’t wait to see what you think. I hope you got to test it in some snow too. Forum sleuths have determined that it has 9/10” more ground clearance and different front and rear bumpers for better approach and departure angles (plus dual recovery hook locations front and rear instead of 1) as well as factory skid plates and more aggressive tires. I have an Onyx XT which I love, suits my needs better and would pick, but I have a few friends with the Crosstrek that are very happy with them. We travel 6 hours to the NC Outer Banks to paddle our full size sea kayaks and bike. The low load height for the kayaks plus the smooth ride, comfort (I am 6’5”) and power of the Onyx make it a huge winner for me. Easily one of my favorite cars that I have owned. Thanks for the great reviews and content. Great photography too! By the way, I lowered the aim of my headlights just a tad to stop blinding people and it worked well. Subaru aims them too high. Especially with cargo in the back.
"If there were two things I would wish for here, it would be additional ground clearance and more aggressive tires. If Subaru could deliver a car from the factory with those features, I think it would really open the door to even more amazing adventures to a much wider group of buyers." Well if that isn't a lead in to what's coming next week I don't know what is. 😂🤣
Look up cars guide 2021 Subaru Outback review. The review there shows a 2021 Outback with more aggressive looking wheel well mouldings like the Crosstrek and looks like it has higher ground clearance also. Maybe what the new Wilderness may look like here in the states.
I really enjoy how you put the vehicles you guys test through such challenges. I will be searching for a new vehicle in the fall and I have been watching your videos a bunch and they have been so helpful as some of those mountain roads look like my daily commute to work in northern Maine haha.
I got the 2021 Crosstrek Sport and immediately lifted it 2", put on a set of 225/65 17" Toyo All Terrain III's and a skid plate in front. I now have 11 3/4" at the rear pumpkin .. I've run it in Death Valley and Moab and have surprised myself with how capable the Trek is .. it's 14" shorter then the Outback and about 500/600 lbs lighter. The Trek is very nimble .. I see that when driving my Ford Explorer with 33" tires .. the Trek easily outhandles it. I have a bed inside the vehicle and it's my main overlanding rig now. A friend sent me this review and I had seen it earlier as I had responded! In the mean time my son bought a Wilderness because of our time in the Crosstrek .. mainly because it's bigger and there are two of them. The Sport is 664 lbs lighter .. 14.8" shorter and 3.2" shorter wheelbase then his Wllderness. My Toyo's died .. long story .. and now the Trek is fitter with BFG KO2's and I'm still getting 30+ mpg. I think we figured that the Trek get's on average about 4 mpg better over the Wilderness.
It seems they have improved the CVTs for off-roading. Glad to see that. I was rather concerned since they excluded the MT from future models short of the WRX, STi, and BRZ.
I just bought an Outback Onyx XT last week. I really like it but can't imagine ever over-landing like you folks. Looks like a lot of fun... maybe one day :)
Outback XT no doubt. Who doesn't want more power and storage space. !! Currently drive a 16 Outback and it's my favorite car I ever owned. Throw a Yakima cargo box on top and you can pack golf clubs, baseball gear, beach stuff for family of 4 with no problems ...
Best reviews are here, great as always! I want to go to the mountains with my forester 2.5, here we have great places to have fun, greetings from Chile!
I would pick neither. As a 2018 Forester XT owner I chose the right Subaru. For me it's the ultimate sleeper/bread box. Great video production. Keep up the good work. Cheers from Saskatchewan, Canada.
Love these reviews! You guys bring so much good energy into the car review community! I bought a 2021 crosstrek, exact spec to your guys one you reviewed and i love it to peices! I love that you guys show subarus capabilities! Sure they may not make sports cars anymore, but theyre going back to their 80s way of making cars, small fuel efficient simple capable vehicles, theyre basically like a new subaru leone and i love it!🤣
I have never been the type to say one brand was better than the other. Even people arguing over Ford and Chevy trucks of just dumb. But I'm on my second Crosstrek. Either myself or my wife will have a Subaru. My son's first vehicle will be a Subaru. After about 3 months with my first one, I got it. I understood what it is about Subaru.
The point where both vehicles lofted wheels and still climbed told me all I need to know. My Jeep YJ wouldn't climb with a wheel lofted unless I pumped the parking brake...until lockers were added. Old Wranglers are more suited for offroading, simply because they're not as vulnerable to damage, especially once sturdy armor is added. Then there is the considerable articulation once aired down and disconnected. Lofting a wheel is often a gamestopper with open diffs though. Props to the Subies for pulling through that, especially considering that they're AWD. I may not use my Crosstrek for serious trails, but it could still be a lot of fun with skids, aggressive 75R15 tires, a winch, disconnected anti-swaybar, and a rear locker.
I had a 2021 Outback with an 1.5" lift and tires that were more off-road biased than stock until I totaled it. Now I have a Crosstrek Sport. Both had the 2.5 liter engine. As an all -around vehicle I prefer the Crosstrek Sport.
