The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek continues to offer a compelling package for those seeking a versatile, safe, and capable compact SUV. This week, I got behind the wheel of the all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Limited, and let me tell you, it's seriously impressive.
Built on Subaru's renowned platform, the 2024 Crosstrek offers a standard all-wheel drive, ensuring confident handling in various weather conditions. While the base engine might feel underpowered, the optional 2.5-liter provides a noticeable performance boost. Interior comfort and practicality are strengths, though cargo space remains somewhat limited. Safety is a top priority, with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assistance system included. However, some reviewers have criticized the infotainment system for its slow response times and less-than-intuitive interface.
What's New For Subaru Crosstrek in 2024?
Although it might look familiar, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is actually a completely new vehicle. This year marks the beginning of its third generation, and it's packed with exciting updates.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of the Crosstrek Wilderness. This rugged off-road variant features a lifted suspension with 9.3 inches of ground clearance, making it perfect for adventurous drivers. It also boasts a more rugged exterior design with features like a front skid plate and all-terrain tires.
Other improvements in the 2024 Crosstrek include:
- Updated interior: The cabin has a more modern look and feel, with new materials and technology.
- Enhanced safety features: The Crosstrek comes standard with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.
- Improved fuel efficiency: The 2024 Crosstrek is more fuel-efficient than its predecessor, thanks to a more efficient engine and transmission.
So, while it may look similar to the previous generation, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is a significant upgrade in every way. Whether you're looking for a practical daily driver or a capable off-road companion, the Crosstrek has something to offer.
Trims and Pricing
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is available in five trims: Base, Premium, Sport, Limited, and Wilderness. The Base trim is the most affordable, while the Wilderness is the most luxurious and capable off-roader. The Premium trim adds features like heated seats and a power sunroof. The Sport trim adds a sportier exterior and interior styling. The Limited trim adds features like leather seats and a premium sound system. You can compare the Sport and the new Wilderness trims of the 2024 Crosstrek in this article.
The price of the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek starts at $26,540 for the Base trim and goes up to $33,290 for the Wilderness trim. The Premium trim costs $27,440, the Sport trim costs $30,290, and the Limited trim costs $31,095. Prices may vary depending on options and destination charges. For example, the Limited trim that I test-drove for this review amounted to a total suggested retail price of $35,026 with all the optional equipment and other items, including destination and delivery charges.
Engine and Transmission
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is powered by a choice of two four-cylinder engines. The standard engine is a 2.0-liter unit that produces 152 horsepower. The more powerful option is a 2.5-liter engine that produces 182 horsepower. This engine is available on the Sport, Wilderness, and Limited trims. Subaru is also expected to offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain soon.
While the Crosstrek's engines are capable, they don't deliver particularly impressive performance. The 2024 model is a bit poky, especially when compared to some of its competitors. The Crosstrek comes standard with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). This transmission is smooth and efficient, but it can sometimes feel a bit rubbery.
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offers impressive fuel efficiency.
With an EPA-estimated 29 combined miles per gallon (26 city/33 highway), it's a great option for those who prioritize fuel economy without sacrificing performance. This impressive fuel efficiency is thanks to its efficient engines and continuously variable transmission. So, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend adventure, the Crosstrek's fuel economy will help you save money at the pump.
Fresh Look At The 2024 Crsosstrek's Exterior
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek boasts a refreshed exterior design that sets it apart from its predecessor. Its bold and rugged styling perfectly complements its adventurous nature.
One of the most noticeable changes is the new grille. It's larger and more prominent than before, giving the Crosstrek a more assertive appearance. The headlights have also been redesigned and now feature a sleeker, more modern shape. They offer excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
Around back, the Crosstrek features a redesigned rear bumper and taillights. The taillights are now more angular and provide a distinctive look. The rear hatch is large and provides easy access to the cargo area.
The 2024 Crosstrek's exterior design is a successful blend of ruggedness and sophistication. It's a vehicle that looks both tough and stylish.
The 2024 Crosstrek's Interior Is Practical and Comfortable
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek offers a comfortable and practical interior. While it may not be as luxurious as some of its competitors, it's still a pleasant place to be.
The front seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The second-row seats are also comfortable, with plenty of legroom for passengers. The cargo area is a decent size, offering 20 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 55 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down.
One of the improvements in the 2024 Crosstrek is the addition of sound-deadening materials. This helps to reduce road noise and vibrations, making the cabin a quieter place to be. The interior is also more durable than before, thanks to the use of higher-quality materials.
Thus, I think the 2024 Crosstrek's interior is a good balance of comfort, practicality, and durability. It's a great place to be for both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Infotainment Is Tech-Savvy
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek comes equipped with a user-friendly touchscreen infotainment system. The base model features a 7.0-inch display, while higher trims offer a larger 11.6-inch display. Both screens are responsive and easy to navigate.
The infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps and music. The system also includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, voice recognition, and navigation.
The Drive
The 2024 Crosstrek is designed to be a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of driving conditions.
Thanks to its all-wheel-drive system, the Crosstrek feels confident and stable on the road. It handles well in both dry and wet conditions, providing good traction and control.
The steering is well-weighted and precise, making it easy to maneuver the Crosstrek in tight spaces. It also provides good feedback, giving you a sense of connection to the road.
The Crosstrek is a capable off-roader, thanks to its high ground clearance and all-wheel-drive system. It can handle rough terrain with ease, making it a great choice for adventure seekers.
The Crosstrek's handling is average. It's not as sharp as some of its competitors, but it's still capable. The Crosstrek's ride is comfortable, and it's easy to drive. The Crosstrek is a capable off-roader. It comes standard with all-wheel drive and features like hill-descent control and hill-start assist. The Wilderness trim offers even more off-road capability with its increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires.
Overall, the Crosstrek remains a solid choice for daily commuting and light off-road adventures, but prospective buyers should carefully consider their priorities before making a decision.
Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.