2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium

2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium

“ Third Generation Crosstrek Remains Utilitarian Focused”

By Arv Voss

 OVERVIEW:

 Twelve years after its introduction the Subaru Crosstrek is set to launch into 2024 with its third generation lineup which continues as a compact 5-door, 5-passenger crossover. It has been completely redesigned and remains as perhaps the most affordable and most capable off-roader in its class. It’s also the fastest-growing mode ever offered by the Japanese automaker.

The Crosstrek is both Dog Friendly and Dog Tested – Belle is an AKC Champion.

There are currently several trim levels to choose from with a starting price point of $26,290 for their base model. Also available are Premium, Sport, Limited and for the first time, a Wilderness themed model with a lifted suspension featuring 9.3 inches of ground clearance, a more rugged exterior with added functional protective cladding and all terrain tires. Expect to possibly see a plug-in version Crosstrek down the road.

POWERTRAIN CHOICES:

The base engine is a 2.0 liter flat-four BOXER engine that serves up 152 horsepower along with 145 lb-ft of torque. A 2.5 liter flat-four is optionally available on Sport and Limited models that cranks out 30 more horsepower. All Subaru models come with all-wheel drive as standard fare.

A manual transmission is no longer available, with a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) exclusively handling all the transitional shifting chores. Towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2024

The latest version of the Subaru Global Platform provides the structural base for the new Crosstrek. It’s enhanced to provide 10 percent more torsional rigidity, accomplished through stronger welding techniques and additional structural adhesive contributing to a stiffer chassis while reducing overall weight improving driving dynamics and creating a quieter cabin.

Every 2024 Subaru Crosstrek comes with EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology Improvements to the system provide a wider field of view and an electric brake booster for quicker, smoother operation. The automatic emergency braking system is able to detect bicyclists and pedestrians under a wider range of conditions. Crosstrek is also available with reverse automatic braking, blind-spot detection with lane-change assist, and Automatic Emergency Steering is included on models equipped with Blind Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

The Dual-pinion electronic power steering rack from WRX delivers a more direct and natural feel with greater responsiveness.

This latest iteration Crosstrek is loaded with a host of standard features and equipment.

AS TESTED:

My test Crosstrek was in Premium trim and wore an Offshore Blue Metallic exterior finish and came with a base price of $26,195. Options which included the All Weather Package, Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and a Power Moonroof came to $2,245. After factoring in the Destination and Delivery charge of $1,295., the final tally came to $29,685.

EXTERIOR DESIGN UPDATES:

In true to form fashion, Subaru has taken an evolutionary rather than a revolutionary course of action. The new look is more adventurous featuring a frameless hexagonal grille bordered by sleek headlights sweeping into the bodywork that sports a sculpted hood.

Large fog lights and purposeful cladding over the wheel arches add to the bold flavor of this new Crosstrek. A new air outlet at the edge of the front wheel openings is both stylish and functional, helping to improve aerodynamics and driving stability. Added outlets on the the rear bumper sides are intended to reduce body sway.

The 2024 model will be the first Crosstrek to be built in America. Sport and Limited trims are assembled at Subaru’s production facility in Lafayette, Indiana, alongside the Ascent, Outback, Legacy and Impreza. The Base and Premium models will continue to be built at Subaru’s plant in Gunma, Japan.

INTERIOR AMBIENCE AND FUNCTIONALITY:

The newest Crosstrek continues to provide 20 cubic feet of cargo spaciousness with the rear seatbacks up and 55 cubic feet with them in the folded flat position and newfound interior comfort with improved seat design for a happy place that’s also quieter. Leather upholstery is an optional feature for a more luxurious impression, with an upscale look and feel with silver stitching on patterned inserts in upper echelon models. Front doors provide deep pockets for drinks and other personal items. Safety and Driver Assistance technology abounds with some unexpected programs not normally found at this prIce point.

CONNECTIVITY AND INFOTAINMENT:

The 2024 Crosstrek offers the same 11.6-inch infotainment display that’s found in other Subaru models such as the Outback station wagon and the WRX sports sedan as an option. Standard fare is a more diminutive 7.0-inch display screens, but both screens are available with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

PERFORMANCE:

This latest Crosstrek is no racer, but is provides enough oomph for an enjoyable driving experience. The Crosstrek is capable of more serious off road excursion than the majority of its direct competitors. The ride quality is compliant and on the softer side, but it takes corners with a sporting nature. The 8.7-inches of ground clearance along with hill start assist and hill descent control are plus feature that add to the enjoyment of leaving unpaved surfaces.

OUR FINAL ANALYSIS:

The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek in Premium trim is an ideal choice as a compact 5-door, 5-passenger Crossover or wagon with a rear liftgate. If you’re looking for a higher level of performance in a larger vehicle, Subaru’s Outback lineup is a good place to begin your search.

SPECIFICATIONS: 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Premium

Base Price:                            $26,195.

Price as Tested:                    $29,685.

Engine Type and Size:     2.0 liter DOHC 4-cylinder BOXER engine with direct injection, active torque vectoring and SI-Drive engine performance management system.

Horsepower (bhp):              152 @ 6,000 rpm

Torque (ft./ lbs.):                    145 @ 4,000 rpm

Transmission:                         Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). Automatic.

Drive Train:                             Flat mounted front engine – Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with X-Drive Mode.

Brakes:                                   Power-assisted 4-wheel discs with ABS, Brake Assist           and Brake Override systems.

Tires:                                       Yokohama Geolander G91 – 225/60 R17 99H mounted on Stylized 5-spoke combination Machine face and Painted alloy wheels.

Wheelbase:                          105.1  inches

Length Overall:                      176.4  inches

Width:                                     70.9 inches

Height:                                    63.6 inches

Curb Weight:                                   3,296 lbs.

Fuel Capacity:                       16.6 gallons

EPA Mileage Estimates:         28 mpg city – 34 mpg highway – 29 combined

0 – 60 mph:                               9.3 seconds

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