Is Crosstrek 4WD or AWD?
The Crosstrek is equipped with all-wheel drive (AWD) rather than a traditional four-wheel-drive (4WD) system. In everyday terms, it uses AWD, not a pickup-truck-style 4WD with a low-range transfer case.
Across the Crosstrek lineup, Subaru employs a symmetric AWD system designed for stability and traction on rain, snow, and light off-road conditions. While some models add features to enhance this AWD performance, there is no conventional 4WD with a low-range gear. This distinction matters for buyers weighing everyday reliability against serious off-road capability.
What drives the Crosstrek
Before outlining the key points, here are the essential details about the Crosstrek’s drivetrain.
- Symmetrical AWD is standard on all Crosstrek models, providing balanced power to all wheels automatically.
- Most recent Crosstrek models use a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) with AWD, and there is no traditional manual transmission option in the current generation.
- X-Mode is available on many trims as a driver-selectable feature that optimizes AWD for snow, dirt, mud, or deep snow conditions, improving traction at low speeds.
- There is no low-range transfer case, so the Crosstrek is not a true off-road 4WD vehicle designed for rock crawling or extreme trail use.
In practical terms, the Crosstrek’s AWD system is aimed at improving safety and traction in everyday weather and light off-road scenarios without the complexities of a traditional 4WD setup.
AWD vs 4WD: what this means for buyers
The key difference is that AWD (as used by the Crosstrek) distributes power to all wheels automatically and continuously, without the driver needing to engage any gear or lever. A 4WD system typically includes a transfer case with selectable high/low ranges, designed for tougher off-road work. For most Crostrek buyers, AWD is sufficient for winter driving, rain, and moderate off-road use, while true 4WD is found in more rugged SUVs and trucks.
Overall, if you’re shopping for a Crosstrek, you’re getting AWD as standard equipment, with optional X-Mode enhancements for challenging surface conditions, but not a conventional 4WD system with a low-range gear.
Summary
The Subaru Crosstrek is AWD, not 4WD. It uses Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD across all trims, with X-Mode available to improve traction in adverse conditions. It does not feature a low-range transfer case or traditional 4WD gearing, making it well-suited for daily driving, winter conditions, and light off-road use rather than heavy-duty off-roading.
