My Son Needed a Car, So Grandma Buys Him a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek, Only Problem, Grandma Loves It More Than Her Toyota Camry and Takes It Back

Have you ever been gifted a new car?  

I recently reported that Gabika received a new 2024 Subaru Outback from her grandparents, so it's not that unusual. That story didn't turn out so well, though. Read my report here. 

Here is another story of a generous grandma who gave her grandson a new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek. You can imagine the surprise and excitement that a 17-year-old kid has when he sees grandma pull up in a new Crosstrek and hand him the keys. 

However, this car-gifting story takes an unexpected turn. 

Here is what Aurene told Subaru of America in a letter. Her family has been second-generation Subaru owners for over 24 years. They have owned multiple Subaru Foresters, and grandma thought her grandson would like a sportier Crosstrek, so that's what she bought for him. 

Let's pick up Aurene's story. 

Aurene says, "I bought my first Subaru in 2001. It was a manual Forester, and I loved that car so much. It was so fun to drive. My mom ended up buying her own Forester that year, too." 

"In 2006, I was about to have my second child, and we had to trade my Subaru for a minivan. I was so sad. Later that year, my mom was in a bad accident with her Forester." 

After an accident, they found out how safe Subaru vehicles are. She was not injured, but the Forester was gone.

"The car was totaled, but she was fine. She replaced it with another Forester. Life happened, and I eventually got divorced. My new partner was looking for a second car for commuting to give his 2006 Tundra with 200,000 miles a break." 

Aurene should be a Subaru salesperson working for a dealer. The relatives bought two more Foresters, and grandma bought another new Subaru model. I think her Subaru retailer is probably thrilled to see her coming in the door. 

She continues, "I convinced him to get a Forester. The year after, his sister got a Forester, too. Fast forward, my son is now 17 and needs a car to get around. After looking at different cars, we decide on a 2024 Subaru Crosstrek." Grandma buys it for him. 

But here's where the story takes an unexpected turn. 

Aurene says, "The only problem is that Grandma loves the car more than her Toyota Camry. So, Grandma now has a fun little Crosstrek, and my son has a Camry, lol. Guess what? I'm hoping to get him a Crosstrek of his own. We truly love our Subarus!!!"

Can you imagine the disappointment of the 17-year-old grandson when grandma takes back his new 2024 Crosstrek and he's left with her old Toyota Camry? It's a situation that could devastate any teenager. But it sounds like mom will step up and get him his new Crosstrek. A Crosstrek Wilderness? He can only dream. 

If I were to buy a new Subaru, it would be a Crosstrek Wilderness. 

The Wilderness trim level has additional upgrades over the standard model. It comes with extra ground clearance (9.3 inches vs. 8.7 inches), an upgraded suspension, off-road tires, underbody protection, and added exterior body cladding. 

Why do you need all the extras?

If you lead an above-average active lifestyle, you'll want to get further away from civilization and off the grid. If you like to hike, mountain bike, snowboard, kayak, or go camping, it's the trim to take you places other small SUVs fear to go. Check out my report here on the Wilderness.

Another trim level to look at is the new 2025 Crosstrek Premium trim. It comes with an upgraded 2.5-liter Boxer engine. It has 30 more horsepower than the 2024 model year and is fuel efficient. Read my report here for more info.

Conclusion:

This isn't a bad grandma story, it's a testament to the enduring love for Subaru. With six Subaru vehicles purchased by Aurene, her family, and the extended family, it's a true display of loyalty to a car brand. 

What do you think?

Do you have a unique Subaru story you'd like to share with readers? Your story could be the next one for my Subaru audience. If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Subaru USA