I know, I know. If you listen to my radio show, you know I really like Subarus, but for good reason! Mostly safety and their all-wheel drive system.
So, this week I spent a very nice week with the all-new 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Limited, a compact SUV. My two favorite features that come as standard equipment on Subi SUVs are the Symmetrical all-wheel drive system, and the EyeSight safety system, two features I think are best-in-class in the auto industry.
EyeSight monitors traffic movement from two cameras mounted high on the windshield. It optimizes cruise control, and if you stray out of your lane it will center the vehicle back into the lane. The pre-collision braking feature can even apply full braking force in emergency situations. It works incredibly well, and many automatic emergency braking systems just slow you down to minimize the impact.
Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive system continually keeps the power to all four wheels, ensuring outstanding grip in snow, rain, or rough terrain.
Watch the Review Video →
Exterior
The 2024 is sleeker than previous versions, and is actually quite attractive, not something Subaru is known for.
Powertrain
Under the hood is a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder Boxer engine, that provides 182-horses. It is mated to a CVT (continuously variable transmission) that is shiftable from paddles on the steering wheel.
Interior
The interior is nicely done with leather seats that are bolstered and stitched. The gauges are easy to see, and there is a driver info center between the tach and speedometer that operates from the steering wheel.
Stitching runs through the door panels and nicely across the dash. There is a soft center console that your arm rests on. Forward of the gear shifter is a cubbyhole with two USBs, a wireless phone charger, and a power outlet.
High on the dash is a terrific new 11.6” touchscreen that houses the Subaru Starlink System. From there, you operate the sound system, Bluetooth, apps, Wi-Fi hotspot, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the vehicle settings. This system works great, and it’s easy to figure out.
Back seat leg and head and room is really good. I wish there were A/C vents but there are USB-C ports back there. Cargo area is also plentiful with plenty of storage with the backseat up. The backseats fold down quite easily and they are flat with the cargo area.
Features
Important standard features include: rearview camera, heated seats, tilt steering wheel, power windows and door locks, automatic headlights, fog lights, and keyless entry system. You also get X-Mode, which kicks the all-wheel system up a notch.
My tester only has a power moonroof, Harmon Karden sound system, and the navigation system, all for $2,445.
MPG and What You'll Pay
Fuel economy is really good at 26 in town, and 33 on the highway for a 29 MPG rating combined.
The Crosstrek is a lot of fun to drive, it is relatively quiet inside, the visibility is great, and the acceleration is actually quite good.
MSRP is a very reasonable $34,645, which is right in line with other compact SUVs that don’t have EyeSight.
Verdict
This is truly one of my favorite compact SUVs on the market, and now more than ever with the re-styled appearance.
- What I Liked Most: The features and the ride and drive.
- What I would change: Really wish it had a power liftgate.
- MSRP: Base Price $30,895/Total MSRP $34,835 with transportation.
- Fuel Economy: 26 city/33 highway/29 overall.
- Odometer reading when tested: 6,200 miles.
- Weight: 3,349 pounds/4,376 GVWR
- Spare Tire: Compact Spare.
- Length-Width-Height: 1,764” long/70.9” wide/63” high.
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons with the filler on the passenger side.
- Official Color: Crystal White Pearl.
- Towing Capacity: 1,500 pounds.
- 2024 Crosstrek in a few words: Just an outstanding compact SUV and a wonderful value.
- Warranty: 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper with roadside assistance, 5-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty.
- Final Assembly Location: Lafayette, Indiana.
- Manufacturer's website: Subaru
Check out more pics of the all-new 2024 Crosstrek below:
