2018 Subaru Crosstrek Keeps Manual Rower; 2 Features You Won’t See on the New Crossover

The new-generation Subaru Crosstrek will be more fun-to-drive than the outgoing model, but it's still missing something from the Japanese automaker. It keeps the 6-speed manual gearbox which is good for driving enthusiasts, and it comes standard on the 2.0i base and Premium trims. The Limited trim comes standard with the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) featuring a 7-speed manual mode function with steering wheel paddle shifters that allow the driver to control the transmission via seven pre-set ratios.

The new 2018 Crosstrek also gets a newly-revised version of the FB 2.0-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine. It gains direct fuel injection and other enhancements to boost both performance (now 152-hp vs. 148 before) and drivability. The suspension also gets upgrades, Active Torque Vectoring (ATV) is new for 2018 that will improve its driving dynamics, and Crosstrek will feature a lower center of gravity making it flatter in the corners. With all the upgrades, Crosstrek is primed for more performance, but you won’t see it on the 2018 model.

2 features you won’t see on new Crosstrek

Subaru and Subaru Tecnica International (STI), Subaru’s motorsports partner, said at the 2015 New York International Auto Show, new STI models were coming. Subaru introduced the new-generation Crosstrek at the 2017 NYIAS but without any performance upgrades from STI. You won’t see a 2.0-liter turbocharged Crosstrek XT version like its Forester XT stablemate and you won’t see any STI badges on the new crossover.

With the crossover’s new Subaru Global Platform, it would be a perfect time for Subaru Corporation to come out with a new Crosstrek performance turbo model with upgraded Brembo brakes and other STI performance upgrades. A Japan-spec XV, was introduced last year with an STI performance package, and a variety of STI performance parts like a large rear spoiler, a special STI exhaust with Sport dual mufflers, tower bar and draw stiffener that improves handling in the small crossover. But the new US-spec Crosstrek won’t be coming with any STI upgrades. Go to Page 2.

While the new 2018 Subaru Crosstrek gets plenty of new improvements that will make the crossover a better performing all-wheel-drive vehicle, performance fans in the U.S. won’t be seeing a 2018 model with a 2.0-liter turbo and STI badges signifying additional performance upgrades. Maybe the Subaru Corporation is too busy working on a new Crosstrek with a hybrid powertrain and an all-electric to follow in 2021. Stay tuned.

Photo credit: Subaru Global at the 2017 New York International Auto Show