I have an Onyx XT edition and the headlight issue is known. Apparently from the factory the Onyx trim levels came with the headlights angled too high. There are several TH-cam videos on how to adjust them yourselves with an 8 inch screw driver. The dealerships apparently still need convincing to do it for you according to some of the forums.
That large screen on the Outback makes it harder to find seat heaters HVAC settings, etc. I’ll take a smaller screen to be able to adjust those items with dedicated buttons. The Crosstrek is more fun to drive and doesn’t have that turbo lag at throttle tip in.
Great content ladies and gentlemen. Finally someone that doesn’t just outright hate the Crosstrek. I drive one and just ordered a 23’ Sport thanks to my 2014. The wilderness model is due to come next year. Maybe we will all get out wishes and get 9.7 inch of clearance and the 2.4 turbo boxer engine..
These are good for light off-roading and mostly daily driving. There is one thing they are really made for and it’s for the Canadian Winters in Snow. On paved roads with WINTER TIRES they are unbeatable. They are made for snowy roads in urban and light off-roading. Certainly unbeatable in urban snowy conditions. But put on some good winter tires like Blizzacks or Nokian. No all seasons shitty tires.
Since i have the crosstrek sport. I upgraded the tires to a 225 65r 17 AT and added some rallitek skid plate. As lighting Subaru install some super crappy bulbs on the CT. Definitely swap those out with some Diode Dynamic H11s LEDs and swapped out the standard fogs with DD SS3 pros.
I disagree about the 2021 2l cross trek being underpowered for off-road. I have had mine climb up a 24 deg, rough, wet 200’ high grass farm paddock. I would have been interested in the angle from the dashboard when you said it was steep, it looked around 8degrees. My Crosstrek (XV in New Zealand) goes through rivers up to 400mm no problem - as long as you watch out for submerged rocks and don’t stop . Mind you a few 4x4 did look at us with amazement.
I had highbeams flashed at me so many times in my 2016 Crosstrek with stock lights. I'm glad I'm not crazy. I even had HIDs in my 2010 Impreza and never had them flashed at me as much as I did in my Crosstrek
Regarding your comment on the headlights on the Outback, there’s an issue with the headlights being aimed too high from the factory and blinding people at night. There’s a ton of Outbacks with the issue. You should take it to a dealer to have them aim the headlights properly. It should stop people from flashing you at night! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Love our Outback XT touring but three complaints - wish that their was an option for more comfortable seats (like Volvo), updated maps for the nav system and a permanent stop for the engine on/off.
@@kennetha.1937 we went to “Auto Start Eliminator” and bought the Outback software plug n play piece to stop the auto stop function. Took 5 minutes to install and it works perfectly!
Great video! I was interested I'm the Crostrek as I am thinking of ordering new. Best real world video I've seen. Will definitely add the plate to my undercarriage. I'm a Colorado native with an F250 so this willdo for small trips and economical for traveling to and from work.
They are actually station wagons that are lifted, but Subaru addresses them as SUVs for marketing reasons because in america people don’t like wagons for some reason.
Ok, I'm convinced I need to do some overlanding in WA with my family when our 2023 Ascent arrives. We already ordered 18" wheels with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires...and we are shopping for a skid plate. Will add a roof top box for cargo and then I just need to know where to take it!
Thanks a lot for sharing this video. I ve just bought subaru xv (crosstrek) down here in Brazil. Ynfortubately they (Kaoa dealer representative of Subaru) doesn't yet offers the 2.5L xv here. Best my friend!!!
People always say "but LEDs" while failing to focus on a glaring issue with them outside of how oncoming traffic responds to them. Unlike traditional bulbs that can easily be detached from their fixtures, integrated LED bulbs are built into multiple electrical circuit boards. This means that it cannot easily be replaced if a bulb blows, especially not by the average person. Instead, the whole integrated fixture must be replaced. The cost of OEM replacement units for the Crosstrek from Subaru is $785 each. Also, you will incur labor costs as the vehicle will most likely need to be done in a shop as most consumers couldn't do it themseleves. Once out of warranty if things go bad you will eat this cost. Halogens are a simple bulb replacement which is massively cheaper and can be done by the consumer. There are a littney of other pros to halogens but that is the large glaring omission I commonly see the most.
I’ve sold my BRZ and have a buyer for my WRX off-road wagon, so I can pick up an XT Onyx. Your videos sold it! Are there permits required for traversing the overland trails?
A lot of folks who took those routes didn't even survive the journey back then, if they got lost or ended up hitting running into bad weather didn't even make it to their destinations..
Interesting and frankly, useful comparison. Worth the watch. And that young lady driving the Outback, wow, what a beautiful, happy smile. Brightened my day! Thumbs up to the video all the way around!
