Subaru Crosstrek
Subaru's lifted Impreza-based crossover. Three generations. Symmetrical AWD standard. Wilderness trim genuinely off-road. Hybrid added 2026.
The Crosstrek is Subaru's subcompact crossover — essentially a lifted Impreza hatchback with cladding, more ground clearance, and crossover styling. Three generations across the run. 1st gen GP/XV (2013-2017): launched as the 'XV Crosstrek' for 2013, then 'Crosstrek' from 2016 onwards. Based on Impreza 4th-gen GP platform. 2.0L FB20 BOXER flat-4 (148 hp / 145 lb-ft), CVT or 5-speed manual. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive standard. Crosstrek Hybrid offered 2014-2016 (small parallel hybrid, 160 hp combined, ~6 mpg better than NA). 8.7-inch ground clearance. 2nd gen GT (2018-2023): 2.0L FB20 (152 hp), then 2.5L FB25 (182 hp / 176 lb-ft) on Sport / Limited from 2021. CVT (Lineartronic) or 6-speed manual (base trim only). Crosstrek Hybrid PHEV (2019-2021 only): 2.0L + electric motor + 8.8 kWh battery, 17-mile EV range, 148 hp combined — short-lived plug-in hybrid. Wilderness trim added 2024 (3rd gen onwards) — though some 2nd-gen Wilderness existed regionally. 3rd gen GU (2024-present): redesigned bodywork on Impreza 6th-gen GU platform, 2.0L FB20 (152 hp) base, 2.5L FB25 (182 hp / 176 lb-ft) on Sport / Limited / Wilderness. CVT only (no manual offered for 3rd gen). Crosstrek Wilderness (genuine off-road trim): 9.3-inch ground clearance, dual-function X-MODE with Hill Descent Control, revised gearing for steeper climbs, all-terrain tires, exclusive front/rear bumpers, copper-anodized accents, StarTex water-resistant upholstery, 3,500 lb towing (vs 1,500 lb other trims). 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid added — Subaru's all-new series-parallel hybrid system: 2.5L Atkinson + electric motors + lithium-ion battery, available in Sport Hybrid and Limited Hybrid trims. EyeSight ADAS standard from 2nd gen onwards. The Crosstrek is currently Subaru's volume seller in the US, with the Wilderness trim earning a strong cult following among genuine off-road enthusiasts.
Generations
Click any generation for the deep dive
Three Generations (2013-present)
Three gens. Lifted Impreza. Symmetrical AWD standard. Wilderness 9.3-inch ground clearance. Hybrid added 2026.
Known issues by generation
Common faults reported on each generation — useful when shopping the used market.
- Boxer engine head gasket leaks (high mileage, less common modern engines)
- CVT shudder / hesitation (1st-2nd gen)
- Battery drain during dealer lot stand (some examples)
- Eyesight calibration after windshield replacement
- Power-window regulator failures
- PHEV battery cooling system (2019-2021 cars)
Rivals
Toyota Corolla Cross · Mazda CX-30 · Honda HR-V · Hyundai Kona
