Overview & Reviews

The Subaru XV Crosstrek might be marketed as crossover, but that usually implies some sort of SUV with carlike attributes. In actuality, the Crosstrek is more like a car with SUV-like attributes. Much like Subaru has done in the past with its Outback model, the smaller XV Crosstrek hatchback features an elevated ride height, a more off-road-ready suspension and rugged looks.

As it's based on the regular Impreza hatchback, the XV comes with a four-cylinder "boxer" engine mated to an available continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). That combo delivers decent acceleration and above-average fuel economy. Add a nicely equipped passenger cabin and ample cargo capacity and you have a go-anywhere vehicle that should appeal to active outdoorsy types who might find Subaru's other offerings too pricey or thirsty.

Current Subaru XV Crosstrek Specs
The Subaru XV Crosstrek is an all-new model for 2013. While Subaru's all-wheel-drive lineup has developed a reputation for being unflappable in the face of some truly nasty driving conditions, this variation of the Impreza takes things to another level in dicey situations both on- and off-road.

The XV Crosstrek is offered in two trim levels, the entry-level Premium and top-of-the-line Limited. The base model comes standard with a number of desirable features including 17-inch alloy wheels, roof rack side rails, heated front seats, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, and an iPod interface. The Limited adds automatic climate control, leather upholstery, rearview camera and a premium audio system with an upgraded touchscreen interface. Major options include a sunroof and a touchscreen navigation system.

Under the hood, the Subaru Crosstrek gets a 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices include a five-speed manual and a CVT. All-wheel drive is standard.

The interior is pretty minimalist in terms of design, but the overall quality of the materials is high. Front and rear passengers enjoy a good amount of head- and legroom, and the standard heated seats are a nice touch given Subaru's popularity in cold-weather states. Folding down both sides of the 60/40-split rear seatbacks creates a flat load floor and 51.9 cubic feet of cargo space, a number that's on par with compact hatchbacks rather than small SUVs.

On the road, the Crosstrek's 2.0-liter engine delivers decent acceleration both around town and on the highway. When equipped with the CVT, however, the engine suffers from a noisy, droning tone that gets tiresome, especially when climbing hills. The CVT's true benefit shows up at the gas pump in the form of excellent fuel economy.

Despite the Crosstrek's increased ride height compared to the regular Impreza, handling is still fairly respectable on the pavement. And when the going gets tough, that extra amount of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive makes it possible to handle light-duty trails without issue. Overall, we like the Subaru XV Crosstrek and think it's a solid pick for someone wanting a hatchback that can serve as a daily driver but also make it easy to access outdoor recreational activities.

User Reviews:

• 

  19 months in and so in love - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By shaina0707 - April 11 - 12:23 pm

  I reviewed my car at 3 months, and at 19 months and 20,000 miles later, I can confidently say that this is the best car Ive ever owned (I was loyal to Toyota in the past). Ive seen lots of complaints on gas mileage and I just dont understand - I drive quite a bit of city and then some highway to work and I average 27.5 in winter and 29.5 in summer. My mom drives all short city trips and is closer to 25.5 (EPA estimate is 23 city, so that makes perfect sense). Ive been out in several Cleveland snowstorms and the handling was so amazing and I felt so safe. My husband loves it so much that in bad weather he will not take out his 4WD Trailblazer but instead uses my car. I LOVE THIS CAR!!!!

• 

  disappointed. - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By Ira Blackburn - March 11 - 2:19 pm

  We bought new 2013 Crosstrek knowing its limitations. We have 40,000 miles on the odometer and took it to the dealership to diagnose a noise in the front end. The Dealership diagnosed a broken front strut and a $700 repair. Ive never heard of a car breaking a strut at 40k that wasnt wrecked or abused. Weve gone from loving it to WTF? and hating it.

• 

  As near to perfect a car as we have ever owned! - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By tradedcmax - January 25 - 5:58 am

  We got this car on a whim, and have not looked back since. It is as perfect a car as we have ever owned. There is nothing about this car that we dont like. Visibility and ground clearance, with seating height and ability to see top the list. Headlights and standard fog lights only make it better. Add in all wheel drive, and standard features like a back up camera, HD radio, plenty of people space, leather seats, etc. and you will fall in love with this car. It is big enough and not too big. The MPG after only 500 miles is running 25MPG. Im sure this will improve as time goes on. But even at 25, it is more than our smaller suv we traded in for this car. You will love this car.