This shows you what you would expect. The longer wheelbase of the Outback makes it better on the highway. The shorter wheelbase of the Crosstrek makes it better offroad getting over obstacles. The Outback is quieter the Crosstrek gets better gas mileage. In the end, for a subcompact, you get a lot for your money with the Crosstek. Nearly the same capabilities in a daily driver for $11,000 less money. Wilderness edition will give you skid plates and more clearance - for another $10,000.
Fun review! I think I agree with most of the points and comparisons. I have no kids and under 6 foot (gee I wonder why haha) so the Crosstrek is fine for me with a luno air MAT and the seats down. Having a full size spare is kinda cool. Its not un doable in the Crosstrek, you will just lose even more of your cargo space either inside or on top.
I have owned both the Outback and my current 2021 Crosstrek Outdoor and it would be Crosstrek all the way for me! I love the feel and tighter suspension that the Crosstrek offers and with roof racks I can pack everything that I want and need. Now looking forward I will be getting the 2023 Crosstrek PHEV. I would still prefer my Crosstrek ;)
What about the Crosstrek vs. Forester? That's a closer comparison. It makes sense the Crosstrek doesn't have LED headlights since it's a cheaper vehicle.
Yeah, I have the 2022 crosstrek with LED's, People are ALWAYS flashing their highbeams at me. I also notice the light just lands very high up on walls in front of me. They should certainly be angled down further
Wow I got my 2020 trailboss mpg to 26-28 mpg on a flat easy highway trip. Thats crazy the outback isn't doing better. My crosstrek on the same trip I got almost 40 mpg at times
Watching this in 2022 - your wishlist for the Outback was better tires / more ground clearance. Do you think the 2022 Outback Wilderness would have satisfied this? Spectacular video btw!
As a non-american viewer i would really appreciate if you provided conversions from miles to km and, more importantly, from miles/gallon to liter/100km for fuel ecomomy. (Even if only as text when editing the video). Otherwise i love your content!
At the end of your video, you mentioned that you wished Subaru would equip the outback with more off-road goodies like more aggressive tires, I know this was released over a year ago, but it was the wilderness some thing you knew about back then? Looks like now Subaru has a Wilderness version for the Forrester and the outback. I’ll need to check to see if you reviewed those versions yet. Thanks again for the great videos. I love seeing you out testing them in my home state too.
We do have reviews of all the wilderness additions. At the time we filmed this we knew about the upcoming Wilderness but it was not general knowledge yet.
I did a big road trip in my Onyx and had the same experience with oncoming cars flashing me. I thought it was because I had a metric crap-ton of camera gear in the back, but when I got back home the flashing continued sans camera gear. I had the dealership lower the beams about 2 degrees and no more flashing.
I haven't seen anyone do a MPG test by Cruise Control. Everyone manages throttle differently, even in the same conditions. I have found that Cruise control gives way better mileage. On 300 ml trips I take weekly, I get 5 extra MPG when using cruise control. If you can, try doing a MPG test with CC. Cheers.
@@drivingsports Oh ok, I didn't realize that's what you meant when you said "We reset our triptometers so we can compare the computers' economy estimates" or when you mentioned you were using the "auto-center feature". Good video regardless. Thank you.
Thanks again for a great "real world" comparison review between the outback and crosstrek. The biggest question mark that I have with either of the subies is what can I expect in the long term reliability of the vehicles. 4Runners are legendary for their reliability and bulletproof dependability...yet, they are gas hogs and as you noted in your videos, a large percentage of life is spent on paved roads, thus the outback is really a great compromise that allows for both paved and offroad trips...but...alas how long will that CVT last? Any thoughts would be appreciated!
Subaru CVTs have generally had a pretty good reliability track record over time. I've found most of the CVT failure fear to be blown out of proportion. I drive a first generation Rogue with the supposedly "ticking time bomb" CVT, I'm a lead foot that normally is at 1/2 throttle at least off every light, I've taken it off road, I do a ton of hilly highspeed highway driving which is supposed to be one of the worst activities for a CVT. I've gotten to 117K with no signs of stopping, I change my CVT fluid with Amsoil CVT fluid (better quality than OE fluid)every 30K (severe service interval) and I added a auxiliary CVT cooler just to be safe at around 45K. If one keeps up with CVT maintenance in line with their driving I don't think they pose any real issue in the long run.
For me to buy a Subaru again, they would have to make an Crosstrek Turbo. Then Bye bye my Acura TSX wagon. Love my Hondas but need the AWD up here in the northeast. Only Subaru I’ve owned was an 07 Impreza non-turbo wagon which was a mechanical nightmare and 90s Full size truck gas mileage. But great in the snow when paired with winter tires.
Note to regular viewers: This video was filmed before we filmed our review of the 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, which which included the same locations. So when Ryan says he's never been here before... it was accurate at the time of this filming.
I would like the Forester Sport included in the pack on this amazing video.👌🏽👍🏽💯
@@We-Cook-It I agree. I was kinda missing it. Here's hoping that the mid-cycle refresh coming up later this year will open the door to a lot more coverage from then on the Forester.
