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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  Such a love/hate relationship - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By Cameron - July 18 - 7:51 pm

  First off, we love our subie. She gets us where we need to go. Never complains and never fails to do so. Ill admit, I graduated from the Subaru class of the early 2000s when the engines were crap and I wanted to drive the car off a cliff for the insurance money. I was hesitant to get anther but my wife insisted that we get something safe and reliable. Alas, we settled on a 2013 certified pre-owned and have been more than pleased. Sure, it has its quirks. MPG is not the greatest but we live in the city. On the highway she purrs like a kitten and gets us roughly 30-32 MPG. Bear in mind that we use non-ethanol gas. We had a funky issue with a brake light sensor going out and it totally confused the brain of the car and wouldnt let us shift out of park. However, I took it to the dealership and they knew right away what the issue was and resolved quickly. There could definitely be more legroom for a 61" 250lb dude but my wife fits in perfectly. It does blow my mind there is no cargo light in the trunk. The hate part is that their expensive to maintain. Will be buy another crosstrek? bet your [non-permissible content removed] we will. The 2018s are good lookin. For now, were not ready to retire 2013. Shes got 75,000 miles and still runnin like a champ.

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  Fits the Bill! - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By tinycadon - July 6 - 8:39 am

  bought the cvt premium with moonroof 12/22/12, waited until Mayan apocalypse was over! Im 64" and have plenty of legroom & even with the moonroof still had enough headroom. not the fastest vehicle on the road, but plenty of power to get it moving, merging or passing on the highway, just need to punch it. road noise isnt as bad as consumer reports describes, not sure what theyre comparing it to? gas mileage pretty good right out the gate, 28mpgs on 380mi trip doing 70-80 with fully loaded car and only 100 miles on it at start. pretty impressed so far.

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  Great car! - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By davennc - May 6 - 5:08 pm

  Ive had my XV Crosstrek hybrid for two months now and have been extremely happy with it. Ive been getting 35 mpg around town and about 38mpg hwy, which is double than my 2003 Baja. Comfortable ride, minimal road noise, a lot of get up and go from a stand still, & the CVT transmission has been smooth. Ive had several people (including a police officer pull up to me) to ask me about the car- "I didnt know Subaru made a hydrid." If youre looking for Prius like mileage, than buy a Prius; Although you wont have the awesome AWD of a Subaru, headroom, legroom, cargo carrying ability, nor will your Prius be able to get out of its own way in a sticky traffic situation.

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  Great starter car - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By Joe Goss - April 2 - 2:15 am

  Pretty basic on the technology side, drive great for having such a small engine, great fuel economy. Not sure why its called premium when there is nothing below it. However Im very happy with it. Have always owned Subarus and will continue to do so.

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  I love my Crosstrek, but it needs more power - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By noah_early - March 24 - 5:53 am

  I work in DC, but we own a cabin in Lexington, VA and live in Northern VA. It handles gravel roads as well as the interstate and gets very close to the EPA ratings. If you are disappointed with yours try comparing your odometer with mile markers or GPS. Mine reads almost 2% slow, which means we are actually getting .6 MPG better than the car calculates. The ground clearance is perfect, our 80+ pound lab mix can get in and out of it without the struggle he has with our Jeeps and it has not bottomed out on several rutted, gravel roads. Also check visibility before buying. The high belt line and low roof make rear visibility poor for shorter drivers.

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  I guess it hit or miss with these cars! - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By cdhttlr - March 18 - 5:07 pm

  I bought my Crosstrek in August and since than have never been able to achieve anything near the EPA fuel mileage of 25 city/33 highway. Best ever was 30 highway and 22 city and its been slowly dropping since new. I now have 3800 miles on it and the last highway trip 100% highway other than 4 on/off ramps. cruise set on 63 the whole time was 26mpg. I struggle now to get 18mpg around town. I even removed the spare tire and jack and rear cargo and floor mats to reduce weight. The dealer says there is nothing wrong with it and is probably my driving. Really than why did every other car that Ive owned get better then advertised MPGs? A total of 12 cars total beaters to brand new.

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  disappointed - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By sholescurtis - March 16 - 2:34 am

  Since this is my first Subaru, I feel I may not have a good understanding of what to expect. I am quite disappointed by the car after only having it about six weeks. I am barely getting 20 mpg, far less than advertised, and one of the major reasons I purchased this car. I do find the engine extremely loud and bothersome but again, this may be characteristic of a Subaru? I feel it definitely lacks power but I was willing to sacrifice that for decent mpg, which is why I am frustrated beyond belief. I would seriously reconsider purchasing another and yet I realize that anyone I know thats owned a Subaru, loves them.

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  Never Again - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By TD - February 11 - 9:43 pm

  First and last Subaru. Bought it because appearance of Japanese mid-size AWD alternatives were repugnant. Awful-sound system and navigation. Excessive cabin noise. Anemic power and poor gas mileage. Dashboard radiates too much heat which cooling system cannot overcome. External paint chips easily and is costly and difficult to repaint. Internal leather cheap and tears easily even with constant care. Repeated electrical problems with hybrid system, beginning at 47,000 miles.

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  not very hybridy (so far) - 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By fried003 - January 23 - 3:33 am

  Not getting the suggested MPGs so far during a cold winter; hoping it improves. Car rarely runs in "green" power based on the indicator. Otherwise its decent enough/comfortable. I got the touring model, which has all the bells & whistles, some of which I dont understand, such as the entertainment system. But it has everything Id ever want in a vehicle + other stuff. But, so far, its not fulling the primary expectation.

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  Crosstrek Problems - 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
  By catskhiker - December 28 - 7:03 pm

  I have a 2013 Crosstrek with 35,000mi purchased in 2012. It eats a qt of oil aprx every 12-1500 mi. The manual says this is normal for a boxer engine. Ive had many boxer engines & NONE of the others ate oil. It also eats the right rear tire. You have to buy AWD tires in groups of 4, so this is expensive. I sorta like the car & love the look, but my old vw bug had more pep. Both have manual trans. Seriously considering trading it in.