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Is the Subaru Crosstrek a good reliable car?


The Subaru Crosstrek has gained popularity over the years as a versatile and dependable compact SUV. With its rugged design, all-wheel-drive capability, and reputation for reliability, it’s no wonder many drivers are considering it as their next vehicle. But is it truly a good and reliable car? Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision.


What Makes the Subaru Crosstrek Stand Out?


The Subaru Crosstrek is designed to cater to drivers who want a mix of practicality, off-road capability, and everyday comfort. Here are some of the standout features:



  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: Unlike many competitors in its class, the Crosstrek comes with Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard, making it a great choice for those who frequently drive in challenging weather or terrain.

  • Fuel Efficiency: Despite its AWD system, the Crosstrek offers impressive fuel economy, especially with its hybrid variant.

  • Safety Features: Subaru is known for prioritizing safety, and the Crosstrek is no exception. It comes equipped with advanced safety features like EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.

  • Durability: Subaru vehicles, including the Crosstrek, are often praised for their long-lasting build quality and ability to handle high mileage.


Reliability: How Does the Crosstrek Perform?


Reliability is one of the key factors when choosing a car, and the Subaru Crosstrek generally scores well in this area. Here’s what you need to know:



  • Engine Performance: The Crosstrek’s base engine is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, which is reliable but may feel underpowered for some drivers. The optional 2.5-liter engine offers more power without compromising reliability.

  • Maintenance Costs: Subaru vehicles are known for being relatively affordable to maintain. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire rotations, will keep the Crosstrek running smoothly for years.

  • Longevity: Many Subaru owners report their vehicles lasting well over 200,000 miles with proper care, and the Crosstrek is no exception.

  • Common Issues: While the Crosstrek is reliable overall, some owners have reported issues with the CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in earlier models. Subaru has addressed many of these concerns in newer models.


Who Is the Subaru Crosstrek Best Suited For?


The Subaru Crosstrek is an excellent choice for drivers who value versatility and reliability. It’s particularly well-suited for:



  • Outdoor enthusiasts who need a vehicle capable of handling off-road adventures.

  • Commuters looking for a fuel-efficient and safe compact SUV.

  • Families who want a practical and durable vehicle for daily use.

  • Drivers in regions with harsh winters or frequent rain, thanks to its AWD system.


Final Verdict


Overall, the Subaru Crosstrek is a good and reliable car that offers a balance of practicality, safety, and off-road capability. While it may not be the most powerful vehicle in its class, its durability and standard features make it a solid choice for a wide range of drivers. If you’re in the market for a compact SUV that can handle both city streets and rugged trails, the Crosstrek is definitely worth considering.


Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Subaru discontinue Crosstrek?


Slow sales are one reason why Subaru of America (SOA) chose to drop the Crosstrek PHEV. SOA only sold 2,600 Crosstrek Hybrids in the U.S. last year (less than 1% of Subaru's unit sales in the country, according to data from auto research specialist MarkLines.)



What is the most common problem with a Subaru Crosstrek?


Common Problems for Subaru Crosstrek Models (2023-2024)

  • Electrical and Instrument Panel Failures.
  • Infotainment and Connectivity Malfunctions.
  • Windshield Cracking.
  • Is Your Subaru a Lemon?
  • Contact Us for a Free Consultation.



What is the most reliable car model?


Consumer Reports' 10 most reliable car models

  • Toyota RAV4. CR reliability score: 86. Overall CR score: 76.
  • Toyota Corolla. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata. CR reliability score: 84.
  • Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. CR reliability score: 83.
  • BMW i4. CR reliability score: 82.



Are Subarus good cars that get no problems?


By the numbers, RepairPal ranks Subaru 14th out of 32 car brands, with a 3.5 out of five reliability rating. Average repair costs total $617 annually, with 0.3 visits to the shop. Subarus have a 13% chance that repairs are severe, a percentage higher than the average for all car brands.



Which year of Subaru Crosstrek is most reliable?


These are the best years for the Subaru Crosstrek, ranked from simply good to top shelf.

  • 2017 Subaru Crosstrek: 1st Generation. Subaru.
  • 2021 Subaru Crosstrek: 2nd Generation. Subaru.
  • 2020 Subaru Crosstrek: 2nd Generation. Subaru.



Do Subaru Crosstreks last long?


Crosstrek models are known for their durability and longevity, lasting more than 250,000 miles, making them a popular choice among drivers seeking a reliable vehicle for daily commuting and outdoor adventures.



Do Subaru crosstreks hold their value?


A 2021 Subaru Crosstrek has depreciated $12,764 or 43% in the last 3 years and has a current resale value of $16,660 and trade-in value of $15,431. The 2021 Subaru Crosstrek is in the top 10-25% for depreciation among all 2021 SUVs.



Which is more reliable Crosstrek or Outback?


Overall Reliability Rating
The severity and frequency of repairs are both much lower than other vehicles, so the Crosstrek is one of the more reliable vehicles on the road. The Subaru Outback Reliability Rating is 3.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 10th out of 26 for midsize SUVs.



What is the lawsuit against the Subaru Crosstrek?


The Texas class action lawsuit alleges that the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek and 2024 Subaru Ascent driver's side mirrors vibrate and shake so badly drivers cannot see the surrounding traffic.



Is the Subaru Crosstrek really reliable?


The outcome of this hard work begins with the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek reliability score of 83 out of 100, considered "Great" by J.D. Power. Furthermore, RepairPal rates the Crosstrek a 4.5 out of five stars for reliability. This grading puts it first out of over 20 compact SUVs.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.