@Blabat Balabar the pricing we list is just destination and delivery. Not including taxes. Thanks for watching! The RAV4 is good, but I would pick the Outback from between the two. Between the RAV4 and Crosstrek, it’s harder because the Crosstrek is just smaller, which might be an issue.
Driving Sports TV
This videos should be about WHICH IS MORE OF A BORING FAMILY CAR WITH AWD (not 4X4 High or Low) CVT (no gears) and looks like a Kia with less power than a ford toyota or most manufacturers
Why do people buy these with so many better choices out there. I daily drive a wrangler and the new ones ride the same as a normal suv but the top and doors are off all summer long!!! Not to mention jeep communities and the only brand (jeep) that doesn’t look like a soccer mom car.
Do videos showing Jeeps compared to Maserati (who makes them) and the jeep communities
@@chadhanson4369 My Onyx XT is far from boring. I can take it anywhere outside of rock crawling and it's a pleasure to drive on roads. The power is awesome as well. My jeep on 35's is great for what it is, but as far as which is more fun overall, the subaru is easily.
the 2022 outback crazy offroading model literally directly addressed everyone of his complaints.
"Higher clearance, more rugged factory tires."
Subaru: Say no more, Ryan!
How about Subaru listen to Outback costumers in Australia... Same the engine in the cross track, so poorly powered.
Get that awesome 2.4t US engine!!
Haha yess!! 2022 wilderness trim is back!!
*2020 Onyx owner*
"Every single trucker would flash his high beams at me"
YUUUP
So, this was filmed before Karleena went to Hawaii and Ryan had the Bronco Sport. Lol makes sense now! Love your videos and great work guys.
I like your unbiased reviews, unlike some other similar channels
So I just got home. I picked up the new 2021 crosstrek sport plasma yellow !!!! Oh man this car is sweet ! I honestly watch this video this morning and completely made up my mind. Went down to my dealer and picked one up thanks for the honest reviews.
My wife bought the exact same car and needed to take it back to the dealer the next day for a couple of tweaks. She got in a fender bender a block from the dealer!!! Almost SEVEN THOUSAND DOLLARS quoted from one repair shop. Apparently whenever there is an accident they are required to basically tear the fucking car apart to test every little thing. GREAT cars, but whatever you do...don’t damage the fucking things.
Was looking at the Crosstrek for months as my first purchased car but ended up getting an Outback Onyx Edition. The Crosstrek just felt like a vehicle I would've bought when I was in my mid 20s but now that I'm 30 I just wanted to think ahead a little more.
Oh,Outback is much better car.I have Crosstrek and I'm not very excited.
The outback with the 2.4L engine is a nice vehicle, I just can't get past the wagon style looks of it.
Same here. Crosstrek looks pretty cool, but the Outback is a much nicer and much faster car.
Outback for win
What beautiful scenery - Thank you for taking us along for the ride! I kept finding myself thinking how cool would it be to watch you work the shifter in the Crosstrek when you hit the trails with the 2.5L (I know not available) and show the different way in which the AWD works with the manual. For the 10k+ savings, I'd go with the Crosstrek plus I also prefer a stiffer suspension.
What I've learned from all of Driving Sports TV's videos is, Subaru should bring back an all new and improved Baja (maybe under a different name?) so they can compete in the small truck segment, and give the other car companies a run for their money.
Definitely don’t change the name. Either use the Baja nameplate or the other truck nameplate.
I agree. With Ford's Maverick, Hyundai's Santa Cruz, and Honda's Ridgeline, Subaru has a good position to dominate that market. I also think a Subaru small truck would look the best of them all, just imagining what it might look like.
Definitely the Outback because of the roominess. If you’re single and enjoy off-roading alone, then I guess the Crosstrek would do.
It's always nice to see Karleena in the video. Her smile and laugh is so contagious :)
I have a 2020 Subaru Outback Onyx that I actually "ordered" so it has a few more "bells & whistles", mostly "protection", ie Bodyside Moulding, Door Edge Guards, Rubber Floor Mats, etc. I also later added the Engine Guard & Rear TransAxle Guard along with a Trailer Hitch for my Bike Rack! So far it's been perfect, and I love how it handles! Subarus are Fabulous cars! Great Video too!
Last November (2021) I bought my wife a 2019 Outback (with only 5,600 miles ), early for her 50th birthday. It’s underpowered (175hp), but it’s super comfortable on our road trips. It’s her commuter car.
On 12/11/22 I bought a 2019 Forester Touring (with 4,700 miles) to replace my 2011 Rav 4WD Limited.
We have found that our Subie’s are far superior over my previous Rav 4WD.
We’re taking my Forester to Missoula MT over New Years (2023) to meet with family.
I’m looking forward to seeing how comfortable it’ll be for the 6 hour drive from our home here in north central WA .
