2018 Subaru Crosstrek

Pros: Fine balance of car and SUV traits; good fuel economy; comfortable, well-finished interior

Cons: Engine power is only adequate; interior storage is only average

CG Says: The Subaru Crosstrek is redesigned for 2018, gaining new features, fresh-but-familiar styling, and about an inch more rear-seat legroom. The Crosstrek is based on the hatchback version of Subaru’s Impreza compact car (which itself was redesigned for 2017). To the basic Impreza platform, the Crosstrek adds SUV-esque styling touches (including rugged-looking lower-body cladding) and a raised ride height (Crosstrek has a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance). Though it straddles the line between a compact car and a compact crossover SUV, we categorize it as the latter. The Crosstrek’s sole engine choice is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder; it gains direct injection and four horsepower, for a total of 152. The engine can be paired with a six-speed manual or CVT automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is standard. Available features include pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning and mitigation, blind-spot alert, rear cross-traffic alert, keyless access and starting, adaptive cruise control, and newly available rear automatic braking. Crosstrek is a fine combination of car-like driving refinement and SUV versatility. It’s a little short on power, but it delivers respectable fuel economy. If you can’t decide between a compact SUV or a compact car—or you’re just looking for a sensibly sized, all-weather family vehicle that offers some light off-road capabilities—the Crosstrek is a good value that is well worth a look.