Is the Subaru Crosstrek a midsize SUV?
The Subaru Crosstrek has gained popularity for its versatility, reliability, and off-road capabilities. However, there is often confusion about its classification. Is it a midsize SUV, or does it fall into a different category? Let’s dive into the details to clarify where the Subaru Crosstrek stands in the SUV lineup.
Understanding SUV Classifications
To determine whether the Subaru Crosstrek is a midsize SUV, it’s essential to understand how SUVs are categorized. SUVs are generally classified into three main categories based on their size:
- Compact SUVs: Smaller in size, these vehicles are designed for urban driving and light off-road use. They typically offer seating for five passengers and have moderate cargo space.
- Midsize SUVs: Larger than compact SUVs, these vehicles provide more interior space, often seating up to seven passengers. They are ideal for families and offer enhanced towing capacity and cargo room.
- Full-Size SUVs: The largest category, full-size SUVs are built for maximum passenger and cargo capacity, often seating eight or more people. They are also equipped for heavy towing and off-road adventures.
Where Does the Subaru Crosstrek Fit?
The Subaru Crosstrek is classified as a compact SUV. It is built on the Subaru Impreza platform and offers seating for five passengers. With its compact dimensions, the Crosstrek is designed for urban environments while still providing the capability to handle off-road trails, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system and higher ground clearance.
While the Crosstrek offers impressive versatility and features that rival some midsize SUVs, its size and specifications firmly place it in the compact SUV category. For example, its cargo space and overall dimensions are smaller than those of midsize SUVs like the Subaru Outback or Toyota Highlander.
Key Features of the Subaru Crosstrek
Here are some standout features that make the Subaru Crosstrek a popular choice among compact SUV enthusiasts:
- Standard All-Wheel Drive: Unlike many competitors in the compact SUV segment, the Crosstrek comes with all-wheel drive as a standard feature, enhancing its off-road and all-weather capabilities.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Crosstrek offers excellent fuel economy, making it an economical choice for daily commuting and road trips.
- Advanced Safety Features: Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist Technology is available on most trims, providing features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and pre-collision braking.
- Off-Road Capability: With 8.7 inches of ground clearance, the Crosstrek is well-suited for light off-road adventures.
Conclusion
While the Subaru Crosstrek offers many features that might appeal to midsize SUV buyers, it is officially classified as a compact SUV. Its smaller size, combined with its impressive versatility and off-road capabilities, makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient vehicle for both city driving and outdoor adventures.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Subaru Crosstrek being discontinued?
In Japan and other markets the hybrid is still available, and possibly on other Subaru models as well. But the low sales and limited production is likely why Subaru of America dropped it.
What size class is a Subaru Crosstrek?
Compact crossover SUV
Subaru Crosstrek
| Subaru Crosstrek/XV | |
|---|---|
| Model years | 2013–present |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Compact crossover SUV |
| Body style | 5-door SUV |
What is the biggest complaint about the Subaru Crosstrek?
A list of some of the most common issues Crosstrek owners have to deal with.
- Brake Light Switch Defect.
- Cracked Windshields.
- Subaru STARLINK Problems.
- Rodents Chew Subaru's Soy Wires.
- Subaru EyeSight Problems.
- Rust and Corrosion Problems.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek a mid size SUV?
The Subaru Crosstrek is a subcompact crossover SUV with rugged style that sets it apart from the competition as you drive around Auburn, including 8.7-inches of ground clearance, raised roof rails, body cladding, and more.
What are the weaknesses of the Subaru Crosstrek?
The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular compact crossover, yet recent models have shown several issues that could qualify for Lemon Law claims.
- Electrical and Instrument Panel Failures.
- Infotainment and Connectivity Malfunctions.
- Windshield Cracking.
- Is Your Subaru a Lemon?
- Contact Us for a Free Consultation.
Is Subaru Crosstrek a midsize SUV?
Compact AWD SUV
The Crosstrek is a right-sized compact SUV that's always ready to explore. Inside there's room for all your friends and all their gear, and the SUBARU STARLINK® Multimedia system with available wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration makes all your road trips more fun.
Which year to avoid a Subaru Crosstrek?
Of all the Subaru Crosstrek years to avoid, 2019 is at the top of that list. More than 250 complaints were recorded by the NHTSA, which issued a significant seven recalls.
Is the Subaru Crosstrek a small SUV?
The 2025 Subaru Crosstrek is a practical and comfortable small SUV. Its standard all-wheel drive and elevated ground clearance also helps out in wintry road conditions or when going off-road for recreational use. Lackluster acceleration and storage…
What is a Subaru Crosstrek classified as?
The Impreza and Crosstrek seem to have similar dimensions at first glance: The Impreza is a compact hatchback with a length of 176.2 inches and width of 70.1 inches, while the Crosstrek is classified as a compact SUV with 176.4 inches of length and up to 71.7 inches of width.
Which is bigger Outback or Crosstrek?
Let's start with the most obvious difference: the Outback is one class size larger than the Crosstrek. Specifically, it is 3.3 inches wider, 3.3 inches taller, has a 3-inch longer wheelbase, and is a significant 15.5 inches longer. For front passengers, the cabin is wider but otherwise negligible.