I like this video a lot!! Thank you, Ryan. Particularly, the drone shot
Crosstrek, always. Got a 2019 Crosstrek and I love it
This feels like actually being there. Awesome review. Thanls for giving me a peek into something I pobabably wouldn’t do myself.
I love those crosscut challenges. Let's see more of them!!!!
Rumor has it that you have a Wilderness Outback that you are testing so you can give us your impression soon after the reveal. I can’t wait to see what you think. I hope you got to test it in some snow too. Forum sleuths have determined that it has 9/10” more ground clearance and different front and rear bumpers for better approach and departure angles (plus dual recovery hook locations front and rear instead of 1) as well as factory skid plates and more aggressive tires. I have an Onyx XT which I love, suits my needs better and would pick, but I have a few friends with the Crosstrek that are very happy with them. We travel 6 hours to the NC Outer Banks to paddle our full size sea kayaks and bike. The low load height for the kayaks plus the smooth ride, comfort (I am 6’5”) and power of the Onyx make it a huge winner for me. Easily one of my favorite cars that I have owned. Thanks for the great reviews and content. Great photography too!
By the way, I lowered the aim of my headlights just a tad to stop blinding people and it worked well. Subaru aims them too high. Especially with cargo in the back.
"If there were two things I would wish for here, it would be additional ground clearance and more aggressive tires. If Subaru could deliver a car from the factory with those features, I think it would really open the door to even more amazing adventures to a much wider group of buyers."
Well if that isn't a lead in to what's coming next week I don't know what is. 😂🤣
Look up cars guide 2021 Subaru Outback review. The review there shows a 2021 Outback with more aggressive looking wheel well mouldings like the Crosstrek and looks like it has higher ground clearance also. Maybe what the new Wilderness may look like here in the states.
Easy after market fix.
@@WoodshavenPatriot agreed, but he was referencing a product announcement happening Tuesday.
@@ZachMauch right. I saw that too. Just something else to be different than the herd.
Yeah I totally laughed and said ... hmm... Wilderness! :)
I really enjoy how you put the vehicles you guys test through such challenges. I will be searching for a new vehicle in the fall and I have been watching your videos a bunch and they have been so helpful as some of those mountain roads look like my daily commute to work in northern Maine haha.
So get Subaru and enjoy it... ✌️
I got the 2021 Crosstrek Sport and immediately lifted it 2", put on a set of 225/65 17" Toyo All Terrain III's and a skid plate in front. I now have 11 3/4" at the rear pumpkin .. I've run it in Death Valley and Moab and have surprised myself with how capable the Trek is .. it's 14" shorter then the Outback and about 500/600 lbs lighter. The Trek is very nimble .. I see that when driving my Ford Explorer with 33" tires .. the Trek easily outhandles it. I have a bed inside the vehicle and it's my main overlanding rig now. A friend sent me this review and I had seen it earlier as I had responded! In the mean time my son bought a Wilderness because of our time in the Crosstrek .. mainly because it's bigger and there are two of them. The Sport is 664 lbs lighter .. 14.8" shorter and 3.2" shorter wheelbase then his Wllderness. My Toyo's died .. long story .. and now the Trek is fitter with BFG KO2's and I'm still getting 30+ mpg. I think we figured that the Trek get's on average about 4 mpg better over the Wilderness.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing. Planning to get a 2022 6MT doing dispersed camping in UT, CO area.
It seems they have improved the CVTs for off-roading. Glad to see that. I was rather concerned since they excluded the MT from future models short of the WRX, STi, and BRZ.
I guess the horses suffered the most on this beautiful Trail back then.
You guys have nice job!
Greetings from Switzerland
I just bought an Outback Onyx XT last week. I really like it but can't imagine ever over-landing like you folks. Looks like a lot of fun... maybe one day :)
Karleena's a keeper. Great video.
Outback XT no doubt. Who doesn't want more power and storage space. !! Currently drive a 16 Outback and it's my favorite car I ever owned. Throw a Yakima cargo box on top and you can pack golf clubs, baseball gear, beach stuff for family of 4 with no problems ...
I own an outback and they are very comfortable, reliable, and off road capable with great mpg
Best reviews are here, great as always! I want to go to the mountains with my forester 2.5, here we have great places to have fun, greetings from Chile!
I would pick neither. As a 2018 Forester XT owner I chose the right Subaru. For me it's the ultimate sleeper/bread box. Great video production. Keep up the good work. Cheers from Saskatchewan, Canada.
Love these reviews! You guys bring so much good energy into the car review community! I bought a 2021 crosstrek, exact spec to your guys one you reviewed and i love it to peices! I love that you guys show subarus capabilities! Sure they may not make sports cars anymore, but theyre going back to their 80s way of making cars, small fuel efficient simple capable vehicles, theyre basically like a new subaru leone and i love it!🤣
I forgot to put, it was a 2021 crosstrek sport
I have never been the type to say one brand was better than the other. Even people arguing over Ford and Chevy trucks of just dumb. But I'm on my second Crosstrek. Either myself or my wife will have a Subaru. My son's first vehicle will be a Subaru. After about 3 months with my first one, I got it. I understood what it is about Subaru.
