Pros: Standard all-wheel drive at affordable prices; decent fuel economy for an all-wheel-drive vehicle; just-right blend of passenger-car and SUV attributes; excellent ride and handling balance
Cons: Middling acceleration; engine noise is exacerbated by CVT transmission; not all testers like layout of navigation system
CG Says: For 2017, Subaru Crosstrek drops its Hybrid model, but gains a new Special Edition model with standard blind-spot alert, cross-traffic alert, and unique exterior trim. Otherwise, Crosstrek is unchanged this year. The Crosstrek is one of the most car-like entries in the compact sport-utility class, yet it offers generous cargo and passenger room for its size. We also like the comfortable ride and tastefully finished cabin. Available features include pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning, keyless access and starting, and adaptive cruise control. Fuel economy is decent for an all-wheel drive vehicle, but we wish the 148-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine made a bit more power, especially at low rpm. Five-speed manual and CVT automatic transmissions are available. Normally we like the flexibility of a manual transmission, but the Crosstrek’s smooth CVT automatic does a better job corralling the small engine’s horsepower. Overall, this likeable little hauler does a good job combining car qualities with small-SUV space and styling. It’s worth a serious look.
| Class | Compact SUV |
| Body Style(s) | 4-door wagon |
| Passenger Count | 5 |
| Drive Wheels | all-wheel drive |
| Manufacturer | Subaru |
| Nation of Manufacture | Japan |
| Base Prices | Base: $21,695 Premium: $22,495 Limited: $25,195 Special Edition: $25,795 |
| Base Engine 2.0-liter 4-cylinder |
| Horsepower 148 |
| Std. Transmission 5-speed manual |
| Avail. Transmission CVT |
| EPA City Range (mpg) 23-26 |
| EPA Hwy Range (mpg) 30-33 |
