Subaru Crosstrek review

This is the Subaru Crosstrek, essentially a heavily revised version of the Subaru XV, only it now adopts the nameplate already used in other markets. It’s the firm’s smallest SUV offering, sitting behind the Forester and Outback.

Whatever the name, it’s the third generation in the family tree. And like its predecessors – and its bigger siblings – it favours rugged looks and a go anywhere attitude over stand out style. Note the black plastic body cladding, the raised ride height, the standard fit roof rails, that sort of thing.

Subaru knows it won’t be to everyone’s taste, but in the highly congested compact SUV sector – it goes up against the likes of the Dacia Duster, Mazda CX-30, Mini Countryman, Nissan Juke, Honda HR-V, Hyundai Kona, Skoda Kamiq, and VW T-Cross – it’s at least something different.

SUBSTANCE OVER STYLE, NO BAD THING. WHAT ARE MY ENGINE OPTIONS?

About that. There’s just the one powertrain option available in the UK: a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol-powered Boxer engine paired with a CVT gearbox. It outputs just 136bhp and 134lb ft of torque, with a 0-62mph time of 10.8 seconds and a top speed of 123mph. Nothing to write home about there, but Subaru knows its target market, and instead has prioritised all-round ability here.

And that’s really the Crosstrek’s USP. Every version gets all-wheel drive, Subaru’s X-Mode off-road system (think hill descent control and suchlike), and 220mm of ground clearance that’ll allow you to head further off the beaten track than most. Click through to the Driving tab for a full lowdown.

DOES THE PRACTICALITY THEME CONTINUE INSIDE?

The cabin feels functional and built for purpose, with entry level models getting fabric seats and trim and top spec models upgraded to leather, but there’s no doubt that there’s a clear focus on durability here. 

Subaru has tried to add a little pizzazz courtesy of an 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen that adorns the dashboard, but it’s let down by its outdated OS and naff graphics. Fortunately Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard.

Sure, it won't hold a candle to its more glamorous rivals, but it's pleasant enough and Subaru has put much effort into reducing outside noise in the cabin too. Full details over on the Interior tab.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST ME?

Prices start from £34,290 in base spec Limited trim, or £36,290 in Touring trim. Head over to the Buying tab for a full breakdown.

The Crosstrek is a small SUV that’s honest, unpretentious, and capable. OK, it doesn’t have the outright appeal of some Subarus of time gone by nor the flair of some rivals, but it plays to its strengths – and what the Subaru faithful desire. 

That translates in its rufty-tufty looks, go-anywhere ability, and its hardwearing cabin. It’s not perfect, with its sluggish performance, outdated infotainment tech and slightly expensive price tag sure to put some people off, but look past all that and it has a certain charm in an otherwise rather dull sector.