You have some of the more real life videos of reviews that I love watching.Thank you!!
Yep, looking forward to your Wilderness Edition review.
The point where both vehicles lofted wheels and still climbed told me all I need to know. My Jeep YJ wouldn't climb with a wheel lofted unless I pumped the parking brake...until lockers were added.
Old Wranglers are more suited for offroading, simply because they're not as vulnerable to damage, especially once sturdy armor is added. Then there is the considerable articulation once aired down and disconnected. Lofting a wheel is often a gamestopper with open diffs though. Props to the Subies for pulling through that, especially considering that they're AWD.
I may not use my Crosstrek for serious trails, but it could still be a lot of fun with skids, aggressive 75R15 tires, a winch, disconnected anti-swaybar, and a rear locker.
Don't be afraid of saying it. "This is not overlanding".... this is just off roading. Good video comparison 👍
Thank you for the review. I just got a 2018 Crosstrek, I’m happy you gave me confidence of my decision!🙏🏼🙏🏼
I had a 2021 Outback with an 1.5" lift and tires that were more off-road biased than stock until I totaled it. Now I have a Crosstrek Sport. Both had the 2.5 liter engine. As an all -around vehicle I prefer the Crosstrek Sport.
How did you total it?
@@中央政治局局长 I hit a Toyota Camry Hybrid head on. Totaled both vehicles.
@@JohnDoe-wy2py Dude, thank heavens you are alive
@@martingicemi8745 Thank you, I have no memory of the events leading up to the accident.
I have an Onyx XT edition and the headlight issue is known. Apparently from the factory the Onyx trim levels came with the headlights angled too high. There are several TH-cam videos on how to adjust them yourselves with an 8 inch screw driver. The dealerships apparently still need convincing to do it for you according to some of the forums.
I used to skip commercials inserted in the middle of TH-cam videos, but this one gave me Roger Federer and Anne hathaway🤩🤩😍😍. Thank you😍
You can simply adjust the headlights so they are NOT blinding other drivers. That's exactly what I did. Made all the difference.
That large screen on the Outback makes it harder to find seat heaters HVAC settings, etc. I’ll take a smaller screen to be able to adjust those items with dedicated buttons. The Crosstrek is more fun to drive and doesn’t have that turbo lag at throttle tip in.
Great content ladies and gentlemen. Finally someone that doesn’t just outright hate the Crosstrek. I drive one and just ordered a 23’ Sport thanks to my 2014. The wilderness model is due to come next year. Maybe we will all get out wishes and get 9.7 inch of clearance and the 2.4 turbo boxer engine..
Just bought the same exact Subaru Outback onyx xt. Went in for the forester sport and left with the outback 😂
These are good for light off-roading and mostly daily driving. There is one thing they are really made for and it’s for the Canadian Winters in Snow. On paved roads with WINTER TIRES they are unbeatable.
They are made for snowy roads in urban and light off-roading.
Certainly unbeatable in urban snowy conditions.
But put on some good winter tires like Blizzacks or Nokian. No all seasons shitty tires.
Omg karleena is so pretty ❤️best car channel review good job to both of you just love what you do.
200 year later Ryan will be reviewing the Crosstrek with symmetrical all warp drive and saying how tough it was in 2021 when cars didn’t fly.
The Outback is smooooothing the road a bit more also due to the longer wheelbase. The shorter the wheelbase, the more the rocking.
It's nice that Ryan and his daughter can make videos together.
Since i have the crosstrek sport. I upgraded the tires to a 225 65r 17 AT and added some rallitek skid plate. As lighting Subaru install some super crappy bulbs on the CT. Definitely swap those out with some Diode Dynamic H11s LEDs and swapped out the standard fogs with DD SS3 pros.
Forgive my ignorance. What's a skid plate?
@@gretamoney8017 it helps prevent damage to the underside the vehichle.
@@gretamoney8017 extra aluminum plates that cover critical areas like the differential and oil pan. Necessary if you go off the beaten path
@@TeiTablor - thank you
I disagree about the 2021 2l cross trek being underpowered for off-road. I have had mine climb up a 24 deg, rough, wet 200’ high grass farm paddock. I would have been interested in the angle from the dashboard when you said it was steep, it looked around 8degrees. My Crosstrek (XV in New Zealand) goes through rivers up to 400mm no problem - as long as you watch out for submerged rocks and don’t stop . Mind you a few 4x4 did look at us with amazement.
I had highbeams flashed at me so many times in my 2016 Crosstrek with stock lights. I'm glad I'm not crazy. I even had HIDs in my 2010 Impreza and never had them flashed at me as much as I did in my Crosstrek
Excellent videography! Two of my favorite things, suby and quality video well edited.