• 

  After 9 months review - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By rivernsnow - January 1 - 7:18 am

  Nice Little SUV. Cool looking! Sufficiant power, but not a sports car. Steady pedal application versus jamming it down, eliminates most of the comments about droning or response. Very comfortable front seats, Great road hugging performance! Rides rougher than expected. Its small so with two adults and a toddler on a road trip its really packed to the max. Like Edmunds review said, does not get advertised mileage. Expect 25.5- 26 MPG average Using 89 octane brings it up to 27- 28 Bad - cant power or remote entry lock without arming alarm. If you use a sub key/non remote entry key, alarm wakes neighbors at 5 AM. Manual locking not available on rear hatch!!! No air vents for rear passengers

• 

  Fun & Economical - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By pete141 - December 28 - 5:05 am

  Am new to the Subaru line - was intrigued by the looks of the Crosstrek. Didnt look like a station wagon or any of the other suv-ish crossovers out on the market today. Lots of pick-up when accelerating onto the highway & changing lanes-enough for my needs anyways. Highway ride is smooth. Have not had to fill the tank yet so cant comment on the gas mileage - although am hoping that it comes in around the advertised 25-28 range for mostly city driving. The AWD did well in the recent wintry mix of a few inches. Never lost traction and went up hills with no problems at all.

• 

  Love the XV Crosstrek, Limited nav/moonroof - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By cooknation - December 28 - 2:06 am

  When looking for a car I needed a CUV with decent gas mileage. Main reason was for carrying my dog and for future family family vehicle. I tested the equinox, mazda cx-5, and nissan rogue. When i went to drive the cx-5 i saw the crosstrek (Mixed dealer). So i took a shot at the crosstrek, right away the looks of the car can make you fall in love. And i know plenty of my friends with wrxs and stis and they praise subaru. I have to say the car has been living up to the hype sofar. I got the limited CVT with nav and moonroof. The car is great and i average 31 MPG! Do not gun the car and you will find the mileage is great. Ease into acceleration, and keep an eye on the mpg needle.

• 

  Disappointed with my first Subaru - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By ndw - December 22 - 4:45 pm

  Ive actually had an entirely different experience with my Crosstrek Hybrid, other than I can agree with another users problems with the navigation. There are so many rattles, all over the car. The worst is with the plastic covering the speedometer and tachometer displays. People who ride in my car say things like, "Doesnt that noise drive you crazy?" Mine was delivered in November, so I wonder if its early off the manufacturing line and those problems have been worked out. Subaru has been most unhelpful in resolving my issues - this will be my last Subaru.

• 

  transmission failed at 113,000 - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By Todd - October 12 - 2:13 pm

  dont buy this car. Bought it new and transmission failed. I did all the preventive maintenance. Should have learned from my 1st Subaru that died on me at 110,000 miles. I will be buying a rav4 now because I have lost thousands of dollars. The cost to fix the transmission would be 3 grand. no way jose

• 

  happy overall... - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By connie1016 - September 15 - 9:32 am

  I happy with the purchase of my new Crosstrek so far but at just over 5,000 miles Im starting to notice things Im not thrilled about. Im only getting 27MPG avg. I thought Id do better. Sometimes when I put it in drive it takes 15 seconds or more to actually Go. When I first start it (even when its not cold) its rather loud and rattles. The stereo is not user friendly at all. I wish I had up graded but I didnt want to spend another $1000 for a navigation system I didnt want. The standard speakers just dont sound good. Ive got a list for the dealer when I go back for my oil change. Ill come back w an update later.

• 

  Rugged reliability - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By charlesdrive - August 26 - 9:12 pm

  I have owned many previous Subaru cars in the past (most recently Impreza and Legacy) so I am used to the usual knocks against Subarus. Engine noise is a bit loud, pickup is not great but this car is safe, rugged and I like how it has a higher ground clearance which is helpful if you live in an area that gets measurable snowfall. While my Legacy handled well in snow storms it had low ground clearance which caused problems. The Limited trim with the navigation and XM radio are definitely worth the extra expense. This car is fun to drive and has a slightly different appearance from other Subaru cars. I have not gotten to drive in snow yet but it has handled well in wet weather.