2019 Subaru Crosstrek review

What We Like

Interior: The Crosstrek feels spacious, with good legroom and headroom for front and rear seat passengers. Soft-touch surfaces give the Crosstrek a premium vibe, especially in the top-level Limited trim, and controls are nicely laid out with an intuitive design for easy use. Visibility is excellent thanks to the large windshield, big rear window, and small front pillars. The driver’s seat has multiple adjustments, which can provide most drivers with a comfortable driving position.

Technology: Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system is well thought out, with large icons for easy navigation. A 6.5-inch screen is standard, while higher trims get an eight-inch display. Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ phone integration are standard on all trim levels of the Crosstrek. The company’s suite of advanced driver-assist features, called EyeSight^®, is available on all trim levels and includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane keeping assistance.

Driving: It may be slightly underpowered with its 152-horsepower four-cylinder engine, but the Crosstrek does have solid driving characteristics. The brakes have a good feel with linear progression, and the steering provides good feedback with just the right amount of power assist. The Crosstrek really shines off-road with its high ground clearance, all-wheel drive, and available hill descent control.

What Needs Improvement

Utility: The Crosstrek has a roomy cabin, but the cargo space is smaller than in competitors. The 20.8 cubic feet of space behind the rear seats is considerably less than competitors like the Ford Escape or Jeep Compass. The rear seats fold flat to provide a more useful level of cargo-hauling ability.