Another amazing trip. Thx again for your reviews and those superb landscape.
Regarding your comment on the headlights on the Outback, there’s an issue with the headlights being aimed too high from the factory and blinding people at night. There’s a ton of Outbacks with the issue. You should take it to a dealer to have them aim the headlights properly. It should stop people from flashing you at night! 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
my choice would be outback onyx xt with pop up tent above it, with a coffee maker to enjoy the sunset
Love our Outback XT touring but three complaints - wish that their was an option for more comfortable seats (like Volvo), updated maps for the nav system and a permanent stop for the engine on/off.
Is there a button now on the home screen to turn it off?
@@kennetha.1937 we went to “Auto Start Eliminator” and bought the Outback software plug n play piece to stop the auto stop function. Took 5 minutes to install and it works perfectly!
A lot of reviews lean towards the banal but this one was very enlightening , great job.
Great video! I was interested I'm the Crostrek as I am thinking of ordering new. Best real world video I've seen. Will definitely add the plate to my undercarriage. I'm a Colorado native with an F250 so this willdo for small trips and economical for traveling to and from work.
They are actually station wagons that are lifted, but Subaru addresses them as SUVs for marketing reasons because in america people don’t like wagons for some reason.
Ok, I'm convinced I need to do some overlanding in WA with my family when our 2023 Ascent arrives. We already ordered 18" wheels with Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail tires...and we are shopping for a skid plate. Will add a roof top box for cargo and then I just need to know where to take it!
awesome video like usual. and again glad to see Karleena back too
Great watch as always.
Excellent video!!! and more reviews together with Karleena woul be very nice!!!
Thanks a lot for sharing this video. I ve just bought subaru xv (crosstrek) down here in Brazil. Ynfortubately they (Kaoa dealer representative of Subaru) doesn't yet offers the 2.5L xv here. Best my friend!!!
People always say "but LEDs" while failing to focus on a glaring issue with them outside of how oncoming traffic responds to them.
Unlike traditional bulbs that can easily be detached from their fixtures, integrated LED bulbs are built into multiple electrical circuit boards. This means that it cannot easily be replaced if a bulb blows, especially not by the average person. Instead, the whole integrated fixture must be replaced.
The cost of OEM replacement units for the Crosstrek from Subaru is $785 each.
Also, you will incur labor costs as the vehicle will most likely need to be done in a shop as most consumers couldn't do it themseleves.
Once out of warranty if things go bad you will eat this cost.
Halogens are a simple bulb replacement which is massively cheaper and can be done by the consumer.
There are a littney of other pros to halogens but that is the large glaring omission I commonly see the most.
I'd like to see the standard Limited Outback with the 2.5 and compare to the Crosstrek!
A good book recommendation is “Sons of Prophets” if you’re interested in the history of Seattle.
Great video. Thank you.
I’ve sold my BRZ and have a buyer for my WRX off-road wagon, so I can pick up an XT Onyx. Your videos sold it! Are there permits required for traversing the overland trails?
Most of the areas need a Discovery Pass, but nothing else.
Please do a comparison with the Forester Sport! Would love to see how it does head to head against these two.
Who was operating the drone?onix xt!great video guys 👍🏼👍🏼
We had help with filming in a couple sections.
Superb. Great editing.
Awesome video, I’m sold on the Outback Onyx XT
A lot of folks who took those routes didn't even survive the journey back then, if they got lost or ended up hitting running into bad weather didn't even make it to their destinations..
Thoroughly enjoyed this video. Everything was good. Thanks
Interesting and frankly, useful comparison. Worth the watch. And that young lady driving the Outback, wow, what a beautiful, happy smile. Brightened my day! Thumbs up to the video all the way around!
This shows you what you would expect. The longer wheelbase of the Outback makes it better on the highway. The shorter wheelbase of the Crosstrek makes it better offroad getting over obstacles. The Outback is quieter the Crosstrek gets better gas mileage. In the end, for a subcompact, you get a lot for your money with the Crosstek. Nearly the same capabilities in a daily driver for $11,000 less money. Wilderness edition will give you skid plates and more clearance - for another $10,000.
Fun review!
I think I agree with most of the points and comparisons.
I have no kids and under 6 foot (gee I wonder why haha) so the Crosstrek is fine for me with a luno air MAT and the seats down.
Having a full size spare is kinda cool. Its not un doable in the Crosstrek, you will just lose even more of your cargo space either inside or on top.
this makes me wanna get the 2021 forester.. i still have 2011 and still run like a pro
Crosstrek definitely louder,but you exaggerated the sound by having the back seats down. Watching now,Sunday 28th March in Australia.
You're watching tomorrow?!?!?
😉
@@MichaelPSmith-mp1fk it’s always tomorrow here 🙃
@@MichaelPSmith-mp1fk he said australia
I know..... Hence the wink in my reply. 😉
@@sjb2471 Hello, from the world of tomorrow.
