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What are the different Crosstrek models?

The Subaru Crosstrek is a popular compact crossover SUV known for its versatility, off-road capabilities, and standard all-wheel drive. Subaru offers several different Crosstrek models to cater to a range of customer needs and preferences. In this article, we'll explore the key differences between the various Crosstrek models available.

Crosstrek Base Model

The base Crosstrek model is the starting point of the lineup. It comes equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine producing 152 horsepower, paired with a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). The base Crosstrek features Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a range of standard safety and technology features, including a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This model provides a solid balance of capability, efficiency, and value.

Crosstrek Premium

The Crosstrek Premium builds upon the base model by adding several upgrades. It features a larger 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and additional USB charging ports. The Premium model also offers the option to upgrade to a more powerful 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which produces 182 horsepower.

Crosstrek Sport

The Crosstrek Sport sits in the middle of the lineup, offering a blend of off-road capability and premium features. It comes standard with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, as well as unique exterior styling cues, such as orange-accented exterior trim and 17-inch alloy wheels with a dark finish. The Sport model also includes a range of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology.

Crosstrek Limited

The Crosstrek Limited is the top-of-the-line model, offering the most comprehensive set of features and amenities. It builds upon the Premium model by adding leather-trimmed upholstery, a power driver's seat, a premium Harman Kardon audio system, and a range of additional safety and convenience features. The Limited model also offers the option to upgrade to Subaru's advanced Starlink multimedia system with an 8-inch touchscreen display.

Crosstrek Hybrid

In addition to the standard Crosstrek models, Subaru also offers a hybrid variant. The Crosstrek Hybrid combines the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, providing improved fuel efficiency and a limited all-electric driving range. The Crosstrek Hybrid is available in a single, well-equipped trim level and offers a unique exterior design with blue-accented trim.

Regardless of the specific Crosstrek model, all variants share Subaru's renowned reputation for safety, reliability, and off-road capability, making the Crosstrek a versatile and appealing choice in the compact crossover segment.

Why is Subaru discontinuing the Crosstrek?

Subaru is not discontinuing the Crosstrek model line entirely, but the Crosstrek Hybrid (PHEV) was discontinued in the U.S. due to slow sales and Subaru's strategic shift toward new hybrid and electric vehicle (EV) platforms that will be shared with Toyota. Subaru is still producing the standard Crosstrek and is developing new hybrid and EV models based on its new Global Platform, which will offer a new hybrid system for the Crosstrek in the future. The discontinuation of the manual transmission option was also driven by declining demand.
This video discusses the reasons behind the discontinuation of the Crosstrek Hybrid and Subaru's future plans for electrification: 46sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Jun 9, 2025

Hybrid model discontinued: The Crosstrek Plug-In Hybrid was dropped after a short run in the U.S. because it only accounted for a small percentage of total sales.
Strategic shift to new platforms: Subaru is focusing on developing new hybrid and EV models using its new Global Platform, which is designed to accommodate these powertrains. The company is working with Toyota on future EV platforms to improve profitability and innovation.
Manual transmission phased out: The manual transmission option was discontinued due to declining sales, as a small percentage of buyers opted for it compared to automatic transmissions.
Standard Crosstrek remains available: The gasoline-powered Crosstrek continues to be a popular and available model.
Future hybrid return: Subaru has stated that it will launch a new hybrid Crosstrek in the future, likely with a new hybrid system and on the new Global Platform.

This video explains the changes coming to the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek, including updates to the powertrain options: 55sAlex PrestigiacomoYouTube · Nov 4, 2024

What is the lawsuit against the Subaru Crosstrek?

The class-action lawsuit that claimed Subaru's Starlink infotainment systems are defective has reached a final settlement. The agreement affects the 2018 Subaru Forester, 2018 Subaru Outback, 2018 Crosstrek, 2018 Legacy, 2017-2018 Impreza, and 2018 BRZ.

What is the difference between different Crosstrek models?

The main differences between Subaru Crosstrek models are performance, features, and capability. Base and Premium models typically come with a 2.0-liter engine, while the Sport, Limited, and Wilderness trims have a more powerful 2.5-liter engine. The Wilderness trim stands out with enhanced off-road features like increased ground clearance and advanced all-wheel-drive systems. Other trims like the Premium add comfort and convenience features such as heated seats and a larger touchscreen, while the Limited trim includes luxury upgrades like leather upholstery.
This video provides an overview of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek's trim levels: 1mSubaruYouTube · Apr 16, 2024
Base

Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Features: Standard EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology, 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, adaptive cruise control, and automatic climate control

Premium

Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Features: Adds the 11.6-inch Starlink multimedia system with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, raised roof rails, Keyless Access with Push-Button Start, and optional heated front seats

Sport

Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Features: Upgrades to the larger engine for more power, StarTex water-repellent cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, proximity keyless entry, automatic high-beam headlights, blind spot monitoring, and a more advanced dual-function X-MODE

Limited

Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Features: The top-tier model, which includes leather-trimmed upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen, adaptive headlights, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and available built-in navigation

Wilderness

Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
Features: Designed for off-road performance, it offers 9.3 inches of ground clearance (an increase of 0.6 inches over other trims), advanced dual-function X-MODE, and a 3,500 lb towing capacity
Note: This is the only trim with a significantly higher towing capacity.

You can watch this video to learn more about the 2025 Subaru Crosstrek trim comparison: 59sSubaruYouTube · Mar 25, 2025

What year of Subaru Crosstrek to stay away from?

Years to potentially avoid for the Subaru Crosstrek include the 2016 and 2018 models due to issues like drivetrain vibrations, infotainment problems, and oil consumption. The early years of the first generation, specifically 2013-2015, should also be approached with caution due to common issues like oil consumption and head gasket problems with the 2.5-liter engine.
Years with more reported issues

2016: Has been associated with drivetrain vibrations and faulty infotainment systems.
2018: This model year is known for excessive oil consumption, glitchy technology, and a serious safety concern regarding the rear wheels kicking out, causing fishtailing.
2013-2015: These early models, particularly with the 2.5L engine, are prone to head gasket problems and excessive oil consumption. The 2012 Impreza shared this generation and also had issues with its CVT and oil consumption.

Other years to consider

2017: Generally considered a safer bet with fewer reported issues and recalls.
2019: While some sources suggest avoiding it due to numerous recalls and a significant number of complaints related to the ECM software causing unexpected engine stalls, other owners have reported it as reliable.
2021: This model year has received positive marks for reliability.
2023: This year is often recommended as one of the better choices in the second generation.

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.