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:

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  Zippy - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By saintcase - November 23 - 6:20 am

  I am really enjoying my new Crosstrek Subaru. Never had one before, and hopefully wont be the last. Really liked working with Steve Lewis Subaru, and they gave us a better deal than the other ones in the area. Would definetly recommend this new vehicle and Steve Lewis Subaru.

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  Love the ride. - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By willie01 - July 17 - 10:58 am

  There are lot of things to like about the car, but he most impressive is the the way it drives. I have always heard about how fun they are to drive but never given it much thought. This car handles great, off road capabilities are on par with the 4 wheel drive toyotas I own or better. Thight well built car with quality through out. Getting 27.8 combined mpgs so far with 564 miles on the car. Like the vesitality and quirkey nature of this car. I do a lot of soft sand and beach driving here in Fl. and it hasnt let me down. If your looking for a car out of the mainstream with a lot of features that make it a fun go anywhere car,I think you would like it.

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  Never thought Id buy a Subaru - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By katethegreat84 - June 29 - 10:58 pm

  When I first started looking at cars I never even thought to look at the Crosstrek or Subaru. As a real estate agent I wanted something nice but didnt want to go the standard issue luxury car everyone seems to drive. When a family member recommended the forester, I wasnt thrilled but went to test drive it anyway. While at the dealership I saw this little beauty and fell in love. I can cart around my clients and all my signs/lockboxes/excess Realtor stuff. But its also very comfortable and safe feeling. Being able to sit up high is a plus when you drive 20k miles a year. I highly recommend the GPS option, with it you get an upgraded sound system and a back up camera. I love my Crosstrek!

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  Great Car if you can find one! - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By dashriprocket - June 14 - 4:13 am

  Bought this car over a week ago. Three months of constant research after selling my Honda Element which I loved. I was looking for something sold, unique looks, reliability, comfort and just a plain kick but car. My Subaru XV Crosstrek limited in blue with beige interior...not a pocket rocket, but I genuinely love this car. Extremely practical, unique, good looks, great gas mileage, great performance!

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  Traded a turbo monster, and havent looked back - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By mike_in_nepa - March 25 - 6:31 am

  For the last 10 years, Ive had various turbocharged vehicles, some of which were modded. I grew tired of temperamental turbos, having too much power in slow traffic, and spending ungodly sums of cash fueling them up. I just needed a reliable AWD vehicle that can get me around in the mountains throughout the winter months, ground clearance, get good fuel economy, and can stand up to my outdoorsy lifestyle. So far, I have 1000 miles and have been very impressed with this vehicle. I find it very peppy, and find the 145 hp rating deceiving. This climbs up mountain roads feeling sprightly, and never gives even a hint of losing steam. At 75 mph, I get about 30-32 mpg. Love it.

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  Great car, great value. Money well spent. - 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By damayberry - November 4 - 5:38 pm

  Ive only had my Crosstrek for two days but so far I am highly impressed with everything. Its no fire breathing V8 but its powerful enough. Cabin is very spacious, seats are wonderful, the ride to me is quiet and pleasant. As soon as I bought the car, it started snowing. Even after driving through almost a foot of snow and ice, I have absolute confidence I can go anywhere I need to go! Gas mileage is incredible. Reliability? Purchased the 7 year extended warranty and lifetime powertrain.

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  works great - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By l c - August 1 - 1:37 pm

  good small car with super price

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  I Love THIS car! - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By holderad - July 2 - 7:16 pm

  I love my 2014 Plasma Green Crosstrek Hybrid. My one word description: Awesome! The hybrid system works significantly better than any hybrid I test drove. It is used for power / torque augmentation more than fully powering the car most of the time. I think Subaru under-reported their MPG figures on purpose. The car is not even broken in, and Im getting almost 38 MPG highway and so far about 31.7 MPG with downtown driving. The car does some kinda magic with the CVT and that electric motor. It is seamless. The car has "the pull" at all speeds that its all gas brother just doesnt. I mean, you can feel the surge at highway speeds when you stand on it to pass. The symmetrical AWD is fantastic!

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  Better than Impreza - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By fracker - May 22 - 8:29 pm

  Traded a 2012 Impreza for a Crosstrek. Impreza was WAY too low for backroads in the mountains I live in. The Crosstrek will tow 1500lbs & has nice ground clearance & much better suspension for nasty forest dirt roads.I drove it on forest roads Id never take the Impreza on & it did great. I can tow a motorcycle over rocks with this thing. Handles great,more truck-like. The heated seats are height adjustable which allows me to sit lower & not have the Imprezas mirror block vision on right curves(was dangerous on the Impreza). This auto transmission doesnt have near the "holdback" going down hills the Imprezas had(I had to gas that the Impreza going down hills--hated it).

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  xv crosstrex - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By cory fouts - December 8 - 6:35 am

  Id buy another one. Recommend buying if looking.