I have owned both the Outback and my current 2021 Crosstrek Outdoor and it would be Crosstrek all the way for me! I love the feel and tighter suspension that the Crosstrek offers and with roof racks I can pack everything that I want and need. Now looking forward I will be getting the 2023 Crosstrek PHEV. I would still prefer my Crosstrek ;)
Subaru is amazing car for me is great. I love subaru
That muddy part looked so fun!
What about the Crosstrek vs. Forester? That's a closer comparison. It makes sense the Crosstrek doesn't have LED headlights since it's a cheaper vehicle.
Yeah, I have the 2022 crosstrek with LED's, People are ALWAYS flashing their highbeams at me. I also notice the light just lands very high up on walls in front of me. They should certainly be angled down further
Wow I got my 2020 trailboss mpg to 26-28 mpg on a flat easy highway trip. Thats crazy the outback isn't doing better. My crosstrek on the same trip I got almost 40 mpg at times
thank for your review. most educative as far as Subaru cars are concerned
That is a very nice road test for Crosstrek & Outback lovers. They were pushed to the extreme limit just before breaking in mechanical problems.
Loved your review and content. Subbed!
Watching this in 2022 - your wishlist for the Outback was better tires / more ground clearance. Do you think the 2022 Outback Wilderness would have satisfied this? Spectacular video btw!
Yup. We love the new Outback Wilderness. It's the most capable unibody family wagon on the market right now.
As a non-american viewer i would really appreciate if you provided conversions from miles to km and, more importantly, from miles/gallon to liter/100km for fuel ecomomy. (Even if only as text when editing the video). Otherwise i love your content!
Good thought to share, especially if they want a wider audience.
I love your overlanding video!
At the end of your video, you mentioned that you wished Subaru would equip the outback with more off-road goodies like more aggressive tires, I know this was released over a year ago, but it was the wilderness some thing you knew about back then? Looks like now Subaru has a Wilderness version for the Forrester and the outback. I’ll need to check to see if you reviewed those versions yet. Thanks again for the great videos. I love seeing you out testing them in my home state too.
We do have reviews of all the wilderness additions. At the time we filmed this we knew about the upcoming Wilderness but it was not general knowledge yet.
I did a big road trip in my Onyx and had the same experience with oncoming cars flashing me. I thought it was because I had a metric crap-ton of camera gear in the back, but when I got back home the flashing continued sans camera gear. I had the dealership lower the beams about 2 degrees and no more flashing.
Has lowering your headlights had any effect on your eyesight system?
I haven't seen anyone do a MPG test by Cruise Control. Everyone manages throttle differently, even in the same conditions. I have found that Cruise control gives way better mileage. On 300 ml trips I take weekly, I get 5 extra MPG when using cruise control. If you can, try doing a MPG test with CC. Cheers.
As stated in this video we did use cruise control.
@@drivingsports Oh ok, I didn't realize that's what you meant when you said "We reset our triptometers so we can compare the computers' economy estimates" or when you mentioned you were using the "auto-center feature". Good video regardless. Thank you.
I just bought a cross trek.its due to delivered in April. In Australia it is called a xv.
Good interesting review as always,thanks.
Thanks again for a great "real world" comparison review between the outback and crosstrek. The biggest question mark that I have with either of the subies is what can I expect in the long term reliability of the vehicles. 4Runners are legendary for their reliability and bulletproof dependability...yet, they are gas hogs and as you noted in your videos, a large percentage of life is spent on paved roads, thus the outback is really a great compromise that allows for both paved and offroad trips...but...alas how long will that CVT last? Any thoughts would be appreciated!
Subaru CVTs have generally had a pretty good reliability track record over time. I've found most of the CVT failure fear to be blown out of proportion. I drive a first generation Rogue with the supposedly "ticking time bomb" CVT, I'm a lead foot that normally is at 1/2 throttle at least off every light, I've taken it off road, I do a ton of hilly highspeed highway driving which is supposed to be one of the worst activities for a CVT. I've gotten to 117K with no signs of stopping, I change my CVT fluid with Amsoil CVT fluid (better quality than OE fluid)every 30K (severe service interval) and I added a auxiliary CVT cooler just to be safe at around 45K. If one keeps up with CVT maintenance in line with their driving I don't think they pose any real issue in the long run.
Great video and great job 👍. I understand that in "Canada" you can get the Crosstrek with a 2.5 in manual transmission.....🤤
Not that I’m aware. 2.0 only.
For me to buy a Subaru again, they would have to make an Crosstrek Turbo. Then Bye bye my Acura TSX wagon. Love my Hondas but need the AWD up here in the northeast. Only Subaru I’ve owned was an 07 Impreza non-turbo wagon which was a mechanical nightmare and 90s Full size truck gas mileage. But great in the snow when paired with winter tires.